Kitchen Design Think Tank

In the beginning we created fire; harnessing a seemly uncontrollable element that had the power to transform our primeval diet and stimulate basic sociability.   The pace of kitchen evolution has been driven by a human desire to do things better, quicker and more efficiently, that is why the modern kitchen has become a console of communication built upon a foundation of function.   This concept by Toncelli illustrates the power and influence of modern kitchen design.   If we simply wore clothes there would be no fashion, if we had stayed at home there would be no cars and if the kitchen was just for cooking we wouldn’t have designs like this!   Featuring an impressive interactive, translucent worktop complete with Samsung tablet technology this design redefines kitchen function by fusing cutting edge interactive technology with primary functionality.   The kitchen is evolving into a design parasite, absorbing furniture, technology and architecture in a way which could mak

This is fantastic!   A brave and bold statement which challenges accepted design boundaries and proves that deliberate style contradictions between architecture and kitchen work really well.   It is interesting to now see this type of conscious design juxtaposition becoming more common illustrating how clients and designers are being subconsciously chaperoned towards the evolutionary channel of kitchen design!  

There is a great presence in this design by Saporiti Italia drawing the viewer in and presenting hidden treasures at every turn.   The main focal point of the design is the island which looks as though it has been forged by the hand of an ancient Mayan stone mason.   There is a compromise here in that the ultimate functional possibilities for the island have been purposely restricted to enable the aesthetical beauty of this monolith to be adored in all its splendor!   But that’s not all; this design considers that the kitchen is a functional art installation and that there should be an appreciation of light and of all three dimensional planes.   Some of the doors have been etched, again reminiscent of Mayan artwork, to invite light and shadows!   Add to this mix a simple linear matrix, modern materials such as coloured glass, quartz worktops and LED lights and this kitchen is an understated functional beauty! The Mogul Approves!

This design from Nolte Kitchens continues the trend of mixing a wood veneer finish with a pale gloss or satin finshed door to provide variety and warmth to the overall aesthetic.   This idea is extremely commercial at the moment as clients feel that more vibrant or monochrome designs, although fashionable statements of individual style, will simply not last the test of time! Kitchen design is actually part of the fashion industry with cutting edge designs presenting themselves as a dominant feature in any personal space.   It’s about time some of the designers got a little credit! Does The Mogul also see some asymmetrical design happening here?  

This kitchen is simple and very effective.   It is a classic, contemporary set-up with a tall bank of units creating an un-obtrusive but functional back drop to the design.    The island takes centre stage as the main preparation and cooking zone, creating a highly effective and efficient work space!   Workflow distances are contained between the island and the bank of tall units - after all the Chief should never have to walk to the supermarket to prepare every meal!   Good designers consider kitchen zones, personal preferences and ergonomics to ensure that everything is just within reach, exactly when needed! The introduction of a low level, informal table area introduces a subconscious element to this design; inviting social interaction and helping to define the space.   A llowing the table area to encroach onto the main body of the island allows the eye to be drawn to the contrast in colour, it also brings the social and working elements of this design closer together encouraging

Okay, please desist from licking your computer screen as this serving from Aster Cucine is absolutely delicious.   This kitchen is a brilliant example of how kitchen design can be paralleled to automotive design, providing clients with an exceptionally desirable product that can make a strong social statement!   This kitchen is beautiful and has all the elements required to nurture envy and jealousy amongst your dinner guests.    The dazzling whiteness is matched by polished and hammered chrome with glass and natural wood veneers that just ooze quality.   You only have to look at the mirrored chrome finish that rips around the edge of the island to see the luxury.   Fantastic! This beauty is also a shape shifter.   Bi-folding sliding doors on the tall section of this kitchen allow the exterior units to become undressed, allowing the viewer to be tantalised by the impressive appliances and drawers!   Add Blum’s Servo-Drive electric opening support system for doors and drawers and the

Brilliant...doors that appreciate all three of our worldly dimensions!   Adding a coloured up or down lighter to these doors will create a fantastic feature.   The Mogul would question the ergonomic planning on the island though!   Obviously the cook is smaller than the dishwasher and they never exchange roles! 

Cool and clean, just like any operating theatre! The rawness of the architecture and sliding doors give this design a serious edge!!   Maybe the cosmetic gastronomic surgery is preformed front of house with the less beautiful activities happening behind closed doors!!