Everyone knows the kitchen is the heart of any home, so why not make it a space worth living in.
Unique Countertops
One of the first things people see when they enter your galley are the countertops, so it’s the perfect place to 
show off your style. Marble has always been an elegant and classic choice, however giving this stone a unique flair makes your kitchen stand out from the crowd. Alluring surfaces made of exotic White beauty or Roma Imperial easily lend your space an affluent personality.
Oversized islands catch your eye and direct the gaze to the central space, truly making it the star of the Kitchen. Increasing the width of the countertop by cantilevering it over the far end allows for a stylish and fully integrated breakfast bench. Not only does this enhance the functionality of the space, but it also grants it a chic and homely quality.
Some designers also prefer to break up an oversized island by utilising two contrasting materials to effectively consolidating two kitchen islands. By incorporating a secondary surface made of wood or concrete onto the bench, this constructs visual boundaries dividing the large space into refreshing arrangements.
Exceptional Flooring
Floors play a subtle but critical role in setting the tone of any room, and kitchens are no exception. Again, marble is a typical material of choice but alternative floorings have also been gaining traction recently. Moroccan floor tiles are gathering interest in design circles as a cultured way to bring colour and patterns into the galley.
Another option featuring a more traditional look is engineered wood. This three-layered composite design gives the appearance of solid hardwood flooring but also endures changes in temperature and humidity better than its conventional counterpart.
Accessible Storage
No functional kitchen is fully compete without an abundant amount of storage space. Cabinets are an absolute staple in everyday kitchens, and by utilising customised cupboards you can simply incorporate your own tastes. For an elevated classic cabinet, cherry wood or white oak are beautiful woods, but for a more modern approach contemporary materials such as blackened stainless steel and fumed oak are prime choices.
A storage unit is only as good as its functionality, and with more designs than ever before it’s possible to utilise even the most oddly shaped of spaces. The fold-out then pull-out drawers allow for a traditional clean façade but with improved accessibility. Alternatively, open wall storage such as floating shelves and magnetic strips serve dual purposes of function and fashion.
Statement Lighting
Every room needs a reliable source of light, and installing an impressive fixture over your kitchen island can enhance the ambiance of the mood. Interesting modern chandelier silhouettes are currently in style with most designers tending to favour a modern industrial style. Gold brass fixtures, dynamic pipe connectors and exposed bulbs are all popular stylistic elements.
Finishing Touches
Sometimes it’s just the smallest details that really brings a room together into a cohesive flow, drawing or diverting attention as necessary. Having a built-in hidden range hood offers a minimalistic touch quieting a visually noisy space, whereas a large luxury sink offers a deluxe touch to the kitchen.
Possibly the ultimate ‘extra’ is the ever desired and lavish addition of a butler’s pantry.
However, you choose to design your own kitchen, ensure to add some of your own individual flavour and style into the mix. There’s nothing better than a room of your house you can truly call the heart of your home.
By McKenzie Downey