Swap outdated wooden units for a bit of all white

Oct 12 2008 Justin And Colin

METAL GURUS

To give a more modern feel we introduced lots of stainless steel, using it in appliances, accessories, handles and spotlights.

The metal lightens up the space and transforms it into a kitchen fit for the 21st century.

The double-drawer dishwasher we've used is by Fisher & Paykel www.fisher paykel.co.uk. B&Q have both stainless steel handles and spotlights perfect for the job, Check out www.diy.com

SET IN STONE

If you're looking for a worksurface that is stylish, looks expensive and will last forever, look no further than a hunk of black granite.

You have two options - either buy the real thing (log on to www.graniteworktops scotland.co.uk and click on Marlborough Marble for a quote) or buy a man-made composite stone which costs a lot less.

IKEA offer a custom-made service using their Personlig surfaces, see www.ikea.com

WHITE HOT

We opted for white cabinets to provide relief from the patterned wall-covering and enhance the clean, crisp nature of the kitchen.

Aplain kitchen can be dressed up or down as required and offers flexibility for a host of different looks.

The interest here comes from the wallpaper, easier and cheaper to replace when you fancy a change.

We've used Stat/Faktum units from IKEA which start at £15 for a door.

STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Asuccessful kitchen plan is all about ensuring plentiful storage. Here we created the perfect mix - drawer and cupboard space for closed storage, a huge larder unit, glass-fronted, eye-level display cabinets and baskets up top for anything else that needs to be stashed.

Think about where you need to store each item and plan accordingly. Here we have cutlery, crockery and pot drawers close to the dishwasher and sink.

PAPER POWER

We added interest with delicately patterned wallpaper inspired by the home owner's love of blue and white crockery.

When using wallpaper in a kitchen take care not to use it where there's likely to be contact with water or you will soon come a cropper.

We installed black granite splashback to keep ours out of the firing line. For a similar paper try Carnaby from www.grahambrown.com

FINE DINING

If you have room, it's worth trying to get a table in the kitchen - great for casual dining, breakfasting or just a mid-afternoon cuppa with the neighbours.

We chose a white table and chairs with removable, washable covers which will look good for ages.

Argos have removable dining chair covers just like these for £24.99 a pair - great to revive your existing chairs.

Click on www.argos.co.uk