In recent years, the rise of popular cooking shows has exposed us to a whole new world of gourmet meals and culinary possibilities—and this has inspired many everyday Australians to try to replicate their favourite dishes at home.
For those who love to cook, a gourmet kitchen provides the ideal space to enjoy time spent in the kitchen and experiment with new cuisines and flavours. And the good news is that designing your own gourmet kitchen is within reach, even if you have a limited budget.
When you are smart about your design and appliances, and get the foundation right, you don’t need to spend a fortune to create a gourmet kitchen in your own home. So to help you design a kitchen that’s fit for a chef but won’t break the bank, read on to discover our top tips.
The right kitchen layout
In every kitchen the layout is essential to a functional space, and for the gourmet home chef, it can mean the difference between success and disappointment. Ideal kitchen layouts for gourmet cooks include a double galley or island kitchen layout, as they provide space but with everything you need close at hand.
When you’re cooking up a new or complicated dish with multiple steps, having what you need within easy reach saves precious time and reduces the margin for error. In addition, when you have room to move between workspaces, along with cabinetry and appliances that are logically arranged to make it easy to cook, clean and eat, you set yourself up for success.
Appliances you can trust
The right appliances can make all the difference in a gourmet kitchen, for example, a freestanding cooker with enough space and the right elements opens up immense possibilities to do more. Look for reliability and the practical functions that you will actually use and will make your life easier, for example, a pyrolytic oven for no-fuss cleaning.
Aside from your cooktop and oven, the other key appliances that count in a gourmet kitchen include a rangehood that performs optimally and a dishwasher that matches your needs. Talk to our team for recommendations on the best appliances to suit your style, space and budget.
Ample bench space with a durable finish
There’s no doubt that a cluttered kitchen is a hindrance and you need plenty of usable bench space to cook your best. To get this aspect right, be sure to prioritise it when choosing your layout. An island bench is a popular addition, with the added benefit of creating a place to mingle as you cook. Or, if the space is small, you may also choose to add some movable bench space that can be stored when not in use.
Selecting the right material matters too, as you’ll need something that can withstand heavy use. Choosing a material such as stone, laminate or even stainless steel provides you with a durable, heat resistant, bench top that will last for many years to come.
Room to store the tools of your trade
For the home gourmet chef, having enough storage is essential. The right type of storage is important, and a good combination may be a mix of drawers and cupboards, plus a butler’s pantry and hanging rack for pots. This helps you find what you need when you need it, and keeps your workspace uncluttered, making clean ups faster and easier.
Add some finishing touches
Adding some finishing touches such as feature lighting or an on-trend splashback, will really add to your enjoyment of your new gourmet space and make it feel uniquely yours. Including some additional practical elements such as pull out sprayer tap and double sink are also a great idea that will save you time and make food prep and clean up that much easier..
Add some gourmet to your everyday
Whether you’re serious about improving your culinary skills, or just enjoy exploring new flavours and techniques for fun, adding some gourmet touches to your new kitchen can really take it to the next level.
For expert advice on appliances for your new kitchen, pop into our showroom or get in touch with our team on 1300 438 266.