The kitchen as the beating heart of the home

Ask people where they spend the most time at home, and the answer is almost always: in or around the kitchen. It is the place where you cook, eat, talk and live. No wonder the kitchen has become the beating heart of the home.

A bespoke kitchen is therefore not about a catalogue, but about how you live. Here is what to watch for.

The kitchen has long stopped being a separate room

In many homes the kitchen now flows seamlessly into the living space. That calls for a kitchen that is not only functional, but also looks good from the seating area. So it is best to match materials, colours and lighting to the whole living space.

Start with how you live, not with the catalogue

Do you like to cook elaborately, or mostly quickly during the week? How many of you are in the kitchen at the same time? How often do you have guests? The answers to those questions determine the layout, far more than the latest trend.

The layout: work triangle and island

A good kitchen works logically. The classic work triangle between fridge, sink and hob keeps the walking lines short. An island adds work space and sociability, provided there is enough circulation space around it.

Our tip: allow at least 90 to 120 cm of free space around an island, so drawers and doors open easily and you do not get in each other's way.

Materials that can take a knock

A kitchen is used intensively every day. So choose materials that are both beautiful and robust:

• Worktops in natural stone, composite or solid wood.
• Fronts that resist moisture and fingerprints.
• Floors that effortlessly withstand a dropped pan or a splash of water.

Light makes or breaks a kitchen

Lighting is crucial in the kitchen. Work in layers: functional light above the worktop, ambient lighting for the evening and accents that show the materials at their best. Good light makes the difference between working and enjoying.

Bespoke: every centimetre used

A bespoke kitchen uses the space optimally: up to the ceiling, around corners, with drawers exactly where you need them. It is precisely that custom work that turns a kitchen into a place that fits you perfectly.

Frequently asked questions about a kitchen renovation

What does a bespoke kitchen cost?

That depends heavily on the dimensions, the materials and the appliances. Reckon on a wide range, and have a clear quote drawn up in advance so you are not caught out.

Which material should I choose for my worktop?

Natural stone and composite are robust and low-maintenance, solid wood is warm but needs a little more care. The best choice depends on your use and your style.

How long does a kitchen renovation take?

A kitchen renovation usually takes a few weeks, depending on the scope of the work and the delivery time of the appliances and the custom elements.

Together we complete your kitchen

At Borgwal Renovaties we design and install kitchens that unite function and beauty, fully tailored to your habits and your living space.

Dreaming of a bespoke kitchen? Get in touch without obligation and together we will make it the heart of your home.