The Layout

To create a functional and spacious kitchen that caters to a client who hosts many guests and values food, the designer opted for an open floor plan. “As a space, it connects well to the dining area and the living area. This allows for seamless interaction between the family, help and the guests, making the space feel inviting and social,” shares Sameer.

The designer has chosen a U-shaped layout which is generally associated with larger kitchens. “The U-shaped layout maximizes the available space in a narrow kitchen by utilizing three walls. It provides ample countertop and storage space along each wall, allowing for efficient organization and easy access to kitchen essentials,” reasons Shilpa.

According to her, the U-shaped layout provides a smooth flow between work areas and eliminates corner congestion commonly found in L-shaped kitchens. “This design allows for easy movement within the kitchen, even with multiple people present. It facilitates a logical workflow, from food preparation to cooking to serving, enhancing convenience and functionality.”

Selection of Materials

The kitchen uses Quartz as a countertop material. “Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from a combination of natural quartz crystals and resin binders. They are highly durable, non-porous, and resistant to stains, scratches, and heat. Quartz countertops offer a wide range of colours and patterns, allowing for customisation and design versatility. In fact, Quartz is a popular choice for kitchen countertops because of its low maintenance,” rationalises the designer.

The backsplash is in White Satvario-looking tiles. “Tiles come in a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures facilitating customisation and creating various design styles. They can be used to add visual interest and texture to the backsplash. Plus, tiles are durable, stain resistant, and easy to clean with regular household cleaners. Grout lines between tiles may require occasional sealing to prevent staining.”

Glass is another popular choice for the backsplash. “Both tiles and glass can enhance the visual appeal of a kitchen backsplash, but they offer different aesthetic effects. Glass backsplashes provide a sleek, modern, and reflective surface that can give the kitchen a clean and contemporary look. Glass backsplashes, while available in various colours, may have fewer options for patterns and textures. However, printed or back-painted glass can provide unique design possibilities,” shares Shilpa.

She further adds, “Glass back-splashes have the advantage of reflecting light, which can help create a brighter and more open feeling in the kitchen. This can be particularly beneficial for kitchens with limited natural light. Since this particular kitchen had ample natural light, it wasn’t that crucial a factor. Ultimately, the choice is based on specific needs and style preferences.” The choice of white tiles for walls and beige flooring in this kitchen design creates a cohesive and harmonious backdrop for the teal cabinets, resulting in a visually appealing and balanced space.

Inspiration

The Space-Saving Circle Kitchen

The Urban Culinary Oasis