Majjie's Blog

I've recently been invited to go round and see this kitchen ... which I designed last year ... and take some photos. So, as usual, I'm going to put a few before and after pictures here. There are more pictures ... just of the new kitchen ... in my kitchen design gallery.

IKEA units are a very good choice for anyone with a tight budget and, although, like most of the less expensive kitchens, they have only limited unit sizes ... they do have some slightly less usual units which helps to make the design more interesting. If you're not using IKEA fitters, though, check with your fitter or builder first, before going ahead and ordering the kitchen. The units don't have any voids behind them for pipes and stuff.

There wasn't a huge amount of scope for changing the layout of this kitchen but varying unit heights always adds interest ... and although beautifully painted, the old oak cathedral arched doors had seen better days ... so the new units make a huge difference to the room.



It's quite common to see a dishwasher and a washing machine either side of a single base unit which accomodates the sink. If you can, though, try to avoid it ... I always think it looks a bit odd. In this case we were able to move the washing machine into the old pantry, leaving only the dishwasher on show ... much neater. And I added a little peninsular unit in the centre of the room to give some much needed extra storage.



At the other end of the room there used to be a table ... but it was more a place for putting down junk than for sitting at (although - yes - that's my pad and tape measure adding to the clutter ... when I first went to measure). The new fitted units give a lot more storage whilst still allowing room for a couple of seats.



For more pictures of the new kitchen have a look in the gallery (link above) but ... as I think you'll agree ... these pictures show that you don't have to spend a huge amount of money to make a huge difference to your kitchen.