Creating a sociable kitchen: making a statement

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Use eye-catching materials and finishes to create a kitchen with subtle glamour.

In terms of materials, a kitchen designed with entertainment in mind should focus on glamour. Choose granite worktops flecked with gold (Star Galaxy is a perennial favourite that’s widely available), and splashbacks and in pearlescent mosaics that glisten by night (House of Mosaics has a good selection). Traditional-style cabinet doors have natural grandeur and the addition of facetted glass knobs will add extra glitz.

The secret to preventing glittering materials from looking gaudy by day is all in the lighting. Selecting materials that are at their most sparkly under electric light ensures they will fade into the background during the day. Consider introducing a lighting system that works on a colour wheel, so that the mood can be changed as the night progresses, culminating in mellow blues as the party winds down. Sensio has recently introduced a remote-controlled lighting system that allows you to change colours from the comfort of your sofa.

More island unit advice:

• Make sure you have sufficient extraction if you’re cooking on an island unit. Use downdraught extraction if you want a clear line of vision above – try Gaggenau or Blanco.
• Be sure to leave enough room for a good traffic flow and to open drawers and doors on both the island and adjacent cabinetry. As a general rule, there should be a 1m gap between the island and all perimeter furniture.
• Unless you have space to spare, don’t be tempted to make your island too deep, otherwise you will have a large area of unreachable space in the centre.
• Installing sinks and dishwashers into an island is popular but will require substantial drainage and plumbing work, which could be costly if you don’t want to replace the flooring.
• Breakfast bars are great for occasional snacks but if it’s going to be your main dining area opt for a low-level extension to the island, as it will prove more comfortable to sit at for long periods.

Find out more about creating a sociable kitchen...
Find out more about creating the perfect party kitchen...
Appliances and accessories to add that final touch to your kitchen...

FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON
All prices and stockists correct at time of publishing
Featured in the December 2009 issue of Period Living