In The Zone (Above)
For ultimate efficiency, one must bear in mind the concept of the work triangle when designing a kitchen. Having the cooker, sink and fridge in comfortable proximity to each other allows for one to move easily through the space.
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Use one of the above elements in an island and complete it with Caesarstone’s Classico ‘3100 Jet Black’>.
Hide, Not Seek
Photograph: Karl Rogers
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This design by German brand bulthaup, which has showrooms in both Joburg and Cape Town, gets it just right.
In Good Light
Photograph: Joe Fletcher Interior Design: Malcolm Davis Architecture
If you have floor to ceiling windows, float your sink in front of the glass to avoid losing natural light in your kitchen.
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Visit Optima Kitchens for a stainless-steel solution that can be customised to fit your space. Alternatively, choose from a range of beautiful sink options by Franke Kitchen Systems.
Double Take
A double bowl sink will revolutionise your washing up sessions – with one bowl for washing and the other for rinsing, you will save time and unnecessary water spillage.
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Smeg’s range of double-bowl sinks come in an array of sizes, are available with or without a drainer and can be installed in a variety of ways , including countersunk.
A Perfect Match
Photograph: Elsa Young
A variety of stove tops, along with easy access to all the necessary utensils, is a great way to customise your cooking zone to your own tastes.
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This bulthaup space combines a two-plate gas stovetop, electric top and frying surface, all by Gaggenau, making sure every cooking need is met. The bulthaup multifunction wall allows you to hang a selection of different shelving and utensils, using special hooks, in an attractive fashion.
Building Blocks
Photograph: Karl Rogers
To save space and centralise cooking functions in your kitchen, consider stacking appliances such as your convection ovens and microwaves.
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bulthaup does it best with this elegant arrangement of built in ovens, a combo-microwave and a warming drawer, all by Gaggenau. When the cabinet doors are closed, the units are completely concealed and when they are open, the doors fold away neatly.
Curveball
Interior Design: KC Design Studio
Installing a functional and visually-pleasing focus point in one’s kitchen can transform an otherwise bare space into a creative hub.
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Go to EasyLife Kitchens for tailor-made island solutions.
Industrial Design
Photograph: Hey! Cheese Interior Design: House Design Studio
Creating a multipurpose island that functions as both a workspace and a casual dining space can transform the kitchen into a vibrant communal space in one’s home.
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A thick concrete slab is the perfect no-mess, no-fuss top. Contact Blu_line or Slavin & Company Kitchens & Furniture for information and advice.
Straighten Up
Clean and straight-lined islands are timeless centrepieces which will never go out of fashion.
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The Phoenix kitchen by Poliform Varenna illustrates this with the elegant design of this steel-topped option. It has been built against one of the walls to control the flow of traffic.