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Winter HOME
13
IMPROVEMENT
The very latest in kitchens I
Emerging trends in the kitchen • restaurant-style kitchens with
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oversized is lands and trendy stools discreet cupboard handles or no handles at all, in favour of cabinet doors that open with a simple push of the finger a vintage look with quaint wooden lunch counters, school benches, and pendant lights from yesteryear a timeless elegant look achieved with black accessories and features metal decorative elements that transform the kitchen into a sparkling gem
The kitchen is a functional living space that is also deliciously inviting.
These days, the kitchen is an important ga thering place for family and friends. Cocooning is a thing of the past; now everyone is into hiving. Home entertaining and great food is on the menu, especially in state-of-the-art kitchens.
The right light fixture in the right place G
ood lighting gives a room a distinct atmosphere and a comfortable feel. Care fully selected lighting will help define your living spaces and make them more welcoming; it will also help you avoid tired eyes and headaches.
ling wiring is located. You can play with a combination of light sources by choosing from among ceiling fixtures, pendant lamps, wall sconces, chandeliers, floor lamps, direc tional lights, linear track lighting, recessed lights, and table lamps.
The first consideration when choosing in door lighting is the purpose it will serve. Next, you should take into account the style, dominant colour, and architectural features of the room. Be sure to know where your existing electrical outlets or behind-the-cei
There are also many different types of light bulbs available on the market. In candescent bulbs are still used, although in the not-toodistant future they may be harder to get, as they use a lot of energy. Halogen bulbs are preferred for their intensity, while compact fluorescent lamps are energy-efficient and light homes more economically. Lamps with lightemitting diodes (LEDs) now come in a wide choice of colours and moods; they are energy efficient, long-lasting, and often feature touch controls.
Choose the right light fixture - and the right bulb - to create a unique atmosphere in every room.
The lighting you choose can be ideal for relaxing or lend itself to working. Indirect lighting is an excellent choice for creating a laid-back atmosphere in the living room. Floor lamps are great for reading, and adjustable spotlights are helpful in the bathroom. In the kitchen, the worktops should be well lit, and you can enhance your mealtimes with a dimmer-adapted ceiling light that’s placed over the dining table. In bedrooms, use indirect lighting or compact fluo rescent lamps on bedside tables to create a restful atmosphere.
PHOTO: jupiterimages / THINKSTOCKK
ngredients aren’t the only things that are being mixed in kitchens these days. This year, styles and materials are also being mixed to create a delicious new trend. In deed, the variety of materials in kitchens is multiplying, and now you can have fun combining laminates, plain surfaces, lacquers, and lots of colour. What’s more, beautiful finishes are now the name of the game, allowing you to structure the visual dimensions of the room by amalgamating matte and gloss to your heart’s desire. The key to turning this functional room into a comfy focal point is to optimize space. Tailor-made storage, which targets specific needs, should be added to existing storage spaces and kitchen cabinets.
PHOTO: andrew hobbs / THINKSTOCK
THE FREE PRESS Thursday, January 29, 2015
HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
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