3 minute read
Kitchen lighting
Kitchens: lighten up!
Kitchens are the engine rooms of our homes, but they’re also communal spaces often used for entertaining, so both should be considered in order to make the right light choices.
Whether cooking up a storm to feed the troops or relaxing with good company, kitchens play a dual role. The type of fittings and fixtures we should employ will depend on where they’re located and the purpose they serve.
Ambient lighting isn’t right for workspaces, but it is powerful enough to light up an entire room. Recessed lights are a timeless choice and, as they have a low profile, they will compliment any kitchen design. Alternatively, opt for conventional ceiling fixtures or track lights which can be easily repositioned.
In contrast, task lighting will brighten specific areas. Pendant lights can be perfect when hanging over a kitchen island or sink, for example. Best paired with recessed lighting to avoid visual clutter, task lighting focuses on function, but stylish options (from the traditional to the avant-garde) are available.
For specific workspaces, under-cabinet lighting is ideal. These fixtures are (practically) invisible and their effect is less distracting as their light won’t create shadows.
For more advice regarding fixtures and fittings, speak to local lighting specialists who will be sure to ‘enlighten’ you further.
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Our kitchen consultants will give you the information you need to make an informed purchase decision. Select from a wide range of options including the latest benchtops, door/ drawer front colours and styles and kitchen accessories.
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DONALDSON POOLS: Never out of their depth!
Luxury starts at home. However, before we can dip our toes into our own piece of paradise, enjoying the waters of a top-of-the-line swimming pool, it pays to consult an expert such as Nigel Donaldson from Donaldson Pools.
“If you’re training for the Olympics, or planning to host the neighbourhood over summer, we can help, but smaller projects are no problem for our expert team either,” he says. “Our pools can be created in any shape or size, so they are suitable for sections of any dimensions. Because we don’t supply ‘off the shelf’, we can design and construct a pool that will accentuate, rather than dominate, the site.”
Working with customers to appreciate their many and varied visions and lifestyles, Nigel and his team have been behind the construction of pools, large and small, throughout the greater Franklin region.
People may be deeply dippy about pools during summer – and for good reason! – but the added value they bring to a home never goes out of style.
“Especially if you’ve been stuck in traffic or in the office, or the aircon is on the fritz, jumping into your own pool is the ideal way to cool off. We’ve been installing pools for more than 30 years (and because of this we can work fast), but we’re always booked up well in advance of summer, so it pays to plan ahead.”
Working year-round, Nigel and his team begin with structural drawings, managing the entire process and confirming dates for work to begin as soon as council permits have been approved. Most projects can be completed within 8-10 weeks after breaking ground.
Made from reinforced spray concrete, Donaldson’s pools are designed to last, no matter what the environment throws at them.
“From black pools with exposed pebble floors, black marble plaster walls and dark tile bands on the waterlines, to white marble or New Zealand Pebble Plaster, in a range of colours, we use top quality materials,” Nigel says. “Functionality is important when cooling off in summer, but style is a must so that, even during winter, pools can form the centrepiece of a beautiful backyard, a place to relax, unwind and reflect on life.”
The first step towards developing our own oasis at home need not require jumping in with both feet, Nigel adds.
“Just take a look – for inspiration as much as anything else – at our website (donaldsonpools.co.nz), then give us a call and we’ll work with you from there.”
