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The Ultimate guide on how to plan the right Kitchen for your dream home www.bespokedecor.in
INDEX
1. What Everybody Ought To Know About Base Cabinets............................................................................................. Page-1
1
2. The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Right Material For Your Kitchen Cabinets............................................... Page-6
3. The Ultimate Guide On Modular Kitchens....................................................................................................................... Page-13
4. Which One Of The 6 Kitchen Layouts Will Work Best For You?................................................................................. Page-17
5. No, The Price Of Your Modular Kitchen Does Not Only Depend On Its Area!..................................................... Page-21
6. Modular Kitchens Vs Carpenter Kitchens: Which One Wins?.................................................................................... Page-25
7. Dear Modular Kitchens: You’ve Changed My Life!........................................................................................................ Page-29
8. 16 Shutter Finishes To Choose From To Create Your Dream Kitchen........ ............................................................ Page-32
9. Has Your Kitchen Been Designed In The Wrong Way?................................................................................................ Page-36
10. The All-Encompassing Beginners Guide To Modular Kitchen Chimneys.................................. ....................... Page-41
1
What Everybody Ought To
Know About Base Cabinets
1
It’s all about the Base (Cabinet): Base cabinetry can make or break
your kitchen remodel plans!
Base Cabinets
Kitchen base cabinets are the backbone of any kitchen, creating
efficient storage solutions below your kitchen countertops. While
kitchen cabinets are sometimes placed on the ground, experts
suggest choosing a design for your modular kitchen cabinets
wherein they have a significant amount of space between the
floor and its base so that you can ensure thorough cleaning and
maintenance of your kitchen.
The Cooking Triangle and its implication on Base Cabinet design
A kitchen needs to be both aesthetic and functional- that’s where
the concept of the Cooking Triangle or the Kitchen Work Triangle
comes in. When designing a kitchen from scratch, it is this trian-
gle that orchestrates kitchen traffic flow that forms the founda-
tion for your modular kitchen style.
It is a good idea to plan out your base cabinet modules around
this to make sure that your kitchen has an efficient workflow.
Keep in mind that your kitchen cabinets must be placed appropri-
ately for the purposes they are intended for.
2
Different Base Cabinet Types
Base cabinets that can be found in basic kitchen designs for good storage, aesthetics, and functionality are listed
below with their most common usages. We have also added a few personalisations we could lend to that specific cabi-
net based on client requirements or a few helpful tips to enhance the modular kitchen style. It is advisable to use a mix
of these base cabinets and add a few bespoke cabinets in addition to this, to best suit your tailor-made requirements.
1. Hob Cabinet
Placed below your hob, this base cabinet is specially designed to suit the size of the hob and could measure anywhere
between 600 to 900 mm. This cabinet’s design is so made that the cutting of the hob does not interfere with its inter-
nal structure. In the less likely event that you don’t have pipeline gas, you may need to consider setting aside a base
cabinet adjacent to your modular kitchen’s gas stove wherein a cylinder sized provision can be made.
How can you personalise your hob cabinet with our help?
The interior of the hob cabinet can be transformed into a set of drawers or shelves based on your needs for additional
storage. For a gas stove and cylinder setup, it would be wise to design it to be optimised for use- all clients would
prefer rolling in the gas cylinder into position instead of having to lift and place it. Don’t break your back (and bank)
with our help!
2. Under-Sink Cabinet
In most instances, the cabinets under the sink are underutilised for the potential they possess. Using your under-sink
cabinet for either keeping your wastebasket or stocking your cleaning supplies will ensure good use of the space.
A helpful tip for under-sink cabinet
As a client, we take your needs into prime consideration before putting forth our plans. If you intend on keeping your
garbage bins in the under-sink cabinet, we would recommend a pull-out set of trash cans. This is more functional,
aesthetic, hygienic, and easy to maintain. However, if you have a separate area of your kitchen dedicated to waste, you
3
could use this cabinet to stock all of your cleaning supplies. Our tip would be to speak to your dedicated expert who
can work out stunning inbuilt storage baskets or racks to best suit your needs.
3. Bottle Pull-out Cabinet
In the case of slim storage units to house bottles, brooms, or a step-up larder unit, this type of cabinet is used. Based
on its contents, it may have either a single or bifurcated shutter.
4. Corner Base Cabinet Units
Wastage of space is something us interior experts never appreciate, so in L-shaped or U-shaped kitchens, a corner unit
is a must-have. You could either opt for an L-shaped storage unit or a blind corner unit coupled with various storage
accessories to fit your individual needs.
A few suggestions on how you could modify your corner cabinets
A swinging pullout lower cabinet unit is ideal for corners as they efficiently utilise the space and expand storage solu-
tions for pots and pans. The pullout model will also allow you easier accessibility as compared to your other options. If
you don’t want the storage to encroach onto your kitchen floor space, a Lazy Susan type of corner cabinet would suit
you better.
4. Corner Base Cabinet Units
Wastage of space is something us interior experts never appreciate, so in L-shaped or U-shaped kitchens, a corner unit
is a must-have. You could either opt for an L-shaped storage unit or a blind corner unit coupled with various storage
accessories to fit your individual needs.
A few suggestions on how you could modify your corner cabinets
A swinging pullout lower cabinet unit is ideal for corners as they efficiently utilise the space and expand storage solu-
tions for pots and pans. The pullout model will also allow you easier accessibility as compared to your other options. If
you don’t want the storage to encroach onto your kitchen floor space, a Lazy Susan type of corner cabinet would suit
you better.
4
5. Drawer System
This is one Pull-Out storage mechanism that even the most basic of kitchen plans incorporate into their designs. Based
on the depth of drawers you’d like and depending on what you intend on storing there, you could opt for a 2 or 3-draw-
er setup.
Here’s how we could take your drawer system up a notch
Drawers may seem like something that everyone knows their way around but one of the design experts on our team
could optimise these little spaces for maximum storage with some great organiser options.
6. Shelf Cabinets
Extremely common and very easy to adjust to your desired size and width, the shelf cabinet may have either single or
double shutter cabinets and can be versatile in terms of size.
7. High-front Drawers
A high-front drawer is usually a good option to stow away large appliances or storage items (blender, mincer, or those
enormous rice storage cans to name a few) which are larger than 400mm. These drawers, in addition to allowing hous-
ing these items, can come with an inner drawer for optimum use of the extra space.
8. Cantilever Cabinets
A cantilever cabinet by definition does not have any support on the floor or legs to keep them up but is attached to
the wall with a cantilever mechanism. They appear to be floating about the surface with a defined space below the
cabinet. This makes it easy to maintain kitchen hygiene and can lend an instant edge and give oomph to your kitchen
immediately.
With an idea of these base cabinets in mind, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision regarding your kitchen
remodel. Any aspect can be tailored to best suit your individual needs and the experts on our team with ample cabine-
try knowledge can lead you onto the path of manifesting your dream kitchen.
5
2
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The
Right Material For Your Kitchen Cabinets
6
Discussing material matters because materials matter!
Whether you’re at the brink of redecorating your current kitchen
or building a new one from scratch, you must not overlook invest-
ing in materials used in your kitchen which would be durable,
easy to maintain, and long-lasting, given India’s oscillating weath-
er conditions.
Hence, the discussion around modular kitchens and material
used in its construction and redecor is pivotal to the long term
success of a happy kitchen space. It is important to choose a
material that works for you, your house as well as the country you
live in. At the end of the day, your modular kitchen’s price must
be justified in terms of functionality, durability, and aesthetics.
Achieving this balance is only possible when you reach out to an
expert who can find the best fit for your personal needs with an
understanding of different materials that would actually work for
your kitchen. The base materials used are critical in determining
the longevity of your kitchen.
You may rope in the best modular kitchen experts like us in the
country, but it doesn’t hurt to know what materials can survive
(and thrive) over the life of your modular kitchen. There’s an ongo-
ing debate regarding the usage of MDF vs ply vs particle boards
to replace the conventional wood used in the kitchen for your
wardrobes and cupboards. Let’s examine the different core materi-
al options available and the factors which could lead you to make
an informed decision.
7
Working Out Your Core (Material)
The following are the different core material options available and we have listed out the pros and cons of using them in
a modular kitchen space.
1. Solid Wood
Natural higher-priced woods like Teak or Sheesham fall into the solid wood category. They lend an antique look to your
kitchen and are more popular across South India.
Technicalities:
Solid wood tends to have a higher coefficient of expansion. This simply means that it expands in colder seasons and
contracts in summer- not exactly the most desirable feature for wood used in one’s kitchen.
Pros:
Strong & durable- can hold together screws without trouble
Lends a stunning and warm vintage ambiance to your kitchen
No additional covering needed
Cons:
Seasonal warping
Termite sensitivity
Heavy in weight
Not cost-effective
Maintaining its finish may possess challenges
Takeaway:
If you have the budget and can adjust with seasonal warping, go for natural wood as it can lend your kitchen a spectacu-
lar royal appearance.
82. Plywood – Recommended
Simply put, plywood is layers of wooden sheets pressed together to create a sturdier material. They come in a range of
sizes, finishes, and are of different grades, each of which boasts different properties. Plywood happens to be one of the
materials of choice in kitchen settings.
Technicalities:
Available in a wide range of grades, the most suitable for household use is BWR (Boiling Water Resistance) Plywood
which is treated with urea-formaldehyde as the adhesive. While a BWP (Boiling Water Proof ) type would be stronger and
can support fitting loads, its phenol formaldehyde-based adhesive is not eco-friendly and suitable for household use.
Other than BWR and BWP plywood, MR PLY also exists which is not recommended for kitchen use as it possesses the
lowest water resistance levels.
Pros:
Different types suit different purposes- IS710 (BWP) works great for exteriors while IS303 (BWR) can be used for interiors
Reasonable strength
Does not warp with seasonal variations
Budget-friendly
Cons:
Challenges regarding picking the suitable grade for your purpose
Bending may be seen in longer plywood sheets
Takeaway:
Make sure you get the right type of plywood for your needs. If this is assured, plywood is without a doubt a great pick
for kitchen use.
93. HDF (High-Density Fiberboard) & MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
When softwood or hardwood are broken down into smaller particles to be compressed into sheets using adhesives and
resins, HDFs and MDFs are produced. They come in several different sizes. Their use is preferred in areas with low mois-
ture exposure.
Technicalities:
HDF has the reputation of being the strongest of all engineered wood. MDF isn’t far behind, though it is less strong and
water-resistant than the former and plywood.
Pros:
HDF & MDF work well for wardrobes
Strong & durable- can hold together screws without trouble
Low bending related problems
Easy finishing and different shapes available
Cons:
Moisture contamination produces irreversible damage
Termite sensitivity
Takeaway:
Consider opting for HDF & MDF for your wardrobes and keep them away from kitchens as the latter is a high moisture
zone!
4. Particle Board (Chipboard)
Unfortunately, the particle board is believed to be the lowest quality engineered wood meant to be used to create
furniture that is far away from a water source.
10Pros:
Particleboards work well for wardrobes
Strong & durable- can hold together screws without trouble
Low bending related problems
Easy finishing and different shapes available
Cons:
Moisture contamination produces irreversible damage
Termite sensitivity
Takeaway:
Restrict the use of particle boards to your wardrobes and keep them away from kitchens, a high moisture zone!
5. PVC Board (Multiwood)
Lastly, we have PVC Boards which are commonly seen as a core material in interior spaces. PVC Boards have proven to
be effective in coastal areas with high moisture.
Technicalities:
This is a plastic composite material. While it isn’t environmentally friendly, they are extremely resistant to moisture.
Pros:
Good for high moisture zones
Easy finishing and different shapes available
Not as vulnerable as other options to termite infestations
11Cons:
Low strength to support screws
Prone to bending
Not an eco-friendly option
Takeaway:
While PVC Boards show obvious advantages over the other options regarding their termite sensitivity and moisture
resistance, they are not the most eco-friendly option. Consider all other options before you narrow in on PVC Boards as
your core material.
It is very obvious that the most popular choice of material for kitchens, after weighing the pros and cons, is Plywood
which is of the right grade with a good-quality finish. Be sure to make an informed decision to create an aesthetical-
ly-pleasing and durable kitchen to last a lifetime!
123
The Ultimate Guide On
Modular Kitchens
13The elements that make the heart of your home come alive!
The kitchen is one of the most important spaces when it
comes to home interior work and whether you intend on just
remodeling it or creating it from scratch, there are a few
elements that you must look into to ensure an organised and
optimised kitchen layout and plan. Kitchen design isn’t
rocket science, but it isn’t a piece of cake either (but you
could very well bake a cake there)!
Interior designers in Kochi have seen exponential growth in
the popularity of modular kitchens in recent times. In Kerala,
kitchen design has seen a seismic shift from traditional interi-
ors in the kitchen to a more modern modular kitchen
approach
Let’s dive right in and get a more detailed understanding of
the basics of the modular kitchen interiors- you’ll learn about
what it includes and what each module consists of. A cohe-
sive balance between all these elements helps create a kitch-
en that is aesthetic as well as functional. No matter the style,
every module has the following:
THE BASICS:
1. Countertop
These large horizontal workspaces are mandatory in every
kitchen space. They’re also one of the most functional areas
14of a kitchen. It is crucial that you get your countertops fixed properly to prevent water seepage into the base cabinets.
Reach out to an expert to avoid unfortunate circumstances in the future, which are preventable with good planning and
work.
Depending on your budget, you could opt for premium marble countertops or the more budget-friendly tile or lami-
nate versions. Keep in mind that this is one of the first things that draws your eyes to the kitchen and do not hesitate to
invest in the best.
2. Cabinets
These expansive storage spaces make your kitchen space appear clutter-free and organised. Individual cabinets can be
customised to a client’s individual preferences and needs.
Cabinets may be of several types-
Base cabinets flank the bottom half of the kitchen below the countertops,
Wall cabinets supplement the storage opportunities that base cabinets offer with more accessible options,
Tall cabinets can be used in larger spaces, and
Corner units ensure minimal wastage of space and maximum storage solutions
3. Shutters
The outer portion of the aforementioned cabinet is the shutter. They conceal the content of the cabinets with shutters
of the clients’ preferred finish and colors. They play a major role in making a kitchen more visually appealing. Be sure to
carefully consider the material, finish, and color of your shutters, keeping in mind your area’s weather conditions and
your personal preferences.
4. Kitchen Accessories/ Hardware
To make your kitchen space a more accessible and convenient one, your accessories or hardware are important. This
encompasses what comes inside the cabinet and they may be either functional or storage based in nature.
155. Appliances
What is a kitchen without appliances? Just another room! Appliances, in addition to completing a kitchen, offer a sleek
appearance to the kitchen. Whether you intend on keeping freestanding appliances or are looking to install in-built
appliances, do discuss your kitchen interior design idea with experts like us for a bespoke space! There are also heating
area appliances in every kitchen space.
THE FINAL TOUCHES
6. Handles
Once all other aspects of your module has been decided on and your dream kitchen is inching its way closer to reality,
stunning handles lend the air of magic along with their obvious functional benefits. They could be the conventional
projected handle type or you could even opt for a more sleek inbuilt profile handle instead.
7. Lighting
A well-lit kitchen appears more welcoming and airy than a dark dingy one. When it comes to lighting, it is important to
remember the three aspects of kitchen lighting- ambient lighting which acts as space’s main light source, task-based
lighting illuminating specific work surfaces or insides of cabinets, and finally, accent lighting to make your favorite kitch-
en elements come to life!
8. Backsplash
And finally, the infamous kitchen backsplash. Considering the high intensity, water-extensive, work-ridden zone that a
kitchen is, it would be unwise to not invest in a backsplash against your countertop to protect those surfaces. These
could offer that splash of color that your kitchen needs to tie all its elements together!
164
Which One Of The 6 Kitchen
Layouts Will Work Best For
17(We love layout #6!)
Finalising the pattern that your countertops, workspaces, and
cabinets follow i.e. your kitchen layout, forms the basis of a good
kitchen interior redesign.
There’s kitchen ergonomics and the concept of the work triangle-
all of this eventually boils down to selecting the correct kitchen
layout for your modular kitchen space. Keep in mind the amount
of space you have and how busy an area your kitchen is going to
be once the remodel is complete! There must be equal impor-
tance is given to functionality and aesthetics and a good under-
standing of the space before finalising a kitchen layout.
Here are six kitchen layouts to choose from:
1. Straight Line Kitchen Layout
The workspace in a one wall kitchen layout is spread out along a
segment of the wall which is greater than 10 feet long. This
houses the cooking, preparation and cleaning surfaces. The wall
and base cabinets are all laid out against a single wall. Usually,
the sink is placed at one corner while the stove or cooktop is
placed on the other end of the open-wall kitchen layout. The
fridge, which is the third component of the work triangle
(stretched out into a line in this case), is usually placed on one of
the ends.
18This is the layout of choice for narrow and space-restricted kitchens or in cases where clients do have a large space but
want an open kitchen.
2. L-Shaped Kitchen Layout
In an L-shaped layout, two walls perpendicular to one another are used to fit cabinets and workspaces. There should be
a well thought out corner unit too to ensure the best use of the space. There must be a counter space to work on
between the three elements of the kitchen triangle (cooktop, fridge and sink).
This versatile layout is a very popular choice in modern modular kitchens as it allows for easy accessibility and can make
your kitchen appear spacious. The L-shaped layout maximises space and therefore, allows for a seating area to be fitted
into your kitchen interior design too.
3. Galley Kitchen Layout
In a galley kitchen layout, two walls opposite and parallel to one another are used to house the cabinets and workspac-
es. A galley is frequently seen in professional chefs kitchens but may not be practical if both ends of the corridor are
open in a home setup. It sets the stage for a really efficient kitchen work triangle with ample counter and cabinet stor-
age space.
In a galley layout, it is advisable to keep the cooktop and cleaning area on the same side to reduce accidental injuries
while transporting between the two sides.
4. U-Shaped Kitchen Layout
Three walls are allotted to hold the cabinets and counters in a U-shaped kitchen layout. This works out to function as the
perfect layout for a kitchen as you can place each aspect of the kitchen triangle against one of the walls.
You get more work space as well as storage space in a U-shaped layout. The only drawback is that it may make a kitchen
appear more cramped and full.
195. G-Shaped Kitchen Layout
The configuration of a G-shaped kitchen is similar to a U-shaped one with a peninsular area which can be used as a
preparation zone. In most remodels involving a U-shaped layout, if the client has a request for more counter space and
storage, the G-shaped layout is pitched. In this layout, the person working in the kitchen can literally surround them-
selves with all they need, thereby ensuring greater cooking efficiency.
6. L-Shaped with Island Layout
Saving the best for last is a modification of the L-shaped kitchen. Islands are pretty popular in the West, but slowly have
been rising in popularity in India too. The island functions as a buffet area, an additional preparation zone as well as an
eating area- extremely versatile! It’s a good idea to place your sink on the island to complete the work triangle. However
some people prefer having cooktops on the island or leaving it bare as a preparation cum entertaining zone.
To elevate the look of your island, invest in bar seating and ambient hanging light fixtures.
For assistance on finding out which kitchen layout would suit your space and needs best, contact +91 90 20 10 70 22 |
23
205
No, The Price Of Your Modular
Kitchen Does Not Only
Depend On Its Area!
21Looks can be deceiving, even when it comes to your modu-
lar kitchen price.
Every home cook for whom their kitchen is a paradise wants
an affordable one too. There is a huge misconception that
the cost of a modular kitchen is ONLY dependent on the
square footage of your kitchen. The reality is actually far from
this. Yes, the kitchen’s area is a factor but there are many
other factors influencing modular kitchen prices. A kitchen
may look similar to another one from the outside, but may in
fact cost exorbitantly higher owing to the other factors that
have contributed to the spend.
In this article, we guide you through the different factors
influencing modular kitchen prices and offer our input on
where you can cut costs and where you must refuse to com-
promise.
Some factors that determine the cost of your kitchen are:
Size of your kitchen
The size layout of your modular kitchen does matter. A larger
square-footage gives you the gift of space, where you can
add more kitchen modules and have a layout of your choice.
The addition of modules depends on your needs, which
means, if you want to try out all the recipes in the magazine
and spend hours together in the kitchen, you need a more
advanced module. For someone who doesn’t believe in
22spending too much time in their kitchen, the bare minimum Straight-Line Layout would work for them. More modules
will, quite naturally, translate to a higher price.
Material Used
The cabinet materials you will find in the market range from those that can burn a hole in your pocket to the pock-
et-friendly ones. Plywood is the material of choice for those looking for practicality and remaining on a budget. Some of
the materials available and used for cabinets in the market are MDF, HDF, solid wood, and ply.
Shutter Finish Used
With regards to shutter finishes, most carpenters give quotes based on laminates (mica) only but there are several
options when it comes to finishes. While the use of other finishes may increase the cost, if you want to preserve superior
aesthetics, it is a great choice to make.
Cabinet Modules
Pick the right type of cabinets, tailored to your space and needs and ones that you will use frequently, to get a bud-
get-effective kitchen.
Drawer systems, tall units, pull-outs, cutlery trays, and space-saving corner and loft units are a few of the options. While
the installation of these may cost you a little more, it will increase the utility and functionality of your space and is an
investment you must consider.
Countertop & Backsplash
Some of the materials commonly used for countertops are quartz, Corian, natural wood, or polished granite. Depending
on your aesthetic requirements, your countertop budget may change.
When it comes to the backsplash, a few people prefer metals as they offer an industrial look and are easier to clean
23whereas others play it safe with stone or glass. Refrain from using stone with a lot of texture as it may make it challeng-
ing to clean and maintain. The cost varies highly depending on the size and material used.
Appliances
Your modular kitchen could include built-in appliances like hobs, chimneys, and so on. Choose the most essential ones
and enjoy your affordable and colorful little heaven or splurge on creating the kitchen out of your dreams.
Now you can easily understand how a kitchen that may look just like another can vary in price from one another. It is
important to not just judge a kitchen and estimate its budget on its size and first appearance as there are many factors
that influence the final cost of your kitchen.
246
Modular Kitchens Vs Carpenter
Kitchens: Which One Wins?
25The ultimate battle of modular kitchens and carpenter kitch-
ens!
Until a few years ago, if you had to get your kitchen designed
or remodeled, you would approach a carpenter who special-
ises in kitchen interiors. We’ve come a long way from
that—now, just step into the office of the best interior
designers in Kerala and you have a multitude of modular
kitchen designs at your fingertips.
A question begs to be asked at this juncture- which one is
better? Who wins in the ultimate battle of carpenter kitchens
vs modular kitchens? Let’s look at a few aspects and com-
pare how carpenter kitchens fare against modular kitchens
and understand why modular kitchen designs are now the
new norm!
Ease of Finding an Expert
Let’s start at the very beginning. Usually, recommendations
for carpenters travel via word-of-mouth whereas for modular
kitchens, it is a combination of word-of-mouth and an online
presence, already making it a lot easier to gain trust. Finding
a good carpenter may potentially be a lot more challenging
and the experience would often be extremely subjective.
26Professionalism
One look at the online reviews and the varied catalogue of a modular kitchen specialist like Bespoke Decor, and you can
be assured of top-notch quality. The experience of working with multiple homes of varied styles requiring personalised
elements is one that interior designers working on modular kitchens designs are well-versed with. They may even offer
a 3D rendering of your final space allowing for better visualisation of the completed product. A carpenter may have
worked on a limited number and style of kitchens in comparison and quality assurance is not a given. It is apparent that
there is a better flow of events and more professionalism right from the first consultation with a modular kitchen expert
than with a carpenter.
Price
Modular kitchens prices on the catalog may be marginally higher as compared to the traditional carpenter’s initial
quotes for kitchen designs. Owing to hidden costs and subsequent fluctuations, the final value of a carpenter kitchen
may, in fact, surpass a modular one. Therefore, believe that a modular kitchen wins this one! The difference, if any at all,
is justified due to the attention to detail in the process of creation, dealing with more professional staff, superior func-
tionality, customisation, and aesthetics.
Installation
Quicker and easier installation process is granted with modular kitchen designs, especially in comparison to carpenter
kitchens. The high-quality factory-made modules can be easily taken apart and reassembled at the site. You won’t have
to keep worrying about having workers milling in and out of your house for a prolonged period of time as would be the
case for a carpenter kitchen. No mess, no stress!
Quality & Durability
Good modular kitchen companies usually use plywood proven to last over the long run owing to its superb durability.
The quality of modular kitchen products is known to adhere to a high standard as they are manufactured in a factory.
On the other hand, carpenters prefer to use solid wood, local plywood or MDF which is not as durable and the final
product may be of a lower quality because everything is prepared by hand.
27Customisations
When it comes to storage-related customisations, modular kitchens always win. From the first consultation, all the
client’s recommendations are taken into consideration and fine-tuned to ensure maximum functionality and aesthetics.
However, some people may argue that in a carpenter kitchen, it is easier to overlook and suggest alterations once the
process is ongoing, allowing for a certain degree of customisation there too.
Aesthetics
When it comes to following a modern style, there are no questions asked on the dominance of modular kitchens over
carpenter kitchens. While carpenter kitchens are very restricted when it comes to experimenting with style, modular
kitchens tend to get it right. Many of the modular kitchen designs can be tailored into a traditional look too if that’s
what a client requests. The sleek construction of modular kitchen elements trumps carpenter kitchens any day!
So, it is clear that modular kitchens finally win. For the modular kitchen of your dreams, contact us on +91 90 20 10 70
22 | 23
287
Dear Modular Kitchens:
You’ve Changed My Life!
29You’ll be saying this after you get your modular kitchen
made by the best interior designers in Kerala!
Before you read this, here’s what you need to know- Modular
kitchens are the modern layouts for new-age cooking
spaces. The sole motive of a modular kitchen is the usage of
space and how it compliments your home. From intricate
units of a traditional kitchen to simplifying the experience of
cooking, modular kitchen designs, and open kitchens have
turned the tables on stylised cooking spaces. We tell you a
few good reasons to revamp your old kitchen to a sleek
modular kitchen.
Space, and a lot of space.
The concept of a modular kitchen is to minimize the chaos in
a bustling corner of your cooking area. With just about all
amenities ranging from smooth cutlery trays to glossy cabi-
nets, these kitchen designs have gained popularity over the
years. While maintaining its functionalities and containing all
amenities in various modules, these contemporary kitchens
make it an effortless job for you to move around your space
without guilt.
Installation- No complication!
With just about all modern systems with these kitchen
designs, the materials are manufactured in factories and
hence, the installation of the modular kitchen units is
30trouble-free and fairly cost-effective compared to the carpentered style kitchens. Modular kitchen materials can be
fitted without much labor. Most of the materials can be installed on-site, without hindrance.
Untroubled repair and maintenance
Modular kitchen designs are easier to clean, thanks to the accessible crevices and foldability of units. By routine manual
cleaning, the maintenance of these kitchen materials can be done.
Moving out? No problem, these kitchens are flexible!
When it comes to the adaptability of units, nothing beats a modular kitchen design. Open kitchen elements can be
refitted into new spaces too, the exact reason why these kitchen designs attune with time.
Your kitchen, your style
To suit the taste and aesthetics of your home, modular kitchen ideas can be fashioned the way you want. Vibrant,
pastels or even bold colors with abstract designs can be used to design your modular kitchen. What’s more? The
textures and materials can also be customized.
To design your kitchen on a budget, hiring the best interior designers in Kerala can help you figure out the cost of
kitchens and the modular kitchen designs that complement your space.
Still, looking for creativity? Bespoke Decor has solutions. For more assistance, contact +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23.
318
16 Shutter Finishes To Choose From
To Create Your Dream Kitchen
32The different types of shutters available in the market today-
from most to least premium!
With the trending modular kitchen designs, factory-crafted
units are equipped with a multitude of amenities, and shut-
ters being one of the most important crockery units. Capti-
vating shutters can enhance the look of a kitchen and the
appeal gets better by choosing the right style. To style your
Modular Kitchen, the best interior designers in Kerala can
help you choose from a range of cabinet shutters that will
highlight your kitchen. Given below are a few of the popular
cabinets at the moment from most premium to least.
1. Corian– Categorised as that type of shutter design that
can give the stone a shining finish in your kitchen. Corian
shutters are durable, tough, and free from hazardous chemi-
cals. These premium shutters come in a variety of colors and
textures, are non-porous, and can make your kitchen free
from trivial day-to-day damages. LED lights can be incorpo-
rated with these shutters and make your kitchen stand out.
2. Victorian PU– For the appearance of a vintage English style
kitchen and an overall royal look, opt for Victorian PU shutter
finishes. This premium shutter finish with high gloss is the
material of choice in luxury modular kitchens.
333. Ceramic/Claytex– Ceramic shutters bring out the vogue of your kitchen. With dust-proof features, these units can
withstand high temperatures too.
4. 5-piece veneers– These shutters are best suited for wooden modular kitchen designs. With built-in textures, these
veneer shutters are strong with a five-piece constructive framework.
5. Solid wood– If you’re looking for a sophisticated and classy style for your modular kitchen, solid wood shutters could
be your best option. Teak and oak wood designs come under the solid wood category, with the ability to withstand
climatic changes.
6. Veneer– With pre-staining and polishing features, veneer shutters not only cover the surfaces but the edges too.
These units come in high quality and can turn your kitchen trendy.
7. Glorious glass– Made with toughened glass, these shutters offer a unique look to your kitchen. It is made available in
a variety of colors.
8. PU Inclined– These elegant shutters come with a 45-degree slope, making it look like a handle.
9. PU shutters– Embedded with European features, these glossy, scratch-resistant and highly appealing shutters are
popular for their simple fitting, in any colour of your choice.
10. Matpro– This range of contemporary shutters is popular for its horizontal and vertical applications. Mataro shutters
are anti-fingerprint and feature like thermal healing of superficial scratches, making them a fairly popular choice now.
11. Glitz– These shutters come with a PU finish and a glossy surface. Glitz can resist climatic wear and tear and ensures
the best light reflection.
3412. Acrylic– For seamless kitchen design, acrylic shutters can be used to highlight your cooking space. These shutters
have solid, wooden, and metallic frameworks, which can also resist harsh weather conditions.
13. Pristine PU– Glossy, scratch-resistant, and highly appealing, these shutters are popular for their vibrant array of
colors.
14. Inclined laminate– These shutters are available in high gloss and matte finishes. Inclined laminate shutters come
with a 45-degree slope on top, which gives it a handle-like feature. These shutters give your kitchen a neat look.
15. Artize– With top-notch quality laminates, Artize shutters give a beautiful look to your kitchen shutters. Crafted with
artsy textures and colors, these shutters can take over your modular kitchen design to the next level.
16. Laminate Shutters– They are otherwise known as four-side edge binding or Mica shutters. This is one of the most
frequently proposed types of shutters, right from local carpenters to your average modular kitchen outlet. Mois-
ture-proof and chip-resistant, the 4SEB shutters are made with CNC machines to ensure a perfect finish to these shut-
ters.
The finish of shutters are in plenty, and based on the client’s selection, they can have a significant impact on aesthetics
and cost of kitchen units too.
Your local carpenters and other showrooms may only orient you to a handpicked few. Only a specialist interior designer
like Bespoke Decor has all these options for your perusal. For more information, contact us on : +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23
359
Has Your Kitchen Been Designed In
The Wrong Way?
36Kitchen Vastu Tips: Because Vastu is not only restricted to
home design
The heart of the home, the kitchen, attracts energy easily
and allows for the free flow of those energies which can
spread throughout the home. Often overlooked in applying
the principles of Vastu Shastra, the kitchen is the one place
where you reap the maximum benefits of good energy when
implemented. If this is a big concern for you, reach out to the
best interior designers in Kerala at Bespoke Decor to create
your Vastu-friendly kitchen.
Kitchen Placement
Let’s start off with the placement of the kitchen. This is a
factor which will be in your control only if your house is
under construction. Many builders today ensure that they
are Vastu compliant too.
Tips to follow:
The south-East direction of the home is the best placement
for the kitchen since it is where the fire element is present
The north-West direction is another Vastu compliant position
for the kitchen
The door of the kitchen should be in the North, East or West
direction
37Avoid:
Do not have your kitchen above or below a toilet, bedroom, or a prayer room
Do not place the kitchen to the South-West, North, or North-East positions
The kitchen door should not be at the corner of the room
The kitchen and washroom should not share a common wall
How to Position the Work Triangle
It is important to ensure a clear flow between the three elements of the Kitchen Work Triangle. The Vastu implications of
these elements are as follows:
Owing to the aforementioned presence of the fire element in the South-East direction, it is considered to be the best for
stove placement. Other heating appliances like microwaves, ovens and
I. Cooktop or Stove
Tips to follow:
toasters can also be placed in this direction
When using the stove or a related heating appliance, the person must face East to attract the most positive energy
Avoid:
Do not place the fire elements (stove) and water elements (sink) on the same side or parallel to each other. These oppos-
ing forces repel one another and can lead to conflict when placed together
Gas stove should not be placed in front of the kitchen entry door
II. Sink
38Tips to follow:
North and North-East directions work out best for the placement of the sink. Other water-related appliances like the
water dispenser, water purifier and washing machine must also follow this rule
Avoid:
Make sure there is no clash between the fire and water energies in the kitchen
III. Refrigerator
Tips to follow:
South, West and the North directions are best accepted according to Vastu
The South-West direction is considered acceptable for refrigerator placement, only if it is placed a foot away from the
corner
Avoid:
Do not place the refrigerator in the North-East direction
Storage
Tips to follow:
South-West is the best direction to store dry food to ensure the abundance
The South and West directions are also Vastu compliant for storage
Avoid:
North and East directions are not conducive, according to Vastu
39Other tips:
Make sure that your kitchen receives ample natural light to boost the positivity of the space
Ensure good ventilation with properly placed exhaust fans and chimneys
Use bright colours in your kitchen space and avoid the use of black colours for the kitchen floor
For more details on making your modular kitchen Vastu compliant, reach out to Bespoke Decor at +91 90 20 10 70 22 |
23
4010
The All-Encompassing Beginners
Guide To Modular Kitchen Chimneys
41Now that Kerala-style fish fry smell won’t reach your vegetari-
an neighbours!
The one addition you see in clean and smoke-free modular
kitchens are definitely kitchen chimneys. Hands down, they
keep your work triangle spick and span, not to forget,
well-ventilated too.
With a cosy home and an ergonomic modular kitchen in
place- fitting a few of the prime kitchen accessories are more
of a necessity than a choice. Without a modular kitchen
chimney installed, how else would you avoid your favorite
Kerala fish fry aroma from reaching your vegetarian neigh-
bors?
We sure have the best solutions for your kitchen ideas, not
just to make it smoke-free, but cost-effective too. Read on to
find out more.
What types are available in the market?
1. Wall Mounted Chimney
Fixed above the stove onto the wall, these chimneys add a
modern touch to your kitchen. These chimneys are bud-
get-friendly and best suited for smoke and spice intensive
Indian cooking.
422. Island Chimney
Just as the name suggests, the stove stands away from the walls, and hence, the chimney is above the stove in an island
fashion. These chimneys are best for a U-shaped or open kitchen layout.
3. Built-in Chimney
With a seamless look, these chimneys come in box shapes. The parts fit inside the kitchen cabinet, making the chimney
almost invisible. This decorative chimney radically reduces smoke and fumes while producing less noise when in opera-
tion.
4. Straight Line Chimney
This type of chimney is best suited for small-sized kitchens. It is designed in a way that it extends only halfway over the
stove.
5. Corner-type Chimney
Compact and well-adapting to small spaces, corner-type chimneys are located just above a stove placed in the corner of
a kitchen. These chimneys add a natural look to the corner space.
6. Curved Glass Chimney
These chimneys come with push buttons, allowing easy access to features. These are decorative chimneys which add a
design-savvy look to your modern modular kitchen.
Get to know chimney filters
Mesh/Cassette:
Aluminium type, lightweight and detachable
These filters are inexpensive
43Can retain oil particles, fume or grease while only releasing hot air outside
Difficult to clean between the layers
Baffle:
These filters have a bigger space for air movement
Easier for airflow
Baffle filters are dishwasher-safe and easy to dust
Expensive
Heavy in weight due to steel structure and pipes
Charcoal/Carbon:
These filters allow only hot air to pass
Charcoal granules absorb the grease and can be used for a ductless chimney
Since the charcoal granules cannot be washed, the filters have to be replaced once in a while
Which are the best brands?
Some of the best brands that keep pace with futuristic designs and technology for decorative chimneys are:
Faber
Bosch
Elica
Sleek
Glen
Kaff
Siemens
44When selecting a decorative chimney for your modular kitchen, always consult a specialist to choose a cost-effective
set-up while choosing the size and calculating the suction capacity of a chimney. As a layman, pondering over these
factors could be a challenge. Consult your nearest top-rated interior designer like Bespoke Decor to get your best
options.
Now that you are aware of the few designs and filter types, choose a kitchen chimney that compliments your modular
kitchen. Still, confused? We are only a call away!
45Bespoke Decor Bespoke Decor
UNI Square, Kaloor-Kadavanthara Road 1st Floor, MP Rappai Memorial Building
Kathrikadavu, Elamkulam, Kochi. RC Bishop Palace Road, East Fort, Thrissur-5
Kerala - 682 017 +91 9020107022, +91 9020107023
+91 9020107022 , +91 9020107023
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