Today's kitchen is so much more than just a cooking area. It’s arguably the most important room in your home. A place where family and friends gather to eat and socialise, a new form of living room. So, whether you’re refurbishing your forever home or thinking of selling, investing in a stylish and functional kitchen is a great way to make a BIG difference.
“A good kitchen design will always add value to a home,” says Sarah Maguire, owner of Raison Home Edinburgh. She adds, “good quality cabinetry and solid worktops, such as quartz and Dekton, not only stand the test of time but appeal to buyers too." The Edinburgh-based home designer works with clients in the comfort of their own homes to design a kitchen that reflects their natural style, needs and space. She knows where to invest and the power of a good design.
Here, she talks to egg about creating the perfect kitchen, where you can make a saving and the hottest kitchen trends for 2024…
What makes a good kitchen design?
One that focuses on functionality before form. In my design consultations we discuss how the space is used, what works well in the existing kitchen and any bugbears with the current layout. As I design with you in your own home, I understand any technical considerations and can see what layout would be most appropriate for your lifestyle and room. The aesthetics are so important, but we always start with the layout.
How long does the design process take?
The design process typically takes around 3 weeks, which includes a comprehensive in-home design consultation. During the consultation we work together on layout, how the kitchen will function and discuss style and colours for your kitchen. I'll bring the showroom to you, sharing samples of doors, colour swatches and worktop samples that will help us bring the design to life.
The next step is to create and visualise your design in 3D and Virtual Reality. The VR goggles are brilliant to give confidence in your design choices. I share a detailed design presentation and a fully itemised quote, and I'll source fitting quotes from my trusted trades. I'll guide you through the process and manage the project from end-to-end, removing as much stress and hassle from you as possible. From start to finish, a kitchen project is typically 3 months from design to installation.
How much will a new kitchen cost?
The cost varies from project to project and is influenced by the size of the kitchen and the type of storage options, appliances, and worktops. A small Edinburgh kitchen starts around £20k and can go as high as your ambition! It's important that you know your budget to make good design choices, and we discuss this during our design consultation. You'll have your own specific kitchen wish list, so we start with that and how to make it a reality. I'll help you to maximise your budget, and as I work with many different kitchen manufacturers, we'll find exactly what you're looking for!
Are there ways to do it cheaper?
There are always ways to flex the cost of the kitchen. For instance, laminate worktops are more cost effective than solid surfaces, or you might choose standard cupboards over more expensive drawers or internal storage options. If your budget is very tight however, it’s better to spend on the best quality cabinets and hard finishes rather than expensive high-end appliances. You won’t want to replace your cabinets after only a few years, while upgrading appliances later is much easier and will help you manage your budget now.
The big kitchen trends of 2024…
Colour - dark green and blue hues are giving way to a warmer, nature inspired palette, which includes off-white, light green, beige, and brown tones. These earthy hues create a cosy, comfortable atmosphere and bring a sense of peace.
Wooden finishes in different tones and textures are becoming increasingly popular too, often paired with lighter, neutral colours. Muted pastel shades, including blue, pink, and peach are also appearing as colour accents. Apricot Crush, the 2024 pantone colour of the year, is a warm pastel orange shade which pairs beautifully with wood and neutrals. This colour palette plays nicely into the popular Scandinavian style of design, with a focus on creating airy, comfortable, and functional kitchen designs.
Susan Allan Photography (above)
Metallic Finishes - Brushed brass and copper continue to be popular finishes for taps and handles, particularly complementing more earthy and natural toned cabinets. Blending of different finishes is also becoming popular, from brass, to bronze, to stainless steel. When done right, mixing metals can add depth to a room. The guidance is to pick a dominant metal for 70% of your kitchen and accent this with one or two alternative metals to add interest.
Splashbacks & Worktops - Large, single slab stone splashbacks are big news. Using the same stone as your worktop on your walls is a practical option and creates visual impact as you enter the kitchen. Bolder worktops choices are also expected, with more colourful or deeply veined stone worktops adding character to soft cabinet colours.
Sustainability - The ‘unfitted’ kitchen trend is gaining popularity. This is where freestanding furniture is mixed with fixed kitchen cabinets to create a more personalised space. Incorporating older or recycled freestanding elements, such as an antique dresser, is an eco-friendlier option and creates a lived-in vibe. This mix of older and newer elements can soften the ‘boxy’ feeling of fitted cabinets and bring personality to your kitchen.
To chat to Sarah about your kitchen renovation project, phone 0131 210 0244. You can also book a no obligation design consultation with Sarah online or by emailing [email protected]. Raison Home is an egg partner meaning paying egg members can enjoy 5%-10% discount off kitchen cabinets. Refer a friend and choose £200 vouchers of your choice when their project is installed. Find out more here.
*All kitchens featured are designed by Sarah at Raison Home.
