Photography: Hannah Puechmarin / Interior design: Angie Rogers
Since many of us spend more time in our kitchens than we care to admit, it’s understandable that it can start to feel tired and uninspiring. It’s not all about the appliances – it’s about the little things – and some kitchens nail the brief to feel fun, happy and inviting. There was never a better time than right now to give your kitchen a boost and make it feel fresh – create the dream kitchen you’ll enjoy and one that makes you happy whenever you walk into it.
Since a happy kitchen means different things to different people, we talked to Swedish-born interior designer Anna-Carin McNamara for her top tips on how everyone can make the kitchen one of their favourite spaces in the home to cook, entertain and chill out with friends and family. Read on and follow Anna’s five steps for a happier kitchen you’ll love to spend time in.
1. Never go to bed with a dirty kitchen
Clean the sink every night, so the next morning things are tidy for the start of the day. There’s nothing worse than waking up and seeing last night’s dinner mess. Clear the table, rinse the glassware, store leftovers in the fridge, then pack the dishwasher and hand-wash bulky items, or leave them to soak overnight.
2. Add sentimental items
Bring your personality into the kitchen by using open shelving to display artwork and treasured items that bring you joy when you see them. It will make being in the kitchen feel like less of a chore and more of a celebration to incorporate items you love.
3. Make each meal an occasion
Always set the table when you eat, don’t just save the tablecloth, place mats, candles and flowers for when you have guests over. It brings a sense of occasion to every meal, including breakfast, and can help build connections with loved ones.
4. Integrate appliances
Where possible, integrate appliances to create a seamless look in your kitchen design. If they’re on display, make sure you coordinate with the joinery – it makes a big difference, and since the kitchen is an area you’re likely to be in every day, you will notice the little things. Choose appliances that work with your aesthetic to ensure that everything from the family meal to the endless parade of washing happens with minimum visual interruption – behind closed doors if possible!
5. Organisation is key
Organise and plan your kitchen so that the tools you use all the time are easily accessible, and using them becomes second nature. Rather than spending time looking for specific utensils such as bowls, graters or crushers, keep your often-used items handy and purchase good-quality utensils to avoid having to replace them often.
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