THE KITCHENISTA

Expert advice on kitchen design, trends and innovation

Posts Tagged ‘wine cooler’

Keep it Cool this Summer

Thursday, July 1st, 2010

Does the thought of choosing a fridge fill you with dread? What size to buy? Fridge to freezer ratio? Capacity?!

Well here are a few handy tips to consider so that you don’t lose your cool…

The most exciting element when choosing a fridge is the overall style you want to project – there are hundreds of different colours and designs that can be used for inspiration, from uber modern to retro to even having an England flag adorning the fridge!

Editor of Essential Kitchen magazine, Ronnie Whelan says “The fridge is a major element of a kitchen’s design”

And as to where to put your fridge – they can be hidden behind kitchen cupboards which is ideal for a streamlined look that suits open-plan living.

On the other hand, freestanding fridge/freezers use less floor space than built-in units making them perfect for flats. But can, on the other hand, they be less energy efficient and noisier.

Freestanding fridges are ideal for making a statement and can work with most kitchen designs -  plus there’s an enormous variety of colourful, retro-styled, black, white or stainless steel designs.

Another key point is to consider is your eating and drinking habits – if you enjoy a cheeky glass of wine every now and again then perhaps a special cooler would be a nice extra. Other special features include open door alarms and ice and chilled water dispensers.

So think outside the box, don’t just go for standard white when you could make your fridge a funky focal point in your kitchen.

All I want for Christmas is… A Party Kitchen

Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009

If you enjoy entertaining and want your kitchen to be ideal place for your guests congregate during the festive period, there are a number of ways to help create the ‘Perfect Party Kitchen’.

Wine coolerStep One – The Wine Fridge
No party kitchen is complete without a built-in wine cooler which are designed to store bottles at the right temperature. Keep them well stocked to make sure that no party, whether planned or impromptu, leaves guests with a dry mouth.

Step Two – Ice Dispenser
A constant supply of ice is vital for any party. Whether mixing cocktails or fruity soft drinks, ice dispensers are great for keeping drinks chilled this winter. They come as standard in most American style fridges.

Step Three – Kitchen Island
At most parties guests have a tendency to congregate in the kitchen. Installing a kitchen island provides the perfect place for revellers to gather ‘round. They are also a great place to dispense drinks or food from.

Step Four – Lighting
The position of lighting can be used to create the right ambience in the kitchen. When hosting a party never switch all the lights on – select carefully and you’ll be able to create the perfect party atmosphere.

Step Five – Coffee Machine
Vital for the morning after the night before. Help put the hangover on hold with a professional coffee machine. Forget instant and enjoy the taste of real percolated coffee, ideal for those who like a strong espresso to start the day.