Designing the dream kitchen with expert advice

If you're on the market to find dream kitchen designs like splashbacks, benchtops and more, take all the guesswork out of it by reading what expert designer Sarah Bradfield has to say about making your dreams come true.

What's your favourite benchtop material?

I love the look of solid timber benchtops, but they're not practical for everyone, so I'd have to say laminate. It's relatively inexpensive and comes in such a wide range of colours and effects that it will suit whichever look you're trying to achieve.

Handles or no handles on kitchen cabinetry?

I think this decision comes down to the individual kitchen. Cabinetry without handles is becoming more and more popular and suits rooms where the look is very minimalist, but in other kitchens handles will look best. People need to look at both options and decide what will work best in their home.

What's your favourite colour for a splashback?

For me personally, I'm a big fan of either neutral creams or whites, which, with low-iron glass, look crisp and glossy when they're well lit. At the moment I also love the look of stainless steel splashbacks – they add a professional air to a domestic kitchen.

What's worth splashing out on in a kitchen?

The finish on your cabinetry is important because, visually, it will dominate the room. A nice glossy two-pak finish will inevitably look better than a less expensive finish. A quality finish on the cabinetry will instantly make a kitchen seem luxurious.

What's your best tip for getting the lighting right in a kitchen?

Make sure you plan it really well, taking care to ensure that all work areas are well lit and that no shadows are created when you're standing by the bench or sink.

Is it wise to use bold colours in the kitchen?

Again, I think it depends on the person and the home. But if you are going to do it, my tip is to pick a spot where you can easily change it if you get sick of it – bright red cupboard doors will be quite expensive to change a few years down the track.

Interior designers are your first port of call when it comes to the dream kitchen, so contact one in your area today: