A white kitchen with wood accents is a combination that will never go out of style. It has a timeless appeal and elegant charm; upgrading your kitchen this way is a great choice, both functionally and trend-wise. Whether you prefer modern spaces or you are a lover of the farmhouse style, a white kitchen with wooden touches will appeal to your aesthetic senses. Here are some ideas of white kitchens with wooden accents.

Balancing the brightness of white with the earthiness of woody accents creates a striking look. Florals and wood accents go hand in hand to create a rustic romantic look. Using a dark wood-toned canopy between white cabinets is a simple way to introduce warm wooden accents into your kitchen. Cozy and clean a dark wood colour will add contrast to your cupboards without hogging all the attention.

  Wood looks in just about any home, it gives a natural addition to the kitchen where it can become shelves, doors, countertops, and more. Since wood can take on so many different colours and textures (depending on the stain you choose), there is no one size fits all way to decorate with the material. Instead, there are tons of different takes on wood accents in kitchens

No family is the same and why should every kitchen be? Families come in all different shapes and sizes, from the carefree bachelor, parents-to-be, or a full house and everything. No matter what you are looking for, we can help you get it. Our easy process puts you in control so that, together with our expert kitchen advisors, you can settle on the perfect kitchen design for your household and budget. 

Designing a kitchen on a budget just got even simpler. See how teaming cheaper upgrades with savvy spending can deliver style and function in your cooking space. A budget kitchen does not have to compensate for a stunning finish that is equipped for daily use. We are here to tell you that a practical and stylish design can be yours for less.  

Whether starting from scratch with a whole new kitchen or updating parts of the room that look tired and old-fashioned, clever choices and nifty design strategies can ensure a limited budget goes much further, and you can create great results. All you need are looks to inspire and tips on where to find kitchen essentials that are kinder on your pocket to create a fabulous kitchen on a budget.

Clients come to us looking for a kitchen/bedroom cupboards, but we advise on much more than that.
Being interior designers and understanding a wider scope of information not just pertaining to the kitchen but the surrounds as well, always lends us to being able to advise on accessories, furniture styles and shapes and most predominantly, the flooring in the living space, kitchen, bathrooms and bedrooms.

Regardless of the flooring chosen by the client, which we will get into shortly, we always advise the flooring to come after the units – bedrooms/kitchen for a neater finish. Meaning the flooring will butt up against the kickplate or will form part of the kickplate making it even neater.

Flooring that can be used throughout your whole house is tiling and vinyl wood look tiles which are the most impenetrable. Tiles are the most common choice because of its wide variety – ceramic porcelain or stone tiles are very hard wearing any kind of set up, also when looking at the excessive moisture areas in the kitchen its easy to clean, easy to take care, the only thing, it may need some re-grouting but that's a small price to pay for how long lasting and durable the option is for the kitchen. We use this also to tile up the kickplate which ensures there will be no moisture of any kind which will travel to the cupboards.

Just as durable and high in not absorbing water and ruining your kitchen/bathroom experience vinyl flooring which has had a huge revamp over the years. The click in planks to mimic any marble look or wood look will make the flooring installation much quicker as we as being able to do it yourself if you like going the di route. The only downfall for having vinyl in the kitchen is it easily dents and scratches.

New in the market is cork flooring which is waterproof. It is budget friendly, sustainable, war feeling and looking, has a spring to it (so if there is a large appliance that dents the surface, it can come back to original shape after a while because of its springiness)

When looking at the flooring of your kitchen product it is very important to consider the following.

1. How you and your family live, your movements, how you function in the kitchen as a whole
2. How easy would it be to clean, especially of you have pets,, young kids, a spill regardless of who makes it, this is a huge contributing factor as to which floor makes sense for your family.
3. Cost and comfort

Almost every home has a bar area or entertainment area. And whether you are designing a brand new home or redesigning an existing home, the bar area is often a place to consider. It is a perfect space to entertain family and friends. It can be kept simple or luxurious.

The home bar has officially graduated to front and center in modern residential designs, and can serve a variety of functions for homeowners, interior designers, and architects. In addition to being a gathering space for guests, many home bars now serve as architectural eyecatchers in their own right and allow for the use of materials, furniture, and surfaces that would be out of place in other areas of the house.

Everyone has their favorite spot to enjoy a glass of wine or a shot of whiskey. For some people, that spot is right in the comfort of their own modern home bar. In-home bars can act as a central hub for entertainment, and can easily bring with them the fun atmosphere of a tavern or cocktail lounge. When browsing photos for minimalist home bar ideas, ask yourself the following questions to make sure you create exactly what you want and need.

I want to build a home bar. Where do I start?
First, pick a location. Generally, people will build a basement bar or corner bar in an area near the kitchen or dining room. If you are limited in terms of available indoor space, an outdoor bar is an excellent option, especially during warmer seasons. Once you have secured a location, decide on what functionality you want to include in your space, such as sinks, storage and refrigeration. This will help you with the overall layout of your home bar design, and then you can start picking materials and finishes that will coordinate with the rest of the space.

Do I need a wet bar or portable bar?
Including a sink in the functionality of your new watering hole makes it a wet bar. Sinks are convenient for home bars if you choose a location far from your kitchen. Don't need running water? You might think about going with one of the many portable home bar design ideas, which will enable you to conveniently turn any space in your house into a modern barroom or cantina. For portable options, try a fun bar cart.

What minimalist home bar furniture should I get?
Choose furniture that will coordinate well with the rest of your home's modern decor. Seating and storage are essential to home bar designs, so look for bar stools and a liquor cabinet of some sort. If you are creating a freestanding station instead of using existing countertops, you will need a bar table, which are taller and shallower than regular dining tables. Check that your stool and table height work together before you finalize any home bar designs. Once you've found all of the right furniture pieces, you can implement your favorite decorative elements based on the home bar ideas that inspire you the most.

How should I decorate my modern home bar?
Accessorizing is the fun part of finalizing Bauhaus home bar designs. Find a theme that you want to incorporate — think about what you might see at your favorite modern pub or alehouse. There are infinite bar decorating ideas to choose from, but don't stress too much about finding the right barware pieces, as these are easy to change out. Bottle openers, decanters, ice buckets, cocktail shakers and glassware are a few of the functional accessories to remember to pick up. Coasters, neon and LED lights or signage are all great home bar ideas that will help you achieve the Bauhaus look you want, whether it's a futuristic lounge or a historical saloon. Last, but not least, don't forget to stock up on your beverage of choice!

"Your Kitchen" where memories are made. A space which evokes our human sensory perceptions. Like the feeling we experience at the sight of lush green vegetables, the soft touch of a beautifully ripened juicy tomato, the sizzling sound as a steak hits the pan, the fragrant smell of spices as they travel throughout our homes and finally the taste. The delicious taste explosion experienced by our taste buds.

This experience created in our kitchen is influenced by the design of our kitchens. The pleasure of cooking brings friends and family together to enjoy in these moments, it is the heart of our homes and the core to which the style of the rest of our home follows.

New kitchens are designed to create comfort and pleasure, yet they still manage to be stylish. Mundane ordinary kitchens have departed, and our design ability has become almost limitless. A great amount of detail is placed on its functionality as well as aesthetic satisfaction which is unique to every individual and home - creating and setting design trends.

Pops of Colour
A pop of colour adds a focal point and creates interest in the design. It is reflective of the user's personality and style.

Elegant Pastels
A subtle hint of colour draws the eye in a calm gentle manner, creating a delicate relaxed environment. Less extreme yet still highlighting the features within the kitchen.

Shades of Blue, a Blue Monday Never Felt so Good
The most popular colour to hit the kitchen. From light and soft to dark and rich. Making a statement whether it be dramatic or subtle.

Warm Wooden Neutrals
Monochrome timber kitchens with gold accents are welcoming, inviting one's guests into the kitchen becoming an intrinsic part of the space. A warm environment is created simultaneously a timeless design is manufactured.

An Island Life
The size and layout of the kitchen influences the design of one's island and the island becomes the gathering point within it. Over the years the design limitations have become minimal to none, allowing the creation of a unique multi-functional space in the kitchen. Islands can be singular, double, connected, multi-levelled, minimalistic, dynamic, rigid etc. The design variety is endless.

Shelving & Display
The juxtaposition of horizontal and vertical lines creates a statement and planned areas for display. Showing off the owner's personal style through colour, ornaments, plants, crockery, books etc.

Contemporary Country Style, Shaker it Up
A modern take on the typical ornate country style kitchen design has emerged. The shaker door being its instrument to add depth in a very subtle manner.

Handles Make a Comeback
Handles are back with a contrast. Gold, brass, rose gold, copper, etc. stand out against the modern door. Beautiful and ornate.

Concealed & Hidden Lighting
Hanging lights over the island continues to be prominent. However concealed and hidden lighting create a mysterious atmosphere and is emerging in popularity. Highlighting the wall cabinets with lights. Lighting is key to any design, it helps to highlight and accent the design by reflecting off the material finish.

Multiple Ovens
Multiple ovens are efficient and functional for your typical home MasterChef whilst adding an aesthetic feature creating a statement look.

Brass
Accessories, fixtures, fittings. Modern yet old school. It adds character to the space through the taps, doors, handles, ovens, sinks etc.

Industrial Look
The industrial style is very robust through its design and finishes. Metal and concrete effects make the kitchen unique and brings various unexpected textures.

Patina Finish
Treating metals to create interesting patina finishes, resulting in a personalised kitchen. This is quite popular with home owners wanting their one of a kind finish.

Green Living Walls
Green walls bring in nature and life. A living wall can be functional through the types of plants used on the wall, this can be useful herbs and vegetables. Or aesthetically through beautiful flowers and plants. There is an immediate calming effect which nature/ greenery brings to a space.

Contemporary Appliances
Appliances can depict the style of the kitchen as well. Through its design or colour, for example pastel or vibrant coloured appliances will set a different mood.

Veneers
Veneers add texture and character. This finish naturally makes an impact.

Countertops
Granite is not the only option. Durable long-lasting quartz are also popular with concrete or marble effect surfaces becoming more dominant.

Design trends are helpful guidelines however one should bear in mind that design is constantly changing. Design trends change depending on influences at that specific era in time. Style is created by how you choose to manipulate current trends. As a client or home owner your kitchen should reflect your own personal style creating a mood or feeling which eases one into a comfortable space. Most interior designers have a vision. They take the lead and help guide the outcome of your kitchen bringing it to life - that is after all their job. Take heed to their advice but know your style and design preferences so they can create your timeless space and you can create a lifetime of memories.

When designers set out to design the perfect kitchen for their clients, choosing the right countertop is vital. It is a very important decision during the planning stages of design. The countertop is ultimately needs to suit the needs of the client, as the work surface will depend on the type of user. We need to identify key factors which affect our decisions when providing the solutions for our clients. Would your client require an easy to maintain work surface? Or is a stain resistant work surface a worry? Or is the style of kitchen design a determining factor? Ultimately the choice lies with the client's needs and we can also mix and match different materials to suit the style requirements and add a feature to the space.

The two factors most likely to influence your choice are that of durability and appearance. As the worktops is of frequent use and needs to look great as well. There is an immense variety of materials to choose from. Certain materials call for extra care, a few are almost maintenance-free, and others develop a patina effect which makes the work surface even more stunning as it ages. So what are the options available?

Marble Countertops
Marble countertops create an elegant and sophisticated look, whether it has a polished or honed finish. The stone is resistant to heat, cracks, and breakage. But it is porous, can permanently stain and requires a lot of care in use. This is not ideal or an advisable option.

Wooden Countertops
Wooden countertops can be fairly economical and it adds a sense of warmth to your kitchen. It is multipurpose surface and works perfectly in a contemporary or rustic kitchen. Scratches will occur but those can be sanded away. A wood surface will need regular oiling and it is not heat resistant so one should be wary of protecting it from extra-hot cookware.

Granite Countertops
Granite countertops offer flexibility and sturdiness. It highlights the beauty of natural stone as each slab varies in appearance; it is also stain-resistant and requires minimal maintenance but can be porous. Granite worktops are normally sealed by the granite installation crew and might require further sealing a some years down the line.

Stainless Steel Countertops
Stainless steel countertops is basically impervious to heat and bacteria, making it the go to choice in professional kitchens. Besides cleaning up fingerprints regularly, it is a smart choice for a kitchen fitted with commercial-style appliances and is an ideal choice for those who are germ conscious. However, stainless steel worktops show surface scratches soon after use.

Solid Surfacing Countertops
Solid surfacing countertops like Corian offer great solutions for colour choice, build ups and a modern aesthetics. Innovative designs can be created using this product. It can be pricey but require minimal maintenance. Solid surface countertops can be thermo formed, shaped and styled in ways not possible with any of the other countertop materials. An alternate solid surface would be Formica which comes in a wide selection of colours, is fairly cost effective but comes in a standard thickness.

Engineered Stone Countertops
Engineered stone is currently one of the most popular solutions. It is composed of natural quartz mixed with resin. It is very durable, nonporous, and heat-scratch-resistant and maintenance free. Aesthetically there are always new colours coming on the market for every desired look from a marble effect to a concrete look. It is a bit most costly but well worth it.

Although similar in their function of creating a more cohesive, sleek and custom fitted look, they are however, not the same. Lets take a look at the differences. Built in appliances are designed to be visible. You will always see them, however, they are usually quite attractive with stainless steel accents and tinted glass fronts. Some have stylish LED light features and colour accents.

Often appliances such as ovens, microwaves and coffee machines etc, do create some sort of focal point in the kitchen and do add a very contemporary look and feel to the environment. Appliances such as fridges, dish washers and washing machines are considered free standing, which means they are not secured or fitted to any of the cabinetry. What does this mean in terms of giving them a built in look?

Well, these appliances, for one usually always protrude past the counter space or side panels. We can make them look "built in" by creating sides and tops, however, there is always a gap between these sides and the appliances. Fridges for example now come in many different sizes and depths vary drastically, some as much as 900mm deep which means that they would stick past your cabinets by at least 300mm...that's a whole ruler length! Unfortunately, there is often very little that can be done to overcome this dilemma without adequate space.

Integrated appliances on the other hand are designed to blend in seamlessly with your kitchen and the finish you select. These appliances don't come with a fancy front, but rather, a bland, usually white front with holes for brackets to be mounted to. These bland doors are there so that your kitchen supplier can add the same finish as what is in your kitchen to your appliances.

Appliances that usually get integrated include more commonly, fridges, freezers and dish washers. Occasionally you are able to get integrated washing machines and tumble dryers as well.

A cooker hood will make cooking more pleasant by filtering out any fat molecules, conducting away the steam and neutralising smells to keep your kitchen smelling fresh and clean. Aside from making an impressive visual statement by forming the stylish centrepiece of your kitchen, cooker hoods also offer the practical service of removing any airborne vapours, odours and grease to keep your kitchen environment as pleasant as possible. There are five main types of cooker hoods available on the market, including integrated, wall-mounted, island, downdraught and ceiling cooker hoods.

No hood without a hob
The type and size of your hob will, to a large extent, dictate what kind of cooker hood best serves your needs. The kind of hob you select will have an enormous impact on the size of cooker hood you should choose. The two appliances should work hand in hand – you can't buy one without considering the other.

All cooker hoods need to be positioned centrally over the hob in such a manner that they cover it sufficiently. To decide what cooker hood width will best suit your hob, you can draw an imaginary straight line upwards from the edge of the hob through to the lower edge of the cooker hood. An angle of 5° outwards for wall-mounted hoods is advisable, while for island hoods, the angle needs to be at least 10°. The recommended distance between a hob and a cooker hood is around 65cm to 75cm, and a hob measuring up to 75cm will require a cooker hood with a width of 90cm, while a hob measuring up to 90cm wide, will require a cooker hood with a width of 100cm to 120cm. The major exceptions to this rule include cooker hoods with multi-zone edge extraction, and cooker hoods servicing gas hobs, which can both be the same size as the hob below, while island cooker hoods always need to be larger than the hob below."

Silence is golden
When choosing your cooker hood, check out the noise levels of the unit. This is especially important today, where kitchens often double as the social hub of the home. You don't want operational noises to interfere with any social discussions. Cooker hood noise generally stems from the motor and the moving air throughout the unit, however, both these factors can be influenced. Any good quality cooker hood should have a noise level of less than 60 decibels.

Energy efficiency
With the ever-rising cost of electricity, it is important to consider energy efficiency when selecting your cooker hood. A good quality cooker hood should offer excellent energy efficiency, without compromising in terms of power and efficiency. In general, the fan and the lighting account for the bulk of any cooker hood's energy consumption, so you should look out for models with LED downlights, and ones that boast a DC motor. Another feature to look out for is the inter-hob-cooker hood communication as this is not only a convenient feature, but it can also play a major role in reducing energy consumption.

Cooker hood customisation
With the eternal quest for uniqueness and customised solutions, your cooker hood should also be as individual as your taste preferences. Today, you can customise your choice of cooker hood to best suit your needs.

Colour whether it be monochromatic, dark, light, two-tone, the choices can be endless. When designing a new kitchen colour choice is everything as it sets the mood for your entire kitchen. It is one of the key designing principles used during the design process. Colour evokes an emotion within every human being; it has a psychological effect on us and changes our moods easily; from feeling comfort and warmth to hostility and coldness. So think carefully of the mood you would like to create in your kitchen and follow these useful tips.

Identify the colours you love
This may seems rather obvious but it is a starting point, as these are the colour you find most attractive or give you a positive reaction. It is very easy to follow colour /design trends but always bear in mind these are guidelines and are constantly changing; rather think of this as a living space that reflect your style and is almost permanent for +/- 10 years.

Understand complimentary colours
You don't always have to stick to one colour; sometimes one may use multiple colours, creating a two-tone kitchen. Have a look at the colour wheel as a useful tool. You can use opposite colours to contrast each other or similar colours; both in actual fact complement each other. One can even go as far as using neutral colours with bold accents to create a stunning impact.

Remember the size of your kitchen
Colour can make any space appear smaller or larger than it really is, so make use of it wisely making it your advantage. It is an aesthetic choice but should also be functional. Darker colours make a small room look even smaller whereas light colours make it appear larger. Adjust your colour scheme to suit your space appropriately.

Think about your house
Think about how your kitchen fits into the rest of the house. The kitchen is one of the most used spaces in your home and its colour scheme should relate or lead the style for the rest of the house. This does not limit you in terms of a wow factor although a common thread throughout the house is always pleasant.

Colours can also bring in different textures
Different textures have their own intrinsic colours which can be added to your colour scheme in your kitchen. Timber can bring in natural earthy colours and add a sense of warmth, whilst stainless steel and other metals refer to industrial type kitchens through its shades of grey. Your worktops in granite, marble or engineered stone have their own unique colour within its texture.

Every kitchen is unique to its users and generally reflects their preferences in terms of function, style and look.

Contrast is an art design principle that can also be applied to the design of your kitchen. Basically, it's the placement of opposite elements, like light and dark or smooth and textured, to create interest or drama in a space. Creating contrast is the perfect way to add a striking statement to your space. Add contrast to your own kitchen with these five simple ideas from Weizter. Contrast is an art design principle that can also be applied to the design of your kitchen. Creating contrast is the perfect way to add a striking statement to your space. Add contrast to your own kitchen with these five simple ideas from Weizter.

1. Balance dark-colored kitchen cabinets with lighter countertops
Black and white is one of the most popular forms of contrast you'll find. It's a classic pairing that will add timeless style to your kitchen. Create this contrast by installing dark color kitchen cabinets.

2. Pair light-colored cabinets with dark hardware
Changing out your cabinet pulls and knobs is a simple and budget-friendly way to add contrast in your kitchen. Weizter has a wide selection of kitchen hardware, making it easy to find just what you're looking for. Pair dark cabinet pulls and knobs with white or light-colored cabinets to really make them pop.

3. Try white cabinets with a black kitchen island
Another place to add contrast is the kitchen island. Create a focal point in the kitchen with a black or dark color kitchen island surrounded by white or lighter-colored kitchen cabinets, or try a white island with darker color cabinets. The island is also a great place to add a pop of color if you're feeling adventurous.

4. Balance dark color kitchen cabinets with a lighter backsplash
Make dark color kitchen cabinets stand out by installing backsplash tiles in a lighter color.

5. Add wood to create contrast
Contrast isn't just about light and dark, it's about texture too. Wood's natural texture is great for creating contrast in the kitchen. Try wooden countertops, a butcher block island, or wooden cabinets to create a warm and inviting vibe in the kitchen.

Every client has specific needs when it comes to designing their kitchens; some require a certain aesthetic appeal, others want only high tech modern appliances, some want comfort and ease and others follow certain religious beliefs and dietary requirements. As designers we need to be well informed and educated to accommodate the varying needs of our clientele. Families who keep kosher follow the Jewish dietary law of Kashrut whereby foods are prepared in accordance; hence the need for kosher-friendly kitchen designs.

Kosher-friendly kitchen design requires a certain preparation and storage of foods. Meat and dairy products cannot be eaten or stored together. Utensils, cutlery, pots, cutting boards, and countertops that have come into contact with meat or used with meat cannot be used with dairy products and vice versa. Any utensil, pots, etc that come into contact with non-kosher foods cannot be used with kosher foods while the food is hot. Hence all cooking and storage is kept separately. Ideally one should think in 2's. Two sets of appliances, two sets of cooking utensils, two sets of dishes and two sets of storage. Basically designing two kitchens in one space and providing for every possible necessity. However, designing 2 kitchens in one space that still looks like one kitchen can be a bit of a challenge.

The perfect solution would be differentiating between appliances and cooking areas but still having one gathering point. This particular modern kitchen design is kosher-friendly but reads as one kitchen design catering for the needs of the family. Allowing for a coffee station, under-counter fridge, eyelevel ovens, hob, free standing gas oven, various concealed extractor fans, built in microwave, built in dishwasher, freestanding dishwasher, double sink, prep sink, free standing fridge, herb garden, various inserts and double storage areas. All following modern trends of matt grey finishes with marble tops and most importantly ample seating and gathering space for the family which brings the entire design together.

Which kitchen flooring is right for you? Not all kitchen floors are created equal. As much as we'd like every floor to have exceptional durability, a low price tag, superior longevity and sky-high resale value, it just isn't realistic. If you're planning to revamp your kitchen knowing the strengths and weaknesses of hardwood, tile, travertine, laminate and vinyl is paramount. Lets weigh the pros and cons of these five common flooring types to help you select the right option for your lifestyle.

TILES
Cost - Medium to High
Much can be said about the options that tile affords homeowners. Modern printing technology can generate ceramic and porcelain tile surfaces that mimic natural stone (travertine and marble), wood and concrete, plus clean monotone styles. This versatility almost guarantees you'll find a style you like.

Pros
Moisture is no match for porcelain, which absorbs less water than ceramic. Tile has a hard surface that is uber-durable, especially color body porcelain (where the color runs through the tile instead of being just on the surface). It won't scratch easily and should last for however long you decide to live in your home. It's perhaps the easiest floor to clean. It can withstand most detergents, though all you really need is water and a mop. Tile is also well-priced option.

Cons
Tile with a smooth finish can get slick when wet. And despite how durable it is, it can still crack and chip if a heavy object hits its surface. Though standard tile is affordable, plank tile and marble tile can cost nearly as much as wood and stone. Older homeowners and those with foot or knee problems may have difficulty standing on its rock-hard surface.

The porcelain tile in this minimalist kitchen captures the natural movement of marble sans the maintenance. Marble tile and plank tile can be a low-care substitute for real stone and wood. Plank tile combines the beauty of hardwood with the durability of porcelain and ceramic. As with hardwood, you can mix and match the sizes of your planks to create depth in your kitchen.

VINYL
Cost - Low to Medium
Vinyl flooring is manufactured in three primary forms: vinyl plank (above), vinyl tile and sheet vinyl. It has several installation methods, including peel and stick, glue down, and click and lock. It can look like wood or stone.

Pros
Unlike tile, vinyl won't chip, and unlike laminate, vinyl can handle moisture. Its durable surface won't easily succumb to scratches and scuffs. It's also soft on your feet, a perk for older homeowners and those with foot or knee problems. The DIY-friendly installation methods and reasonable price tag will help keep your piggy bank intact.

Cons
Though it varies by market, the majority of home buyers will prefer hardwood and tile to vinyl. Furniture can leave marks on vinyl's soft surface. Foot-traffic patterns can emerge over time.

Whereas vinyl plank and vinyl tile are manufactured in separate pieces, sheet vinyl is manufactured in large sheets, typically about 12 feet long. It can be more cost-effective than the other two options.

CONCRETE
Cost - Low to Medium
Concrete has a contemporary look and tone that is hard to match. Durable, it can withstand activity in the busiest kitchens and look great. There are various finishes you can give concrete to customize its look. Freshly poured concrete can be stamped, while all concrete can be stained, polished, stenciled and waxed. If you like concrete flooring and live in a colder climate, consider adding radiant floor heating beneath the to warm up the material's cold surface.

Pros
Durable, versatile, moisture resistant, contemporary looking.

Cons
Hard if standing is required for prolonged periods, cold, needs re-sealing, can stain.

HARDWOOD
Cost - High
The appeal of a rich or smooth solid hardwood floor never fades. There's also much to love about hickory, mesquite, oak and walnut. When it comes to flooring, they're often at the top of the pecking order. Buyers can choose between solid hardwood or engineered hardwood, which is constructed with several layers of wood called plies. South Africa is not on par with these floors like Europe or the States.

Pros
Just about everyone wants hardwood floors, including home buyers. The resale value is through the roof. Other flooring products can come close but never fully replicate their natural beauty. Hardwood floors have the ability to be refinished and can last for centuries too.

Cons
Hardwood floors aren't always practical for homeowners who want low-maintenance kitchens. They scratch more easily than other materials and are harder to clean. When exposed to moisture over the long term, they can warp, buckle or crown. And then there's the price tag. Since quality hardwood floors are really expensive, expect to tap into your bank account.

Mix the sizes of your hardwood planks to add dimension to your kitchen. This traditional kitchen has planks with varied widths, but you can also choose planks with different lengths. Cleaner hardwood styles can blend in well with modern and contemporary designs. Hardwood flooring with a raw, unfinished texture gives this sleek London cooking space a natural midcentury modern touch.

Hardwood floors can also sport contemporary color palettes. This Miami kitchen uses gray oak to ground the ethereal white cabinetry. Woods with knots, grains and hand-scraped textures have strong character. They can restore a home's original charm when you're renovating a fixer-upper.

LAMINATE
Cost - Low to Medium
A relatively inexpensive floor, laminate has good bang for its buck. It can spruce up your kitchen at a lower cost than hardwood while providing superior scratch resistance against foot traffic. It's a viable alternative to hardwood floors, offering realistic wood finishes in a variety of styles.

Pros
If you want to save money, laminate may be for you. Not only is it less expensive than hardwood and tile, but it also has a click-and-lock floating installation system, which is primed for DIY installation.

Cons
Laminate isn't as equipped to handle moisture as tile and vinyl are (it can warp when wet), so installing it in your kitchen can make the upkeep more challenging. If you do, use a proper moisture barrier. You'll need a special cleaner and mop to clean it. Laminate also doesn't have the shelf life that hardwood, tile and vinyl floors do.

BAMBOO
Cost - Medium to High
Bamboo is a great kitchen flooring material, especially if you like eco-friendly products. Bamboo grows so quickly, it's a good sustainable source for flooring. Besides the eco-friendly aspect, bamboo's strength is one of the highest of the natural materials on the market. When selecting bamboo flooring, go with a reputable brand with the longest warranty possible. The quality bamboo flooring is reflected by the length of the warranty.

Pros
Durable, beautifully grained, eco-friendly, long warranty available.

Cons
Some bamboo flooring can dent easily and are expensive.

. Creating a minimal home is simple right? While maintaining that simplicity becomes that's a different story. Inevitably clutter appears and builds up over time but how we manage this is important when it comes to maintaining a home that is sleek and fuss free. One may love the minimalist look but struggle to maintain it. Try adapting these useful habits:

Habit #1
De-clutter the little spaces regularly. Doing a major spring clean can be daunting and time consuming, so we tend to put it off for as long as possible. A simpler and more achievable task is to target the various areas of your home, one at a time. Set aside 20 minutes to clean out a specific space, this way clutter is avoided.

Habit #2
Wash your dishes straight after you're done using them. Don't leave a sink full of dirty dishes, they pile up and create a mess. It makes sense to clean your dirty dishes as soon as you're finished using. This is more hygienic and avoids unnecessary clutter.

Habit #3
Organise your mail. We all have that spot in our house – the kitchen counter, entrance hall dresser, bedside table – where our mail inevitably piles up. Don't be tempted to sort through all your mail at the end of the month but rather go throughout immediately. That way you can throw away what you don't need and put the rest away for safe keeping.

Habit #4
Clear off counter tops. You can have the most beautiful appliances in your kitchen and your beauty products can be neatly lined up on your bathroom sink but if you have too many things on your countertops, your home will inevitably look untidy and cluttered. Organise your cabinets and drawers making sure there is a place for every item when you're not using it.

Habit #5
Only take in things you love. Do not buy just anything on a whim – ask yourself if you absolutely love it or if you will use it often. Think twice before making purchases and don't let gifts or other items stock up, if it is not for you then you should purge.

When you live in a city, galley kitchens are a reality. They're everywhere. If you don't have one, one of your friends probably does. Galley kitchens present a unique set of challenges because of their limited space and aisle-style layout. This can make using the space a huge pain, especially if the original layout isn't conducive to cooking with ease. A galley kitchen doesn't have to be your nightmare kitchen. With proper workflow and the right design, it could become the kitchen of your dreams. Galley Kitchens Are Not a Design Choice Not many people choose a galley kitchen on their own. The kitchen works in the space, but not so much for the people who end up living there.

The Lack of Storage, The constricting space means that your storage options are limited. For people who have a lot of cookware, a galley kitchen often won't have the room for it. Design Solutions for Your Galley Kitchen The stove should also be close to the serving area, and the fridge close to the sink. This gives you a more seamless transition between collecting, prepping, cooking, and serving. If your family has a host of culinary fanatics, or even if the chef just needs a little help with prep, a galley kitchen can propose some problems. There is a lot of back and forth and members of the family will get in each other's way, make sure there are dedicated spaces in which you can prepare beverages without interfering with the cook. To compensate for the extra people in the restricted space, I recommend scattering the appliances further apart. Arranging your appliances for the space will let everyone have a little more room to negotiate.

Feng shui is a system of laws considered to govern spatial arrangement and orientation in relation to the flow of energy (chi), whose favorable or unfavorable effects are considered when siting and designing buildings. It is an ancient art of Chinese practice that focuses on arranging spaces to create a sense of balance and harmony.

The kitchen is one of the most important places in the house. It's where we find nourishment, where loved ones gather and it's one of the main rooms that can contribute to positive chi. Some important aspects of feng shui designs and the kitchen are related to location. Here are some important things when designing a feng shui kitchen.

One of the most important of Feng shui in the kitchen is to place the stove in the most commanding position. Being able to see the door while using the stove gifts control and power over the space while being able to see what opportunities are passing through.

Placement and layout are some of the most important elements of feng shui practice but there is also a sense of divinity in the details. Curating a flowing environment also comes down to decor, colours, and the things we choose to occupy our space. The use of calm colours can also affect the feng shui energy.

Hang art in the kitchen. This can be another way in which you can bring balancing colour and personal vibes. Be careful about which style of art you pick as the energy of that piece will impact the kitchen. Include wood features, deep clean your kitchen, and keep knives out of sight, replace broken and chipped items, these are just a few helpful tips to achieve a feng shui layout in your kitchen

Aquariums have always been a beautiful centre piece of any room. Why not add one to your kitchen to create a space of peace and tranquility. Aquariums add colour, light and beauty to any space therefore in a kitchen it would make the space stand out. Whether you go for a tropical or a marine tank, either will give a focal point to your kitchen that will make your space stand out compared to other kitchens. When planning the kitchen around an aquarium it is important to go with a monochromatic space that will allow the aquarium to stand out. At Weizter we can plan your kitchen around your aquarium. Enquire today for a kitchen that stands out.

The Rise of Porcelain and Engineered Quartz New countertops are the top feature most homeowners want in their kitchen. While granite remains popular for its look - despite its maintenance - other materials are catching the attention of homeowners. Engineered quartz are by far more popular than any other type of work surface. Engineered quartz is 97 percent crushed quartz mixed with 3 percent resin to create a nonporous material that doesn't need to be sealed like granite. It was the most popular countertop material in the South Africa after granite, and the No. 1 choice in the USA, Canada, Ireland, Spain and Australia.

But not everyone embraces the material. Not all people are not happy with them and seem disappointed with the matte finishes which are prevalent in the market. They show a lot of fingerprints and look dirty as opposed to the polished surfaces. Instead, Neolith, a porcelain material from Spain, has been gaining popularity in recent years. You can't scratch it, burn it or stain it, it is highly scratch and heat resistant with no cracking or discoloration. Pour zinfandel, hot chili oil, blueberry and nothing happens.

A REVOLUTIONARY MATERIAL
Neolith Sintered Stone slab is a trendsetting material that is redefining the future of interior design. With an extensive range of colours and finishes, Neolith is a designer product that has created exciting possibilities for interior decorating applications and exterior cladding projects. Innovative and endless design options, comprehensive range of colour options and combinations, attractive Matte, Polished, Silk, Honed and Riverwashed finishes. Countertop and panel cladding material available in the same colour for perfect continuity and a holistic look Resistant to very high temperatures. Stain resistant, hardwearing and durable, easy to clean and maintain and minimal seam joins due to large slab format.

FEATURES & PRODUCT ADVANTAGES
Neolith is an admirable competitor when compared to common surface materials such as marble, granite, engineered stone and other cladding materials. The versatile colours, consistency, durability and remarkable size of these sintered stone slabs make Neolith the preferred product, particularly for large construction and development projects. Neolith can withstand much higher temperatures than most competing surfaces and the larger slab size means increased cost effectiveness and project efficiency.

Playing around with colours are daunting, but that is why a backsplash is perfect. By adding a colourful backsplash to give your kitchen a pop, might be just what your kitchen needs. Or if you have a colourful kitchen already go with forever in style White subway tiles. There are many options for adding a backsplash in your kitchen. From covering only the wall behind your cook top or letting it stretch all the way to the ceiling for a bigger impact. The only way to do it is to go big and bold! Here are some ideas of how you can splash your kitchen up.

The forever in style subway tiles is sophisticated, yet elegant. It will give your home a Manhattan look and you will definitely feel like you are in New York. If sleek and subtle is what you are looking for then get your hands on subway tiles as soon as possible.

If you are not one for the sleek and safe side of town. Go to the industrial side to work up a sweat with a steel or the currently making its way back copper splash backs. The copper splash back might be a bit of a gamble, but it will look beautiful if you can pull it off with the right colours around it.

Mosaic has always been a big adder in a kitchen. May it be two rows of tiles or the whole wall.

Mosaic yourself. If you feel a bit arty and you would like to add a bit of yourself on the wall and have hours maybe even days to spare. Get off cuts and broken tiles from your local tile shop. Break it up some more and build your own mosaic wall.

Colourful antique tiles will give a bit of maturity in your kitchen and guests will think you are sophisticated enough to whip up a Crème Brûlèe in mere minutes. 

If you suffer mildly from multiple identity disorder and don't know whether you feel blue, green or purple today, then a glass splash back might just be your calling. By just taking it off and repainting the wall you can have 4 seasons in one day. As long as the paint dries quick enough.

 Don't like too many colors? Are you the type of person that believes in a plain and almost minimalist? Then let your tops run across the wall.

The kitchen is probably one of the busiest places in the house. Keeping it neat and organised most of the time can be a real struggle, especially if cleaning is not your favourite activity. A minimalist kitchen may be the answer to your cleaning dilemma. Minimalism is one of the hottest design trends right now. More and more people are choosing the simpler and easy-to-maintain space over the heavily decorated places. The core idea behind minimalism is functionality. This is what makes it a great solution to the hard-to organize cooking area.

When designing a minimalist kitchen, only include the essentials. Each piece should serve a specific purpose. The rest should be removed. There is more than just one way to incorporate minimalism in your kitchen. It depends on your taste and the place you have. Here are, however, some ideas that will get you started.

Work with Your Space
The design of your kitchen depends on the size and architecture of your place. The good news is that minimalism is appropriate for both big homes and small apartments.

Create an Effective Layout
The layout of your kitchen needs to be straightforward. You can stick with the traditional and effective work triangle layout. This refers to the area between the three major kitchen components – the fridge, the stove and the sink.

Remove the Excess
The key to a minimalist and organised kitchen is getting rid of the unnecessary. The main reason for the cluttered place is keeping too many things in a tiny space. It's more convenient to just leave it on the counter than taking out and then putting it back in its place. Being a minimalist doesn't mean that you should own only the basics. It's more about storing things according to the frequency of usage. Put essentials in the easy to reach areas, while the other items should be well kept.

Keep it Simple
This is the mantra of every minimalist. Incorporate only appliance you know you will use. Don't simply arrange items for display. The same goes for the furniture. Minimalism is not fussy or complicated. A dining set or a counter island is enough. You need to have enough room to move around. The more furniture pieces you include the less natural flow you will have. This will also make everyday cleaning and maintenance a breeze.

Stick with the Neutrals
Clean lines and neutral pallets are the trademark of a minimalist design. White, beige and other unobtrusive shades adds sophistication and modern sense to the place. You can use the neutrals as a base. Create interest with details in bright shades.

Generally found in high end kitchens, the pot filler tap is becoming a popular choice in today's modern kitchen. The swinging cold water tap, mounted above the hob allows you to easily fill up pots directly on the hob without having to carry around heavy pots from the sink, adding convenience and function. Plus the classic look of a jointed-arm tap adds a touch of elegance and practicality. But is this feature really necessary or just a luxury? It is a luxury that creates convenience, and convenience is a big factor when creating the kitchen of your dreams.

Lighten The Load
Sure it's a great opportunity to start bulking up on some upper body strength, but unfortunately that type of strain can go straight to your back instead. A pot filler tap allows you to avoid lifting, straining or twisting. Critics will point out that you still have to carry the pot to the sink to empty it when you're done. Also, when your dishwasher is done cleaning your dishes you still have to unload it, and when your oven finishes cooking your meal you still have to serve it to your guests. In other words, we'll gladly take convenience wherever we can get it.

Save Time & Hassle
Perfecting a meal can quickly become a balancing act of multi-tasking. The pasta needs 12 minutes to boil, the sauce needs to simmer for 1 hour, the broccoli needs to be steamed for 5 minutes and your spouse is trying to rinse the dishes before your dinner guests arrive. What was already a challenge in and of itself has suddenly became a circus of yelling and waiting for water to go from hot to cold and back to hot, and bartering favors just to get a chance at the tap. Instead of juggling the kitchen sink, you could be out of each other's hair thanks to a second water source. A pot filler reduces conflict and creates more opportunities for multi-tasking.

Do More
You may not realize how much you truly use water in the kitchen until you have a pot filler tap. Think about how many dishes and items in the kitchen need water, from boiling and steaming to watering and cleaning, and then how often you need to add water. You add water to soups, pots of rice or oatmeal, the slow cooker, smoothies, your potted herbs, a tea kettle, the list goes on. A second water source in a separate location from your sink allows you to do so much more.

Add Style
The ideal kitchen contains appliances and fixtures which not only add function, but also aesthetics. For example, a sink and tap can endure the rigors of daily use while also adding a touch of beauty to your kitchen. Just like your sink's tap, a pot filler tap is both practical and beautiful. A pot filler gives you an opportunity for a new shiny fixture that complements your other hardware on a wall that would otherwise have nothing.