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  1. How to build an open plan kitchen

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    If you like cooking for guests, then why not cook with them instead of being away from them? An open plan kitchen is a great way to ensure you’re always part of the action, not just a cook who moonlights as a waiter.

     

    What is an open plan kitchen?

    An open plan kitchen is any kitchen that is not walled off from the rest of the house. But a successful open plan kitchen is a space that seamlessly ‘connects’ to the rest of the house; a sort of pipe which helps daily life flow.

    This might involve more than knocking down a few walls. It will require you to rethink the actual layout of your kitchen. For example, does an L-shape or galley work best for your space? To get started, think about where the sunlight tends to fall, how much storage you need, and how people will likely move through and use the room.

    Having an open plan kitchen opens up a whole new world. A more spacious, stylish and convenient world you can share with your friends and loved ones.

    But it takes a lot of thought, time and skill to design a space that really works. We’ve got five thoughts you can consider when designing an open plan kitchen.

     

    1. Position your key elements wisely

    When opting for an open plan kitchen, you’re essentially merging multiple rooms into one, so there are additional elements that need to be considered. For example, you don’t want to put the TV near where people will want to study – or the pantry far from the fridge. And don’t put your oven at the far end of your kitchen – you’ll be running back and forth trying to juggle your dish. But with the NEFF Slide & Hide® oven, you can maximise the space of your kitchen without compromising the quality of your food.

     

    2. Add the all-important kitchen island

    While every space is different, the best open plan designs often involve a kitchen island. Not only are they a stylish and practical way to separate the living from the cooking areas, they can be a great place to bond with your kids while they tackle their homework, or ‘attend’ a Zoom meeting while you’re making a roasted chicken and veggie soup or keeping an eye on your loaf of sourdough that’s baking. Better yet, you can add a sleek NEFF vented cooktop on your kitchen island and open up a generous amount of space for a larger sink or other appliances. Plus, it has a built-in ventilation system that gets rid of steam and smells before they can spread around the kitchen, so you don’t need a rangehood overhead.

     

    3. Use flooring to blend and zone

    Ripping up and replacing kitchen benchtops provides a great opportunity to rethink your flooring. The best option may simply be to replicate what you had before, especially if the tiles or floorboards match those in your living room to the whole space together.

    But don’t be afraid to create a contrast, and ‘mark off’ the kitchen zone with a change of flooring. Patterned tiles can be a fun addition to what all too often feels like a ‘work’ area, though remember that any selection you make will need to stand up to a great deal of foot traffic and spend some of its life covered in spilled drinks and food.

     

    Invest in appliances you can live with

    You’ll be using your kitchen appliances almost every day, so it’s important that you invest in the best.

    The NEFF Flex Design range gives you the best of both worlds – full style customisation and quality appliances that can stand the test of time. You can choose four distinct colours to add your personal flair, while having a seamless combination within the kitchen.

    If you want to free up valuable bench space, then consider an oven with microwave functionality (or both!). The hybrid appliance can help keep your open plan kitchen clutter-free, meaning more space for you to cook and socialise.

    To top it all off, the NEFF Slide & Hide® oven can making cooking and navigating the space easier. The fully disappearing door can maximise your space and allow for multiple people to move around the kitchen – perfect if you’re drafting up your open plan kitchen plan.

    Design tip

    Attend a free NEFF demonstration near you to see the NEFF Flex Design range in person and understand how they can bring your dream kitchen to life.

     

    5. Let there be (natural) light

    Natural light doesn’t always come naturally. To maximise it, you might need some more windows, a few French doors or maybe one or two skylights. Strategically placed mirrors can also help to add dimension and the illusion of more light to a space.

    Such additions may seem quite costly at first, but they are nearly always worth it. Natural light is one of the key perks of open plan living: fewer walls by and large tend to mean fewer shadows, lower electric bills, and more serotonin and Vitamin D.

     

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

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  2. Everything you need to know about designing a galley kitchen

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    What is a galley kitchen?

    Galley kitchens are designed with a bench and/or cabinetry on either side of a small walkway. The layout means you have double the bench space and can prepare and cook in different spots.

    Many galley kitchens are also designed so that one side of the bench overlooks a lounge or dining space while the other is against a window or wall. This means you can stay part of the conversation or watch over the kids while cooking or preparing food.

     

    How should I set up my galley kitchen?

    Whether you’re designing your own galley kitchen or renovating an existing one, think about what you use most when cooking. Do you want a sink in the middle of your bench so you can watch TV while you wash the dishes? Or would you prefer it’s on the opposite side of your space so you can stash them out of sight?

    The placement of your appliances will also impact your kitchen’s functionality so consider where works best for you to access a microwave, like the NEFF compact microwave oven, or stovetop. If you’re wanting to maximise even more space, stacking appliances or investing in hybrid options, like a NEFF oven with Full Steam, Added Steam or Steam Inject, is a smart move.

     

    What if I have a smaller/bigger space?

    It doesn’t matter if you’re in an apartment or a large country house, the functional layout of a galley kitchen means they can be tailored to suit your area. Even in a smaller space, the practicality of having two separated zones means you can prepare and make a mess on one side, while using the other to plate up. Plus, you can find many small galley kitchen ideas on a budget as inspiration for your kitchen renovation.

    If you have a larger area, consider extending your galley kitchen into the pantry, outdoor space or sitting area.

    Homeowners with a single-wall kitchen can also transform their space into a galley kitchen by using furniture, a trolley or a simple butcher’s island.

     

    How do I add my own style?

    Defining your personal style in a kitchen is a balancing act between style and substance: looks are one thing, but you don’t want to impact its ability to function.

    That’s why the NEFF Flex Design Range is essential for any home cook wanting to showcase their personal style while having quality appliances that can take your cooking to a whole new level. The NEFF Flex Design Range features all the appliances you know and love, such as Slide & Hide® ovens, combination ovens, induction cooktops and more, so you can guarantee that your next roasted lamb or chocolate cake will be cooked to perfection.

    With four distinct trimming and handle colours to choose from, the world is your oyster when it comes seamless combinations in the kitchen. Each of the four colours – brushed bronze, anthracite grey, metallic silver, and deep black – can suit a wide array of kitchen styles and aesthetics. For example, deep black trimmings can enhance a black and white kitchen. Or you can use brushed bronze instead to add earthy luxe to your Tuscan-inspired kitchen.

     

    How do I make the most of my space? 

    The best type of kitchen is one that works for you – but if you’re short on space there are a few extra tips you can follow that can help you maximise even the smallest of kitchens.

    Reduce clutter

    To stop your kitchen from feeling overcrowded, think about how you can reduce the visual clutter of your space. This might mean opting for integrated appliances that blend in with your cupboards, such as a NEFF fully integrated dishwasher or integrated cooktop. Both appliances are still just as functional, but not as obvious to look at.

     

    Be smart with your appliance choices

    Investing in quality appliances can maximise your space and time. The iconic NEFF Slide & Hide® oven is a great solution to help maximise space and save you from burning your hands and awkwardly leaning over an oven door when getting your food out.

     

    Have separate sides for cooking and cleaning

    Positioning things like your stove and sink on opposing sides of the bench allows you to create designated zones for cooking and cleaning or entertaining. This means you can cook up a storm on one side, while moving your used dishes out of the way and to the other.

     

    You can attend a free NEFF demonstration near you to learn more about the full range of NEFF products and see these in person for yourself to best understand how they can bring your dream kitchen to life.

     

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

    Discover more

  3. A butler’s pantry design guide

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    What is your butler’s pantry for? 

    The first step in designing a butler’s pantry is to decide what it will be used for. Will it be used occasionally or every day? While entertaining may be the first thing that spring to mind, a butler’s pantry can also be a great place to make a cup of coffee or wash your dishes. Knowing the why will help influence your butler’s pantry layout, design and requirements.

     

    Location and size

    The ideal location for the butler’s pantry is directly off the kitchen and out of sight. Decide whether you want to hide the pantry behind a door or leave it open. If opting to close it off, ensure any doors can be kept open if needed – a sliding door is often a great option for these types of butler’s pantries.

    There are no rules when it comes to the size of a butler’s pantry – you can have a small butler’s pantry or a larger one, whatever works for your space. You may be restricted by an existing footprint if you’re renovating or limited by budget and kitchen footprint if building, so it’s always best to consult a builder or designer on what’s possible. Depending on the space you have to work with, you might design a galley butler’s pantry, an L-shaped pantry or a U-shaped pantry – often to go with an open plan kitchen. 

     

    Choosing appliances 

    Unlike kitchens, butler’s pantries don’t have prescribed components that need to be included. Besides having cabinets and a countertop, the parts and pieces of a butler’s pantry can vary greatly depending on your needs.

    If you want to do some cooking prep out of sight, then get the best of both worlds with a NEFF vented induction cooktop in your main prep area and a small four-burner gas stove in your butler’s pantry. You can also add a NEFF Slide & Hide® oven in your butler’s pantry too. The fully disappearing door makes baking things like a carrot cake roll or blueberry and white chocolate scones so much easier, as you can effortlessly remove your dish from the oven without awkwardly leaning over the oven door.

    And why not match your kitchen appliances with the style of your butler’s pantry and kitchen with the NEFF Flex Design range? With four distinct colours to choose from, you can make seamless combinations with your favourite NEFF appliances in your butler’s pantry and kitchen for a cohesive design.

    If you want to keep it simple instead, then store your smaller appliances – like your sandwich press, toaster, kettle, and food processer – in your butler’s pantry. This can help free up space in your kitchen and make meal prep easier and cleaner. Plus you can add a dishwasher to your butler’s pantry. Why? It means all your dirty dishes can be placed in the butler’s pantry and then loaded into the dishwasher – away from guests keeping your kitchen looking fresh!

     

    Get the lighting right

    Ensure your butler’s pantry has adequate lighting, and if possible, a source of natural light. LED strip lighting installed on the underside of cabinets provides great task lighting to help you find what you’re looking for.

    But just because it is out of sight, doesn’t mean any old light will do. If you’re morning coffee prep is what brings you in there most often then you may want a soft light option so that you don’t wake yourself up. Or you might be more inclined to forego a switch and set up motion sensor lights to help with any midnight snacking.

     

    Don’t forget storage

    Open shelving is ideal for a butler’s pantry so that you can easily access what you need. Install it right to the ceiling and organise contents by frequency of use. Glass jars or stackable square containers with locking lids are ideal for bulk dry foods like cereal and pasta. Wire baskets are good for under-bench storage and tricky corners can be utilised with pull-out cupboard systems.

    Open shelving is also a great place to store appliances like mixers and toastie makers, as you can keep them at a level of your choice that is easily accessible depending on their weight, rather than bending down or reaching up to a cupboard.

     

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

    Discover more

  4. Designing The Right Island Bench For Your Kitchen

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    Hard-working kitchen island benches can boost precious bench space while doubling as a dining table, bar, and even workspace. Provided your kitchen is sufficiently roomy (experts recommend a space of at least 16 square metres) there really is no downside to adding an island bench into your kitchen design.

    Here are our top tips to consider when thinking about designing the right island bench for your kitchen.

     

    1. Choose your kitchen island layout

    The truth? Not all island benches were created equal – different kitchen island layouts have different benefits. So before settling on a final design, you’ll want to determine your goal for the space.

     

    Overhanging bench at front of island for stools

    Are you keen for the kids to spread out with their homework, or to have sufficient room to lay out a spread for guests? Then you’ll want to include two key features into your island bench: a length of at least 2.4 metres (for proportion as well as space), and an overhanging benchtop at the front for bar stools. This overhang should provide sufficient leg room for people to get comfy. Whatever you do, don’t go narrow with your kitchen island! Provided there’s enough room between countertops and appliances, the wider you can make your island the better.

     

    Connected benchtop at one end for seating

    For clever space optimisation, you can add a seating extension to your kitchen in the form of a peninsula or attached island bench. Perfect for medium to larger spaces, this kitchen design offers acres of bench space, with the uninterrupted countertop flowing into your attached island or breakfast bar. Better yet? It’s easy to incorporate breakfast bar stools or dining chairs in the manner above, making this island extension ideal for entertaining or serving food.

     

    Freestanding portable kitchen island or butcher’s block

    Is your kitchen on the smaller side, or are you going for that rustic country vibe? Then a freestanding island bench or butcher’s block may be for you. Freestanding islands provide additional space for meal prep, snacking or even sorting mail, but they’re light and portable enough (often on lockable wheels) to be moved easily if you need to reconfigure the space. The rustic butcher’s block is a sturdier option – usually made from solid wood – but it’s still able to be moved if need be.

     

    2. Install inbuilt kitchen island appliances

    Fitting inbuilt appliances in your kitchen island is a brilliant way to make savvy use of available bench space while enhancing workflow in the kitchen. The NEFF Flex Induction Cooktop is the perfect solution for an island bench setting with nothing overhead, with the rangehood and ventilation integrated into the flat cooktop – no overhead rangehood necessary. And with the new Flex Design range, you can add coloured trimmings and handles to your induction cooktop to match the rest of your appliances for a seamless kitchen design.

    It’s also possible to incorporate inbuilt microwaves, dishwashers, and even a Slide & Hide® oven into your kitchen island, saving on space, keeping your benchtops clear and optimising the golden triangle.

    A final design tip for kitchen islands? Including a few power points allows multiple cooks to use appliances like blenders or stand mixers at once – a lifesaver when it comes to whipping up memorable multi-course feasts.

     

    3. Consider storage in your kitchen island

    Another benefit of an island bench? The bountiful storage options! Wide breakfast bars and peninsulas are perfect for incorporating custom storage solutions like inbuilt shelving or pull-out drawers. Including a roomy bottom drawer for bulky appliances like slow cookers or pots and pans is another pro tip. Wine buffs may even like to include a wine fridge – a savvy storage solution that ensures your favourite bottles age perfectly while remaining at the ideal temperature for drinking. Win, win.

     

    4. Work out your sink placement

    Fixed island benches make it easier to nail the all-important work triangle – the space between your oven, sink and fridge. Especially if you have room to incorporate a sink into the kitchen island itself. Keep in mind, a plumbed-in sink can snaffle precious bench space if you don’t include a removable drainer, so factor this into your island design. And choose a modest-sized sink, as this frees up more of your island for meal prep, breakfasts and good ol’ family chats.

     

    Want to see how the Flex Design range can work with your kitchen benchtop? Then book in a free product demonstration. Our NEFF kitchen experts will show you the very best that this exclusive new range has to offer.

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

    Discover more

  5. How to transform your kitchen with colour

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    While neutral or monochrome colour schemes have a timeless appeal, it can sometimes feel hard to inject your own personality into the kitchen. But playing with colour means you can very easily change your kitchen’s look and feel without a full-scale renovation.

    If you want to create a colourful kitchen but aren’t sure where to start, then read on for five ideas to get you inspired.

     

    1. Start with the colour wheel

    Fun fact: did you know that Sir Isaac Newton invented the colour wheel? While he is best known for his physics breakthroughs, Newton also mapped the colour spectrum into a circle. It’s a great tool that designers use to visualise the relationship between primary, secondary, and tertiary colours. And there a few ways to develop colour schemes for your kitchen:

    Monochromatic

    Start by choosing one base colour plus any number of variations of that base. This can include shades, tones, or tints.

    Complementary

    Complementary colours are the opposite hues on the colour wheel. In their most basic form, they are one primary colour and the secondary colour that is created by mixing the other two primaries.

    Split complementary

    Rather than being a mixture of two colours, split-complementary colours contain a combination of three colours. To achieve this, you mix together one primary colour and two adjacent colours.

    Contrasting

    As the name suggest, this scheme uses colours from the opposite side of the wheel.

    Triadic

    A triadic colour scheme involves three evenly spaced colours on the wheel, which will yield a bold combination.

     

     

    2. Use your appliances as inspiration

    Given they’re essential to your kitchen, why not use your key appliances as inspiration for some colour? The new NEFF Flex Design range features four distinct colours that you can add to your major appliances – anthracite grey, brushed bronze, metallic silver and deep black.

    Each of these four colours come with their own unique style and colour combinations. For those wanting a bold kitchen, then a black and white colour scheme – with deep black trimming and handles on your appliances – can bring this look to life. If you want something more subtle to let other colours pop, then you can’t go past the metallic silver or anthracite grey trimmings and handles for your oven, warming drawer, induction cooktop, rangehood and coffee machine.

     

    3. Create a feature or accent wall

    A feature wall is a great way to create a focal point in your kitchen, and it’s the perfect way to ease into using colour if you don’t want to commit to a full colour overhaul. You could paint the wall in a single colour, wallpaper it, or even design a simple mural. Tiles are also a great way to add colour to your space – choose a striking hue for your backsplash for example.

    Design tip: See if you can match your feature wall with your built-in oven or coffee machine. The Flex Design range gives you options to choose from, meaning you can find a feature wall colour that seamlessly matches with your built-in appliance’s trimmings. Matching your built-in oven or coffee machine with your kitchen? Yes please!

     

    4. Use kitchen cabinets as the foundation

    Depending on your set up, kitchen cabinets typically take up approximately 40% of the visual space in your kitchen, so if you’re ready to go bold, it makes sense to use them as the base for your colour transformation. Take inspiration from nature and choose the colours and tones found in forests, the sky or even deserts – earthy soft hues that play well with so many other colours.

    If you’d like to use your cabinets to add colour but don’t want to go all out, opt for two-tone cabinets. Paint just a few cabinets, such as a stretch of uppers, to add interest without overwhelming the whole room.

     

    5. Bring colour in with accessories

    Sometimes adding colour to the kitchen can be as simple as choosing one hue and using it for many small pieces (even vintage ones!), such as chairs, cushions, or vases. If you have open shelving, you could display colourful pots and pans. Repeating one colour through the space makes it feel integrated into the decor, even if you’re using it in very small doses.

     

    So, how can you choose the best colours for your kitchen?

    The world really is your oyster when it comes to selecting colour in your kitchen. The best colours for your space really depend on your personal taste and the size and lighting levels in the room. But some ideas include earthy tones, such as rich and warming clay, dark colours like inky blues and blacks to add drama, or pale, cool shades of green for a calming effect.

    You could also take your cues from your appliances given that they take up a large portion of the kitchen. If your dishwasher, oven, and cooktops are made from stainless steel, you have the choice of selecting either warm or cool colours as they both compliment the silvery tone of steel. Opt for a combination of colours that coordinate with one another on the colour wheel. For example, you might choose cool colours such as blue or purple, or, you could go with warm combinations, such as red, orange, and yellow.

    If you’re ready to choose unique appliances for your kitchen, consider the NEFF Slide & Hide® oven in four distinct colours that match your style. Book in a free product demonstration today, and a NEFF kitchen expert can help you explore your options.

     

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

    Discover more

  6. Everything you need to know about building an L-shaped kitchen

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    What is an L-shaped kitchen?

    An L-shaped kitchen is a design layout that uses two right-angled walls to create a functional space. This means that any cabinetry, bench space and appliances are housed across two walls only, with an open area in the middle.

    The open-plan nature of L-shaped kitchens is helpful in extending the size of your kitchen space or leading seamlessly into a dining or lounge room.

     

    How can you make the most of your space with an L-shaped kitchen?

    To make the most of your L-shaped kitchen layout, it’s important to think about the functionality of your space, which includes the location of major appliances and cupboards.

    If you’re currently undergoing a kitchen renovation, a good guide to follow is that of the ‘kitchen work triangle’ – or ‘golden triangle’. It’s essentially an imaginary triangle that links your sink, cooktop and refrigerator. And while there’s no specific rule on how far apart they should be, a general guideline is no less than a metre and no further than 3 metres.

    Some of the other key appliances to have within easy reach include your oven, dishwasher, and microwave. If you want to create a seamless finish within the kitchen, then the new NEFF Flex Design range is a must-have for your L-shaped kitchen. With four different colours to choose from, you can match the trimmings of key appliances with your kitchen’s aesthetic. This includes the Slide & Hide® oven with Full Steam or Added Steam, a compact oven with microwave functionalities, induction cooktop and more.

    Design tip: To maximise the space in your kitchen, place two NEFF appliances – like a Slide & Hide® oven and NEFF oven with microwave functions – side by side for total convenience and seamless style.

     

    Where should you put your appliances in an L-shaped kitchen?

    Choosing the right spot for your appliances can be tricky. By now you’ve likely nailed the golden triangle outlined above – but what about your small appliances?

    We’ve all got those little appliances that we use each day – but they’re often taking up valuable space in the kitchen. Adding integrated appliances into your L-shaped kitchen is a sure-fire way to maximise space while having the appliances you use daily. For example, you can add a NEFF oven with air fry or steam functions to reduce the need to have additional appliances that serve these functions.

    Another option to consider is including a dedicated appliance cupboard. Fitted with power points, shelving, and a door to neatly hide your appliances, a cupboard can free up bench space and keep your kitchen looking tidy.

     

    Can you have an L-shaped kitchen in a small home?

    L-shaped kitchens are great in a small home, giving you a little extra room and stopping your kitchen from feeling cramped. But depending on the layout of your home and broader space, L-shaped kitchen layouts work in most homes. Their sleek yet functional design means they are great for people with small or medium-sized kitchens – but there’s no hard and fast rule. However, as mentioned above, it is key to consider the positioning of your appliances, and how much room they will take up. The NEFF Slide & Hide® oven has a disappearing door feature, which ensures there are no obstruction while you’re entertaining.

     

    Need help choosing the right appliances your kitchen?

    Then book in a free product demonstration with our NEFF kitchen experts. They can answer your questions and show you how NEFF appliances can elevate your kitchen and cooking. 

     

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

    Discover more

  7. 7 common kitchen design mistakes to avoid

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    1. Forgetting the golden triangle

    The three most important fixtures of any kitchen are the sink, cooktop and refrigerator. It’s best practice to design your kitchen with these three fixtures in a triangular shape (the golden triangle). This can help make it easier to move between them, speed up meal preparation and have better use of the kitchen space in the kitchen – you might even fit more than one cook!

    There are no hard and fast rules depicting the perfect kitchen work triangle. As a general guideline, the distance between these areas should be no less than 1 metre and no larger than 3 metres. If the distance is too small, it can make a kitchen feel cramped and blocked. If it’s too large, it makes cooking a hassle.

     

    2. Not selecting your appliances before you start your design

    Appliances can dictate the overall design of your kitchen, so it’s important that you choose them at the start of the process. If you don’t, you may be restricted to a certain sized oven or two ovens, but if you choose them first, you’ll know the exact dimensions to design the best possible kitchen to fit around them.

    Here are a few important questions to get you thinking:

    • How many ovens do you need and where would you like them placed? Can you stack two ovens on top of each other or would you rather have them side by side?
    • What type of cooking do you do? Do you do a lot of steam-based cooking and need an oven with Full Steam, Added Steam or Steam Inject? Or do you need easy access to your cooking with the Slide & Hide®? Perhaps a combination of the two?
    • What type of cooktop do you want? Gas? Induction? Or maybe a vented cooktop which doesn’t require a rangehood above?

    From a style perspective, your appliance’s trimmings and handles could influence the overall aesthetic of the kitchen. NEFF’s new Flex Design range has four distinctive colours – deep black, anthracite grey, metallic silver or brushed bronze – for your oven, cooktop, coffee machine and rangehood trimmings and handles. You can mix and match the colours to create a unique contrast or opt for a single shade for a holistic look – endless combinations for you to explore.

     

    3. Not carefully planning cabinets and drawers

    It might seem like a no brainer but, if you don’t put enough thought into the placement of your cabinets and drawers, they can end up hitting walls, surfaces or even your kitchen island if you’re not careful.

    To avoid this issue, be intentional with your planning – think hard about how and where your cabinetry and drawers will open. Consider your fridge and dishwasher locations too. For example, try and avoid placing your fridge or cabinets in a location that blocks an entryway if the door is open, and make sure you can fully open your fridge door without it butting up against a cabinet handle.

     

    4. Lack of bench space around the cooktop

    With so much space allocated to appliances and storage, one aspect that often gets overlooked is bench space, especially on either side of the cooktop. Large pots and pans need adequate space and the best spot for chopping up veggies and other ingredients is also right next to the cooktop.

    Obviously, there’s varying opinion around how much bench space is ideal, and this will also be dependent on how large your kitchen is to begin with, but generally speaking, two metres of clear bench space is ideal especially if there are two cooks in the kitchen at the same time.

     

    5. Inadequate lighting

    Not choosing enough lighting or choosing lighting that overwhelms the space is a common mistake many homeowners tend to make. A kitchen generally needs three forms of lighting: general lighting for overall illumination, task lighting and accent lighting.

    To determine what you need where, look at all your work areas and think about the lighting required for each – having lighting directly above each work area is important. You can enhance the design of your kitchen with pendant lights, while under-cabinet lighting will give you a better view for all your common tasks.

     

    6. Forgetting about power points

    If you’re a kitchen gadget junkie, then you’ll need to include multiple power point outlets in various spaces across the kitchen. You won’t want to be unplugging the kettle and toaster every time you want to use another appliance!

    It’s also a good idea to give the island its own independent power – it can be particularly useful to charge devices away from the bangs, scrapes, and spills of a working kitchen.

     

    7. Choosing the wrong benchtop

    One of the most common mistakes when it comes to choosing a kitchen benchtop is not understanding how much care certain materials need.

    Natural stone, such as marble or limestone may look beautiful, but they can stain easily and require regular upkeep to ensure they look pristine. Laminate is resistant to staining but not scratching, stainless steel is both heat resistant and durable, as is granite.

    Every material has its own strength and weaknesses – the key is to compare all of them with the kind of lifestyle you lead and the amount you are willing to spend for renovating your kitchen.

     

    If you’re ready to discover the finer details about your kitchen plans or appliances, then book in a free product demonstration. Our NEFF kitchen experts can show you how to elevate your kitchen’s look with the new Flex Design range, as well as highlighting how easy it is to cook up a storm with a NEFF oven.

     

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

    Discover more

  8. The complete guide to kitchen layouts

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    For passionate entertainers and home cooks, the kitchen is more than just a room – it’s a space to socialise and connect with friends and family over memorable multi-course feasts. When it comes to designing your ultimate chef’s kitchen, which layouts work best?

    While it’s easy to get caught up on aesthetics, the NEFF Flex Design range gives you the flexibility to effortlessly bring the whole kitchen together. No matter where your key appliances end up in the kitchen, the distinct trimmings and handles can tie in with your kitchen’s design seamlessly.

    So, whether you’re dreaming of a kitchen reno or ready to pick up the tools, here are five different types of kitchen layouts you can choose from.

     

    1. Island layout

    An island kitchen is an entertainer’s dream and one of the top kitchen layouts for passionate home cooks. It gives guests and families a front-row seat to your cooking magic, while ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the action. Better yet, a beautiful island bench can double as a dining table and bar, so we recommend incorporating some striking bar stools into the design so guests can get comfy.

    One of the greatest advantages of an island kitchen layout is that it provides extra bench space – a prized feature for any passionate home cook. But remember, island benches take up a lot of room, so you’ll need sufficient space in your kitchen to incorporate an island layout.

    It’s also critical to consider the space between your island bench and major appliances. While you want your island within arm’s reach of your oven, sink and fridge, you need to allow space for the doors to open and enough room to comfortably move past when they are.

    An alternative is to have your cooktop or oven built into your kitchen island. If you decide to build in an oven into your kitchen island, then a NEFF Slide & Hide® oven can make cooking and meal preparation easy. The fully disappearing door doesn’t get in the way between you and your cooking, which is a great option for cooks who want a stylish and practical kitchen island.

     

    2. U-shaped kitchen

    Don’t be fooled – while U-shaped kitchens can be found in many older homes or apartments, this layout is equally perfect for the modern kitchen designs. U-shaped kitchens incorporate cabinetry, bench tops and appliances into three adjoining walls to form the U, giving foodies lots of bench space and the option to maximise vertical storage with floor-to-ceiling cabinetry.

    One of the key advantages of a U-shaped kitchen for passionate cooks is that you can have work stations on all three sides. Meaning you can get the family involved in prepping midweek meals or that stunning dinner party.

    U-shaped kitchen layouts also make short work of the all-important ‘golden triangle’ – the distance between the sink, fridge and oven. Just remember that U-shaped kitchens are heavy on corners, so it’s important to ensure those lower corner cupboards aren’t going to waste.

     

    3. G-shaped kitchen

    If you’re a fan of the U-shaped kitchen but have a little more space to play with, then the G-shaped kitchen may be for you. This kitchen layout extends the three-sided U-shape by adding a fourth partial wall in the form of a peninsula or attached island bench. While it’s possible to create a G-shaped layout in small spaces, this kitchen layout works best in medium to larger kitchens, where there’s the potential to utilise the peninsula for entertaining or serving food. An inviting peninsula invites loved ones to pull up a stool, making it perfect for social home chefs who love company while they create.

    A G-shaped kitchen layout also offers plenty of bench space, with the uninterrupted countertop flowing seamlessly around the corner into your attached island or breakfast bar. Consider maximising space by incorporating inbuilt storage or appliances into your peninsula such as NEFF warming drawer or even a dishwasher.

     

    4. L-shaped kitchen

    Those with small to medium spaces may want to consider an L-shaped kitchen. An L-shaped layout incorporates cabinetry, bench space and appliances into two right-angled walls, freeing up space by creating an open area in the middle. This inviting open-plan layout is perfect if your kitchen flows into another room such as the lounge or dining room. Open-plan kitchens are also great for entertaining, encouraging guests to mingle and chat while you coax that rosemary-studded lamb shoulder in your NEFF oven.

    And remember that all important golden triangle we mentioned earlier? Provided your kitchen isn’t too large, L-shaped kitchens optimise the space between your wet area, fridge and oven, making whipping up memorable feasts a breeze. Another benefit of the corner L-shaped layout is that it creates multiple entrances and exits into your kitchen, minimising peak-hour traffic jams.

    Just remember, home cooks with large kitchens or who prefer to work alongside a sous-chef – a willing family member – should steer clear of this kitchen layout, as the limited bench space doesn’t encourage multiple chefs in the kitchen at any one time.

     

    5. Galley kitchen

    Looking for small kitchen inspiration? Then a galley kitchen layout is the perfect option! This layout is great for foodies with limited square meterage or a hallway-like space. It consists of two parallel walls with a working corridor in the middle, allowing easy access to storage, bench space and appliances on either side.

    To avoid a galley kitchen feeling claustrophobic, it’s vital to consider the layout and to promote a sense of space and openness if you can.

    Can you open up the space by having it flow into an adjoining dining area? Perfect – entertaining guests just became a whole lot more enjoyable. If your kitchen layout doesn’t permit this, you can consider grouping your ceiling-height cabinets on one wall, leaving space on the other wall for floating cabinets or a window. This asymmetrical layout will help your galley kitchen feel less confined. Fans of symmetry will want to keep their parallel bench tops of even length, while ensuring the height of cabinetry and appliances is the same on either side.

    Finally, it’s important in a narrow galley kitchen to utilise space-saving tricks for maximum efficiency. Inbuilt storage solutions such as hidden cupboards and pop-up shelves will ensure your space functions seamlessly, allowing you to focus on the task at hand: whipping up a super moist chocolate cake or flipping some Aussie beef burgers!

     

     

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

    Discover more

  9. How to create more space in your kitchen

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    Choose functionality 

    Functionality is an element of the kitchen that cannot be understated – and one of the best ways to ensure your space is as useful as can be is to choose appliances with technology that make your life (and cooking) easier – and cuts down on the need for multiple appliances. NEFF’s oven range has an array of features that do just that. On top of providing you with the versatility to cook with or without steam depending on your choice of dish, the NEFF built-in oven with Added Steam or Steam Inject includes our revered Slide & Hide® technology, which sees the door disappear under the base of the oven. This is helpful if you’re working with a smaller or tight kitchen space and you won’t knock into a hot oven door when removing your cooking.

    If you want to have your oven match your kitchen’s aesthetic, then the Slide & Hide® now comes in our Flex Design range. This range comes in four unique colours – brushed bronze, deep black, metallic silver and anthracite grey. Flex Design also has versatile accessories, like oven trims and handles, that allow you to match your appliances with your kitchen’s aesthetic. How good is that?

     

    Reduce bench clutter 

    As simple as it sounds, clearing away any unnecessary clutter on your bench or table can significantly improve the look of your space. Whether it’s junk mail, old recipe books or that basket of washing that just never seems to end – putting things away is the trick. However, it should come as no surprise that to put things away, they need to have a home. Whether it’s a designated cupboard, drawer or filing cabinet – give everything a place where they belong.

     

    Have a small appliance cupboard 

    Another way to expertly reduce clutter is to build or install a dedicated small appliance cupboard to house appliances such as your kettle or toaster.  These appliances are often left on a bench or hidden in a cupboard. But by creating a permanent space for them to live, complete with power points and enough ventilation, you won’t have to worry about moving them before or after each use (or hiding them away when you have guests coming!).

    Need a space-saving solution for your microwave? Then consider a NEFF combination oven with microwave functionality. It’s the ultimate two-in-one appliance that can serve a multitude of cooking needs. Bonus points for matching the trim and handles with your kitchen’s aesthetics!

     

    Buy hybrid appliances 

    Buying appliances with multiple uses is a great hack for small kitchen spaces. And whether it’s a multi-function kitchen sink or a hybrid appliance, having two (or three) appliances in one can be a huge space saver. Our built-in oven with microwave function and vented induction cooktop combine two appliances in one, reducing the need for multiple installations. The compact oven means you can defrost and re-heat food like you would in a microwave, as well as bake a cake or cook up a roast for dinner as in a conventional oven. Meanwhile the vented cooktop replaces the need for a bulky rangehood with a sleek cavity in the centre which draws steam and smells away immediately – plus it comes in the new Flex Design range, allowing you to shake up your cooktop’s trim with four distinct colour options.

     

    Open up your bench area 

    The layout of your kitchen can have a big impact on how much usable space you actually have. For example, if your kitchen has a U-shaped design, there can be a lot of wasted bench space in corners or on areas that are hard to reach. One way to open up your kitchen is to knock out a section and create an island bench or completely remove part of it to transform your kitchen into an L-shaped space.

     

    Give the illusion of space in your kitchen

    And lastly – but perhaps one of the most effective ways to create space – is to give the illusion that your kitchen is bigger than it actually is by using features that trick the eye. This might include choosing floor-to-ceiling tiles, installing mirrored cupboards or integrating your appliances behind cabinetry so your kitchen looks sleek and uninterrupted. A built-in NEFF coffee machine is the perfect example of how an appliance can fit seamlessly into your space.

    And whether you’re building a new home, renovating your existing one or just looking for some handy tips, these suggestions can help you create more space in your kitchen.

    You can book in a free NEFF product demonstration near you to learn more about the full range of NEFF products and see these in person for yourself to best understand how they can bring your dream kitchen to life.

     

    About NEFF 

    NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.

    Discover more