Is a Kitchen Refresh Worth it?

Is your kitchen starting to feel a little stale? If the answer is yes, you’re not alone. Many homeowners find themselves longing for a change in their kitchen. But before you dive headfirst into a full-scale remodel, consider the option of a kitchen refresh. A kitchen refresh can breathe new life into your space without breaking the bank or causing major disruptions. But is refreshing your kitchen worth it?

What is a Kitchen Refresh and Is it Worth the Effort?

A kitchen refresh is a way to update your kitchen by making minor and sometimes major changes to its appearance and functionality. This can involve painting cabinets, replacing hardware, updating appliances, improving lighting fixtures and more. Unlike a kitchen remodel, a kitchen refresh doesn’t involve removing existing fixtures or changing the layout. Having a kitchen refresh is definitely worth the effort if you are looking for a budget-friendly way to enhance your kitchen.

Benefits of a Kitchen Refresh vs Kitchen Remodel.

Cost-effective – One of the main benefits of a kitchen refresh is the cost. Full renovations can be expensive but a kitchen refresh allows you to make significant changes without making large investments.
Time-saving – A kitchen refresh can be completed in a fraction of the time it takes to do a full renovation.
Less disruptive – Since a refresh is less extensive, it is far less disruptive to your home life. You can continue to use your kitchen while the updates are being made.
Aesthetic improvement – Small changes can make a big difference. A refresh can modernise your kitchen and make it a more pleasant place to cook and entertain.
Increases your home’s value – Even minor changes can make your kitchen feel fresh and up-to-date which will make it more desirable for potential buyers. The right changes may even increase the value of your home. Many kitchen refresh projects offer a good ROI when selling your home.

How to Refresh a Kitchen

Here are a few ways to update your kitchen without investing in a complete renovation.

Revamp kitchen cupboards

If you’re not planning on replacing your kitchen cupboards, you can give them a new lease on life by painting the doors and adding new hardware. Small changes like updating the handles are a simple way to modernise your kitchen

Update Kitchen Lighting

Good lighting is essential in a kitchen. Adding plinth lights, under cabinet lighting and replacing old fixtures can make your kitchen feel bright and new.

Upgrade Kitchen Appliances

Upgrading to newer, more efficient appliances can improve the functionality and energy efficiency of your kitchen. Built-in or integrated kitchen appliances can blend in seamlessly and provide you with more worktop space. Alternatively, new freestanding appliances will be easy to slot into existing spaces without changing the space. A new hood also makes the kitchen feel fresher. Choose ceiling installations to give the kitchen a new look.

Replace Kitchen Worktops

Replacing your kitchen worktops is a great way to give your kitchen a rebirth. From durable quartz to affordable laminate, there are many options available that will update the look of your kitchen

Get a New Kitchen Sink

When it comes to refreshing your kitchen, a new kitchen sink can make a huge difference. With a lot of time spent at the sink, investing in a new modern version can help breathe new life into your kitchen. While stainless steel sinks are an ever-popular choice, modern alternatives like composite sinks (made with quartz and granite) offer stain resistance which can make them a long-lasting investment.

Choose Modern Kitchen Taps

Updating your kitchen with a modern tap like a new instant boiling water tap brings your outdated kitchen into the 21st century. You’ll need to establish the water pressure in your home before you splash out on a new modern tap.

Swap Out The Kitchen Flooring

As well as changing appliances and minor fixtures, you can consider easy and cost-effective flooring options, to update your kitchen. Options like vinyl and laminate can mimic the look of more expensive materials and give your kitchen floor a refreshed look.

Need More Than a Kitchen Refresh?

If you’re based in the Cannock area and your old kitchen needs more than a simple refresh, New Design Kitchens can help! Our team of kitchen specialists will help you create a stunning new fitted kitchen tailored to your exact needs and style. From sleek modern designs to classic country kitchens, our expert team can design a fully fitted kitchen and help you choose from the latest kitchen appliances to complement the new space.

If you’d like more information about our kitchen design services or want to visit our two-storey kitchen showroom for inspiration, contact our friendly team online or call us on 01543 570 468.

How to Plan A Kitchen Layout That Fits Your Lifestyle

Are you considering remodelling your kitchen? Wondering how to plan a kitchen layout? You may be feeling a little overwhelmed at the thought of such an important project. The kitchen layout you choose will likely need to serve you for many years, so it’s crucial to get the design right. Here are eight key considerations to help you plan an efficient and functional kitchen layout.

Think About Functionality and Purpose

What do you want your kitchen to do beyond the obvious cooking? Consider your lifestyle and needs. Do you want space for the family to relax? Do you enjoy entertaining guests? Perhaps you’d like to watch TV while cooking. Defining the most important functions of your kitchen will help you decide on the best kitchen layout.

Consider the Kitchen Work Triangle

The work triangle concept is a fundamental element in kitchen design. It ensures your fridge, cooker, and sink are positioned at a comfortable distance from each other, forming a triangle. This layout minimises unnecessary steps and makes cooking more efficient. The best layout for the kitchen work triangle will vary according to your lifestyle. For busy families, having a kitchen that flows smoothly and saves time might be a priority, while someone living might prioritise a compact and efficient workspace.

Adequate Prep and Cooking Space

Ensure there is ample workspace on either side of the cooker and sink. You need places to put dishes, pots, or pans while performing tasks. Making sure you have adequate preparation space makes cooking and cleaning more convenient and enjoyable. If you cook less and prefer to eat out, less prep space might be acceptable. Tailor your prep space to your cooking habits and lifestyle.

Choose Practical Storage Solutions

Carefully plan your storage space and decide where to store crockery, utensils, pots and pans. To get the most out of the area, look into space-saving designs and cupboard interiors. Large families might need bulk storage solutions, while minimalists might prefer sleek, clutter-free designs. There are many kitchen storage ideas available that focus on reducing clutter and maximising space.

Think Open Shelving

Open shelving is a great way to mix up the look of traditional kitchen cabinets. Use different materials like glass or various types of wood to store cookbooks, collectables or seasonal kitchen decorative items. This adds personality and functionality to your kitchen. For those who love to cook, open shelves can keep your favourite cookbooks within easy reach, while entertainers can use them to display their best cookware items.

Consider Fridge Placement

Placing your fridge can be tricky. Ensure it’s easily accessible and that the doors can open fully without obstruction. Avoid placing the fridge directly next to a wall, which can restrict door movement. Instead, consider placing a tall unit like a cupboard next to it. Consider the size of fridge that will be most useful to maximise space. For large families or avid cooks, a larger fridge might be necessary, while singles or couples might opt for a smaller, more compact fridge.

Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands are popular for good reason. They provide additional workspace and can also offer seating for casual dining. Kitchen islands are great for entertaining, allowing guests to sit while you cook, or for kids to do homework. If you frequently host gatherings, consider an island with seating. If you need extra workspace, an island can provide that too. Ensure each person has at least 24 inches of space when sitting, with a 12-14 inch overhang for legroom.

Recycling Solutions

Incorporate recycling into your kitchen design. Equip a cabinet with separate containers for glass, plastic, and metal. A spare drawer can hold old newspapers. Planning for recycling helps keep your kitchen organised and eco-friendly. For eco-conscious individuals, having a dedicated recycling centre in the kitchen can simplify waste management and help you do your bit for the environment.

Popular Types of Kitchen Layout

When planning your kitchen, it’s helpful to understand the different layout options available. Here are a few of the most common kitchen layouts.

Galley Kitchen – Features two parallel walls with a walkway in between. Great for maximising efficiency in small spaces
L-shaped kitchen – This style provides an open feel and lots of countertop space as cabinets and appliances form an L shape.
U-shaped Kitchen – Provides ample storage space and counter space, with cabinets and appliances on three walls
Island Kitchen – You can add an island to any layout for extra workspace and seating.

Winning Kitchen Layout Design in Cannock

Planning a kitchen layout can seem daunting, but with careful consideration of these 8 factors, you can create a space that is both beautiful and functional.

Here at New Designs Kitchens, we not only supply a wide variety of fitted kitchens but we also provide kitchen design services with 3D visuals to help make your layout planning easier.

To help you plan your ideal kitchen layout, you can visit our showroom or browse our range of fitted kitchens and contact us for more details.

Everything You Need to Know About Installing a Quooker Tap

Offering boiled water in an instant, Quooker taps are increasingly popular for both modern and traditional-style kitchens and offer a whole host of benefits. Take a look at our guide to everything you need to know about installing a Quooker tap in your home.

[Read more…]

Gas & Energy Bill Hike – Energy Saving Advice

Our suggestion’s, what can we do?

Use a microwave rather than an oven to cook
Induction is cheaper than gas and ceramic
Use a Quooker tap for hot water rather than a kettle e.g. for vegetables as well as hot drinks
If boiling a kettle only boil as much water as you need
Put a lid on your pans when cooking
Batch cook your food to save on cooking twice
Cook several things at once in the oven
Use the fan setting on your oven – Neff have a specific CircoTherm heat gentle – for single self-cooking by maintaining an average temperature for more gentle cooking by reducing the thermostat cycles and using residual heat as part of the process
Don’t preheat your oven for too long
Use eco cycles on your washing machine and dishwasher
Defrost food before cooking
Use glass or ceramic oven proof dishes – great conductors of heat, metal pans & trays are cheaper but will take longer to heat your food
Use a larger surface area when cooking liquids – using a larger pan will heat food faster, saving money, time and energy
Switch appliances off by the mains rather than leaving them on standby, toasters, microwaves, coffee machines. 10 – 15% of electricity consumed in homes on average is from appliances left on standby
Keeping hob rings clean – any food stuck to the rings will make the hob less efficient
Also keeping your oven door clean means, you won’t lose any heat opening the door to check on your food.
Updating your old appliances to new more energy efficient ones. Energy ratings hange over time using an energy rating. Appliances are tested on how much energy they use, giving them a rating of A+++ down to G. A+++ been the most energy efficicent, G been the least. These energy ratings are generated by size of appliance, so only compare like for like using the size in which you require. For example, a G-rated 265 litre fridge freezer could cost £80 per year to run (70KGC02E), where a larger 424 Litre fridge freezer with a better F – rating could cost £90 a year to run (75KGC02E).
By simply upgrading your fridge freezer for a newer model just 2 energy ratings better you could save upto £190.00 in energy bills.

Please ask in store for more information on energy efficient appliances. Alternatively, contact New Design Kitchens to find out more about how we can help.

Making Oven Cleaning a Thing of the Past!

Oven Cleaning – A Thing of the Past

Love to cook, not so keen on the cleaning?

Pyrolytic Self Cleaning – The oven that cleans itself.

How does it work?

The oven cleaning process starts by turning food residue, baking, roasting and grilling splatter to ash with high temperatures of up to 485oC. Then just simply wipe the bas of the oven with a damp cloth once the oven has cooled and the child lock has deactivated.

Neff offer a choose of 3 settings depending on how dirty the oven is:

Light residue approx. 1 hour 15 minutes
Medium residue approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
Intensive cleaning approx. 2 hours

Pyrolytic, is it safe?

Yes, pyrolytic is safe, with Neff, Bosch & Sieman’s the door automatically locks until the oven has cooled to a safe temperature. The ovens are manufactured with extra insulation and thick glass to compensate for the high temperatures so the door will get hot but no hotter than you’d expect any other premium oven door to get.

Does pyrolytic require any additional ventilation and does it heat up the kitchen?

No extra ventilation is required to use the pyrolytic function, the amount of fumes will depend on the about of food debris and grease in the oven. When the pyrolytic function is activated it will heat your kitchen to a degree. Simply opening the window will be sufficient to dissipate any fumes and additional heat.

All Neff Pyrolytic self-cleaning ovens comes with EasyClean cleaning aid. When a full pyrolytic cycle is not required, for a light residue, place approx. 400ml of water and a drop of washing-up liquid into the base pan and select EasyClean program. For fast and uncomplicated cleaning, it softens any baked-on residue, allowing you to wipe down with a damp cloth.

Eco Clean & Base Clean

The EcoClean function Is found on Neff non-pyro models. EcoClean is a microfine ceramic bead coating (extremely absorbent due to its large surface area) on the oven’s interior, model dependent, either back, top, sides and back. The coating will work when the oven reaches 140oC and lasts the lifetime of the oven. Depending on how often the oven is used the Eco Clean function may only be necessary 2-3 times a year to remove burnt-on food using a temperature of 275o without the use of chemical cleaners.

Neff ovens with Eco Clean coating also has a BaseClean function to help keep the base of the oven clean, by softening burnt on food with warm water, allowing you to wipe the base with a damp cloth once the program has finished.

Pyrolytic Self-Cleaning is now available with Neff Slide & Hide also. Allowing you to wipe away any residue quick and easily without eating into your dining time.

Clean as a whistle!

To find out more about our NEFF ovens, take a look at our appliance range. Alternatively, contact our team to find out more.

Neff Accessories, Cleaning and Care Products

Our handy Neff accessories leaflet gives the very best information on Neff accessories, cleaning and care products. Here are just a few examples of the accessories recommended by Neff: griddle plate, Teppanyaki grill plate, dishwasher safe stir fry pan, meat tongs or even some large mixing bowls.

Whether you need some American fridge freezer filters or you’re wondering what the best cleaning products to use on your new Neff appliances are, you can check out the leaflet for details. From ovens and coffee machines to dishwashers, look no further than Neff!

NEFF Accessory Leaflet

For more information about Neff appliances, contact us today or visit our showroom.

Table Top Ventilation – Worktop Extractors

Confused about table top ventilation?

Worktop or table top ventilation frees up your space, with no need for a hood to obstruct your view and distract you from your creativity. The retractable DownDraft hood is positioned where you are cooking, while the Venting hob offers a sleek Flexinduction Hob combined into one appliance with powerful build- in ventilation.

Let’s take a look at some of the products we recommend.

Firstly let’s look at the Neff Venting Hob – also known as the 2-in-1 hob and hood.

With more options to use and install, packed with features, and phenomenally quiet too, you just need to focus on the creating. The Venting Hob Extractors sit seamlessly within your kitchen cabinetry and are an unobtrusive product to get rid of odours, steam and noise. They come with various power levels and an intensive setting, as well as two halogen lamps to light up your cooking area. The two metal grease filters and spillage overflow collector can simply be cleaned in the dishwasher.

N90 – Integrated hood, flex induction zone and twist pad fire control. This can also be used with the home connect system.

N70 – Integrated hood, touch control.

Premium, space-saving and designed with creative cooks in mind.

Would you like your hob in front of a window or on a kitchen island? The Neff Flexinduction Venting Hob is for you, with no need for a hood to obstruct the view, giving you the freedom to locate your hob, wherever you wish.

With a stylish cast-iron grate placed over the hood conveniently doubles as a pan rest too – even when the hood is in use.

TWISTPADFIRE® control

Point and twist for control and flexibility combined

The TwistPadFire is easily removed and illuminated so you can react to your pans bubbling away quickly and easily. To activate and adjust the heat, simply point and twist the pad towards the cooking zone you require.

When cooking has finished, simply remove the magnetic TwistPadFire dial for easy cleaning and a sleek stylish hob finish.

Neff Downdraft

Elegantly space saving

Powerful ventilation without the bulk or noise, allowing you a quieter cooking environment. Rising at the touch of a button. The downdraft hood offers 3 power levels using TouchControl, also dimmable soft light, enriching your hob with a warm glow. Once the hood is in use, it can act as a automatic air freshener running every hour for 5 minutes to keep your kitchen nice and fresh. This hood is ideal for kitchen islands, they simply fit into your worktop or kitchen furniture.

The Neff remote motor installation mounting kit is an optional extra which frees the space under your worktop and provides the option to mount the motor up to 3meters away from the appliance.

Sieman’s Downdraft – Noiseless extraction – (high end, attractive glass and stainless steel extractor fan)

The downdraftAir system is as stylish as functional. This hood only appears when it is required, when it is not in use it is hidden away in the kitchen counter behind the hob. Making this hood the perfect alternative to the more classic-looking extractor hood, with the added advantage of disappearing when not being used.

These come as clear glass or black glass.

Space-saving installation: allowing greater use of the space under your worktop.
LED lights for optimal visibility and ambience for a fuller cooking experience.
TouchControl: easily and quickly manage the LED light and power levels
Intensive setting with automatic revert for a peak performance
An impressive extraction rate of 750 m3/h due to the high-performance motor – quickly and effectively clearing the air from your kitchen.

To find out more about our range of appliances, view our range or contact our team now.

How to Unblock a Kitchen Sink – 5 Top Tips

Most of us have experienced that ‘sinking’ feeling when water won’t drain away. You may have had some warning signs, the sink takes longer to drain, and strange odours or your feet are standing in a pool of water in the shower. If you want to know how to unclog a kitchen sink, have a go at the following tips before you call out and have the expense of a plumber. You just may unclog that drain yourself.

Obviously, it’s easier to avoid clogs in the first place and to help do that pour in equal parts of vinegar and baking soda (about half a cup of each) down your sink on a regular basis. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before running some warm water down the drain. Lemon juice also works well.

In all the tips below remove as much standing water from the sink as possible.

1. Boiling Water

Sounds too easy well this is the easiest and least expensive solution of all, which makes it the obvious one to try first. Boil some water and pour it slowly down the drain in a few stages, allowing the hot water to work for several seconds in between each pour. You may need to repeat the process several times to shift the clog, but this works on many types of blockage.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

You can use these ingredients in two ways either mix 1/3rd of a cup of baking soda with 1/3rd of a cup of vinegar in a jug. You will notice it fizz immediately, and you should immediately pour it down the clogged drain. Let it sit for at least one hour or overnight if you can. Flush with hot water. Alternatively, pour about a cup or so of baking soda into the drain, followed by an equal amount of white or apple cider vinegar. The solution will bubble, but when they subside, put the plug in and wait about 15 minutes. Next, run hot water to see if the clog clears. Repeat if necessary.

3. Salt and Baking Soda

This is another combination that can unblock your clogged sink. Mix about a cup of baking soda with half a cup of salt and then simply pour down the drain. Then flush with boiling water. The salt, baking soda, and boiling water will produce a chemical reaction that should dissolve some of the most stubborn blockages. Repeat if it doesn’t work the first time.

4. Plunger

If you have a double sink, first seal off the second side with a wet cloth or a stopper. You’ll need to create a tight seal around the plunger, so fill the side of the sink you intend to plunge with enough water to cover the bell of the plunger. Place the plunger firmly over the drain and plunge vigorously several times. When you hear the suction clear the clog, remove the plunger and flush the drain well with warm water.

5. Coat hanger

You are not likely to have plumber’s tools around the house so you can use a wire coat hanger by straightening it and bending the end to create a small hook. It is simple but often effective. Insert it into the clogged kitchen sink to push through or pull out the clog if you can reach it. Be careful not to scratch your sink with the wire. When you have cleared as much as you can run the hot water and it should clear clog nicely.

Here at New Design Kitchens we hope that you don’t need to use any of the above tips but if you do ‘good luck’ hope they work for you. If, however, it’s time to update your entire kitchen, we are the specialists who can help. Contact us for more information or browse our range of fitted kitchens.

Easter Kitchen Decorations

Easter is the most important feast day on the Christian calendar celebrating Christ’s resurrection from the dead, following crucifixion. This year it is quite late with Easter Sunday being on April 21^st.

The kitchen plays an important part in the Easter celebrations and there are lots of yummy traditional Easter dishes such as chocolate eggs, lamb, ham, eggs, asparagus, spring peas, hot cross buns and carrot cake. It is a time families come together and enjoy all that spring has to offer. Decorating your kitchen for Easter can be a fun family activity and we’ve got a few creative ideas to get you started.

Simple & Easy Easter Kitchen Decor Ideas

To make your kitchen look like spring here are a few very simple ideas.

Make a table centrepiece using a cake stand; decorate it with pastel coloured eggs, eggcups and flowers.
If you have a white Christmas tree decorate it with eggs, bunnies, ducks, chicks and flowers. It may sound strange but it will look amazing.
Put a cluster of mason jars together decorate with lace and ribbons and pop in some fresh flowers.
Paint some terracotta pots in acrylic pastel colours and fill with different size chocolate eggs. You could personalise them.
Place a tray in the centre of your table and fill it with Easter goodies.
Make an Easter tree by placing tree sprigs into a vase, hang eggs and you will have a beautiful display.
Make a fabulous place setting by simply tying a fresh flower to a crisp folded napkin.
Change your tea towels to pastel shades.
If you have shelves in your kitchen change your display with spring items and colours.
Nothing shouts spring like a vase of spring flowers.

It really is as easy as the tips above to make your Easter table look amazing. Let the kids help and just let your ideas flow once you get going you won’t be able to stop! New Design Kitchens would like to wish everyone a very peaceful and happy Easter.

Are you ready to give your kitchen a complete makeover? If you are planning a new spring kitchen please come and visit us at our fantastic two-storey showroom in Cannock or contact us online. We look forward to meeting you. Our contact details are:

Octagon House
236-238 Walsall Rd
Bridgtown
WS11 0JL
Cannock

Call : 01543 570468
Email: info@newdesignkitchens.co.uk

Are Kitchen Designers Worth it? Absolutely, and Here’s Why

When planning for a new kitchen, a common question arises: “Should you use a kitchen designer?” At New Design Kitchens, we believe the answer is a resounding yes, and here’s why you should consider using our expert kitchen design services.

Kitchen Designers Can Turn Your Vision into Reality

Kitchen designing can be a daunting task. Without professional guidance, it’s easy to fall into common design pitfalls that can cost you both time and money. At New Design Kitchens, we specialise in turning your vision into a functional and aesthetically pleasing reality. Our experienced kitchen designers have years of expertise and will ensure that every detail is meticulously planned to meet your needs.

Good Kitchen Design Saves You Money and Hassle

Renovating a kitchen is a significant investment, not just financially, but also in terms of the functionality and appeal it adds to your home. Our designers at New Design Kitchens use a cutting-edge 3D kitchen planner and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and materials, allowing us to create a kitchen that is both stylish and practical. By utilising our expertise, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your renovation is done right the first time.

We Offer Collaborative Home Kitchen Design

We pride ourselves on working closely with our clients to create kitchens that exceed expectations. Our team listens to your needs and works to deliver a kitchen that suits your lifestyle and budget. From the initial concept to the final installation, we’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure that the end result is a kitchen you will love for years to come.

Access to Quality Products and Materials

As a trusted name in kitchen renovations, we have established relationships with top manufacturers, giving us access to high-quality products at competitive prices. This ensures that your kitchen not only looks great but also stands the test of time. Our designers are skilled at introducing innovative solutions that you might not have considered that can maximise the potential of your kitchen space.

Find Inspiration and Advice at Our Kitchen Showroom

Visiting our two-storey showroom in Cannock is a great way to get inspired and see firsthand the range of options available for your kitchen. Our friendly team is on hand to offer no-obligation advice and help you explore the best solutions for your space. Whether you’re looking to make minor updates or undertake a complete overhaul, we have ideas and designs to suit every budget.

Affordable Kitchen Design Solutions Tailored to Your Budget

Many people worry that a professionally designed kitchen is out of their reach financially. However, at New Design Kitchens, we work with a wide range of budgets and can offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. For example, keeping appliances in their current locations can save significant expenses on plumbing and electrical work, allowing you to invest more in the features you really want.

Let’s Design Your Perfect Kitchen Together

Whatever your budget or design aspirations, New Design Kitchens is here to help make your dream kitchen a reality. With our innovative 3D kitchen design tools, you can visualise your new kitchen and make changes to suit your lifestyle.

Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how our kitchen design services can benefit you. Alternatively, you can visit our showroom in Cannock for inspiration or browse our selection of fitted kitchens.

Monday – Friday 9.30am – 5.00pm and Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm

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We are the area's largest independent kitchen and appliance specialists