Planning your home- work areas

Kitchen is the most important work room in the house, often combining the functions of dining room as well.

Layout

Layout should include a work triangle linking stove, sink, refrigerator and food preparation area, joined if possible by a continuous sweep of worktop. The work triangle should not be too large or you will waste energy.

Paint

Paint should be wipeable and steam resistant. Solvent based mid sheen paint withstands condensation best. You can also use silk or satin emulsion. Bold primary colours look attractive used to offset white or contrasting coloured cabinets, while soft and leaf green suits kitchens with natural wood.

Wall coverings

Wall coverings should be washable. Vinyl wall coverings, coated wall paper and, of course tiles, which form an impermeable splash back behind work top and appliances.

Flooring

It should be water proof and easy to clean. Avoid using ceramic and quarry tiles, as they tend to become slippery when wet.

Finishing touches

Window coverings- They should be practical. Blinds look neat, stay clear of the work top and can be choosen to co-ordinate or contrast with crockery and cabinets.

Cabinets- Cabinets can be painted, stained or stenciled to go according to the colour scheme.

Utensils- These can be decorative as well as functional. Place them neatly on shelves. Decorate the walls with hanging plates and display attractive bowls and sauce pans on cupboards or shelves, instead of hiding them away.

Lighting- Lighting should illuminate work surfaces so you will need task lighting as well as general lighting.