What cabinets should be in the kitchen? Which kitchen is better to choose? Great tips for a great purchase! Video: types of kitchen layout. which one to choose

Agree - only owning a truly worthwhile thing that fully meets your ideas about ergonomics, practicality and beauty causes genuine satisfaction. How to choose a kitchen set so that it combines functionality and harmony of appearance, gives the interior a stylish individual character and provides comfort, expert advice will help. Read and create with us your own project for a high-quality kitchen, which will be a union of professionalism and the warmth of home comfort.

What to look for when choosing a headset

Combinations of modules, materials and colors give the kitchen any look and open up wide possibilities when developing design and organizing space. The right choice of furniture takes into account many points - from key parameters to details and personal preferences. That is why standard models are giving way to original custom-made kitchens, which allow you to experiment, reflect taste, needs, habits and use every centimeter.

When developing a project, every detail matters:

• The number of family members and the tradition of gathering together at one table.
• A love of cooking that requires space for creativity, or the absence of a cult of home-cooked food.
• The rhythm of life leaves no time for preparing complex dishes.
• The desire to equip the kitchen with various appliances - a washing machine, dishwasher, hob and oven, or a free-standing stove, extractor hood, microwave and small appliances.
• The need for additional LED lighting for the apron, countertops or cabinets.
• Planning features of the room - configuration and presence of columns, ventilation ducts, niches.
• Preference for the height of work surfaces, upper cabinets and placement of the sink, refrigerator and built-in.
• Level of natural light and kitchen area.
• The style of execution and color scheme of facades, allowing them to act as an accent or dissolve in space.
• The presence or absence of the ability and desire to engage in regular maintenance - thorough cleaning and polishing.
• The habit of making “strategic” stocks of food and household supplies.

Everyone wants good cuisine. Advice from professionals will help you meet the main condition - to achieve maximum convenience and combine aesthetics with functionality without conflicting with tastes and habits.

What determines the cost of a kitchen?

A good new kitchen is always an expensive pleasure. You need to approach design and ordering with a cool head in order to clearly understand what the final cost of the headset is, and to stay within your budget.

The final price depends on the selected facade materials, countertops and splashbacks, the size of the kitchen, fittings and storage systems, built-in appliances, sinks and mixers. The complexity of execution also matters. Carvings, stained glass windows, and glazing raise the price, as do radial facades - creating any streamlined shapes is technologically difficult and expensive.

A work surface where practical aspects come first when choosing. The bestsellers are economical countertops made of chipboard, made using postforming technology, and artificial stone, which have excellent performance characteristics. The second option is indispensable if you want to install a sink under the surface. Connoisseurs of classics can choose natural stone, which increases the load on the modules, or solid stone, which requires special care. Rarer concrete, stainless steel, glass are preferred by those who relegate practicality to the background.

Read more about how to choose a kitchen countertop in this article.

Handles, lifting and sliding mechanisms, guides, internal drawer dividers, hinges, hidden push-to-open systems for touch opening complete the overall picture and ensure ease of use. Follow the advice of experts and be especially meticulous in the selection of accessories - products from leading brands are easier to work with during assembly, they are durable and do not cause any complaints during operation.

A bright element in your kitchen that can transform the entire interior. For reliable protection from dirt and an impressive design of the wall area between the tabletop and wall-mounted modules, traditional ceramic tiles, glass mosaics, natural and artificial stone, plastic and tempered glass are used. A correctly selected apron will make an ordinary set look advantageous; an unsuccessful solution will ruin even stylish facades.

Read more about how to choose an apron for the kitchen in this article.

A modern assistant that simplifies life and improves everyday life. Smart appliances - refrigerator, hob/oven combination or traditional stove, range hood, dishwasher - give a professional look. A variety of built-in and free-standing models allows you to maintain style and maintain a harmonious image of the kitchen set.

Read more about how to choose built-in equipment in this article.

An irreplaceable part even if you have a dishwasher. Mortise or overhead sinks vary in shape, size, number of bowls, the presence of a wing for drying dishes and are made of artificial stone, enameled and stainless steel. The fundamental selection factors are the material of the countertop, personal needs, kitchen dimensions and budget.

Deciding on the color

The choice of color cannot be dictated solely by personal preferences and trends. To create the right atmosphere and stylish interior, you should listen to the advice of designers who are unanimous in their opinion - when choosing a color scheme, you need to take into account everything: natural and artificial lighting, the area of ​​the room and its decoration. Fashion is fickle, but there are colors that have not lost ground for years.

• White. Visually expands the space and does not cause a quick feeling of fatigue, which is typical for bright colors. Suitable for small spaces, but highlights architectural flaws and requires “dilution” with contrasting details to add cheerfulness and style.
• Black. A color for those who follow current design trends and want their kitchen to become a model of style. Used in large spaces with maximum natural light and good lighting. Goes well with straight lines and laconic finishes. Contraindicated for those who do not have time to clean.
• Yellow. Allows you to get a lot of non-trivial solutions, suitable for classic and modern styles, rooms of any size, but is used only in combination with other colors. The best options are with black, gray, white, green and blue.
• Red. An expressive solution suitable for spacious kitchens where the “pressure” effect is eliminated. It needs well-placed accents and is used in high-tech, classic, loft or oriental style sets. Looks impressive in combination with radius facades.
• Blue. An elegant color that requires careful selection. Not suitable for rooms with poor natural light with windows facing north and monochrome interiors. Used in tandem with warm and cool shades, it can provide both dynamism and an atmosphere of peace.
• Brown. The brown color scheme deserves special attention. It is impossible to remove the natural wood and chocolate colors from the pedestal. They are a godsend for those who value practicality and solidity, versatility and comfort. Brown color is “friendly” with any facades, stained glass windows, gilding and glass, and goes well with textiles and warm companion shades.

Have you decided on a color? Then order a free design project for your future kitchen.

Deciding on a style

How to choose a kitchen so that it meets current trends and personal ideas about beauty? Get inspired by ideas from interior magazines and seek help from a professional designer who knows how to apply bright trends in practice and think through the appearance of the space.

Deciding on a layout option

Convenience and ergonomics depend not only on the number of free meters, but also on how well you use them. Useful tips on choosing a headset configuration will allow you to plan the space and make even a small kitchen comfortable.

Designers offer five main options:

Deciding on the material

There are two categories of things - those on which you can save, and those on which it is better not to try. Facades are an indicator of solidity and prestige. When your entire home life revolves around the kitchen, profiting from their materials is a mistake. How to choose the right kitchen set? Find a balance between quality and price.

• Array. Natural wood is respectable, designed to last for decades and is perfect for classic-style kitchens. Solid wood headsets require significant investments and careful handling - they do not like changes in humidity and temperature, or direct sunlight.
• MDF. The most durable material that allows high-quality imitation of valuable wood species and the production of facades of non-standard shapes. MDF offers a huge selection of finishes and is resistant to deformation and moisture.
• Chipboard. The most economical and less sophisticated option. Facades covered with film, laminate, matte or glossy plastic are aesthetically pleasing, but simple. If you are concerned about maintaining the original appearance, it is advisable to protect them from constant contact with water, especially around the edges.

Ready-made or custom-made kitchens?

Manufacturers offer options to suit every budget and taste. Ready-made headsets are cheaper and eliminate the need to wait - they can be picked up immediately after arriving at the salon. The downside is the need to agree with the “imposed” configuration and standard sizes. The choice of modules is limited; inconsistency in dimensions can lead to non-working areas and corners in the room.

Designed and custom-made kitchens take into account the nuances of the layout and are precisely sized. Their configuration, equipment and color do not depend on the manufacturer’s imagination, but the cost is significantly higher, and you will have to wait several months for production.

Conclusion

Before ordering a kitchen, you should figure out “on the shore” what complete set of furniture - modules, mechanisms, facades - you need and why, collect the best design ideas and decide on your desires. This will eliminate the risk of impulse buying.

To ensure that the space and furniture meet the laws of ergonomics and style, contact a designer. He will find a compromise on all issues and design the kitchen in accordance with all the details.

Useful article

Small kitchens with big possibilities

A modern kitchen allows you to create a space that meets the individual requirements of the owner. Before you start searching for the right kitchen unit, consider a few important questions:

• Does the premises need? If yes, then it must end before purchasing a kitchen set.
• Consider in detail the configuration and dimensions of future furniture, which should not occupy more than 20% of the room area.
• What equipment (including built-in and small household appliances) do you need and where will it be placed? Do I need to move pipes and sockets?
• How much space do you need to store dishes, food, and household supplies? Think about how you can functionally use the available space through corner cabinets, pull-out modules, additional shelves, and additional mesh baskets.
• Consider where the dining area will be located and what furniture will be suitable for it. If space allows, you can put a large round table and stationary chairs. In a small kitchen you can use a folding or extendable table, a bar counter, and stylish folding chairs.
• Are there any non-standard corners, ledges, or niches in the kitchen? How are you going to use them?

Once the budget has been calculated and general wishes for the future kitchen have been determined, you can move on to a detailed elaboration of the layout and selection of materials.

Features of the kitchen layout

The L-shaped layout is convenient for the functional division of the kitchen space, maintaining the possibility of free movement and simultaneous placement of two cooks in the working triangle (storage area, washing area, cooking area).

This is a classic option for rooms whose shape is close to a square. You can make optimal use of hard-to-reach areas in corner cabinets using pull-out multi-level systems.

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Suitable for rooms of sufficient size, square or rectangular in shape, where it is necessary to place a large number of storage systems and kitchen appliances.

For comfortable operation, the optimal length of parallel kitchen lines should be at least one and a half and no more than two meters, and the connecting area between them should exceed 2.5 meters.

Ideal for narrow spaces less than two meters wide and a total area of ​​6–12 square meters. To effectively use the space under the countertop of the kitchen set, you can place built-in appliances, define pull-out systems for dishes, and upper cabinets for dishes.

For dogs or cats, order a special feeder that extends from the lower base of the headset.

It is best to arrange objects in this order: refrigerator, work table, sink, second work table and stove. In small kitchens, a folding dining table is mounted on the opposite wall, thereby freeing up useful space.

This layout can be considered for rooms with an area of ​​at least 20 square meters. In traditional island kitchens, a table with a sink or stove is placed in the middle, and in peninsular kitchens there is a bar counter in the center. But, of course, each owner decides for himself what functions to give to his island or peninsula.

The optimal size of a free-standing work area is a square with a side of 120 cm. The standard length of a peninsula is 120–180 cm. Usually these are two or three kitchen modules with a width of 60 cm.

This is the only way to use an elongated room as efficiently as possible. Suitable for kitchens with an area of ​​at least 9 square meters and a width of at least 2.5 meters. After installing the kitchen unit, the width of the passage should not be less than 120 cm.

If you're tired of handles, choose the Push to open system. The doors will respond to light touches and open silently and smoothly.

A convenient option is to place the stove and sink on one side of the kitchen, and the refrigerator on the opposite side. Or, for example, you can install a refrigerator with a sink on the left wall, and a stove with a cutting table on the right wall.

The only drawback of the two-row layout is the lack of a clearly defined dining area.

How to choose material for a kitchen set

Kitchen body and facade

The most popular and budget materials for the kitchen today are MDF (fine fraction) and chipboard (chipboard). Both options allow you to produce a high-quality product that meets environmental standards.

A special seal for the plinth will prevent moisture and dust from getting under the kitchen furniture. It can be ordered together with the headset or purchased separately.

And yet, for facades and cases it is recommended to use MDF, which can be covered with plastic, veneer, enamel, acrylic or PVC film. This material is relatively inexpensive, its structure is as similar as possible to natural wood. And due to various impregnations and components, MDF has properties that are important for aggressive kitchen environments: good resistance to fungi and moisture resistance, excellent tolerance to high temperatures.

By the way, about temperatures. Be sure to leave 2.5 cm gaps between the stove (does not apply to built-in appliances, which are equipped with a special cooling system) and adjacent kitchen modules. This will improve ventilation and protect the headset. The resulting gap can be closed with special pads.

Glossy facades look very impressive, but quickly become covered with fingerprints and require daily care. Give preference to matte surfaces.

If you have chosen a kitchen with non-standard or expensive facades, then when receiving your order, play it safe and be sure to check their quantity, size and curvature. Even if company representatives assure that everything is in perfect order. After you sign the documents confirming receipt of the kitchen, it will be difficult to prove the existence of a defect.

Tabletop

For work surfaces, it is better to choose a tabletop with a thickness of 6–10 cm, and for dining tables 4 cm is enough.

Remember that the load on the tabletop should not exceed 23 kg.

The most practical material will be artificial stone. It is much lighter and more economical than natural analogues, but no less durable. Artificial stone allows you to imitate any type of rock and create smooth countertops of a wide variety of shapes without visible joints or seams.

Kitchen apron

The apron protects the walls of the work area from moisture, splashes of grease, burning and other types of pollution. The average height of the apron is 48–60 cm. The ideal material in terms of price, quality and durability is ceramics, which will last you for several decades.

If your budget is limited, you can buy an inexpensive kitchen set in pastel colors, and choose the most effective premium apron as a design accent. It will add zest to the interior.

How to rationally use kitchen space

The most appropriate option for the kitchen is a spacious wall cabinet with a folding door that opens upward. In this model you can place a dryer, shelves for storing food and dishes.

If the kitchen has interior partitions made of plasterboard, they are unlikely to support the weight of the cabinets. But the roof rails with hooks, mesh shelves, holders for glasses and paper towels are fine.

Use drawers and baskets that can be equipped with a clever system of accessories for neat storage of small items.

An excellent solution is corner drawers that run diagonally to the far corner of the wall. They hold three times more items than regular boxes due to their unique design.

Your set will last much longer if the table drawers are made using metaboxes (metal sides). Chipboard boxes will quickly deteriorate due to moisture and the heaviness of the dishes.

Install systems with a carousel in the corner cabinet - shelves that rotate around a rigidly fixed vertical rod. This will save usable space and make it much easier to store dishes in hard-to-reach places.

How can you save money when buying a kitchen?

• Kitchens in the modern style with smooth, laconic facades are much cheaper than classics with complex finishes, grilles and stained glass inserts.
• A standard kitchen, not made to order, is 25–30% cheaper.
• Carefully calculate the width of the cabinets you need. For example, a kitchen module 80 cm wide will be 5–10% cheaper than two 40 cm cabinets. Use free interactive programs to create a kitchen design and calculate the cost of furniture.
• Modules with one hinged door are cheaper than those with two.
• Cabinets with a standard height of 60 cm are 10–20% cheaper than modules with a height of 72 or 92 cm.
• Give up some of the expensive wall cabinets, diluting them with shelves and comfortable and spacious tables.
• Keep an eye on the promotions of major kitchen furniture manufacturers. Websites often feature headsets that can be purchased at a special price. Sometimes the discount can reach 60–70%. By the way, you can also buy an inexpensive kitchen from a stand at furniture exhibitions.
• Place high-quality, reliable and convenient fittings on those cabinets that you will use most often. Expensive guides can be placed on the heaviest and deepest drawers for pots, pans and groceries. For everything else, you can choose cheaper options.
• You don't have to buy expensive handles for kitchen furniture. The main thing is that they are galvanized.
• You shouldn’t buy a kitchen with all the appliances at once. Devices purchased separately will cost on average 30% less. In addition, you can choose the desired package.
• Have you thought through all the details of your future kitchen set? Don't rush to order it. To begin, ask several companies to calculate the cost and draw up detailed specifications for the kitchen. Take your time and look for reviews about kitchen set manufacturers. Carefully read the contract in a calm home environment, find out all the nuances.

What to remember when concluding a contract

• The contract must be accompanied by a specification indicating the article numbers, sizes and costs of all kitchen elements.
• A sketch of the kitchen set with the signature of the manager who compiled the design project is also an integral part of the contract.
• When purchasing a kitchen, request a sales receipt and keep it for the entire warranty period (usually two years).
• The contract must indicate the timing of furniture production and the amount of penalties in case of delay.
• Conclude a separate legal document for the installation and installation of kitchen units in order to be able to hold the company (store) accountable. Be sure to check whether the installation price includes connecting a sink, mixer, or hood. Ask if the company has a service department to fulfill warranty and post-warranty obligations.
• If the company (shop) hires individuals, find out who will bear the warranty obligations if the assembler does not communicate or damage was caused during the installation of the kitchen (for example, neighbors were flooded due to a burst pipe).

Are you satisfied with everything? Then congratulations in advance on purchasing a new one that will serve you for many years!

In order for the kitchen to be cozy and functional, it is necessary not only to think through the interior design and select the necessary accessories, but also to choose the right kitchen set.

Choosing furniture for the kitchen is not as simple a task as it seems at first glance.

Even before purchasing a kitchen set, you will have to perform several actions:

• take measurements of the kitchen;
• choose a layout;
• draw up a project;
• select the headset model.

Before you start choosing a kitchen set, you need to know the exact dimensions of the kitchen space.

To do this, use a tape measure to measure:

• door and window openings;
• the length of the walls and the distance between them;
• distance between the floor and the window sill;
• ceiling height;
• dimensions of other kitchen elements that protrude: pipes, sockets, switches, heating systems, etc.

It is advisable to put all the data on paper and draw up a detailed kitchen plan.

Selecting a layout

Before you decide which kitchen set to choose, answer a few questions:

• what kind of kitchen furniture do you need;
• how it will be located: at an angle, along the walls or in a U shape;
• what household appliances should be built into the set;
• purchase budget.

Almost all kitchen sets are designed according to the principle of modules. This allows you to use every corner of the kitchen space.

When arranging the headset, the following schemes are used:

• single-row linear;
• corner L-shaped;
• double row or parallel;
• U-shaped;
• island;
• peninsular.

The choice of scheme depends on the area and shape of the room. For example, for a narrow kitchen, an arrangement in one row or in a corner is suitable; other options for arranging the set will make the room even narrower.

Experts advise following the following sequence when equipping a kitchen:

1. fridge;
2. place for pre-processing of products;
3. sink and trash bin;
4. place for final cutting of products;
5. cooking stove;
6. place for serving.

In short, an ideal kitchen should be laid out like this: refrigerator-sink-countertop-stove-countertop. Unfortunately, not all kitchens are the right size, but with good planning it is possible to find acceptable solutions.

Drafting

To complete this step you need a sheet of paper in a box. It is necessary to make a scale drawing of the kitchen on it, indicate all measurements, the location of switches and sockets, as well as the expected location of the refrigerator, stove, sink, kitchen furniture, etc.

If the kitchen is small, try to put every corner to good use. At the same time, you need to leave enough space for passages, opening doors of household appliances and cabinets.

Video: interior secrets of a proper kitchen

Choosing a kitchen set

If you have successfully completed the previous points, it’s time to begin solving the main task - choosing kitchen furniture.

When choosing a headset, you should consider the following nuances:

• dimensions;
• manufacturer;
• materials;
• convenience and functionality;
• design.

Headset dimensions

First of all, you need to choose the right height of the working surface. As a rule, it is chosen taking into account the growth of the hostess. There is a standard that corresponds to the size of typical household appliances and suits most European women - 85–90 cm.

Whatever size of furniture you choose, be sure to keep the distance between the lower and upper cabinets during installation - at least 50 cm. The easiest way to calculate the height is that the upper edge of the wall cabinet is located at the height of the owner’s height plus 20-25 cm.

Another nuance - some experts are sure that it is better not to buy a kitchen set with working surfaces of the same height (food cutting area, sink, stove). Thanks to the multi-level height of the tabletop, the cooking process is easier, as it allows you to change the position of your back and the load is more evenly distributed over the body. But such furniture must be ordered and it costs much more.

Manufacturers

Kitchens from domestic manufacturers are cheaper than imported ones, but not by much. Naturally, you will not find very cheap and at the same time high-quality kitchen furniture.

But even average-priced domestic headsets are quite high quality and this is not surprising. Furniture is produced using imported equipment, and the parts themselves are often purchased in Europe.

Another advantage of domestic furniture is that it is perfect even for small kitchens. Many factories have in their assortment mini-modules with which you can make a small kitchen set of any layout - U-shaped, corner or linear, which will fit perfectly into a compact kitchen space.

Imported kitchen sets, especially Italian ones, are especially popular. There is no limit to the cost of such products, especially if it is a model from a well-known brand.

Such sets are designed for a large kitchen space. In a small room they lose all their grace.

Among foreign headsets you can find inexpensive options from lesser-known manufacturers. But in order to choose a truly high-quality one among them, you need to be well informed about all the features of the production of this furniture.

Manufacturing materials

When choosing a kitchen set, you should pay attention to the materials from which it is made. First of all, you need to remember that wooden furniture does not tolerate high room humidity. It is also advisable to select a set that is easy to clean.

Let's look at the most popular materials.

Most headsets are made from this material. They are inexpensive, made from particle board covered with laminate or other resistant material. When choosing, you should pay attention to the fact that all parts of the product are protected by the edge from moisture.

MDF

It is an environmentally friendly, hygienic and safe material, resistant to fungi and resistant to steam. In appearance, it can hardly be distinguished from wood, and it costs much less. Kitchen sets made from MDF are distinguished by a huge variety of colors and textures.

The most expensive material for kitchen production. The most commonly used types of wood are oak, ash, pine, walnut, cherry, chestnut, alder, etc. Solid wooden blocks are glued together and treated with special compounds.

Convenience and functionality

To make the kitchen as comfortable and functional as possible, it is necessary to take into account several nuances when choosing furniture:

• Choose a kitchen set whose base cabinets have legs - they provide ideal adjustment and protect the kitchen furniture from water.
• It is important to choose the right countertop as it is the most exposed surface in the kitchen. If possible, take one piece for the entire length of the kitchen area.

The following materials are used for the production of countertops:

1. laminated chipboard or MDF;
2. artificial or natural stone;
3. typesetting board;
4. stainless steel;
5. tempered glass (very expensive);
6. ceramic dust pressed with rubber.

A popular material for the manufacture of kitchen countertops is Corian, created using high-tech equipment from mineral filler, acrylic resin and pigment. It is particularly strong and durable, non-toxic and chemical resistant.

But a marble countertop is a bad choice. This material reacts to acid, and is also quite fragile - it is damaged not only from impacts, but also from boiling water.

A granite countertop can be a good purchase - it is practically insensitive to acids, very durable and wear-resistant.

Countertops are often made from artificial materials:

• crystallite;
• axilana;
• varicose veins

They are no worse, and sometimes even better, than their natural counterparts. Among their advantages are lightness (lighter than natural ones), ease of processing, hygiene and heat resistance (they tolerate temperatures well even at 230°C).

A good kitchen should be functional. For this purpose, many devices have been invented that significantly reduce labor costs and make the cooking process convenient and comfortable.

These are all kinds of containers, drawers, overhead and mortise sinks, lamps, grids, built-in appliances, etc. It is important to place all this in accordance with the requirements of modern ergonomics.

Extremely convenient and fashionable are racks with rotating shelves, as well as special hanging tubes (crossbars) around the entire perimeter of the kitchen space, on which various kitchen utensils can be placed. Instead of ordinary furniture, you can choose products on wheels.

The most important thing is to use every centimeter of space correctly. For example, between the oven and the corner cabinet you can place a narrow cabinet with ladles and glasses. And don’t forget about lighting in the most necessary places - above the countertop, sink and stove.

Kitchen set design

An important criterion for choosing a headset is its design. This is primarily the style and color of the kitchen.

Kitchen style

The style of the kitchen is a matter of taste of its owner. The most popular kitchens are in the styles of classic, techno, modern, hi-tech and country.

As a rule, a set in a classic or country style is made of natural materials. Classic kitchens look very conservative. Their surface is made of wood or wood-look material, and the fittings are made of metal. All equipment is usually built-in and hidden behind the facades, which are decorated with carved cornices and balustrades.

A country style kitchen is a flight of fancy on the theme of nature and country life. In it, wood is sometimes combined with artificial materials. Here you can see details made of glass, steel and stone.

Kitchen sets in high-tech and techno style, on the contrary, are closer to everything artificial. Techno typically uses glass, stone and metal. Here you can often find dials and scales of various instruments, as well as switch knobs.

High-tech kitchens mainly consist of artificial materials. The main emphasis is on the combination of different shades and materials. Particular attention is paid to light - hidden lights, directional light and light curtains are used.

Art Nouveau style is something between extreme high-tech and traditional classics. In furniture, classic rectangular shapes combine well with curved and rounded lines of facades. This style combines various elements and materials: wood, plastic, glass, metal and stone.

When it comes to color, designers give the following advice:

• It is not recommended to use more than 2 colors in the kitchen.
• If the kitchen is decorated in several colors, then the shade of the upper cabinets should be lighter than the lower ones.
• A monochromatic set of wood looks very nice.
• Juicy, bright shades - blue, purple, pink, yellow and light green - are well suited for furniture made of acrylic and painted MDF.
• The different shades of the kitchen should be in harmony with each other.
• A combination of contrasting shades looks good: black and orange, black and white, black and red, white and gray, black and pink, white and blue.
• For a small kitchen, it is better not to buy dark-colored furniture. Don't forget that light shades can visually enlarge the space.
• A large kitchen looks more comfortable with light cabinetry and bright details.
• An overly dark set can make even a large kitchen gloomy.
• Natural shades look best on kitchen furniture.

Video: how to choose a kitchen

We hope our article was useful to you. Happy shopping!

The kitchen is the most multifunctional and frequently used room in the house

The kitchen is the most popular and frequently used place in the house. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are not just prepared here. This is where friends and relatives gather for tea or for a banquet. The kitchen set is exposed to constant influences of the external environment - water, steam, fire, treatment of work surfaces with chemicals. The main thing in kitchen interior design is to choose the right kitchen unit. The question arises - how to choose the right kitchen set? What will be the design and what will it be made from, how to choose the right materials, what kind of facades will the future set have and how much furniture may be required.

It is necessary to take measurements of the room before you start choosing furniture for the kitchen.

Before you go to the store to buy a headset, you need to measure the space in which it will be placed.

It’s better to follow a few rules and then nothing will be forgotten.

1. Measurements are taken to know exactly how much space a kitchen set and other furniture can take up.
2. The place where everything will stand is visually selected and a rough layout is made.
3. The next stage is the project. On a piece of paper, draw on a scale where the set itself will be located, and where the equipment will be. The design must leave room for unobstructed movement and for all doors and cabinets to function easily.
4. Selecting and purchasing the headset itself.

To get accurate measurements, you need to arm yourself with a tape measure. You need exact dimensions of window and door openings, and it is also worth measuring the length of the walls and the distance between them, the height of the ceiling, the distance from the floor to the window sill, and do not forget to measure the protruding elements - sockets, pipes, switches and taps. After the data has been recorded, it is necessary to design a detailed kitchen plan. Based on this drawing, it will be possible to determine exactly what the set will be and how to rationally use the space in the kitchen.

Possible furniture layout in the kitchen

Due to the fact that modern sets are made according to a modular principle, every corner in the kitchen space can not be left empty. It would be very rational to opt for a U-shaped set; if the kitchen space allows such a model, then it will be possible to use the window area. This will allow you to expand your working space for cooking.

According to experienced designers, a certain sequence should be followed for rational space planning:

• first the refrigerator is installed;
• the place where pre-processing of products will be carried out;
• washing surface and waste bin;
• countertop for cutting food;
• cooking stove;
• lunch group.

Functional areas of a perfect kitchen

True, not all kitchens fit this ideal planning option. But thanks to the versatility of the headsets, you can choose an excellent option even for a small room. Once measurements have been taken and a design has been drawn up, you can begin choosing a kitchen unit. It is not an easy process to choose a kitchen set. The first thing you need to do is choose a high-quality material from which it will be made, and the second thing is to select fittings, decide on the facade and come up with a design.

How to choose a kitchen set: material and equipment

When choosing a high-quality set, make sure that the lower cabinets have legs. This will protect the product from moisture, and is also advisable in terms of hygiene and cleanliness.

Key points when choosing a product:

1. dimensions of the future headset;
2. decide on the manufacturer and price category;
3. the material for the headset should be chosen carefully so as not to regret the choice in the future;
4. ease of use and versatility of the future headset;
5. design project (color scheme, lighting).

The height of the working space of the headset is selected based on the height of the person who will spend most of the time behind it. Usually it is 85-90 centimeters, and the dimensions of the cabinets are 72-36 centimeters. The main thing is to maintain a distance of about 50 centimeters between the work surface and the cabinets.

Standard sizes and their ranges for kitchen furniture

According to experts, work surfaces and the stove should be at different levels, this reduces the load during cooking, but single-level surfaces are often made, as this looks more aesthetically pleasing and beautiful. In addition, multi-level furniture must be made to order, and this increases its cost several times.

Manufacturers of kitchen sets are both domestic and imported. The difference is in the price category. For example, domestic products fit perfectly into Russian small kitchens for quite reasonable money. Most parts are ordered from Europe, so the quality speaks for itself.

Italian cuisine is the best in the world. This is an exquisite design, high-quality assembly, high-strength materials and expensive fittings. Sometimes prices for such products reach a million. But it's worth it. True, you need a lot of space for such a headset, otherwise it loses its attractiveness.

Italian cuisines are considered the highest quality in the world

The material from which the future set will be created must be highly durable and also be protected from exposure to water and steam. To correctly determine the material, it is necessary to study the characteristics of each type.

The main types of material for the manufacture of kitchen sets:

• solid wood.

Chipboard is the main material for making furniture, as it is cheap and quite practical. It comes in a variety of colors and is made from particle board, which is then covered with laminate or other resistant material. There is a lip along the edges of the parts that protects the product from moisture.

Inexpensive kitchens are made from particle board covered with laminate or other durable material.

MDF is an environmentally friendly material at a very reasonable price. It tolerates all kinds of temperature changes, exposure to steam, and is resistant to fungus. Kitchen furniture made from this material is practically no different from furniture made from wood. The color scheme can be very diverse.

MDF kitchen sets come in a huge variety of colors and textures

Solid wood is one of the most expensive materials. Usually it is oak, ash, walnut or cherry. Solid bars are glued together and treated with special means so that in the future the wood will tolerate moisture well and not dry out. Kitchen sets made from solid wood amaze with their aesthetics and versatility.

Kitchen furniture made of solid wood

Now it’s worth talking about the material from which facades for kitchen furniture are made. Laminated chipboard and MDF are usually used.

LDSP is laminated chipboard. It has earned its popularity due to its low cost. These are the most economical kitchen fronts available to the average buyer. But laminated chipboard also has its downside. The edge of the parts is poorly protected from moisture, so with prolonged exposure to moisture and steam, it comes off and over time the facades swell and become unusable. Therefore, to prevent this from happening, at least very quickly, be sure to hang the cabinets from the hob at a distance of approximately 60 centimeters.

Kitchen in beige and pink tones with laminated chipboard facades

MDF - unlike laminated chipboard, is more practical, and it is also environmentally friendly and safe to use; it does not contain formaldehyde resins, as in chipboard. MDF facades are popular for their durability, and manufacturers use a wide variety of finishing types, which allows the product to be preserved even longer. For example, the most popular finishing elements are veneer, plastic and PVC film. All this protects the facades from chips, scratches and temperature influences.

Classic kitchen with white semi-gloss MDF fronts

After choosing the material for the future kitchen facade, you need to take care of its coating. The four main types of coating are PVC film, acrylic, plastic and enamel.

The first option suits consumers quite well in terms of price and variety of textures. The kitchen can be decorated brightly and dynamically. But the film has its main disadvantage - sensitivity to high temperatures. So, at a temperature of 100 degrees, the film can be damaged, so in such a kitchen you need to use the stove carefully.

It would be more practical to choose plastic. It will protect the furniture from chips and scratches; it is possible to choose any color scheme. The downside of plastic is its cost.

The facades can also be painted with enamel, but this is not a very practical option. Over time, the paint loses its brightness, and very noticeable chips and scratches appear on the headset.

Acrylic coating adds shine and shine. You can choose any color scheme. But this also has its drawbacks. Dust, finger stains and scratches are clearly visible on acrylic facades. True, there is also a peculiarity - cracks can be sanded out.

What kind of coating the façade will have is up to the buyer to choose. Some will choose beauty, others practicality of use, others low cost.

The next stage of choosing a kitchen set is the work surface

As experts suggest, it is better to choose a solid countertop along the entire length of the kitchen space.

Materials from which countertops for kitchen sets are made:

1. laminated MDF;

   

   Laminate countertops come in all colors and textures and are inexpensive

2. typesetting board or stainless steel;

   

   Durable and resistant solid wood tabletop

   

   Due to its composition, a stainless steel tabletop best meets the standards

3. use in the manufacture of natural stone or granite;

   

   Kitchen set with stone countertop and built-in sink

   

   Granite countertops are not susceptible to chemical and physical effects from appliances, products, and household chemicals

4. tempered glass (looks very rich, costs the same);

   

   Glass countertops for the kitchen are practical and functional

5. ceramic dust compressed with rubber;

   

   The ceramic countertop is durable, moisture-resistant, resistant to mechanical damage

6. marble and corian.

   

   Beautiful marble countertop in a chic kitchen

   

   Corian artificial stone kitchen countertop

First, let's talk about marble and Corian. The second material is very practical to use and resistant to chemical influences. What can you say about marble? It begins to deteriorate from exposure to high temperature, hot water and shock. If you choose a stone, it is better to opt for granite. Very strong and durable material. This tabletop will last forever.

Laminated MDF or typesetting board are the materials more commonly known among ordinary people for creating work surfaces. Affordable price, environmental friendliness and the ability to choose any color palette.

How to choose the right kitchen style

The styles of kitchen sets are very diverse. Particularly popular are high-tech, country, classic and modern.

The classic style of the set is wood, glass and natural stones. The product itself is made in light colors. Built-in appliances hidden behind facades. Typically, such sets are decorated with carvings and balustrades.

Chic kitchen in soothing colors in a classic style

As for country style, it is a combination of wood and artificial materials. The facades are decorated with bright glass or plastic, country style prevails - elements of nature and village life.

Bright kitchen with island in country style

High-tech - the materials used are mainly artificial. Glass, metal, and the main emphasis is on the combination of colors. In the high-tech style, muted and austere shades predominate.

Kitchen interior in high-tech style

Art Nouveau style - classic rectangular shapes that go well with non-standard rounded facades. The color scheme is dominated by cool shades, and the materials used in the design are glass, metal, stone or plastic.

Green corner kitchen in Art Nouveau style

In any of the listed styles, the headset is made as comfortable as possible. This is the presence of all kinds of cabinets, both with folding doors and pull-out structures. Metal tubes are also often used, which is very convenient for hanging both cabinets and all sorts of small things. Another option for cabinets in the set is on wheels. Very convenient if space is limited in size.

When choosing a color for the kitchen, experts advise choosing a combination of no more than two shades. Also, you should not choose too dark shades, firstly, everything light visually expands the room, and secondly, gloomy colors make the kitchen set boring and nondescript.

Kitchen color

In conclusion, it is worth saying that the choice depends only on the personal wishes of the buyer himself, his material capabilities and the size of the room. The kitchen is the place where humanity spends most of its life; it should be as comfortable and cozy as possible. Therefore, the choice of style, color, and materials from which the future kitchen set will be made should be approached competently, and it is better to seek advice from specialists. And then the kitchen will become not only a work space, but a comfortable and favorite habitat for all household members.

The owners dream of making their kitchen unique. It should be beautiful and functional. But it’s not easy to make it like this. Firstly, the range of kitchen sets in stores is such that the buyer’s head is spinning. Secondly, new materials for making furniture are constantly appearing that you have not heard of.

Factors influencing the choice of furniture

Before deciding what material to use, you need to decide what style your kitchen will be in. Other factors include the area of ​​the room and the price you are willing to pay for the furniture. If the room in which the kitchen is located is small, then you need to choose from an assortment of furniture designed for such rooms.

Kitchen styles

• Classic - a traditional, practical set made of wood or beige materials stylized as it will never look outdated.
• Country - stylized antiquity. Wood furniture in natural colors, decorated with grilles, massive lamps and clocks. Suitable for kitchens with a large area.
• Modern - furniture of the younger generation. It is bright, with original solutions, without unnecessary elements. The materials used are both natural and artificial. The concept of modern furniture unites many sets, the main quality of which is their originality. Household appliances fit organically into such designs. Art Nouveau style can be used in rooms of various sizes.
• High-tech is the continuation and development of modernity. Things of the most unexpected shapes, colors, from a variety of materials.
• Ethnic style combines the traditions of one people or combines the motives of different ones.
• Loft - a kitchen of contrasts. Combines old and new. An example would be a kitchen in which brick walls are hung with acrylic cabinets.

The influence of price on quality

Perhaps it's the other way around, and quality affects price. Let’s not talk about exclusive versions of headsets, the price of which includes not only the cost of materials, but first of all the master’s assessment of his work, its complexity, and inability to replicate individual elements.

Basically, price directly indicates quality. It may be inexpensive, but at the same time quite high-quality kitchen set. However, it is better not to choose the cheapest furniture for the kitchen. And here, each customer has the right to take into account both his financial capabilities and the advisability of throwing more money at something that can be bought cheaper, if this is enough for your lifetime.

When thinking about what material it is better to order a kitchen set from, keep in mind that basically sets of the same price category are made from the same materials. The final price, quality and appearance will depend on the quality of these materials and decorative elements.

Compliance with fashion trends is also important. The one that is currently in trend will be more expensive. Even if the cost is lower.

Requirements for a kitchen set

Choose a headset so that it:

This could be the deciding factor. After all, prices for kitchen products are quite high.

Kitchen materials

Materials are used both traditional, but improved, and new. Therefore, there is plenty to choose from. You just need to know their properties in order to correctly decide which material is best to order a kitchen set from.

Properties of materials

Chipboard - chipboard. The shavings are used to form slabs. The raw materials are cheap and their cost is low. Therefore, this material is the most common and cheapest. Durable, tough, moisture resistant, holds screws well. Inexpensive kitchen sets are made from this material.

Postforming is a type of chipboard with a flexible laminated top layer. Thickness ranges from 20 to 38 mm. The color is the most varied. A postformed product can last 40 years. Lightweight, impact-resistant, moisture-resistant material. Very often it is from this that kitchen sets are made. Prices range from $180 to $470.

MDF is also made from chips by pressing. Does not contain resin. Therefore, it is environmentally cleaner than chipboard. Among the advantages are low cost, increased moisture resistance, strength, and environmental friendliness.

AGT acrylic plastic is applied to MDF. Has a very sophisticated look. Very smooth, glossy. It has all the advantages of postforming, only it looks even more beautiful. It is used mainly for the manufacture of kitchen sets in the Art Nouveau style.

Acrylic is a modern high-tech material. Due to its softness, it is not used for making furniture. It is applied to MDF with a thickness of 19 mm. On one side the plate is covered with acrylic, on the other with melamine. The result is a bright mirror surface. Kitchens in the Art Nouveau style made from this material are very impressive. True, the acrylic surface, which easily withstands impacts from blunt objects, gets scratches when exposed to sharp objects. They can be removed by polishing. Care - wipe the product with a damp sponge or cloth. For severe contamination, use conventional cleaning products.

Solid wood is natural wood. Properties depend on its breed. Pine is firmly glued and can be easily treated with varnish. Larch is more moisture resistant. Oak is very durable and beautiful, which is why it is expensive. A kitchen set made of wood is environmentally friendly, durable and reliable.

Purpose of the countertop

These are the housewives. Food is stored on it, cut, and prepared for use. Kitchen utensils are also located there.

Countertop material

When deciding which material is best to order a kitchen set from, keep in mind that to a large extent its quality and durability will depend on what the countertop is made of. Many different materials are used to create it.

The main ones:

• Postforming, from which inexpensive kitchen sets are made.
• Acrylic stone. Inexpensive, durable, but you can't put hot things on it.
• Laminated tempered glass. It is shock resistant.
• Wood scratches easily.
• Handmade ceramics are not as durable as all other countertop materials. It is difficult to clean due to the seams.
• Natural stone - granite or marble.
• Metal (stainless steel or aluminum) - durable and hygienic.

Let's take a closer look at some of them.

Postforming

It has rapidly burst into the world. It is one of the most requested materials for making custom-made kitchens.

Advantages:

• Durable with proper care.
• Strength against mechanical damage.
• Heat resistance.
• Resistant to cleaning agents and vinegar.
• Beautiful appearance.
• Relatively low cost of plastic.

Disadvantages: only the laminated part of the countertop is protected from water. Unprotected parts may swell when exposed to moisture. Therefore, manufacturers recommend wiping it off immediately after it gets on the surface of the countertop. Postforming is damaged by potassium permanganate, acids, hydrogen peroxide, glue, varnish, and paint.

Artificial or natural stone

Granite and marble are used in the manufacture of countertops from natural stones. They are durable and strong, safe for health. The design on each of them is unique. Granite is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to water and various chemicals. The disadvantage is that it is very expensive to repair. Marble is rarely used because it is easy to stain and difficult to clean. For this you need special tools. It is better to use it as a decorative coating.

Quartz stone is an artificial material, although it consists almost entirely of natural quartz. It is produced in several types. Additives - pieces of glass, mineral dyes, resins. The plate is formed under the influence of a vacuum press. Quartz stone is beautiful, elegant, and durable. Does not scratch. Resistant to high temperatures and pollution. The antibacterial silver coating guarantees the hygiene of this countertop.

Corian is an artificial stone, a mixture of natural and acrylic. Durable, hygienic, waterproof, easy to clean.

Various options

Kitchen sets are mainly made from different materials. Chipboard is used for the body. Facades and surfaces that are visible and more susceptible to physical impact are best made from MDF, postforming, wood, aluminum, and acrylic.

For the manufacture of countertops, chipboard, natural stone and facing tiles are used. Such a model will have a low price, but at the same time it will turn out to be quite beautiful, easy to use and maintain, and durable.