Busola Evans, Associate Editor of Livingetc and Homes & Gardens is an interiors journalist, foodie and home renovator who knows the importance of good kitchen design and so we were thrilled to hear her thoughts on the trend to move away from a fully-fitted, functional space in kitchen interiors.
The new trend in kitchen interiors
Kitchen design has evolved enormously over the years explains Busola... Historically it simply had a functional role as a cooking and washing up space only – an elegant dining room was still the preferred spot to eat – so kitchens were very much created with one specific need in mind. Fast forward to today and kitchens are arguably the most hardworking rooms in any home. Not only is it used for its most obvious functions but it has now also become the place for a myriad of uses – from school homework to family get-togethers and working from home.
"… there has been a gradual move to create kitchens which appear less kitchen-like and instead have a more versatile look…”
With all these new requirements in mind, there has been a gradual move to create kitchens which appear less kitchen-like and instead have a more versatile look that is more of a multi-functional living space. Now, fully fitted kitchens - which can often look clinical and impersonal – are being ditched in favour of a more relaxed space with more character and personality. As a result, an exciting new trend is fast emerging: the rise of the freestanding kitchen.
The benefits of a freestanding kitchen
A freestanding kitchen is made up of standalone units - whether they are larder cupboards, movable islands or large dressers - which are not fixed to walls so you can move them around as you wish and as your needs change. This of course is not strictly new - freestanding kitchen pieces were extremely popular for both storage and worktop space, before fitted units took over in the 1950s.
“… a cost effective way of updating a kitchen and injecting it with some character…”
However the tide has turned as the benefits of adding freestanding furniture in a kitchen becomes increasingly clear. It’s a cost-effective way of updating a kitchen and injecting it with some character. In older properties which can often have uneven walls or awkward angles, standalone pieces work much better than fitted units and you can change the layout around whenever you please.
While you are likely to want to retain some fitted elements to our kitchens, like the spaces around the hob and sink, mixing in freestanding pieces can transform the space. The most important thing is investing in quality furniture which have attention to craftsmanship, will bring in quiet sophistication, move home with you, and crucially, stand the test of time.
A pantry cupboard packed with personality
A pantry cupboard is the hero piece when creating a characterful freestanding kitchen. It provides plenty of storage, particularly when it combines shelving with pull-out drawers, one crafted from solid wood, and opened by a traditional key lock. Consider shelving in the inner doors, which ensures there is room for all your cooking essentials.
Why choose a freestanding kitchen island?
For a more unique and less bulky twist on the traditional island, a freestanding version is ideal, particularly for narrower rooms. It has the benefit of giving extra worktop space but can be moved to different areas of the kitchen when needed. The new Lotte Island Unit is perfect for extra prep space and has deep drawers for storage. Having a design with legs allows you to see more floor space, which makes the kitchen look more spacious. And its overhanging wooden countertop provides room for kitchen island seating for that all-important cup of tea.
How to add style and character to the kitchen
To get the relaxed, individual and authentic look that is so vital in a freestanding kitchen, it’s important to add elements that are more commonly found in the living room. This is particularly needed in open plan spaces so that the kitchen and living area can link seamlessly and it gives a reflection of the person or people who live there.
So think of hanging up wall art for the kitchen, displaying books, and bringing in greenery. Faux plants are great low-maintenance option. Open shelving enhances the feeling of space and gives a great opportunity to display your favourite ceramics or decorative objects.
Reworking freestanding pieces into your existing kitchen doesn’t need to cost the earth but it could give it the refresh and personal touch it needs.