Case study: smart family kitchen

Sheffield Kitchen Outlet describes how it added smart appliances to this functional kitchen and social hub to help make this family of five’s life easier

We were approached by the client when the project was in its infancy, so we could establish a clear plan to alleviate any concerns about the layout. As the extension was going to have a few quirks that would have an impact on the design, we were conscious of the brief that had been given to us. A large pillar that was still going to be visible, made this layout a challenge, but after meetings with the family, we were all confident of achieving a stunning living space.

Our task was to use all the newly-created space available to the family. Leading out through the bifold doors, we had to make the flow from working kitchen to breakfast area, to the lounge area and garden seamless. Incorporating a classic modern theme, with delicate design features, led us down the route of an in-frame shaker in solid timber, hand painted in two colours, Pebble with Deep Ocean on the island.

Smart appliances from Bosch and Hoover

A long bank of cabinets, including a tall fridge and freezer, as well as a dedicated laundry area within the kitchen, was a must. An oven, combination oven and warming drawer, at an easily accessible height, was also taken into consideration. As the long bank of units encroached into the dining area, we decided on a subtle bifold dresser.

After discussing the island with the clients, it was agreed we needed to include the Bora Venting Hob. With the controls built on to the cabinet face, a drawer unit was required underneath. Situating this opposite the seating area meant the chef of the house could still be included in the family repartee. The obligatory wine cabinet was also high on the wish list and so one was included in the island. Classic block pilasters on each corner and skirting-style plinth, was a simple but effective touch on the island to tick the box of the subtle design features that were required to achieve the desired look.

When choosing the appliances, we gained a detailed insight into the clients’ needs. We suggested looking at the option of wi-fi-enabled appliances to supplement the very busy lifestyles they lead. These would also complement the lighting that was already connected to smart devices within the house. 

We started with the Hoover One Fi washing machine, which by simply downloading the app on to a tablet or smartphone, allows more choice and customisation on which cycle to run, to suit the different types of loads to cope with a busy family life. It also offers special cleaning programs and reports on filter condition, which in the current climate is becoming very important, and would all save valuable time for our client.

Hidden storage

Likewise with the Bosch Home Connect-enabled appliances, having the app at their fingertips would allow the family to control the ovens and prepare meals on the move – again making life much easier.

Seeing the fine detailing at the planning stage coming to fruition, made this project one of our all-time favourites.

Installer’s comments
The main challenge was the shape of the room. The extension was going to leave a large pillar central to the layout, which the island would need to be planned around. Adding to this, was the manifold for the underfloor heating and a new boiler in the kitchen, which needed to be inconspicuously contained within the long run of housings. Pinpointing the position of the external ducting for the extractor, before the floor was constructed, was another particular hurdle, but all of these challenges were overcome with excellent communication between the builders and designer.

About Sheffield Kitchen Outlet
SKO was founded by Stuart Hattersley back in 2004 and started manufacturing and supplying to the trade only. Due to demand, and quickly realising the potential in the local area, its first retail showroom opened only a year later. Hattersley has recently taken a back seat and brought in a new managing director, Ben Gregory. Manufacturing high-quality bespoke cabinets at its Sheffield factory, and selling them at DIY store prices, with good advice and excellent customer service, are the foundations the business is built on. It now has three retail showrooms across Yorkshire and a dedicated trade counter at its head office.

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