Smart ideas and tips to rev up your kitchen in style for a happy cooking experience

Tips and ideas for smart kitchen: The "kitchen work triangle" principle—where the stove, sink, and refrigerator form a triangle—remains relevant (Image: Canva)

Setting up a modern kitchen involves a blend of functionality, efficiency, and aesthetics. Add personality to your kitchen with statement pieces like a bold backsplash, unique pendant lights, or a stylish range hood to elevate the overall aesthetic and make your kitchen feel more inviting.

With some smart ideas and tips, you can create a modern and functional space that meets your needs and reflects your personal style.

Minnie Bhatt, founder and design director at Minnie Bhatt Design, says, “A home kitchen has many factors to consider. From the height of the kitchen top, to what kind of sink is good for the long term and finish of the cabinets too. We generally recommend scratch-resistant SS for sinks or built-in quartz sinks, which leave no crevices at the edges. Planning for the storage is very critical, as there needs to be a place assigned for all kitchen requirements like appliances, provisions, and pots and pans.”

There are many finishes in kitchens that are available now - from ceramic tiles to coated SS sheets. Modern and sleek kitchens with new hardware inside are in trend, says Minne. She adds, “Colours are muted in greys or neutrals with few shutters in a different colour to lend a colour pop. Countertops are now moving away from the typical granites to solid surfaces and quartz. While setting up your kitchen, ensure the shutters are made in good quality water resistant boards, and the hardware inside like tandem boxes, etc. must be of good quality and the drawer channels equipped to take the weight of the drawer and things inside it.”

Keep in mind these key points while setting up a new kitchen:

1. Ensure your kitchen layout maximises space and efficiency. The "kitchen work triangle" principle—where the stove, sink, and refrigerator form a triangle—remains relevant. However, modern kitchens often incorporate islands or peninsulas for added workspace and storage. Enough space should be planned for the fridge and other kitchen appliances.

2.  Invest in smart storage solutions such as pull-out pantry shelves, deep drawers, and corner cabinets with rotating shelves. Utilise vertical space with tall cabinets or open shelving for items you frequently use.

3.  Choose energy-efficient appliances with advanced features. Look for smart appliances that can be controlled remotely via your smartphone for added convenience. Integrated appliances that blend seamlessly with cabinetry are also popular in modern kitchens.

4.  Select durable countertop materials like quartz, granite, or stainless steel. These materials are not only stylish but also easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for a busy kitchen. Consider using eco-friendly materials for cabinetry, flooring, and countertops. Bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled glass are excellent choices for a sustainable kitchen design.

5.  Incorporate technology into your kitchen design with features like touchless faucets, built-in USB charging ports, and voice-controlled assistants. Smart refrigerators with built-in screens for meal planning and grocery lists are also gaining popularity.