Fitted kitchens

Fitted kitchens: make the right choice

Fitted kitchens can be installed in new builds or as part of a kitchen renovation project. A fitted kitchen can be made of solid wood or MDF, and splits your room into different areas for washing, cooking and cleaning up.

Fitted kitchens comprise units designed to form the kitchen work triangle.

- The storage area incorporates a refrigerator to store perishable goods, including fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat. Kitchen units with shelves and cupboards are also placed in this area to hold non-perishable goods.

- The washing up area can accommodate a sink, waste disposal unit, bin and appliances such as a dishwasher. This area will also include wall and base cabinets for easy access to dishes and kitchen utensils.

- The prep and cooking zone includes a worktop, hob, oven and cooker hood. Additional accessories such as utensil holders can also be placed in this area.

Fitted kitchens must chosen to match the amount of space you have and the layout of the room.

- An I-shaped layout is used for long rooms and sets out all furniture along the length of one wall. Ideally, a worktop should be placed between the washing and cooking zones. For maximum comfort, your kitchen needs to be at least 1.8 metres wide.

- A parallel kitchen is made up of two rows of furniture set out face to face. Storage and washing up should go on one side while the prep and cooking zone can go on the other. This layout can work for kitchens measuring at least 2.5 metres in width.

- An L-shaped layout consists in placing furniture in the corner of the kitchen. This option is ideal for setting up a kitchen work triangle with storage, washing up and cooking zones. This layout also presents the possibility of creating a dining area.

- A U-shaped layout is suitable for large rooms measuring over 12 m². This layout works perfect for open plan kitchens. However, bear in mind that you need at least 1.5 metres of free space to move around easily.

- Island kitchens work great in large rooms measuring over 20 m². A distance of at least 1.5 metres should be left between the island and surrounding cabinets.

Kitchen cabinet fronts and doors make up a big part of kitchen design. Various materials and finishes are available:

- melamine fronts offer durability and a range of finishes;

- a matt or glossy lacquer finish can add a modern twist to kitchen décor;

- backpainted glass is stylish and scratch-resistant.

In summary, your choice of fitted kitchen depends on the size of your kitchen and your preferences in terms of design.

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