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subject: Key Kitchen Terminology [print this page]

When designing and planning a bespoke kitchen the key considerations are often regarding

the shape and lay-out of the space. However, once that is decided on, the finishing touches

of a kitchen can dramatically alter its appearance too. Every detail however small, adds to the

overall feel of a kitchen. The true kitchen aficionado will only truly feel satisfied when every

detail blends together into a perfectly balanced room that combines form, function colour &

finish.

This article will help to decipher the vocabulary associated with designing a kitchen and will give

consumers confidence when talking to designers and choosing the various elements that will

bring together the hub of the home.

Here we have outlined some of the key kitchen terms below:

Barrel units - As the name suggests, this is a double curved unit made from hardwood, usually

as part of an island or at the end of a peninsular. This design feature works fantastically well in a

contemporary environment, and barrel units often incorporate chopping Boards to make them a

truly functional feature.

Columns/Pilasters This subtle detail can dramatically alter the overall look of a kitchen, by

opting for a plain quarter circle radius pilaster there is a softened edge to the kitchen, however

using hand turned pilasters can make the whole feel of the kitchen more country and traditional.

Corbels - A decorative bracket traditionally used to support a beam or shelf, but often used

today as part of a feature over-mantle. Simple corbels are typically found in the more traditional

style kitchen, with Regency kitchens often using carved acanthus corbels. Other familiar styles,

such as Victorian kitchens, will generally suit a slimmer but more ornate variety.

Cornice This detail is fitted on top of wall and tall cabinets and again is a big consideration of

the overall look of the kitchen, it can be a very traditional dentil style cornice which adds interest

or a very simple plain angled detail.

Galley Rails - A railing added to open feature units often at the end of a wall unit run, or below

at base level on an island to house books, it is a very traditional feature, adding interest and

allowing for decorative pieces like vases etc to be displayed in a kitchen.

Lay-on Cabinet Door- Lay-on kitchens are a much simpler design, as the framework that

surrounds the door is lost and the doors cover the carcase entirely, this is a much more cost

effective way of creating a cabinet as there is much less work involved in the manufacture of

this style. In contrast Framed cabinetry looks much more like pieces of furniture, and so have

extra interest and are more grand.

Islands - The island is a standalone addition of the kitchen, they are very sociable often

featuring stools which makes preparation and cooking pleasant with company, or even just somewhere for the little ones to perch and do their homework.

Spindles Much like the spindles used in a staircase these are a smaller scale hand turned

decorative feature often used instead of glazing in a wall or dresser unit, it adds detail and helps

create a more traditional feel to the kitchen.

Valances - This is a feature, usually made from co-ordinating timber that is found above

windows. They are designed to maintain the decorative flow of a kitchen, by adding detail to an

otherwise unused area. The term valance can also be applied to drapery installed above a set

of windows.

Now more than ever, the kitchen is the most used space in the house, a well designed

preparation and cooking area is one of the main features potential buyers look for when

choosing a home. Be sure to take note of these different details and look into the various

nuances that can set a kitchen apart from the crowd.

When you have your wish list and an idea of the style you are after, designing your own

kitchen can be an enjoyable process. It is all about selecting the correct features that will add

individuality to a new kitchen, and make yours the envy of the neighbourhood.

by: Richard Davonport

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