How to upgrade your kitchen to the next level

Karen Pissarra, designer at designk.co (@designk ), tells how to create a streamlined yet functional kitchen that exudes low-key luxury

Firstly, think about how you may want to change the layout to better suit your lifestyle.

The most important design element is to have an open-plan space that is aesthetically pleasing yet fun to cook in when entertaining people. If your budget allows, hire a professional designer, as they’ll be able to pinpoint your needs and translate them into an efficient plan that suits your taste and budget.

Bear in mind that functionality should win over any aesthetic design plans.

Sometimes kitchens, while absolutely beautiful, can turn into impractical nightmares. The kitchen work triangle principle – a calculation between the placement of the sink, the stove and the fridge – should always be incorporated during the planning stages. When creating a custom kitchen, always consider whether any changes to the layout will be worth the additional expense that comes with updating the electrical wiring and water pipes.

When it comes to budgeting, the cost will mostly depend on the size of the kitchen, the kitchen worktop you choose, the appliances you select, and the supplier you work with

I rate IKEA (ikea.com), Hacker (hacker.ae) and Kaiser Kitchens (kaiserme.com). As a ballpark, you should earmark anything from Dhs100k upwards, which should include the cost of the contractor.

For a luxurious yet understated look, opt for a marble countertop and backsplash as well as built-in appliances.

Consider accessorising with natural wood barstools and chopping boards, a hanging hook rail for tea towels and some greenery to tie all the elements together.

Use soft neutral colours, such as greys and whites, which exude a simple yet sophisticated look. This colour palette lends a fresh, soothing, uncluttered and calming feeling to any space.

The kitchen cabinetry should include lots of design elements that boost the functionality of the kitchen.

Factors to consider include having a hidden trash cupboard, a built-in stove and microwave, roll-out trays in the lower and corner cupboards and a dedicated spice rack in a cupboard.

Choose juxtaposing fittings and fixtures.

A beautiful, minimalistic matte black mixer tap will contrast amazingly well against all the neutral colours.

Add the finishing touches to pull the look together.

Consider accessorising with natural wood barstools and chopping boards, a hanging hook rail for tea towels and some greenery to tie all the elements together.

Introduce some accent colours and textures through natural wood accents.

Perhaps the biggest influence will be the flooring – make sure you choose a hue that adds warmth. Engineered hardwood will prove durable.