PRODUCT FEATURE | Utility rooms and hidden kitchens
Kitchen design featuring Hettich’s folding door technology
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS
modern homeowner. Since 2022, the company reveals that there has been a three percentage point increase, with 38% of respondents saying that they didn’t have a utility room but would like one. Of the respondents, 15% said they would prioritise a separate utility space for their next kitchen, and 6% said they were currently planning a new utility space. In terms of drivers, Häfele’s category manager Elizabeth Briggs says that they believe it is an evolution of lockdown living.
A
“During lockdowns, people spent more time in their homes – whether working, home-schooling or exercising – so wanted them to be clutter-free and spacious. Then, as restrictions were lifted, families and friends spent more time entertaining at home rather than going out. As that happened, being able to ‘shut off’ an area for laundry and other functional needs became more important to than ever and
50
ccording to research carried out by Häfele in
2023, utility rooms are becoming increasingly popular for the feature,
The growth in demand for open plan spaces has created a lucrative new kitchen design category at the mid-high end of the market – hidden kitchens and utility rooms. We look at the evolution of these rooms into functional and stylish spaces and how you can maximise the potential of these trends
we’re still seeing the effects of that now.” In addition to this, she adds that while it is still an aspirational
creating a utility space has
become more achievable in recent years. Clever design and planning are key to democratising this area of the market, and as Symphony fitted kitchens designer, Josie Medved, adds: “Utility and boot rooms are a desirable addition, but they don’t need a large budget to be stylish and functional. Generally, only a small number of units is required and as they are in a separate room from the kitchen, they could also be designed with a more cost-effective range than the kitchen if necessary and a laminate worktop rather than granite. Three or four units and a worktop would be sufficient.” So, what should retailers bear in mind when designing a utility room, and could a concealed area within the kitchen offer a viable alternative for those without so much space? Firstly, when it comes to appliances, the key word is ‘stacking’ – stacking laundry appliances on top of one another is recommended by many brands
Rotpunkt’s Access Door opens in reverse
• February 2024
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