SimplyKitchenSinks RSS Feed

Why granite is such a favourite choice for kitchens

Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

How to best recoup your kitchen renovation investment

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Hidden kitchen storage aids recycling

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Courtney Cox chooses Franke Sinks for her Kitchen

Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Caple - new design led collection of sinks and taps

Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Carron Phoenix launches Silhouette black glass sink

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Franke’s concept kitchens at Milan Fair

Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Energy labeling system criticised

Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Franke taps into huge interest at Eurocucina

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen extensions increase as one in six are dissatisfied with room sizes

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Perrin and Rowe chosen for Eichardt’s Hotel

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

How to find more space in your kitchen

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Hollywood star opts for elegant ceramic sink

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Modern kitchen design a complex affair

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

How to best present your kitchen when your home is for sale

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Whiter shade of pale gives kitchen an airy feel

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Want a trendy sink? Choose a pull-out tap

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cherry wood declining as top choice for kitchen cabinets

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Franke launches new product-range app

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen design to promote successful socialising

Sat, 14 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

How to avoid losing money as hot water travels to kitchen sink

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Award for waste disposal firm

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Why a dishwasher will give you a well-earned break from the kitchen sink

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Franke sink is ‘Top Pick’ at design show

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Popularity of kitchen islands

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Avoid a kitchen extension disaster with our top tips

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Tips to brighten up your kitchen

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen sink band taps in to success

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Astracast improves sink design

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Prices rises on Sunday 1st April

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

After 37 Years Franke Managing Director Retires

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Making the best use of small kitchen spaces

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Franke announces new sink and tap products

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

MGS taps merge top Italian design and craftsmanship

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Schock sinks – the perfect choice for any kitchen

Sat, 17 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Duravit sinks offer contemporary styling

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Is the cheapest always the best

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Prestigious kitchen awards event announces winners

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Mobile devices and apps becoming as vital as the kitchen sink

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Winners named at Housewares Design Awards

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The real cost of your kitchen appliances

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Modern décor and ‘green’ concepts leading kitchen design trend in 2012

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Biggest kitchen show kicks off for 27th year

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Singer-songwriter strikes the right note with kitchen at her Idaho ranch

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Consider a laminate kitchen worktop

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

How to get the most out of a kitchen renovation

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cher ‘turns back time’ with exotic kitchen

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The hidden offenders in your kitchen

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Actor’s kitchen undergoes organic overhaul

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Contractor constructs kitchens with sinks adapted for disabled

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cleaning kitchen sink the natural way

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Sharon’s kitchen has the X-Factor

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Granite a good choice for kitchen worktops

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Design tips for open plan kitchen and living areas

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

TV chef to open first Las Vegas restaurant

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

New rules on kitchen worktop disposal

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Consider white for kitchen decor

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Gordon Ramsay winner opts for Silestone sink and worktops

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Sales growth prompts Franke to open nine new showrooms

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen decorating trends for 2012

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

How easy is it to install a kitchen sink

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

TV star’s inviting kitchen

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Simply Kitchen Sinks Extends Perrin & Rowe Tap Range

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Give yourself a greener kitchen

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Perrin & Rowe unveil new products at KBB

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Franke appoints new UK distributor

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Five Star Deluxe London Hotel Chooses Perrin & Rowe

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Top Five Trends In Kitchen For 2012

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Design challenges of the modern kitchen

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen sink drama

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Decorative Glass Comes Into The Kitchen

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

How to survive a kitchen renovation

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

New Franke products at show

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The best and worst kitchen gadgets

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Boiling water tap the new ‘must have’ for the kitchen

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Is your kitchen making you fat

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Ring lost down kitchen sink found after 16 years

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Unwanted presents flushed down kitchen sink

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Make worktop last with TLC

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Sink your waste campaign

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Tips on kitchen design

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Spinster shuns modern world in favour of Victorian kitchen and home

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Families told to turn off the taps

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Choosing the perfect setting for your sink

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Designer’s stylish kitchen

Sat, 31 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The benefits of the kitchen island

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Why choose Astracast

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Putting some thought into the design of your kitchen

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Tips on cleaning your kitchen sink

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Christmas Day kitchen sink warning

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Chef’s perfect Christmas gift

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

How to prepare your kitchen for Christmas

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen utensils ideal stocking stuffers

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Have you tasted Kitchen Sink

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Three kitchen trends for 2012

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Minimalist kitchens growng trend

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Rivers of Light From Your Kitchen Tap

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Perrin and Rowe features at classic English Hotel

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Water Rationing a Possibility

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen improvement sales on rise despite economy

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Revenue increase for sink manufacturers

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Tap specialists host House and Garden event

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Buy a tap and help to save lives

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The perfect undermount ceramic sink

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Humble origin of the kitchen sink

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Seaside tap sculpture scoops top prize

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Hollywood star’s gourmet kitchen for sale

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Villeroy & Boch ceramic sink range now stocked at Simply Kitchen Sinks

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Sink and Tap at Centre of First Crime in Twenty Years

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

‘Green’ real estate agent recommends under-sink water filters

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Take care of your waste disposal unit over Christmas

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Benefits of single lever mixer taps

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Feeling Hungry - How about a Kitchen Sink Sundae

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Perrin & Rowe join Kitchen Specialist association

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Boiling water taps ideal for the smaller kitchen

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Food waste disposer manufacturer launches videos App

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Getting your sink material right

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Consider mounting styles when choosing your ideal sink

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Corner sinks excellent kitchen space savers

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Perrin & Rowe launch Cirrus kitchen tap

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen sink manufacturer launches four new models

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Families spending more time in the kitchen than any other room

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Franke win outstanding contribution award

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Accessories that can enhance your kitchen

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Storage is key for the ideal kitchen

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen Furniture Market Report announced

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Food waste disposer incentive scheme hailed a success

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Campaign for VAT cut on home improvements

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Franke's clipless sink review gives the thumbs up

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Instant hot water taps – the new ‘must have’ for the kitchen

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen sink the new office meeting place

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Sink manufacturer supplies top LA hotel

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Slate taps range launched

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Free kitchen planner to celebrate Kitchen and Bath Month

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Galley kitchen design challenges

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Cheryl Cole views luxury kitchen at LA mansion

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Triflow Quadro System the answer for bottled water consumers

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Villeroy and Boch win Kitchen award

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

How food waste disposal units can help the environment

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

First Triflow Quadro System now on display

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Factors to consider when designing a kitchen

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Installing food waste disposal units ‘would cut £546 million bill’

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Sink manufacturer expands presence in India

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The granite kitchen sink – sturdy and stylish

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen sinks and taps must be practical and durable

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Leaking taps ‘the draining away of wealth’

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Tips on looking after sink waste disposal units

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Tips on choosing the right kitchen sink

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

New kitchen design with £6,000 tap

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Fund-raising cyclists take the kitchen sink

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Multiple sinks and taps on the increase

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Keep your sink in mind when planning your kitchen island

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Perrin & Rowe Choosen For The Langham Hotel, London

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Lighting a Small Kitchen

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Today's Mothers Are Better Cooks Than Their Mothers

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Bring Your Kitchen Out Of The Dark Ages

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Top Tips For New Kitchens

Sun, 18 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Is Concrete The New Kitchen Material

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

3 in 1 Hot Water Tap From Franke

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Luxury London Hotel Chooses Perrin & Rowe Taps

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

33 Percent of Water Wasted in Kitchen

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Are Granite Worktops going out of fashion

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Stainless Steel Sinks - One of Greenest Building Conponents

Sun, 11 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Franke Sink Get Eco Accreditation in Canada

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Profits boost as sink giant defies gloom

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Kitchen Showroom Size To Shrink But Display More

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A Kitchen Sink That Doubles As A Dishwasher

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Franke launches state of the art sink

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

New Franke Mythos Sink For Extra Kitchen Panache

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Consumer interest in microgeneration has increased rapidly, specialist says

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

One of the other reasons behind this increase in awareness is the government s feed-in tariff, which has proven to be a phenomenally successful method to encourage homeowners to introduce solar technologies to their homes and sink accessories, according to a representative from HomeSun.

Daniel Green, chief executive officer at the company, said: "My view is that solar PV [photovoltaic] is the first residential renewable offer which has really worked in the last 20 years and literally thousands of people are taking up the opportunity.

"The public s interest has exploded in microgeneration, which it never has before."

Earlier this month, the coalition announced new details regarding the Green Deal, revealing that the scheme may cover measures which generate energy in addition to energy efficiency measures.

Read More...

MakeIT! Furniture awards scheduled

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

In addition to the awards, the first ever MakeIT! Furniture competition will be concluded on the day, which will see judges assess a wide selection of different pieces of furniture and interior design concepts.

One of the judges Neil Stevenson said: "If you ve got a proper craft skill you will always be able to earn a living, and if you have a real understanding of what you re doing you can then move on and take on other challenges."

Mr Stevenson added that MakeIT! Furniture has done an excellent job in raising awareness of the furniture industry among schoolchildren.

Individuals who are exploring the idea of making home improvements this summer may also be interested in a new range of kitchen taps from Franke.

The World Interior Design Network has reported the company s launch of Olympus Spring and Pisa taps.

Read More...

Home improvement charity scheme announced for 2011

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The housing and homelessness charity Shelter is working alongside the Royal Institute of British Architects to run Architect in the House, which is a programme that is now in its 15th year, according to the Tewkesbury Admag.

Carl Holloway, an architect taking part in the scheme, told the news provider: "With the housing market uncertain and mortgages still hard to secure, building on the home you already own often makes more sense than trading up."

People who participate in Architect in the House will also have the chance to make their DIY dreams happen while raising money for charity.

A study from Thinksulation.com recently discovered that more people are now turning to social media platforms to discover new ways of saving energy.

The website reported that an average of 255,000 questions based on home energy efficiency are posted on Twitter and Facebook daily.

Read More...

Could social media improve energy saving knowledge

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

It has been discovered that an average of 255,000 questions on the topic of home energy efficiency are shared by the UK s Twitter and Facebook users every day, according to research by Thinksulation.com.

Lydia Sharples from Thinkinsulation said: "Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook are now a huge part of everyday life and provide a natural platform for people looking for a range of advice."

Measures such as closing curtains at night can help people to become more energy efficient and save roughly J300 per year, Ms Sharples added.

Her remarks come after UK Blinds claimed that a combination of blinds and curtains could help to offer the most efficient lighting option for residents in the UK.

The group also said that people lose a significant amount of heat through windows.

Read More...

Franke launches new kitchen taps

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The company s Olympus Spring taps feature a curved sprout with both hot and cold levers, while a sprung pull-out nozzle is also included to ensure that washing and rinsing processes are simple as well as fast, reports the World Interior Design Network.

In addition to the Olympus Spring range, Franke has unveiled its Pisa collection, which measure 268mm in height and boast a spout reach of 222mm. Chrome and Silk Steel variants are available in the collection.

The Pisa taps boast a symmetrical shape as well as sleek lines that could make them ideal for a modern kitchen.

Individuals may also want to improve the appearance of their homes by altering their wall colours.

The House Doctor Network claimed that people can also change their flooring to make a big difference to the look of their property.

Read More...

Kitchen garden planned for Cranbrook school

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

East Devon District Council has received a planning application relating to the appearance of the building, which will be the area s first primary school and is set to feature a 30-place nursery, reports the Exeter Express and Echo.

Peter Bowden, the district councillor representing the Broadclyst ward, within which the new school site falls, told the newspaper: "The design is not totally to my taste, but it s going to be a very functional and worthwhile building. We sincerely hope the children will be able to concentrate."

Also, the school s kitchen garden will be boosted by a small pond, while two junior football pitches will be included at the site.

The World Interior Design Network has reported that Retrouvius Reclamation and Design has revealed a selection of display cabinets that have been rescued from British museums

Read More...

Burnham-on-sea suffers mains burst

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The Reed s Arms pub has been forced into closure as a result of the incident, while the Victoria Hotel is providing a limited service and some public toilets have been closed, reports Burnham-on-sea.com.

In addition, the Cottage Cafe in College Street has temporarily shut down.

Jeremy Williams, Bristol Water spokesman, told the website: "The burst water main has been isolated. Excavation and repair work has begun but it will take most of the day, given the size of the main."

Ground movement triggered by the current dry weather conditions may have led to the mains burst, Mr Williams believes.

Derby newspaper the Sunday Telegraph recently revealed that a J2.7 million funding package has been provided for Markeaton Primary school, which will use the cash to improve and build new kitchen features.

Read More...

Could a change in wall colour improve the appearance of homes

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Many people are unsure how they can make changes to the interior design of their properties, though the task revolves around collating ideas and how individuals want their home to look and feel, the House Doctor Network believes.

Ros Alcock, consultant on the House Doctor Network, said:" It depends what your budget is and how much money you re prepared to throw at it, because often you can make big changes without spending too much money."

Ms Alcock also recommended that people should build their rooms around a particular item that they have a fondness for, such as a rug.

UK Blinds has highlighted that the combination of both blinds and curtains could help to offer the best lighting option for UK residents, as a large proportion of heat is lost through windows.

Read More...

New display cabinets unveiled by Retrouvius Reclamation and Design

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The collection includes features that have been rescued from museums, such as the Aeroplane Display Cabinet and other display cabinets that have been taken from the Ashmolean Museum Egyptian Galleries, reports the World Interior Design Network.

As well as this, Retrovius Reclamation and Design is showcasing a stand-free A-Frame cabinet. This has been recovered from a major London museum and features a twin column detail that is constructed from mahogany.

Another glass display cabinet from the Natural History Museum is being displayed by the firm, which is composed of both timber and metal.

All of these products can be adapted for use as installations such as kitchen island units.

News of these products comes after PlumbingPark.co.uk reported that the first kbb London show reported an attendance of over 6,000 people.

Read More...

Could blinds and curtains work in kitchens

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

There are a range of different options to choose from. For example, net curtains offer privacy, while dressed blinds can provide light control and insulation, according to a spokesman from UK Blinds.

Marian Byrne, national sales and marketing manager at UK Blinds, said: "The most amount of heat that you lose from a room, after you ve actually [plugged] all the draughts, is through windows more than anything else."

Mr Byrne also explained that a combination of both blinds and curtains could help to provide the best lighting option for British homeowners.

People who are considering installing new blinds may want to take home security into consideration, after Leicestershire Police called on people to ensure that their belongings are protected while shopping for DIY products.

Read More...

Eco village demonstration house uses AEG appliances

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

It illustrates how the latest green technologies can help people save money as well as the environment. Among its features includes a dishwasher that can determine the dirtiness of dishes.

In addition, hobs are fitted that can calculate the weight of pots and use only the necessary energy.

Peter Leatherbarrow, Electrolux contracts manager, said: "We are delighted that AEG appliances were chosen for the eco kitchen."

Other features included within the site are triple-glazed windows, external doors and recycled PVC flooring, which helps to decrease any wasted energy, while reducing potential environmental damage.

It was recently reported by the Home Interior Design Network that German designer Kilian Schindler has designed a new adaptable modular kitchen system.

The appliance features an oven, sink and a storage area and can be fitted with additional shelves.

Read More...

Young offenders learn kitchen fitting skills

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A fitted interiors course is being operated by the Open College Network North West Region, enabling offenders to understand how to install kitchen features and gain a selection of important life skills, reports 24Dash.com.

Rixonway s operations director Nick Greenall said: "The trade learnt can be used to help with securing employment on release and, according to government statistics, can reduce the risk of re-offending by between a third and a half."

It is hoped that the course will help young offenders to access resources that can make a difference to their lives, Mr Greenall added.

Build It Magazine has advised that it may be more beneficial for homeowners to invest in their homes, but they should try to ensure that the money they spend will be recouped in a potential sale.

Read More...

Kbb London organisers 'pleased' with show

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

During the event, 124 companies presented their newest sink accessories throughout five halls, which were sourced by specialists such as retailers, specifiers and interior designers, reports PlumbingPark.co.uk.

Kbb brand director Andy Vaughan told the website: "The event has been tremendously beneficial for the kbb industry at large and the feedback we ve had to this event is incredibly encouraging."

The event s theme was innovation and this was delivered from exhibitors, Mr Vaughan added.

He also expressed that he is confident about the the show, which is set for a "bright future".

Kitchen specialists were made aware of Focus DIY s closure last month, though Homebuilding & Renovating has claimed that the store s end should not influence the price or choice of home improvement products for property owners across the UK.

Read More...

New kitchen designed by Kilian Schindler

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The feature includes an oven, sink and storage area. Also, it can be fitted with extra shelves in addition to a grid that is placed round the back support utensils, according to the World Interior Design Network.

Its basic elements are constructed from steel, meaning that the disassembling process is straightforward, while the flexible arrangement of construction and storage shelves includes grid patterns that are pre-drilled.

As well as this, the concept kitchen is able adapt to the individual requirements of the user, as its modules can be arranged according to personal preferences.

This new kitchen comes after Shorplans Architectural Services claimed that British residents are now becoming more involved in interior design.

The group said that more people are now opting for open-plan rooms.

Read More...

Inverness houses boast new kitchens

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The properties have large open-plan kitchens and family areas that feature woodburning stoves. Located in the south of the city, the complex also lays claim to some extremely large homes, according to the Aberdeen Press and Journal.

GKD Galbraith is marketing the houses for the Highland Housing Alliance.

Speaking to the newspaper, GKD Galbraith representative Neil Cameron said: "I think the thing most people comment on when they walk through the doors of these houses, even on chilly days, is how warm they are inside, even without any heating on."

Kitchens at the homes are also installed with Ashley Ann features.

New kitchen products were recently announced by Grant Instruments, which has launched its Sous Vide Expert range of installations.

These include new kitchen taps that have three programmable temperature presets.

Read More...

Will Focus DIY's closure impact customers

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Rather than being representative of the DIY market, the firm s closure is instead simply a reflection of the individual company, which was operating in a very difficult retail climate, Homebuilding & Renovating has stated.

Jason Orme, editor at Homebuilding & Renovating, said: "I suspect very little change for consumers taking on DIY projects. There is still enough competition to keep prices competitive and [there are] good ranges in store.

"There is actually plenty of competition within the DIY sector for people who are serious about DIY – the major chains are still there."

Research conducted by FrogTape has shown that two-thirds of men confess that they are more likely to finish DIY jobs themselves rather than gaining assistance from a professional, while one in ten have botched a home improvement task because they are too proud to seek help.

Read More...

Residents taking more control over interior design

Tue, 31 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

More people may also be changing the way their sink accessories are installed, as many individuals are now choosing to have their lounge, kitchen and fireplace in one open-plan room, a representative from Shorplans Architectural Services has emphasised.

Carl Shorter, director of the organisation, said: "They re watching these programmes like 60 Minute Makeover and getting ideas from that. Usually a client knows more or less what they want in terms of interior design.

"People are bringing more light into their homes now as well, so open-plan does that."

Mr Shorter s remarks follow advice from Build It Magazine, which said that home improvements are an effective way of attracting buyers in the current market.

The publication advised that investing in a home can be highly profitable.

Read More...

Make kitchen sinks and blinds child safe when renovating

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

But the presence of a kitchen mixer tap on an Astracast sink is not the only precaution that parents can take.

Window blind cords pose a significant risk to children, who have been known to strangle themselves when unsupervised.

Homeowners who have recently renovated their kitchen and added blinds to windows may want to take advantage of the free blind safety devices being given away by as part of Child Safety Week.

Taking place between June 20th and 26th, Apollo Blinds Make Blinds Child Safe campaign will be giving away the devices throughout its 70 stores across the UK and Ireland.

Child burns caused by scaldings are also a preventable hazard around the home.

Investing in a mixer tap may help to reduce the risk of children suffering burns from hot water in the kitchen, perhaps while preparing food or washing their hands before a meal.

Read More...

Buying sink accessories 'need not be expensive' for self-build developments

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Self-build expert Barry Sutcliffe claims that it s possible to buy all the necessary accessories for a new kitchen for as little as J3,500.

He notes that most people will be "perfectly happy" with the outcome when spending this little, adding that it s the same case for bathrooms.

Mr Sutcliffe added: "It s so simple, the stuff you need to think about.

"You don t need to spend J20,000 or J30,000 on a kitchen – if you ve got a budget of J100,000 on your whole house you can get a very nice kitchen for around J3,500 or J4,000."

However, he claimed that people planning to build their own home often need more advice than is immediately available to them.

He indicated that the self-build industry has become elitist, despite the fact that it is very possible to create a perfectly good home with a build budget of just J100,000.

Read More...

Leicester residents warned over DIY

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Many people use the free time gained on a bank holiday to complete home improvement tasks, though it is extremely important for residents to ensure that their belongings are protected.

PC Alan Cook, one of Leicestershire Constabulary’s crime reduction officers, said: "When you are purchasing your tools and equipment for your DIY tasks, take a visit down the home security aisle.

"By spending a few extra pounds you could save yourself a great deal of time and money protecting property that could be expensive to replace in the event of a burglary."

It comes after the British Council for Offices claimed that businesses could save money by altering their lighting systems.

More sustainable lighting could help them to save over a third of their electricity usage, the group highlighted.

Read More...

Would a natural wood door complement your ceramic sink

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Replacing a door is a great way for homeowners to achieve the look they are after in their kitchen, according to Kitchen Door Workshop.

A natural wood door could be a great complement to a rustic ceramic sink.

Renovations need not stop there either. Homeowners may want to take the opportunity to invest in other kitchen accessories, such as a triflow tap or food waste disposer.

Investing in new lighting is another great way to reinvigorate a kitchen.

Phillips consumer lighting marketing manager Ashley Smith recently claimed that LED lights, which can provide the "cold light" lumination many homeowners seek for their kitchen.

Mr Smith noted that new innovations are being developed that enable homeowners to adjust lighting according to their mood.

"Some people do like quite a white [light] in maybe a kitchen environment or a bathroom, we re doing tuneable lights," he added.

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Grant unveils new kitchen features

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The products feature drain taps, three programmable temperature presets, a range of the most commonly used temperatures and a countdown timer, enabling kitchen users to be made aware of when food is fully prepared.

Roy Homent, catering product manager at Grant Instruments, said: "Our new Expert range has been designed in collaboration with chefs and tested in their kitchens.

"Sous vide baths are becoming an essential piece of equipment for the modern professional kitchen as they not only improve the taste but also provide consistency and fail-safe results,"

Mr Homent also revealed that one of Grant s baths has been used by celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal on his Channel 4 show Heston s Mission Impossible.

In an article on PlumbingPark.co.uk, Tile Depot representative David Fitzgerald claimed that kitchens in Britain are now becoming bolder and brighter.

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Complement your Franke Mythos sink with new kitchenware

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Judge Essential Woodware has just expanded its range with eight new items, including a pizza set, nutcracker bowl, salad servers and a bread board and knife.

Partners may want to treat their better half or budding chef to a gift set box of items to use in their newly refurbished kitchen.

Cost is sure to be a concern after investing in top of the range sink accessories, such as a kitchen mixer tap, which is why the Judge range is likely to prove reassuringly cheap.

Making sustainable modifications and purchases for kitchens is proving popular in the UK at the moment.

Sustainable Homes managing director Andrew Eagles claimed earlier this week that many homeowners are seeking A-rated kitchen appliances in a bid to reduce their energy bills.

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Will homeowners choose to improve their property with enki splashbacks

Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The features are available in a wide array of colours and styles, including bright, muted and mono tones. Also, there are many rich and inspired patterns that can be used to complement different kitchen types, reports PlumbingPark.co.uk.

David Fitzgerald, operations director at Tile Depot, told the website: "Kitchens are becoming brighter and bolder with an increase in the desire and ability to create more individual, personalised interior spaces and there are also some fabulous colourful kitchen wall tiles coming onto the market."

The enki splashbacks are appropriate for use behind hobs as well as sinks and are water-resistant.

Residents may also want to consider buying LED lighting systems, after Philips recently claimed that the technology is changing from its cold and clinical appearance.

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Could businesses benefit from lighting upgrades

Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

If companies opt for more sustainable lighting systems, they could save more than a third of their electricity usage, a representative from the British Council for Offices (BCO) has stated.

Paul Edwards, chair of the BCO s environmental sustainability group and head of sustainability at Hammerson, said: "If you go from a T8 light fitting, which have slightly bigger tubes, to a T5 light fitting, you ll save 35 per cent instantaneously.

"If you work out your energy bill, you can normally see a payback on that."

Mr Edwards also suggested that people could install presence detectors in offices, which will guarantee that lights are turned off before people leave.

According to Electricity North West, companies in Greater Manchester have been asked to participate in a cutting-edge energy trial that will allow business and organisations to be paid for decreasing their energy usage when extra capacity is required for the grid.

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Could more homeowners consider LED lighting

Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

In the past, people saw LED lighting as cold and clinical, with previous LEDs having a colour temperature of 3100 compared to the 2700 temperature that is seen with modern systems, according to an expert from Philips.

Ashley Smith, marketing manager for consumer lighting at Philips, said:"One of the challenges the industry is facing with LED as well is the line output. What we re trying to do now is work towards the halogen replacements.

"The goal in the consumer [section] is to get a 50 watt replacement for halogens."

Mr Smith also noted that the LED market is changing, with product introductions occurring in six-monthly intervals.

An expert from Taylor s Etc has claimed that tiles are now becoming a crucial aspect of home design, as they can change the feel and look of a room for the better.

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Sustainability revolution will come from 'consumer demand'

Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Using green sink accessories may help this shift in attitude, though rising fuel bills could also play a key role in prompting people to look at green options, according to a spokesman from Sustainable Homes.

Andrew Eagles, managing director at the company, said: "The real change is going to happen when house buyers and renters start saying, Actually, I ll be looking at a fuel bill of potentially J2,000 by 2020. I want an A-rated home to rent or I want a code level 5 home to live in. "

Mr Eagles also stated that regulation creates the platform for the sustainability of British homes to increase.

This month, energy and climate change secretary Chris Huhne confirmed proposals to guarantee that all landlords must adhere to energy efficient standards as part of the Green Deal.

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CALA Homes releases final phase of properties

Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The properties come provided with Siemens kitchen appliances, Laufren sanitaryware and Porcelanosa wall tiling in all bathrooms, while Hansgrohe taps are also featured.

Linda Peter, sales and marketing director for CALA Homes in the west, said: "Our Kinnaird Gardens development is a beautiful example of CALA s high standards and exceptional design which is synonymous to the brand.

"I would urge anyone interested in owning one of these exclusive homes to come in and speak with us to find out more."

Recently, Build It magazine advised that homeowners should consider investing in their home, as it is often a highly profitable manoeuvre that can help to attract new buyers for those wanting to move.

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Cheap kitchen sinks may prove a lucrative home investment

Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Making improvements to a property is a great way of attracting buyers in the current market, but homeowners have been urged to keep costs down by Build It magazine.

The publication s editor, Anna-Marie DeSouza, explained that investing in a home can be a "highly profitable manoeuvre" in lots of circumstances.

She warned: "If you are making the improvements in order to sell your home on for a higher value this can also be a savvy move.

"However, be careful that the amount you are investing will be sufficiently recouped in a sale."

Homeowners may benefit from getting a professional tradesperson to fit their new undermount sink or filter tap when renovating their kitchen.

Recent research by FrogTape indicated that one in five men have botched a job so badly that they needed to call in outside help to rectify it.

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Avoid kitchen sink disasters, use a professional to decorate

Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Lots of men are responsible for cutting corners as they rush to get home improvements finished, according to research by FrogTape.

Two-thirds admit that they are more likely to attempt to get jobs finished themselves rather than calling in help from a professional, owing to the difficult economic climate.

One in ten claim to have botched a job because they are too proud to ask for help from a tradesman.

Saving money was one of the overriding causes of DIY disasters, although damage to triflow taps and ceramic sinks may have been avoidable in a number of cases if homeowners were better prepared.

FrogTape head of marketing Alan Murray explained: "In the long run it does pay to do a job properly - a half-hearted attempt at decorating won t do your home any favours.

"Investing a little time and effort to prepare and using the right equipment is key to any successful painting and decorating job."

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Can tiles add to kitchen designs

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Tiles are turning into a crucial aspect of home design in the current market, with more people now exploring how they can be used for more than just reducing dampness, according to an interior designer.

Lesley Taylor, interior designer and design director at Taylor s Etc, said: "It really is amazing how a tiled area can change the look and feel of a room for the better.

"From glitzy mosaics, rustic porcelain slabs and textured stone, to traditional brick styles and floral adorned ceramic tiles, the options are almost endless."

Her comments come after Build It claimed that home improvement work can be profitable for Britons.

Investment in an existing home will also be more effective than selling and purchasing a new property, the company added.

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