Utopia - May 2010

Page 13

Welcome

Your Editor

Hello and welcome to our Kitchen Special issue, which is brimming with advice and inspiration for your cooking and dining spaces. With the rise in popularity of hob-based cooking, there have been several exciting developments in this appliance area over the last few months. Using the latest modular cooktops, you can experience a wealth of different cuisine in your kitchen, and prepare suppers at super speed. For example, you might enjoy the distinctive flavours created on an indoor barbecue, go Japanese with a teppan-yaki grill or try out the newest in hi-tech induction plates and high-power wok burners. Turn to page 74 to decide what your favourite combination of cooktops will be.

Within the kitchen guide, you will also find a selection of the most recent kitchen furniture styles to hit the market – both traditional and modern – as well as an array of feature taps and a comprehensive directory to help you source all the elements you need for your dream scheme. Talking of dream schemes, this issue you could win £10,000 worth of furniture to create your ideal kitchen by designing your perfect layout. See page 128 to find out how.

Not forgetting bathrooms, we also take a look at the incoming movement towards ‘soft bathrooms’ – where fluid lines, forgiving materials and comforting textures and finishes create spaces that feel warm and welcoming. The lack of harsh edges and stark aesthetics make the room feel larger and more luxurious too – which is always a bonus! Turn to page 42 to find out more about this contemporary trend.

And since we’re all for time saving and making life easier at home, this month we have looked into the latest innovations in remote control technology for kitchens and bathrooms. Whether you want to programme the shower ready for your arrival, or adjust the lighting from across an open-plan room, there are lots of devices intended to simplify and streamline your routines. Turn to page 58 to see them. Enjoy!

Sally Narraway Editor

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