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Why are we writing a post on selecting the right kettle you ask? Well because there’s a load of different things to consider when spending your cash!

First you have to decide whether you’d like an electric or non-electric kettle? We’d recommend an electric kettle as it’s less hassle and much quicker, but if you like to make your brew the traditional way, then a non-electric kettle is for you.

Consider the speed of boiling, when you’re looking at kettles. When looking at electric versions the power ranges from 1.7kw to around 3.2kw. The higher the kw, the faster. Bear in mind, the more powerful a kettle, the louder the noise. If you want a silent kitchen, then you may have to go for a less powerful kettle.

Make sure your kettle also has a removable filter, which you can clean out for limescale purposes. If you want to save energy, look for a quick boil/eco-friendly kettle as they can save up to 50% energy.

Hope that’s helped!

Different kitchens will have different appliances, but the three most important items are the oven, the fridge and the freezer. Without these appliances you’re in big trouble, so you should choose them wisely.

Most standard ovens, fridges and freezers will do the job, but there are many different shapes and sizes, so if you want to incorporate a bit of a classy feel, then top branded products are worth taking a look at. Some fridges and freezers are built into the kitchen base units, and this is a nice option if you wanted a tidy kitchen design, while Range style oven tend to be widely recognised as the most luxurious.

Appliances play a big part in the look and feel of a kitchen, and you should consider the theme of your kitchen as well as the design before you decide on the appliances. You may even want to buy your main appliances in sets, so that they benefit form the same style and colour.

You can easily modernise your kitchen by getting new appliances! You can think big by replacing anything like: fridge/freezer, hob, extractor hood, oven, taps or even the kitchen sink. If you are thinking on a smaller scale you can look to replace smaller items like: kettle, toaster or the breadbin. You can get lots of other pieces of kitchen equipment like a juicer, blender/food processor even electronic can openers and coffee makers.

All of the items we’ve mentioned come in a range of designs, materials and colours to ensure that you can create a modern styled kitchen without having to replace the entire kitchen. Modern kitchens are usually very bright, clean and tidy, so ensure that you have the work surfaces clear and items stored away in your cupboards.
If you’ve considered all these options already but don’t think this is going to be enough, the next stage is to look at replacing your cabinet doors, you can do this without replacing the entire unit.

Choosing a quality kitchen in Northamptonshire sometimes seems like a mammoth task. After all, there are a plethora of factors to consider, such as the type of cabinets and worktops you are going to choose, as well as the amount of money you want to spend on the remodelling project. You will also need to choose a company in the region that offers you the best value for money and excellent customer service. Here are some tips when searching for quality kitchens in Northampton, including tips on how to save money.

1. Decide on a kitchen style

Today, there are a wide range of different kitchen style to choose from, including contemporary kitchen designs as well as styles that are more traditional. A good place to start is to analyse the layout and shape of your kitchen, and then consider your lifestyle. Do you have children in your home? Or do you live alone? Do you have pets? Take all of these into consideration as they will have an effect on the style of kitchen cabinets, worktops, appliances, and floor options that you choose. You will also need to consider what items you need to store in your kitchen, as well as cupboards and shelving that will enable you to organise your kitchen space much more effectively. If you have an open-plan layout in your home, you may want your kitchen to reflect the style that you have incorporated into the rest of the interior space. Alternatively, you may want to make use of any natural light that fills the kitchen space. Do your research and have a look in interior design magazines for the latest style ideas.

2. Consider your budget

Your budget will be the greatest deciding factor when it comes to which kitchen units and accessories you opt for. Remember – you will need to consider practicality as well as design, especially if you have children and pets who will frequent the kitchen on a regular basis. Stock cabinets can be beneficial when you are on a budget. These are mass produced in standard designs and sizes, and will provide you with more money in your budget to make other updates to your kitchen. Although you will have less choice when opting for stock cabinets, there are still plenty of styles and finishes to choose from, including many accessories.

3. Look for quality kitchens Northampton

There are a number of companies in the Northampton area who will be able to fit your kitchen for you. These will be able to fit your kitchen at a time that best suits you, and you will be able to choose from various styles and finishes. The price of installing a new kitchen will vary depending on the company, so do your research and make use of price comparison websites and third party review sites. Although there are a number of companies who offer kitchens in Northampton, the

smaller market towns of Corby, Wellingborough and Kettering also have a number of trained professionals, giving you more choice and flexibility when looking for quality kitchens Northampton.

When it comes to selecting a extraction hood for your hob, unfortunately your options are endless… especially when you are designing an entire kitchen. If you’re looking for a replacement, then it depends on the space that you are installing it.
Budget is an important factor with all things and just like with many household items, an extraction hood can come in many shapes, sizes and price brackets – you can even buy designer!

Speaking of designer style, we have come across the ‘elica’ and their range of hoods, we are gobsmacked at the variety on offer.  Elica are the world’s number 1 manufacturing for some of the worlds most recognised brands like D R Cooker Hoods. We really like their ‘Eagle’ product, even though it would set you back thousands of pounds, if you can afford it, we would suggest it.

The slick, discreet design would suit even a minimalist style. Submerged below your counter top, you only see the light and the controls, it’s only when required that it emerges. The high tech mechanism brings the Eagle smoothly up to full height. Only then do you see the full product. The curved supporting arm helps suction the steam and fumes from the hob, its grease filters are washable and the impressive max airflow of 550 meters cubed per hour make this not only a beautifully high-tech accessory but also a must have device in any kitchen.

Chimineas are recent design trend that can be incorporated into a garden space, and are available in a wide range of different styles and materials. These free-standing structures originate from Mexico and comprise of a front-loaded fireplace that can be used to heat or illuminate your back garden. These products are popular when sitting outside in the evening, and can make a great focal point in any garden, often initiating conversation when guests come to visit your property. Here are some tips on what to look out for when purchasing a chiminea.

1. Choose a material

Chimineas are available in various materials, most commonly clay, cast iron, sheet metal, copper or aluminium. When choosing this product, you will need to opt for a chiminea that is durable and long-lasting and one in a style that will reflect the rest of the exterior space of your property. An aluminium chiminea is a popular choice, and is easy to clean and maintain. This type of chiminea is lighter in weight compared to other materials such as cast iron, allowing you to position the item in a different part of the garden if you require. Clay is another popular choice for a chiminea, and is ideal if you want to keep the chiminea in a shed or garage when it is not being used. Often clay chimineas will deteriorate from adverse weather conditions such as heavy wind if left outside all the time. A sheet metal chiminea on the other hand is available in various styles, and can provide an attractive centrepiece in your garden. However, they can rust over time if not properly cared for, and will need to be regularly painted to prevent this from occurring.

2. Choose a style

The style of chiminea that you opt for will usually depend on your budget, so it’s a good idea to do your research and look for the best product in your particular circumstances. Chimineas are sometimes decorated and may incorporate patterns or other designs such as flowers and plants. They are available in different colours and often include a protective barrier when there is a fire crackling inside, which can ensure the safety of you and your family. Other chiminea styles may take the form of an unconventional shape, which differs from the traditional model that originated from Mexico. These styles can include a chiminea in the shape of an animal, or one that is triangular in design.

3. Ensure safety

When choosing a product like this, you will need to consider the safety of you and your family who may be in the garden when the chiminea is lit. You will need to ensure that you never leave the fire unattended when it is lit, especially when there are young children or pets in the garden with you at the time. A spark wire can prevent hot embers from escaping from the item, and if one of these was not provided when you purchased the product, you will easily be able to make one yourself with chicken or mesh wire.

Nothing beats the taste of freshly made orange juice in the morning. There is a lot of benefits to having a juicer. Not only the convenience of being able to make your own juice at any time of day or night, you can also monitor exactly what goes into your body making otherwise seemingly “unpleasant” vegetables or fruits a pleasure to drink.

When considering to get a juicer or even going on a juicing diet you need to find firstly the best source of top quality organic vegetables and fruits in order to juice. It is also worth while getting a few recipe books to make healthy snacks from the discarded pulp of the fruit and veg.

A lot of juicers will come with specific books about juicing to help you control your intake of fruit and veg as well as help you achieve a balanced nutrient spectrum. If not, get one and happy juicing.

Cooking can be a joy to some and a pain to others. Choosing what to make each day can be subject to planning or a spur of the moment decision. Smart cookers can help to plan and execute many different dishes that are both convenient and nutritious.

Depending on which particular brand of cooker you choose to purchase features can include being able to steam, pressure cook, warm, slow cook and even sauté.

Having so many features in one appliance can not only save you space in your kitchen but can give you a great variety on food options to help beat menu fatigue. This makes cooking a more efficient process as well as being convenient to many different lifestyles.

With a Smart Cooker you can prepare your food and set the timer so it is complete for the time you return home from work. With a wide range of functionality and practicality a Smart Cooker could be for you and your lifestyle.

Everyone in search of the ideal rooflight wants a solution that brings clean lines, style and good light transmission. It is with this in mind that Solarglaze introduced Fixed Glass Rooflight, a revolutionary offering that has taken roofing to a whole new level. In addition to performance improvement, Solarglaze Fixed Glass Rooflight offers long term and quality dalylight solutions with style and clean looks. Besides, it allows the passage of sufficient amount of light to enter the room, thanks to their sleek appearance, acoustic and thermal qualities. Here is a look at some of the best fixed glass rooflights from Solarglaze and their unique qualities.

Solarglaze Fixed Glass Rooflight is made using aluminum that are polyester powder-coated with insulated timber kerb and a doubled glazed unit that is fully fitted. It also features a 150 mm high kerb, with a 300 mm high kerb also available on request.

Key features:

Unlike similar offerings, fixed glass rooflight from SolaRglaze is low profile and has a hair tightness class of 4. In addition, the rooflight has a noise reduction unit of 34 dB, making it one of the quietest rooflights available. Most importantly, it can be used on flat roof 4 degrees, with a slope of 15 degrees also available.

Benefits of using Solarglaze fixed Glass Rooflight

The rooflight is thermally broken in order to prevent condensation and eliminate cold bridging. The rooflight also has a low insulated pane that is only 32 mm thick. The center pane value for the double glazed unit is 1.1 W/m2k. Besides, it has a screen printing along the edge to protect the sealing against ultra violet rays.

In addition to the aforementioned, it has a solar control glass that reduces solar heat gain, thanks in part to a high light transmittance quality of the glass. It also has an insulated upstand that plays a vital role in aiding air tightness. Most importantly, it is painted white so as to make it visible on internal surfaces.

Mark 1 PVC Kerb

This fixed glass rooflight is externally keyed and thermally broken to allow for easy bonding during installation. In addition, it is also compatible with all the major roofing membranes. To protect the edge of the waterproofing membrane, it comes with a weather bar. Since it does not feature cellular construction, it does not have cold bridging, thereby limiting the risk of condensation besides ensuring good insulation. It also comes with a metal termination piece that offers flexibility when it comes to insulation configuration and height.

Mark 2 PVC Kerb – Splayed

It is made using one of the latest technologies to guarantee outstanding thermal efficiency, low maintenance and resistance to weathering. It made from Ultra Violet protected polycarbonate that has vented airspaces.

Mark 2 PVC Kerb – Vertical

Using cost-effective design, this variant allows unmatched light, thanks to its vertical design. With its water management system, the rooflight is able to drain water outside of the building effortlessly.

There is no denying that Solarglaze Fixed Glass Rooflight is one of the best when it comes to rooflights. Boasting of quality and versatility, this rooflight is a good investment on money.

Sometimes it is important to look at your home in its raw form and pick out any features that are worth bringing to the forefront. Many people opt to cover up their exposed brick walls, perhaps painting over them, or plastering over them and opting for wallpaper, but it can actually be a lot classier to leave them as they are.

Water seal is a must if you have an exposed brick wall, and once that has been applied, you won’t have anything else to do. You should not opt to leave all bricks walls as they are, but a living room with a brick wall to one side and paint to the others can be a classy look.

There’s a right way and a wrong way to decide on the brick walls you want to leave exposed, and it’s usually a case of only choosing one wall in the house, otherwise it doesn’t stand out as a feature. If you want to keep the personality of your home then consider leaving an exposed brick wall as it is, it could be one of the easiest decisions you’ve ever made.