Posts

The Art of Using Kitchen Extractors: A Designer's Perspective

Image
  In my 38 years of experience in home renovations, I've come across many kitchen features that are often misunderstood or misused. Today, I want to talk about one such unsung hero of the kitchen: the extractor fan. As the owner of Designs by Andrea, I've been sharing this wisdom with my clients for three decades, and now I'm thrilled to share it with you. Let's start with a common scenario. Picture this: you're cooking up a storm in your beautiful kitchen. The pots are simmering, the pans are sizzling, and suddenly, you realise the air is thick with steam and cooking odours. What's your first instinct? If it's to switch on your extractor fan to full blast, you're not alone - but you might be doing it wrong. Here's a little secret I've been sharing with my clients for years: using your extractor fan effectively is all about timing and subtlety. To understand this better, let's use an analogy that might surprise you - a bathtub. Imagine your k
Post a Comment
Read more

Perth Kitchens: Choosing the Perfect Benchtop: A Guide to Different Materials

Image
Today, I want to chat about something close to my heart - benchtops. After 38 years in the renovation game, I've seen my fair share of materials come and go. Let's dive into some of the most popular options out there. 1. Engineered Stone : This man-made wonder has really grown on me since it hit the scene in the late 80s. I was a bit sceptical at first, being a natural granite lover. But the uniformity and light colour options have won me over. It's a great alternative to marble, which I wouldn't recommend for kitchens due to its porous nature. There's been a bit of a kerfuffle in the media about engineered stone lately, but don't worry - it hasn't been banned. It's like a banana cake recipe - even if you tweak it, it's still a banana cake! With all the new colours coming out, it's my top pick for Aussie kitchens right now. 2. Granite : If engineered stone is man-made, granite is nature's masterpiece. I absolutely love visiting my local
Post a Comment
Location: Perth WA, Australia
Read more

Essential Budgeting Strategies for Home Renovations in Perth

Image
As seasoned professionals in the Perth renovation industry, we understand the critical importance of comprehensive budget planning before embarking on any kitchen or bathroom renovation project. With over three decades of experience, including 12 years specialising in the Perth market, we've developed key insights to help homeowners navigate the financial aspects of a kitchen renovation or indeed a bathroom. Strategic Design Modifications : When considering structural changes, such as removing walls to create open-plan living spaces, it's imperative to factor in potential additional costs. Load-bearing walls or those supporting roof structures may require significant investment, but often result in transformative outcomes that enhance both functionality and property value. Flooring Considerations : In Perth's residential architecture, kitchen flooring frequently extends into adjacent living areas. As such, altering kitchen layouts may necessitate comprehensive flooring
Post a Comment
Read more
Image
Welcome to Designs By Andrea - Transforming Homes in Perth Are you dreaming of a stunning new kitchen, a luxurious bathroom retreat, or a functional laundry space that makes chores a breeze? Look no further than Designs By Andrea, your premier destination for exceptional home renovations in Perth. With over 38 years of experience in the industry, Designs By Andrea has built a reputation for delivering outstanding results that exceed our clients' expectations. Our team of talented designers and skilled tradespeople are dedicated to creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also enhance your daily living experience. Kitchen Renovations That Inspire Your kitchen is the heart of your home, and we believe it should be a space that inspires you to create culinary masterpieces and gather with loved ones. From sleek, modern designs to cosy, traditional styles, our kitchen renovations are tailored to your unique taste and lifestyle. Bathroom Sanctuaries Escape the stresses of d
Post a Comment
Read more