Bench Seating for Your Outdoor Area

Bench seating has become increasingly popular as home planners look for better ways to create a more intimate feel for their outdoor areas. Here are some bench seating ideas and benefits that we love!

Hinge Top Benches

A great opportunity to create storage space you wouldn't have had otherwise! Hinge top benches work for clutter control as you can store toys, outdoor cushions and anything else that takes up space.

Make sure the lid is not too heavy! Hinge top benching usually is usually made from timber to keep the lid light, but this isn't the most durable option as the timber requires more maintenance that concrete for example.

Stand Alone Bench

If you prefer a chair and table set-up, a stand alone bench is still a good idea as an alternative or additional seating option. Having outdoor bench seating custom made also has its benefits.

Solid Bench Seating

A solid bench is usually made from a combination of stone or concrete with a timber finish. The main benefit of this type of bench is that it's low maintenance and very durable for outdoor areas.

Pool Seating

Bring your outdoor area together with movable pool side furniture. Benches made from durable materials, like polished concrete are advisable as its highly durable and water resistant (as opposed to a timber bench) Some home planners opt for built in pool side seating, but we reckon a movable bench is the way to go!

Of course if you prefer your bench seating to have a bit more of a rustic look - timber works too!

 Benches Around the Table

Benches tend to accommodate more people. They look good (especially in farm style kitchens or outdoor areas) and are preferred by families with kids. One of the downsides to bench seating is that there is no back support. Some people choose not to go for bench seating around tables for personal space reasons too... Ultimately, great for restaurants!

Kitchen Layouts - What's the Difference and Why Does it Matter?

G-Shape? Galley? One wall? What's the difference between these kitchen layouts and why does it matter? Here are some key points to know about the most popular kitchen layouts...

One-Wall Kitchens

• Suitable for smaller homes
• There is no working triangle concept with one-wall kitchens, the sink is usually installed between the fridge and oven
• Finding work space can be tricky, consider a pull out work space drawer for extra work space!
• This layout can work well in larger homes if you are looking for an open plan feel

Galley

• Very efficient for cooking
• This style was designed for tight spaces and is common for restaurant kitchens and bars
• Building material for cabinets, splashback and counters needs to be selected carefully; selecting materials that are light to create the illusion of space work well
• A galley kitchen is usually open on either side which can make for a busy kitchen!

U-Shape

• Common in medium sized apartments and suitable for 'one-man/woman cooks'
• The difference between galley and U-Shape is that the U-Shape is closed off at one of the ends which reduces chaotic foot traffic for busy house holds
• Home planners often opt for a fridge outside the 'U' so there is more storage space
• Pull out drawers are handy as a storage space solution!
• If the space is big enough a kitchen island increases your kitchen's interactivity

G-Shape

• For medium sized houses (can work in small homes but tends to look cramped)
• Kitchen bars are often added to G-Shape kitchens which allows for interactivity or cooking collaboration in the kitchen
• A kitchen bar also doubles up as extra work space
• Suitable for families

L-Shape

• Common for outdoor kitchens
• One of the more popular lay out designs
• Suitable for medium or small homes
• Perfect for the working triangle
• Can have multiple entry and exit points as it's open both ends
•  Good option if you are looking to make use of corner space

Gas For Your BBQ: LPG vs Natural Gas

Choosing the right gas for your BBQ is important. LPG and natural gas are used in various appliances within Aussie homes, but what's the difference?

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) or bottled gas is propane whereas natural gas is methane. Although there are many scientific differences between the two, the main difference you need to know is that LPG is supplied in a bottle or tank and natural gas isn't!

Natural Gas

This comes from your local utility company . This would be the gas you use for your cooker or boiler for example. Having a natural gas source for your barbecue would simply mean you'd need a pipe directing the gas to your outdoor area or barbecue. One of the downsides to natural gas is that once it's installed it's difficult to move.

Some of the benefits of natural gas:

• affordable
• produces less emissions
• never runs out!

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)

LPG gas comes in a bottle or tank. The main benefit of this is that, unlike natural gas, it can be moved around. Fittings and hoses for these bottles do differ, so we recommend you ensure you're buying the right hose from your supplier to fit your tank or bottle.

Some benefits of LPG:

• the bottle or tank is movable
• it doesn't pollute the ground or water sources
• its octane rating enables it to mix better with air

Heat Temperature

LPG has a higher flame temperature than natural gas, however this shouldn't affect your decision when it comes to picking the right gas for your barbie. The temperature for both these gas types will get the job done!

Cost

As we've already mentioned, natural gas tends to be more affordable than LPG, particularity if you use your gas frequently. If you don't use gas too often then the choosing LPG is okay.

Want to find out more about our barbecue installations? Get in touch here

Fondue Party Ideas

With winter pretty much in full swing we bet you're looking for some cosy dinner party ideas. Throwing a fondue party is super easy. It's also really versatile and different. And let's face it who would say no to dipping food in melted cheese and/or chocolate! Here are some fondue party ideas...

The Pot

Fondue sets and pots come in all styles and designs. They come in a range in prices as well so you can choose whether you want something simple and cost effective or a bit more fancy.

Swiss Cheese Fondue

Of all the types of fondues out there Swiss fondue is the way to go. Swiss cheese is rich and creamy and melts really well. Udder Delights is a local business who makes delicious home made cheeses perfect for fondues.

Meat or Broth Fondues

Meat fondues are a bit lighter than a cheese fondue. Here's a recipe for a meat broth fondue.

Beer Fondues

Yep! You can even make a beer flavoured cheese fondue. Check out this recipe - craft beer cheese fondue.

Dippers

There are no rules when it comes to picking food to dip in the fondue. Some of our favourites are:

• Broccoli
• Bread
• Meat
• Cauliflower
• Mushrooms
• Baby potatoes
• Carrots

Chocolate Fondue

There's always room for the chocolate fondue! All you need to do is melt some cream and chocolate in the bowl or pot, heat it up slowly and you're done! Good dippers for chocolate fondue:

• Strawberries
• Marshmallows
• Biscuits
• Waffles

Preparation Tips

• Don't let the fondue boil over
• Cut the dippers into bite size pieces
• Use the right liquids: beers, wine and cream (not water)
• Throw away bamboo skewers are a good idea in case guests want a fresh utensil to use
• Serve the meat on a separate plate to the rest of the dippers

Check out this fondue party planner for more details on how to throw a fondue party in your home!

Picking the Right Kitchen Sink

Finding a kitchen sink is easy. Finding a kitchen sink that's designed for the way you like to do dishes - not so easy. Here are some tips to help you pick the right sink for your kitchen...

Size

It's annoying trying to wash large oven pans and trays in a small sink. If you are low on space and can't afford to have a large sink, opting for a small one is fair enough but if you have the space, a decent large sink is the way to go! Think about your largest cooking tray and use that as a measurement guide.

Double Sinks

Double sinks are great for washing and rinsing so you aren't left with soapy dishes, but if you don't have the space single sinks will do the job. Consider getting a spray tap for rinsing. They are really handy for rinsing dishes and food as well!

Triple Sinks

This is a luxury but if you have the space three basin sinks are awesome for multi-tasking (washing, draining and rinsing)

Shape

This comes down to personal preference. A round shaped sink is good for kitchen tasks but is not very practical for cleaning dishes (particularly if you are cleaning large rectangular pans and trays.) Generally we install rectangular sinks for this reason. They are also more space effective.

Material

Stainless steel sinks are the most popular. They're durable, easy to clean and look good in any kitchen! It may get scratched but scratches aren't as noticeable on stainless steel as what they are on white porcelain for example. It's  also much cheaper than porcelain, granite and marble.

Above or Below

Top mount or drop-in sinks are a good DIY option. They're  easy to install and cheap, however they aren't as sleek and stylish as some other sinks. Top mount sinks can also collect soap scum between the sink lip and counter.

Under mount sinks are mounted beneath the counter. They collect less scum and dirt than the top mount sink and tend to look better too. They are a bit more costly to install as it needs to be glued to the counter.

Farmhouse sinks are specially designed so that the sink actually replaces part of the counter. They are generally quite deep and tend to look good in a more traditional style kitchen. Obviously installing a farmhouse kitchen is a lot more challenging than a top or bottom mount sink as it has to be fit to the counter.

Do you have any tips for picking the right kitchen sink? Leave a comment with your thoughts or ideas below!

Outdoor Kitchen Lighting Tips

When it comes to lighting for your outdoor area you need to think about more than just ambiance. Design, style, the right light for preparing food and bug control are just some of the things one needs to consider. We're here to help! Here are some outdoor kitchen lighting tips...

Task Lighting

A bright light above your preparation or task area is really important. White lighting with a low or high voltage is suitable, although high voltage lighting is better for a range of temperatures. You could go for a simple light fixture on the wall or under your cabinet. OR you can get stylish and choose from a selection of designer task lights, like this one...

Dimmers

We always recommend getting dimmer lighting. Dimmer switch lighting allows you to control the light intensity, which helps set the mood. They're also good for weather dependent lighting control.

Bug Control

Bugs are attracted to ultraviolet light so having a yellow LED bulb is a good option to keep bugs away! Yellow LED lighting also tends to emit less heat which keeps them away. We recommend yellow LED lighting rather than zapping the poor bugs away!

Quality Stainless Steel

We often hear stories from clients about how they splashed out on an awesome kitchen but then bought budget lighting. Stainless steel is a common material choice for outdoor lights but people don't always check the grade of the stainless steel , which means, soon enough they have rusty lights. Check the rating before buying stainless steel lights!

Rangehood/ Fan Lighting

Most rangehoods these days come with lighting. If it doesn't - rethink your decision and opt for one that does. The bulb options vary from LED to fluorescent, halogen and incandescent. They're all effective, but emit different heat temperatures. The colour, quality, lifespan and intensity also vary. Be sure to find out details from your lighting provider.

Ambiance Lighting

There are so many brilliant ambiance lighting ideas around. Candles, oil lamps, mason jars and fairy lights are just some options that are great for ambiance lighting. Fairy lights should come with a driver or transformer which brings down the voltage. Check that it does before you buy it.

Alternative Lighting

There are an increasing number of light styles and designs and a lot of them are DIY! Light fixtures made from buckets, egg crates and twigs are just some materials you can use to make a unique home made light for your outdoor kitchen. Check out these awesome DIY ideas.

 Be sure to check the IP rating to ensure your lights are safe!

8 Kitchen Storage and Organisation Must Haves

Everyone wants a neat and tidy kitchen, here are 8 great kitchen storage and organisation must haves...

1. Wine Bottle Storage

Wine rack designs have come a long way. Having a wine rack mounted to the wall is a huge space saver and it looks awesome!

2. Hanging Pot Rack

Putting up a simple shelf on your kitchen wall is another great way to store your kitchen ware (particularly your pots and pans) This is a good option if you're looking to get an eclectic look in your kitchen.

 3. Cutlery Drawers

We posted a blog about drawers being the new cupboard when it comes to kitchen storage space. You can have the drawer custom made or, for a more cost effective option, buy a cutlery organiser and pop that into the drawer space.

4. Sauce/Oil/Vinegar Bottles

Dried up tomato sauce bottles are something we've all had in our kitchens at some point! Decanting your sauces and/or oils is an easy way to make your kitchen look organised. These bottles range in price but essentially do the same thing.

 5. Hidden Paper Towel in Drawer Space

Tuck your paper towel into a drawer space. The best thing about this idea is that it keeps the benchtop clear, but the paper towel is still accessible.

6. Wine Glass Shelf

There's some really creative options when it comes to wine shelves. Including the use of an old garden rake. For a sturdier option we recommend something like this. You could double up a the wine rack and wine glass holder, which will save you even more kitchen storage space.

 7. Grocery Bag Holder

This is one of those versatile kitchen storage space ideas as you can DIY or buy a fancy one and it does the same thing.

8. Spice Drawer

Keep your spices organised in a spice drawer. Depending on how many spices you want in your kitchen you could compartmentalize the drawer or just have something basic.

 Got any tips to keep a kitchen neat and tidy? We'd love to hear them in the comment box below.

Winter Dinner Party Ideas

Cold weather shouldn't keep you away from your outdoor area. Why not challenge yourself to host a winter dinner party? Here are some ideas to inspire you...

Mulled Wine

No winter dinner party should be without mulled wine. This warm and spicy beverage can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic. Here's an easy three step recipe to make a batch:

• 10 cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1/4 cup caster sugar
• 1 roughly grated nutmeg
• 2 cups water
• roughly grated rind of 1 orange
• 1 apple, roughly chopped (skin on)
• 750ml fruity red wine (such as a merlot)

Step 1: Heat cloves, cinnamon, sugar, nutmeg, water, orange rind and apple in a large saucepan over medium heat.Step 2: Bring to the boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.Step 3: Add red wine and simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Strain and divide among serving glasses. Serve immediately.

Whisky Tasting

Whisky tasting has become really popular and would go down very well at a winter inspired dinner party. It would most certainly keep the guests warm! Begin the evening with a cheese and whiskey pairing platter. Good foods to pair whiskey with - smoky cheeses, sharp cheddars, dark chocolate and pretzels.

Wintery Side Dishes

Here are some ideas for more wintery side dishes:

• BBQ grilled vegetables (zucchini, peppers and onion)
• Potato bake
• Veggie bake
• Warm bread rolls
• Blue cheese filled bacon wrapped mushrooms

Fairy Lights

A simple but effective feature to have at any outdoor party - fairy lights. String these along your deck or pergola to give your outdoor area that magical wintery feel.

Roast Marshmallows

 An easy and delicious dessert for a winter dinner party. If you want something extra sweet, hollow out the marshmallow with a fork and stuff it with a Rolo before roasting it.

Do you have any inspiring ideas for a winter dinner party? Comment on this post and share your ideas with your friends.