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Free standing kitchen base units


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(Image credit: Future)

There has been a rise in incorporating freestanding kitchen ideas into modern designs. 

While fitted kitchens are unlikely to ever go out of style, there has been a gradual move towards more relaxed-looking kitchens.

Freestanding kitchens range from fully unfitted spaces to single pieces, such as a standalone pantry cupboard or island on wheels so they can move as your needs change, and even move homes with you. 

Not only is a freestanding kitchen more affordable than a traditionally fitted one, it's an easy way to update an existing one. 

And if you're looking for kitchen ideas with character and personality, adding freestanding elements will take the space from looking functional to fantastic. 

Freestanding kitchens can be fully fitted, too, but with an unfitted look that gives you the best of both worlds: an efficient use of space and a relaxed feel. Here, we explore all the options.

1. Opt for a farmhouse table 

(Image credit: Plain English)

When planning a kitchen, it is always very tempting to go for a kitchen island if you are fortunate enough to have the space for one. But far too often, islands can feel like a monolithic obstruction in the middle of the room. 

However, you can take a different approach to typical kitchen island ideas: a farmhouse table. 'This can be all it takes to prevent kitchens feeling too fitted, while also proving extremely useful,’ says Merlin Wright, design director, Plain English . 

‘The addition of any freestanding piece is an opportunity to add texture and variety as a counterpoint to the kitchen’s fitted cupboards, be they vintage, antique or very crisp and modern; all add interest and personality.’ 

2. Adopt a fully unfitted look

(Image credit: Michael Rygaard)

A fully freestanding kitchen has several benefits, starting with transportability. Taking it with you when you move makes the initial investment more attractive, so this could be the perfect option for people who rent in particular. 

As the cabinets are not physically attached to walls or floors, they can also work in properties where panelling or materials are protected or fragile. Few do fully freestanding better than Copenhagen-based Frama , which makes semi-customizable metal-framed pieces in painted and timber finishes. 

This approach might seem ideal for flexible kitchen layout ideas in a large, open-plan space. However, the only elements you will want to move once they are in place are lighter items or those on wheels. Anything else will be unwieldy and/or dependent on plumbing or electrics.

3. Raise your units on legs

(Image credit: Masterclass Kitchens)

Just because an island unit can’t be moved, doesn’t mean it can’t appear freestanding. Elevating the unit on legs allows light to flow underneath, creating an air of portability.  

Run power supplies for appliances inside or behind the legs to suspend the illusion. Plumbing can be concealed centrally in deeper island units. Don’t forget, the longer the legs, the less storage you’ll achieve so do balance the design to suit your needs.

4. Mix materials for a luxurious look

(Image credit: Alexander James)

Looking for a high-end, luxurious take on freestanding? This is particularly important in open-plan kitchens where you are combining a kitchen with a living space. 

The key when thinking about kitchen styling is to find commonality between each piece, so they match in spirit not precise detail, says Lanserring , makers of this kitchen designed by MWAI. 

‘By deliberately mismatching components, each item can be designed with precision as a stand-alone piece. However, when they are curated together the feeling is rich but less formal,’ explains Alex Beaugeard, director of design, Lanserring.

5. Add a splash of color in a neutral scheme

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

If replacing your kitchen isn't an option at the moment but perhaps you are looking for kitchen color ideas to refresh it a little, a new freestanding piece can add both more storage and a splash of welcome color.

‘Freestanding elements can easily be painted to provide a pop of color and bright focal point in a neutral scheme,’ says Leisha Norman, designer, Harvey Jones . 

In the kitchen picture above, a standalone larder in Farrow & Ball’s zesty Charlotte’s Locks stands out against fitted cabinetry in cool Wimborne White. ‘Whether your style is naturally eclectic or more coordinated, incorporating just one eye-catching freestanding piece can make a big impact,’ she adds. 

6. Use portable furniture for versatility

(Image credit: Paul Craig)

‘Portable furniture is a helpful way to enjoy extra countertop or storage space as and when it’s needed,’ says George Forsyth, director, Drew Forsyth & Co . 

‘A freestanding chef’s table or butcher’s trolley, for example, can be brought in for those busy times, such as when entertaining, then moved out of the way when more floorspace is required.’ 

For portable kitchen island ideas like this one, request castors with brakes for easy mobility.  

7. Add a glass dresser to display personal pieces

(Image credit: deVOL)

‘We’ve definitely witnessed a slow move towards more freestanding kitchens over the last year or so, which, as our roots are firmly based in this look, is pleasing to see,’ says deVOL ’s creative director, Helen Parker. 

One of the simplest, and most useful, ways to take your kitchen in a more un-fitted direction, she adds, is by popping a freestanding dresser or larder at the end of the kitchen units. 

(Image credit: VIPP)

One design, one color, no fuss and no frills. Freestanding kitchens are generally less complicated than fitted but Vipp ’s modular collection deliberately boils down the complexities of planning for those who find choice overwhelming. 

Simply pick and mix from four modules – island, island with breakfast bar, wall and tall modules – add appliances and relax in the knowledge this timeless Danish-built design will last a lifetime. 

9.

 Fit the same countertop to unify your separate units

(Image credit: Very Simple Kitchens)

One downside of an entirely freestanding kitchen is the lack of seamlessly fitted countertops, without crumb-trapping joints between or at the back of units. 

Solution one is to sacrifice flexibility in favor of hygiene by fitting worktops across multiple freestanding units. Or you can make the separation feel purposeful by leaving a generous, cleanable gap, as shown here. 

Add a generous island unit or butcher’s trolley to spread out while baking.

10. Create separate working zones for more efficiency

(Image credit: Bulthaup)

Inspired by a carpenter’s workshop, bulthaup ’s b2 range consists of three standalone modules: a workbench, tool cabinet and appliance cabinet. 

‘The beauty of this modern zoned set up lies in its incredible efficiency when cooking,’ explains Alex Saint, design manager, Kitchen Architecture .

‘For example, the tool cabinet hosts an impressive array of pans, utensils and glassware, making gathering everything you need a one-trip task. ’

11. Source vintage furniture

(Image credit: VSP Interiors)

This unique space was a collaboration between interior designer Henriette von Stockhausen at VSP and bespoke kitchen specialists Artichoke. It features a pair of hefty oak preparation tables, which have an air of portability and so appear more like decorative furniture than functional pieces. Above each table is a four-arm chandelier from Circa Lighting.

12. Introduce clever color combinations

(Image credit: Nicola Harding)

Contemporary details combine with a classic design sensibility in this kitchen by interior designer Nicola Harding. She colored Plain English kitchen units in Summerset Mauve by Pure & Original and the island in Post Modern Mauve; this two-tone approach emphasizes the freestanding feel of the space. The walls are in Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster. ‘It works for any light level, any time of day, any time of year. Calm, warm, fresh, comforting,’ says Nicola.

13. Mix materials

(Image credit: Alexander James)

Tom Cox of HÁM interiors redesigned a cottage, adding a spacious kitchen in a vaulted barn extension. ‘For us, kitchens should include elegant pieces of furniture to add depth and interest,’ he says. ‘This custom-built island is made from sycamore, marble and copper.

14. Go for a look steeped in history

(Image credit: Max Rollitt)

Interior designer Max Rollitt collaborated with Plain English on this pantry in a Georgian rectory. ‘The room is given a sense of grounding with my selection of antiques, such as this Spanish table, mixed with Spitalfield cupboards in rich Tuscan Red.

How do I include a freestanding kitchen sink?

It is best to include a kitchen sink in a freestanding kitchen against a wall so that the plumbing can be conveniently and easily hidden.

However, this is not a must: kitchen sinks can be incorporated into freestanding kitchen islands, with the pipework hidden within or behind the legs.

Or drainage exiting straight down into the center of a larger kitchen island, where it can't be seen – except if you were on your hands and knees retrieving something from beneath the island.

Can a kitchen island be freestanding?

Yes, freestanding kitchen islands are an excellent way of adding extra storage and countertop space in a kitchen, whether or not the rest of the cabinetry is fitted or freestanding. Freestanding kitchens can include elements such as hobs, ovens and sinks, with wires and plumbing hidden beneath. 

Otherwise, a freestanding kitchen island that incorporates smart kitchen island seating ideas, extra kitchen storage and countertop space can create a fabulous focal point in any kitchen, and act as a useful zoning device in open plan spaces.

If you want true flexibility, and at the other end of the scale, you can make them countertop and storage only, put them on wheels (with brakes) so you can move them about to suit your needs.

Linda graduated from university with a First in Journalism, Film and Broadcasting.  Her career began on a trade title for the kitchen and bathroom industry, and she has worked for Homes & Gardens, and sister-brands Livingetc, Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, since 2006, covering interiors topics, though kitchens and bathrooms are her specialism. 

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Free Standing Kitchen Units | Unfitted Kitchen Cabinets

How to Create a Free-Standing Look

At the White Kitchen Company, we have recognised a growing trend in kitchen furniture that has been around in Europe for quite some time, ‘the freestanding unfitted kitchen'. Although many of our customers have chosen their kitchens units to be fitted our solid wood base units arrive in one piece (no flat pack assembly), so naturally they lend themselves to be left free standing.

The Benefits of looking like Free Standing Kitchens Units

Versatility

Adaptability 

Traditional

Fitted kitchens might seem like a better use of the space, but once you have one, you’re committed to it. With an un-fitted kitchen style that is made up from robust cabinets (not-flat packed), you can change how your kitchen looks by rearranging the units and re-fitting the worktop. Or even sell or take them with you if you move home.

The island is one of the most sought-after features in any modern kitchen. Using our online shop makes it possible to create bespoke islands adaptable for specific functions, and it’s easy to create a social entertaining space while still maintaining a functional workstation.

TWKC's units are available with stepped back kick-boards, this creates a freestanding look but stops crumbs and dust collecting underneath. Our units have flat sides so they can be screwed together, then worktops can be added with an up-stand to create a freestanding piece. The units come in four styles. The Shaker Range, the Period English Range, the Modern Range and our Fusion Range. All are available direct from the Manufacturer.

Our ‘Fit Your Own' freestanding oak units are available to buy and are a selection of units which are intended to give a wide choice of options to create a beautiful and practical kitchen. However, we can also make bespoke units built to order and slight alterations can be accommodated. All our cabinet doors, drawers and frames are solid wood, all joints are morticed and tenoned, drawers are dovetailed and our carcasses are built to last a lifetime. You can opt for natural oak doors, painted tulipwood or undercoated ready to pain onsite. be left natural and lacquered or undercoated ready to paint. You can fit them yourselves (DIY) or we can arrange to fit for you.

Whether you decide in free-standing or fitted, contemporary or classic our units are always designed to incorporate the latest appliances, including kitchen islands. We are here to help, have a chat with one of our design team to go through ideas for your freestanding kitchen look. Or to make an appointment just call or email us.

* = Some cabinets may need to be screwed together for safety. These can be simply unscrewed. Worktops would need to be mechanically fixed (without adhesives).

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What is included in the kitchen set: components

When a kitchen is planned, calculated by designers, technologists, everything is taken into account and created according to the canons of ergonomics. An independent approach to the design of furniture requires a lot of knowledge of the basic elements and details. First of all, you will need to clarify for yourself what exactly is considered a headset, which models are included in it, how they will be placed.

Basic modules

The basic parts of a furniture set are its main elements, without which the kitchen cannot be considered as such. So, the kitchen set upon purchase includes:

  1. Top row of cabinets.
  2. Bottom row of side tables.
  3. Dining area.

You can do without one of some cabinets, but all three of these components must be present. Only then will the furniture be considered a set, and ensure a comfortable stay in the room.

Wall cabinets

The set of elements for the upper tier of kitchens consists of the following:

  1. Frame.
  2. Internal shelves. nine0010
  3. Facades.
  4. Drawers.

In the case when the kitchen is completely included in the parameters of the entire kitchen - it becomes along the entire wall, the frame will be little visible. Mainly facades will be visible. Therefore, the main focus in such a project can be placed on them. Moreover, they often occupy a third of the cost of the entire headset.

Top-mounted appliances available. The main thing is that its weight is correctly calculated. It is convenient for many to have a microwave or oven at eye level. nine0003

Cabinet tables, floor cabinets

The lower tier is no less usable than the upper tier. It consists of the following:

  1. Cabinets with drawers.
  2. Worktop.
  3. Household appliances.

Often heavy household appliances are also installed here. When installing the lower row of a kitchen with built-in appliances, the kit includes:

At the bottom of the set there must be a place for washing. It is equipped with appropriate materials that meet the following requirements:

  1. Moisture resistance.
  2. Heat resistant.
  3. Impact resistance (relative).

Why should the frame of the pedestal where the plumbing will be built in be resistant to temperature extremes or hot? If you have to pour hot water, and the metal sink gets very hot from this, then it is desirable that the sealant and the protective plinth do not melt over time. This is especially true for areas where unenamelled steel sinks are installed, as well as heat-resistant countertops, the properties of which allow you to put a hot pan on its surface. nine0003

The worktop is another key element of kitchen cabinet furniture. It should not only look beautiful and harmoniously fit into the interior style ensemble.

Standard worktop properties:

For budget kitchens, most often, experts will offer hinged doors for the lower tier. It really is much cheaper. But it should be noted in this case that they can create some inconvenience when used. The best option is still - drawers. If there is little money provided, then the boxes can be included in the scheme only where it is most often supposed to open the cabinet. nine0003

All cabinets for the top or bottom system are designed as standard with a width of 60 cm. This must be taken into account if household appliances are to be integrated. This is especially true for the width of the microwave or other appliances. Some of them can be narrow - 45 cm, for example. There will be another 20 cm of free space that you also need to use.

Tip! This happens when the kitchen set consists only of the lower part - floor cabinets, and at the top there are only shelves or windows. For example, the kitchen is fully equipped with an island, a ceiling rail is mounted above it for hanging dishes. At the same time, recreation areas and a dining room are organized along the walls. Such a completely new concept is possible only in spacious rooms, where all engineering communications are available for arrangement in the middle of the room (water supply, sewerage). nine0003

Dining area

The list of what should be in the furniture dining area is very simple:

  1. Dining table.
  2. Chairs or seats bench, sofa.

Most often installed separately, next to the work area. If the space of the room allows, then the table can be made into a peninsula, connected on one side to the headset. Tables can be folding and stationary. Seats - freestanding or corner. nine0003

Additional elements

Secondary details of kitchen furniture include already those elements that can be dispensed with and which may not be included in the basic project.

The following elements can be provided separately:

  1. Lighting in the room and inside the headset.
  2. Built-in appliances.
  3. Island, bar counter.
  4. Kitchen apron.

Knowledge about the elements of kitchen furniture will help you orient yourself when assembling parts if you decide to assemble a kitchen with your own hands. Or in the process of contacting designers who will draw a sketch for you and create a calculation of the project details. Managers of the company "Kitchens inexpensively" are ready to answer all clarifying questions, help plan the placement, give valuable recommendations on size, lighting and other nuances. nine0003

Types of kitchen sets | Articles about furniture and interior

The kitchen is a multifunctional room, designed not only for cooking and eating. Here they spend time at cozy family or friendly gatherings, even arrange celebrations and receive guests.

That is why strict requirements are imposed on the improvement of a modern kitchen interior - it must be as comfortable and practical as possible, meet all the rules of ergonomic design. And success in observing all these parameters largely determines the right approach to choosing a kitchen set. nine0003

Headset elements

The kitchen set is a furniture ensemble, which includes all the necessary elements for arranging a comfortable and functional interior. Made in a single style solution, it organically complements the concept of interior design and allows you to competently organize the kitchen space.

The composition of the modern headset includes the following elements:

In fact, the working area is represented by a single row of objects. But a set of cabinets, cabinets, shelves and pencil cases is not an integral wall, but separate modules. They can be disassembled and combined as you wish, sizing them up to obtain the most suitable solution for individual tasks. nine0003

The complete set of a single set can be variable and is determined by the relevance of a particular model (in such cases, there are usually more items in the composition), as well as the size of the set components - the smaller the “step”, the better.

The number of elements available for placement depends on the area, planning solutions and the possibility of modifying the premises itself. For example, is it possible to replace a dining group with a bar counter, attach a window sill to a set in the form of a worktop, save space by using pencil cases for embedding household appliances, etc. nine0003

The placement and parameters of the kit are no less tightly controlled by the working triangle, formed by three “points” of the main functional areas - a refrigerator, a stove and a sink. When the distance between them is too small, it interferes with comfortable movement. If it is very large, you will have to spend time on a lot of unnecessary movements. Therefore, before choosing a furniture ensemble, attention should be paid to calculating the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe working triangle and, if the result does not meet the specified limits, change the localization of mobile “points” (refrigerator, stove). nine0003

Varieties of furniture sets

It is impossible to competently design a set of furniture for the kitchen, ignoring the configuration features of the room itself. Moreover, the parameters of the room and the possibility of their transformation are equally important in the calculation.

Different types of kitchen sets allow to solve this design problem:

The island set remains one of the most interesting and convenient models, even taking into account the visual effect of reducing space and some installation difficulties - in order to bring sewerage, water supply, and sometimes a gas pipeline to the “island”, a complete re-equipment of the entire room may be necessary. If this option is not suitable, it is better to look at a more benign solution - peninsular cuisine. The "Peninsula" can be used as a dining table or used as a storage system for dishes and kitchen utensils. nine0003

Nuances of choosing a furniture set for a small kitchen

The basic principle of choosing a set for a kitchen of modest size comes down to the functional load of the furniture set itself. A wide variety of their varieties makes it possible to choose the most successful solutions for any task - to install corner sets for the most efficient use of the available space, or compact linear-type sets that allow you to leave maximum free space. nine0003

If your choice fell on a corner set, you need to provide options for placing and arranging the washing and cooking area, places for the dining table. For linear sets, it is important to select ergonomic furniture with the minimum allowable set of constituent elements. In this case, it is necessary to think over the space for the working area and the place of eating.

The set itself may include only a few items of primary importance - a hanging corner or linear cabinet, a cabinet for washing, a table, a drying cabinet for dishes. In a small room, the absence of a dining group or its replacement with a bar counter is allowed. nine0003

Features

It is not rational to take as a basis the description of the individual elements of the headset when calculating the configuration of the entire set. It is more correct to design a furniture ensemble along the lines - this allows you to select according to the functional load and design at the same time: