Photo courtesy of Abimis.com
Save that cookie cutter for the holidays because your kitchen can be like no one else’s when you choose to go bespoke.
Bespoke. It’s an interesting term. Used to define the design and creation of tailored wardrobe items for a specific individual, the term has been used in recent years to define specified design within the home, as well. In no other space has this become more applicable than the kitchen.
And while you may already have a kitchen with customized aspects like cabinetry, design experts caution that the terms “custom” and “bespoke” are not necessarily interchangeable.
Fueled by Imagination
Bespoke denotes a level a specificity that goes beyond customization, however. While a customized kitchen designer will optimize your workspace and use exceptional materials to accomplish that end, bespoke designers take things to the next level. For instance, did you know that stainless steel can be painted and look remarkably luxurious? Bespoke designers can offer many more options to their clients because they don’t just work within ranges of high-quality options.
Another great example would be consumer options for countertop heights. In the mainstream marketplace, countertop heights are standardized. In the customized market, consumers can choose within a range. In the bespoke market, your countertop height can be the exact height you require; down to one-sixteenth of an inch, if need be.
Accordingly, if you are working with a space or room that has less than standardized configurations, you also won’t become frustrated having to work with an appliance that just “sort of” fits into a tricky corner or inadequate working space under a slanted ceiling. Which leads us to an added bonus of going bespoke—your kitchen can be ergonomically optimized just for you.
So, if you can and are willing to pay the considerable upcharge for this service, your only limitation is your imagination. But for many with means, the ends justify the means.
Photo courtesy of Abimis.com
Before proceeding, however, you will want to create a wish list. Now, before heading to your favorite online inspiration board, experts recommend that you start by considering the kitchen you are currently using and even those you have worked with in the past. What shortfalls did they have? In what specific areas did they not meet your expectations? What problems did they cause? This is your opportunity to address everything that wasn’t just as it should be. Recall the times you moved into an existing home and had to make do with the kitchen as it was for whatever reason.
Once you have nailed down those detailed logistics, you can consider what your style must-haves will be. Again, online inspiration boards are great for this if you are not already certain, but experts caution that in the bespoke world they could actually restrict you. Bespoke designers create within the realm of the limitless, so bring your imagination, as well as photo examples, to your bespoke consultations.
Understated by Design
Perhaps the most remarkable kitchen industry trend we’ve seen that seems perfectly suited to bespoke design because it is so unlike anything else, is the non-kitchen, kitchen. While most of us are completely comfortable with a room that is clearly defined with elements that evoke the true culinary utility of the space, there are some consumers who wish to re-think what this part of the home should look like entirely. And that said, they aren’t totally averse to functionality, they just want a more seamless meld with their adjacent living area. The result is a space that can be understated as well as dramatic. A bespoke designer is uniquely qualified to find your sweet spot between style and substance.
Photo courtesy of Future.com
Enhanced by Necessity
The ever-increasing interiors trend toward customization fueled by the pandemic and millennial sensibilities even has manufacturers of appliances and technology taking an in-depth look at what they can offer to consumers who have a new-found understanding how their home’s interiors can affect mood and productivity. Samsung, for example, who has introduced an entire bespoke movement for the home, is currently offering consumers their version of the personalized kitchen with their Bespoke Design Studio.
This line seeks to address both style sensibilities and function with its Kitchen Suite of Bespoke options. Skirting the true definition of “bespoke” this high-end options package offers a range of appliances, including three- and four-door French Door refrigerators with interchangeable glass color panels. Going for a sleek, two-toned or even three-toned look? For $2,500 you can “design” your French fridge to have clementine-colored upper carriage doors, a white center freezer compartment, and an emerald-green bottom freezer door, if that suits your aesthetic. And from the looks of things, consumers continue to opt for customization when offered.
“We’re thrilled with the response to Bespoke appliances since their introduction to American families last year,” says Shane Higby, Head of Home Appliance Business, Samsung Electronics America. “Bespoke brings a new level of personalization and choice that wasn’t offered in home appliances before, and we’re excited to see how people express their unique style with our new products this year.”
The manufacturer is offering 12 color options for their glass panels that provide an aesthetic range from bright contrast, to warm tones, to a more traditional look. The panels are also available for their Bespoke line of range and dishwasher options, as well.
Photo courtesy of Abimis.com
While the true definition of bespoke is indeed being stretched in this regard, Samsung’s approach is an opportunity for more consumers to get creative in the kitchen.
Should you decide, however, that your personalized desires require the full-room approach, do your homework and consult with an expert, because an investment in true bespoke means you will want for nothing after that last precious piece of tile is set.
