Thinking About a Kitchen Renovation? Read This First.
Whether you’re renovating your forever home or refreshing a tired kitchen layout, what you don’t know can cost you—time, money, and peace of mind. At Polina Radchenko Interiors, we recently co-hosted a seminar with Hettich Australia, sharing the most up-to-date insights on kitchen design that’s not just beautiful—but practical, efficient, and built to last.
We’ve compiled the most useful questions and answers from the event into this simple, jargon-free guide. If you’re even thinking about a kitchen reno, read this first—because getting it right isn’t just about colours and cabinets. It’s about comfort, workflow, and smart storage that makes everyday life easier.
What real homeowners asked—and what the experts answered:
How can a kitchen work for people of different heights?
Design with flexibility. Use drawers instead of overheads for everyday items, and keep prep zones within comfortable reach. Bench heights can also be adjusted (e.g. 920mm instead of the standard 900mm) to suit your family.
Why are kitchen drawers better than cupboards?
Drawers save your back. They slide out to you—no bending, kneeling, or digging into dark corners. Bonus: they’re more ergonomic as you age and great for maximizing storage.
What’s a “kitchen triangle” and why does it matter?
It’s the imaginary triangle between your sink, fridge, and cooktop—the three most-used areas. Keep them logically spaced (ideally 900–1200mm apart) to make cooking smooth, not frustrating.
Where should the dishwasher go?
Usually next to the sink for easy plumbing and workflow. But some clients place a second drawer dishwasher in the main kitchen and a full-size one in the pantry—especially in large households or when entertaining.
How do I get more usable pantry storage?
Ditch fixed shelves. Use internal drawers or pull-outs (what we call a “space ladder”) to bring the contents to you. It’s game-changing for visibility, access, and keeping food from being forgotten.
What should I budget for quality hardware?
Premium drawers (like Hettich’s) cost ~$40 each vs. $20 for standard. Add $40–50 for push-to-open features. It's a modest investment for smooth, silent functionality that lasts 20+ years.
Are pull-out bins better than freestanding ones?
Absolutely. Integrated bin drawers near the sink and dishwasher streamline clean-up. It’s one of the most-used drawers in your home—make it work harder for you.
Should I go with gas or induction cooking?
Induction is fast, safe, and sleek—especially when you want lower cabinetry or a cleaner bench aesthetic. If you’re a diehard gas user, consider the increased clearance requirements around cooktops and windows.
What kind of lighting should I plan for?
Use a mix:
Task lighting over benches
Ambient ceiling lighting for overall brightness
Feature lighting (like pendants) to add wow-factor Good lighting isn’t just aesthetic—it makes cooking safer and more enjoyable.
Want Help Planning Your Kitchen?
We’re offering a Complimentary Design Discovery Session (Valued at $450)
You'll receive:
A review of your floor plan
Design suggestions tailored to your space, style, and budget
Recommendations on materials and layout
Answers to all your burning reno questions
Book yours here now.
Learn more about Hettich’s design-led solutions at hettich.com.