Interior designer Jordana Ashkenazi cautions against popular kitchen upgrades that prioritize aesthetics over practicality, potentially leading to homeowner dissatisfaction.

Function First: A Designer's Philosophy

Jordana Ashkenazi, of Element One House, spoke with the Daily Mail about the importance of creating a kitchen that remains both practical and visually appealing for years to come. She advocates for a ‘function first, beauty second’ approach, warning against high-maintenance or purely decorative elements.

Upgrades to Avoid

Convenience Can Be Costly

Sparkling water taps, while initially appealing, often experience issues and fall into disuse after the novelty wears off, leading to unnecessary expense and maintenance. Boiling water taps are only truly effective if they consistently reach 100 degrees Celsius.

Ineffective Technology

Induction hobs with integrated extractors are often less effective than traditional overhead extractors due to the natural movement of heat and steam. Ashkenazi notes they frequently underperform.

High-Maintenance Surfaces

Solid wood worktops, despite their beauty, require constant upkeep to prevent marking and staining. This can turn the kitchen into a space demanding excessive care and attention.

Hidden Problems

Push-to-open cabinets, while offering a sleek, handleless aesthetic, are prone to marking and can become unreliable over time.

Lighting and Walls

Single statement pendants often provide insufficient illumination, creating shadows and forcing reliance on a single light source. Feature walls, while initially bold, tend to quickly date, highlighting the specific trend cycle of the kitchen’s design.

Timeless Design is Key

Ashkenazi recommends timeless and elegant main finishes, suggesting that personality be introduced through styling rather than permanent, trend-driven features. A well-designed kitchen is a long-term investment that should prioritize practicality, durability, and enduring style.