Kitchen Guides
How to Convert a Conventional Kitchen Into a Semi-Modular Kitchen
Here is a guide to how you can introduce semi-modular cabinetry into a kitchen with a conventional stone countertop
Most builder apartments come with conventional kitchens that have a cement platform finished with a marble or granite slab and a fixed sink. In such a scenario one has the option to completely dismantle the existing kitchen countertop and go fully-modular or fabricate the kitchen around the existing countertop. This can be done by getting the kitchen carpentered at site or opting for semi-modular kitchen cabinetry which is prefabricated in factories and tailor-made to the dimensions of the existing kitchen.
If you plan to retain the existing countertop of a new kitchen or want to renovate your old one with modular cabinetry, here is a guide on how to go about it.
If you plan to retain the existing countertop of a new kitchen or want to renovate your old one with modular cabinetry, here is a guide on how to go about it.
2. Customise the cabinet sizes
The biggest advantage of a semi-modular kitchen is that it can be customised at module level and tailor-made to suit all spaces and corners. Consider creating different-sized cabinets and sectional drawers for your utensils such as cooking spoons, cutlery, crockery, pans, kadais and the rest.
Note: An existing kitchen countertop comprises of vertical supports in brick or concrete, which can be camouflaged by laminate panelling.
The biggest advantage of a semi-modular kitchen is that it can be customised at module level and tailor-made to suit all spaces and corners. Consider creating different-sized cabinets and sectional drawers for your utensils such as cooking spoons, cutlery, crockery, pans, kadais and the rest.
Note: An existing kitchen countertop comprises of vertical supports in brick or concrete, which can be camouflaged by laminate panelling.
3. Introduce modular accessories
Create smart spaces by installing modular accessories like wire drawers, adjustable shelves, pullout cabinets and bin holders. Make sure to convert the inaccessible end corners into functional spaces with accessories like corner carousels. These accessories are fitted onto the cabinets and drawer units to create dedicated storage for cutlery trays, utensils, bottles, spices, vegetables and garbage holders.
Create smart spaces by installing modular accessories like wire drawers, adjustable shelves, pullout cabinets and bin holders. Make sure to convert the inaccessible end corners into functional spaces with accessories like corner carousels. These accessories are fitted onto the cabinets and drawer units to create dedicated storage for cutlery trays, utensils, bottles, spices, vegetables and garbage holders.
Tip: If space permits, introduce a tall unit. This is a great way to create a pantry that provides easy access to cooking supplies.
4. Install modular shelves
Add modular shelves and wall accessories that can give you quick access to the kitchen essentials. Additionally, fix small shelves for spices and other ingredients that are used most often while cooking. Also, one can effectively use the space between the counter and overhead cabinets by fixing wall accessories for hanging ladles, spatulas, tongs and other utility items.
Add modular shelves and wall accessories that can give you quick access to the kitchen essentials. Additionally, fix small shelves for spices and other ingredients that are used most often while cooking. Also, one can effectively use the space between the counter and overhead cabinets by fixing wall accessories for hanging ladles, spatulas, tongs and other utility items.
5. Install a chimney
A semi-modular kitchen is incomplete without a chimney, as it prevents accumulation of grime on the cabinets and tiles, and maintains the freshness of the kitchen. It is a perfect way to bring in a sleek modern look. Chimneys can be primarily categorised as ducted and ductless (or recycling) chimneys. They are available as wall-mounted, built-in or island chimneys.
Browse through more kitchen chimney photos
A semi-modular kitchen is incomplete without a chimney, as it prevents accumulation of grime on the cabinets and tiles, and maintains the freshness of the kitchen. It is a perfect way to bring in a sleek modern look. Chimneys can be primarily categorised as ducted and ductless (or recycling) chimneys. They are available as wall-mounted, built-in or island chimneys.
Browse through more kitchen chimney photos
6. Pick an appealing colour scheme
Effective space management along with quick and easy installation have made semi-modular kitchens a popular choice over conventionally carpentered kitchens.
Another way to make the semi-modular kitchen stand out is by introducing an interesting colour scheme. You can fabricate the cabinetry with monochrome or multicoloured laminates to add vibrancy within the kitchen space. Consider using attractive tiles for the backsplash, as in this example. I love the way it teams with the brown-and-white kitchen cabinets and takes the kitchen decor to a different level.
Read more:
Pros & Cons of a Modular Kitchen
5 Things to Know Before Installing a Modular Kitchen
Tell us:
What would be your choice – a modular, semi-modular or conventional kitchen? Tell us in the Comments section below.
Effective space management along with quick and easy installation have made semi-modular kitchens a popular choice over conventionally carpentered kitchens.
Another way to make the semi-modular kitchen stand out is by introducing an interesting colour scheme. You can fabricate the cabinetry with monochrome or multicoloured laminates to add vibrancy within the kitchen space. Consider using attractive tiles for the backsplash, as in this example. I love the way it teams with the brown-and-white kitchen cabinets and takes the kitchen decor to a different level.
Read more:
Pros & Cons of a Modular Kitchen
5 Things to Know Before Installing a Modular Kitchen
Tell us:
What would be your choice – a modular, semi-modular or conventional kitchen? Tell us in the Comments section below.
Clever planning can create a well-organised and clutter-free kitchen. Make sure that the layout fits your convenience and brings efficiency in your working process. It is essential to demarcate the positions of the drawers, cabinets, hob, microwave, RO filter and other gadgets and electrical points as per your requirements before bringing in a modular furniture contractor.
Note that a built-in hob or cooktop cannot be installed in a semi-modular kitchen as it is not advisable to make a cut-out within the existing stone countertop.