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Keep Your Kitchen Cool This Summer
As temperatures start to creep up, keeping your kitchen cool can be a challenge. A well-designed kitchen can be a sanctuary for culinary creativity and a place to unwind and refresh. However, higher temperatures and humidity can turn it into an uncomfortable space. Here we share design insights and practical tips to ensure your kitchen remains cool and inviting during the summer months.
Design Considerations:
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial in any kitchen, especially during the summer. Installing a high-quality range hood will expel hot, humid air, and a hood with a humidity sensor will automatically adjust its speed based on the moisture levels in the room. Additionally, if your layout allows, installing a window during your kitchen renovation (or even bi-fold doors in an open-plan space) can provide natural ventilation.
Choose Cooling Materials
The materials you choose for your kitchen can significantly impact its temperature. Consider these cooling options:
- Countertops – Opt for quartz or marble countertops, which remain cool to the touch even on hot days.
- Flooring – Natural stone tiles, such as marble or granite, not only look luxurious but also stay cool underfoot. Porcelain tiles are another excellent choice, offering a cool touch and resistance to moisture.
- Cabinets and Backsplashes – Light-coloured cabinetry and backsplashes can help reflect heat, keeping the space cooler.
Insulation
Good insulation can help maintain a consistent temperature in your kitchen. Insulating your walls, ceiling, and floors as part of your renovation will keep hot air out and cool air in. Pay particular attention to the insulation around windows and doors to prevent warm air from seeping in.
Incorporate Greenery
Plants can do wonders for cooling down a space. Not only do they add a touch of nature, but they also help regulate humidity and temperature. Consider adding herbs like basil, mint, or cilantro, which thrive in kitchen environments and can be used in your cooking.
Top tip – spread them across windows and corners.
Practical Tips
Use Blinds
Blocking out direct sunlight is essential to keep your kitchen cool. Install blinds on windows to reflect the sun’s rays and reduce heat build up.
Dehumidify the Space
High humidity levels can make your kitchen feel warmer than it really is, so using a dehumidifier can keep the air dry and cool. A portable dehumidifier can be easily moved to other rooms as needed, making it a versatile addition to your home.
Strategically Place Mirrors
Mirrors can help to reflect natural light, making the space feel brighter and cooler. Place them opposite windows or light sources to maximise their effect. However, avoid placing too many as excessive reflection can create a sense of heat.
Install Cooling Fixtures
Consider installing fixtures designed to promote airflow, such as a ceiling fan with a moisture-resistant rating. Also, look for taps and appliances designed to reduce heat emission, like induction cooktops that generate less ambient heat compared to traditional gas or electric ranges.
By following these design considerations and practical tips, you can ensure your kitchen remains a cool and comfortable space throughout the summer months, making it a more enjoyable place to cook, eat, and gather with family and friends.
Use smaller appliances
Instead of using the oven or stovetop, opt for small appliances such as a toaster, microwave, or air fryer. These appliances generate much less heat than a traditional oven — and require less energy too!
When designing your kitchen, our expert kitchen designs will consider factor from layout to lighting, to create a space that can used all year round. If you’re in the market for a new kitchen, why not visit your local Nolte showroom?
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