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- Matthews Joinery Provincial Range
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- Matthews Joinery, custom chimney breast.
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- Matthews Joinery Provincial Range
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- French Butlers sink
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- COUNTRY BASKETS
With a combined experience of over 50 years in the cabinetmaking and joinery industry, Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre in Ballarat has the ability to design and custom build any joinery you may require, incorporating your specific needs, tastes and budget. Meet with our experienced team to discuss your next project.
We will meet with you to discuss your project as needed and will be available to assist you throughout the process. We can organise the removal and installation of your joinery and take care of all of the trades if required. Matthews Joinery has a team of experienced sub-trades to assist with licensed trades work such as plumbing, tiling and electrical work. We are happy to recommend reputable and trustworthy tradespeople so please talk to us about your needs. Our installers will respect your home, taking every care with your floors and walls.
It is this teamwork that sets us apart and ensures that we deliver the high quality joinery that Matthews Joinery has become known for.We have found design solutions for many projects that others have considered too hard.
Our Ballarat showroom has a range of kitchen ,pantry,bathroom, laundry, storage and wardrobe cabinetry design options and concepts for you to view. It is a great way for customers who are considering a new kitchen, bathroom, en-suite or renovation to get inspiration. Also, look through our ideas gallery, previous work we have completed and our suppliers websites for great ideas. Our “What do you do next?” page also has great information.
Matthews Joinery has an onsite joinery where our experienced cabinetmakers and joiners custom build bathroom cabinets and vanities, kitchens, laundry cabinets, cupboards and storage, home studies and commercial joinery for our customers in Ballarat and regional Victoria. Please look at our customer testimonials, news and about us pages to find out more about our work. Our news page is updated regularly with pictures and information on recently completed projects.
A large percentage of our work is carried out in our factory so we remain very competitive within a 200 km radius of Ballarat. Our current service locations include Ararat, Ballarat, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Colac and Geelong incorporating the Surf Coast (Torquay, Anglesea, Lorne, Apollo Bay) Hamilton, Melbourne, Stawell, Bacchus Marsh and Melton.
Our factory is at the same location as our Kitchen and Bathroom Display Centre in Ballarat so our customers can visit our showroom for inspiration and also see our highly skilled and professional joiners and cabinet makers at work in our joinery.
We will meet with you to discuss your project as needed and will be available to assist you throughout the process. We can organise the removal and installation of your joinery and take care of all of the trades if required. Matthews Joinery has a team of experienced sub-trades to assist with licensed trades work such as plumbing, tiling and electrical work. We are happy to recommend reputable and trustworthy tradespeople so please talk to us about your needs. Our installers will respect your home, taking every care with your floors and walls.
It is this teamwork that sets us apart and ensures that we deliver the high quality joinery that Matthews Joinery has become known for. We have found design solutions for many projects that others have put in the too hard basket.
Our Ballarat showroom has many displays showcasing all areas of joinery available. In our Ballarat showroom you can see new hardware, LED lighting, benchtop and door materials and finishes that are available for your project. We have a dedicated area for material and handle selections. Our designer can help you with your colours and finishes.
This range can be customised to suit any country, provincial or shaker style. All of the joinery components are manufactured locally. It has a 2pak painted finish, which means you can select any paint colour that suits your project. We offer an imported French butlers sink and tap as an option to compliment the country farmhouse look.
Matthews Joinery employs state-of-the-art technology to produce custom built kitchens, custom bathrooms, laundries, studies, commercial joinery, cabinets and storage.
Please read through our testimonials and look at our previous work and our news for examples of work we have completed. For more information contact us.
For your convenience we have listed our suppliers so you can easily view their websites as they are a fabulous source of information and ideas.
Congratulations to Rod and his team for a most impressive kitchen renovation at my home.
Certainly, from design stage with the most helpful insight and advice from his designer – Pauline Ribbans to completion by skilled craftsmen, the project was completed to my absolute satisfaction and looks magnificent. The quality of the cabinetry is most impressive and installation of kitchen equipment including range hood and flue first rate workmanship.
I would also like to offer my admiration for the polished black granite benchtops crafted by the stonemasons of Rockworks, La Trobe st Ballarat which were integrated so skillfully with the cabinets.
Rodney Matthews and his team deserve sponsorship for an Australian Business Quality Award as a top quality business in Central Highlands.
Allan
Allan
We are thrilled with our new kitchen renovation which was designed, built and installed by Mathews Joinery (Ballarat). The level of professionalism, initiative and friendly approach shown by all staff was excellent.
We had a positive impression from the very first moment we entered the kitchen showroom at Matthew’s Joinery. The showroom has several kitchen displays where the customer has the opportunity to open-close doors and drawers, feel the products and can imagine how the products would look in their own homes. It was there we asked lots of questions to the Designer who gave us her absolute focussed attention.
The Designer had wonderful ideas and understood exactly what we wanted. Some of the features we love include; custom capping which connects all cupboards and which is fitted with led strip lights, (with remote control). These lights run across the entire wall of sink and bench area and they provide fantastic light. We love that some of the kitchen doors are glazed doors, which act to feature some of our favourite crockery. We are also delighted with the appliance cupboard which we use as a breakfast and mini snack bar, sort of like a mini pantry with appliances, cups, plates and cutlery. It is another work area in the kitchen and it’s wonderful because several people can be in the kitchen working at the same time, but everyone can have a separate work station. We find the large drawers are so much better than the cupboards we use to have. We seem to be able to fit more in the drawers than the old cupboards. The cupboards and doors are very easy to open and close as they are fitted with soft close hinges. Some of the high cupboards open with a light touch, they are fitted with aventos servo drive lift up doors. These high cupboards have allowed us so much more storage.
The cabinet making workmanship was flawless and the cabinet makers were meticulous at putting everything together. Communication between everyone flowed easily. We had no problems with any part of the production and were extremely happy with the after care service and, were most impressed when everything was physically checked after instalment. We are very happy.
Kayelene
What a pleasure and experience to have worked with the professional team at Matthews Joinery for the creation of my new kitchen. From the very first visit to discuss our requirements, to the design, the manufacture, installation and the co-ordination of all sub-contractors, to the completion – fantastic. All work went to schedule and I did not have to worry about anything – it was always organized and on time. The craftsmanship with everything was excellent. I would highly recommend Matthews Joinery to any person wishing to revamp their kitchen.
Joan
To dear Rod and all the wonderful staff at Matthews Joinery,
We would just like to say thankyou for fitting out our home, the cabinetry looks amazing and we couldn’t be happier!
You provide such professional advice, and quality service/products. You made the whole process easy and we are thrilled with the final result.
Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou!!
Brianna, Domain and Charlie
Hi Pauline
My kitchen is divine! I love it sooooo much. You did an amazing job. Every detail is as we discussed in your showroom. Superb. It has helped create a real hub for our home. I love cooking in it and I even love cleaning up and doing the dishes!!! The bench is always sparkling! Everything about it is perfect. Thankyou.
Regards,
Tracey
Hi Pauline. Hope you had a great Christmas and New Year. All the best for 2014.
Our kitchen is fabulous and I cannot thank you enough for the innovative design. Andrew has done a wonderful job of converting it into a great room.
Have written a 5* review on HOUZZ.
Regards
Carolyn and Peter
Hi Rod
Thank you and your team for the great work in completing our lovely kitchen, bathroom vanity, wardrobe and laundry top/panels.
Rosie and I are very happy with the finished product and really love the kitchen that now complements our new renovated and extended home.
We look forward to moving in over the next couple of weeks and would be very happy to show Pauline and yourself the “finished product”.Thanks again for a wonderful job.
Best regards
Andrew and Rosie
Hello Pauline,
can you please say thank you to Rod and the guys for a job well done.Much appreciated. I am very happy with the result.Regards
Renate
Hi Pauline,
I would like to thank Rod and yourself for your help in choosing finishes and handles, you were all so helpful and I absolutely love the vanity, it looks amazing.
Also the guys who installed the vanity were very professional and cleaned up any mess that was made, I would highly recommend Matthews Joinery to everyone.
Thanks Sandra
Sandra
Rod & Staff,
Thanks for a great new kitchen, it works a treat! It has been a pleasure dealing with you and all of your staff,
Regards, Lorraine & Bill
Lorraine & Bill
Rod Matthews owns and operates Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre in Ballarat.
The premises was custom built to include a showroom to display a range of custom kitchens, custom bathroom cabinets and vanities and custom-built storage units. It is also the site of our joinery where our experienced cabinetmakers and joiners work hard at creating quality kitchens, bathroom and cabinetry for our customers in Ballarat and regional Victoria including Bendigo, Castlemaine, the Surf Coast, Geelong and beyond.
With a combined experience of over 50 years making and manufacturing kitchens, you know that when you choose Matthews Joinery for your bathroom cabinets, custom kitchens, laundry cabinets or storage you are choosing top-quality cabinetmakers and craftsmen, the best products and high-quality finishes. Matthews Joinery is also your best choice for commercial joinery in Ballarat.
Contact us via email or phone one of the friendly staff now to discuss your kitchen and joinery requirements or come and look at our showroom.
Our Showroom is open Mon- Fri 8.30 am – 5 pm.
128-130 Learmonth Street
Alfredton, Ballarat, Victoria
Call us on: (03) 5334 3466
Send us a fax: 03 5334 3588
Whether you want a new kitchen in your new home, a complete kitchen renovation or just to update your existing kitchen with new kitchen cabinets, kitchen benchtops, pantry, kitchen drawers or storage, Matthews Joinery can design and custom make a functional kitchen to any appeal to any style or genre of your liking.
Our qualified designers, cabinet makers and joiners can custom build the kitchen of your dreams to suit your family, décor and budget. In our showroom we have a range of kitchens on display to give you design and storage ideas for your own kitchen. Look at our ideas gallery, previous work and our suppliers for inspiration too.
We offer a personalised service where you will firstly meet with our designer, to discuss and design your project. On placement of your order you will meet with Rod Matthews the owner of the business, who will do the measure up before manufacture begins. Andrew takes over from here and uses his years of experience to detail your project ready for manufacture.
We will meet with you to discuss your project as needed and will be available to assist you throughout the process. We can organise the removal and installation of your joinery and take care of all of the trades if required. Matthews Joinery has a team of experienced sub-trades to assist with licensed trades work such as plumbing, tiling and electrical work. We are happy to recommend reputable and trustworthy tradespeople so please talk to us about your needs. Our installers will respect your home, taking every care with your floors and walls.
It is this teamwork that sets us apart and ensures that we deliver the high quality joinery that Matthews Joinery has become known for. We have found design solutions for many projects that others have put in the too hard basket.
Our Ballarat showroom has many displays showcasing all areas of joinery available. In our Ballarat showroom you can see new hardware, LED lighting, benchtop and door materials and finishes that are available for your project. We have a dedicated area for material and handle selections. Our designer can help you with your colours and finishes.
This range can be customised to suit any country, provincial or shaker style. All of the joinery components are manufactured locally. It has a 2pak painted finish, which means you can select any paint colour that suits your project. We offer an imported French butlers sink and tap as an option to compliment the country farmhouse look.
Contact us and make an appointment to meet with our designer to discuss your specific design needs such as bench height, storage needs, bench space and benchtops. We can also custom design cabinets for new bathrooms or wardrobes, laundries, storage and commercial joinery.
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
Our experienced designers, joiners and cabinet makers are always coming up with new and innovative bathroom storage solutions to incorporate into any bathroom design. Come and look at our vanity display in our Ballarat showroom to get ideas and inspiration.
Storage is always a consideration in these rooms. The inclusion of drawers and tall storage cabinets can greatly improve your storage options. Another consideration is whether to use handles, as you can see below a handle can make a huge visual difference to your cabinetry. The style of bench top also needs to be looked at, will you use stone or laminate. Depending on the size of the room you may need a drop fronted top to house a semi-recessed bowl. If you have more room you can look at using an insert or a vessel bowl. The addition of a small bin to the cabinetry is also a nice feature if you have room.
Our team can help design and custom build your dream bathroom vanity and cabinetry, while our ideas gallery and suppliers pages are also a great source of inspiration. Your bathroom should be an oasis where you can relax, unwind and refresh. If you have a dream bathroom in mind but wonder how you could make it a reality, book an appointment with our designer to discuss your project. We will work with you to ensure your ideas are brought to life.
Here at our Ballarat joinery with our team of experienced designers and cabinet makers we can also assist you with custom-built kitchens, custom laundries, cabinets and storage.
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
Please contact us for more information.
Whether you are choosing cabinetry for the laundry in a new home, renovating or remodelling your laundry, we have designers and joiners to help you achieve the best layout you can.
A laundry needs to be practical and functional, with plenty of storage and simple, yet sleek design. Depending on the size of your room you can add in one or two laundry hampers. It is great to have a somewhere for the dirty clothes to go, that’s not on the floor. A tall storage cabinet for brooms and the ironing board to be stored is a good idea. You may also need to have provision for your linen to be stored in your laundry, a fully shelved tall cabinet will take care of this. With an under bench washing machine you will gain extra bench space and achive a modern clean look. You can also add in overhead cabinets to your laundry to give extra storage. This is especially good if you have small children and need to store harmful cleaning products safely.
We also specialise in European style laundry design. Many new homes are now moving towards a streamline and hidden laundry design. These laundry designs can even be incorporated into older homes, freeing up space to use for another function. There are several door options to be considered for this style of laundry, from bi-fold to sliding. We can show you your options at our Ballarat Showroom.
Come and see the Laundry display at our Ballarat showroom and discuss your laundry needs with our designer. We will custom design and custom build the perfect laundry for you and your family.
Browse through the images in our ideas gallery, previous work and our supplier websites for ideas.
Here at our Ballarat Joinery our team can also custom build kitchens, bathrooms, cabinets and storage.
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
Contact us via email or phone us on 03 5334 3466
Matthews Joinery designs and manufactures wardrobe cabinets that have a place for all items of clothing. Well-thought-out designs mean there can be space for shirts, trousers, skirts, coats and storage areas for shoes, handbags, ties and belts. Internal drawers, telescopic runners and a range of materials and finishes mean the custom-made cabinetry can be varied to suit your style and requirements.In a walk-in wardrobe we encourage you to consider using a coloured board to create a feeling of luxury to your space. Pull down hanging systems can be used to optimise storage and accessibility. We have one of these on display at our Ballarat showroom wardrobe display. We also have ways to store your jewelry and watches on display. We can create customised shoe racks to suit your needs.
The popularity of home theaters and entertainment equipment has added another dimension to modern cabinetry in the home. Our designers can make an entertainment unit that will best utilise your space and incorporate your equipment and provide practical storage solutions.
We can help you create work zones and great storage that will work for you. Pin boards are a great addition to a work desk and we have several options we can show you at our Ballarat Showroom.
Matthews Joinery makes custom cabinets and storage units for all areas of your home or workspace. We specialise in custom made kitchens, bathroom cabinets, wardrobes and vanities and laundries. For design inspiration look through our ideas gallery, previous work and our supplier websites.
Matthews Joinery is based in Ballarat but services Ararat, Ballarat, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Colac and Geelong incorporating the Surf Coast (Torquay, Anglesea, Lorne, Apollo Bay) Hamilton, Melbourne, Stawell, Bacchus Marsh and Melton.
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
There is a strong trend to working from home as it has many advantages. However this also provides challenges with easily blurred boundaries between personal and business space and time. The importance of a designated home office space is important. Many home studies are now integrated into other living areas. Areas are needed for phone and laptops to be charged and stored and easily accessed when needed.We can help find the perfect solution for you.
The designers at Matthews Joinery take into account your work and storage needs and consider desk and computer spaces. They also examine the look of your home and office furniture and will help you select materials that will complement your home.
TV’s now hang on walls as well as sitting on low line units. Cabinetry needs to store many different forms of media and gaming consoles. We can help with innovative ideas that will integrate seamlessly into your home.
Good cabinetmaking and joinery is not just for home offices and studies. We also do custom bathroom cabinets and vanities, kitchens, laundries and commercial joinery.
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
Custom joinery is an integral component of any workspace or office environment. When designed and built for purpose, custom joinery can significantly influence the overall appearance of a commercial space.
At Matthews Joinery we assist our clients to develop custom joinery for commercial environments of any scale. We have completed a number of projects including reception counters; boardroom furniture; office fit outs; free-standing furniture and display cases as well as joinery for shops, restaurants and Dental surgeries. We have worked on many large fit outs in Ballarat, including the SMB extension to Federation Uni, Ballarat Cancer Centre and Kelaston Aged Care Facility.
We also manufacture custom designed Slat Wall to suit many shopfitting needs.
Book an appointment with our designer to discuss design options for your commercial space.
We have completed complex fit-outs for many racing trucks including the Holden Racing Team and K.T.M. We have also installed joinery into horse floats examples of which are available to view in the gallery.
Speak to Rod and Andrew about your truck fit-out requirements.
We will work with you to ensure your needs are met on time and within budget, without compromising on style.
Matthews Joinery specialise in commercial jobs as well as custom made bathroom cabinets and vanities, kitchens, laundry and storage units.
You can see more of these projects in our PREVIOUS WORK GALLERY
With innovative new technologies in kitchens, cutting-edge cabinetry, gorgeous countertops and other fabulous design elements, your custom kitchen can be everything you want and more.
Whether installing brand-new kitchen cabinets or renovating existing ones, there are lots of choices you can make based on your budget, project and creativity.
The main advantage to building a custom kitchen is that it offers the most flexibility in style, material and finishes. A custom kitchen allows for the greatest amount of freedom to create your dream kitchen. The possibilities are endless; from the number, size, shape, depth, height and finish of cabinets, bench tops and accessories. Even the most unique or challenging space can be fitted with custom-built cabinets and benches to make a functional kitchen.
When considering a custom kitchen in Ballarat, one designed and made by Matthews Joinery will ensure you end up with a space that’s tailor-made for you. Contact Matthews Joinery for more information.
Storage in this kitchen is considered in every cabinet. Kitchen renovation with optimum storage in a modern style. The client was keen to update his kitchen to improve the appeal of his home for future resale. He knows that a visually impressive kitchen with great storage will increase the value of his home and improve the chances of selling at a great price. High end finishes were used and no compromises were entertained. The bench tops are a natural quarried stone giving a feel of opulence to the room. Two colours were used for the cabinets, the base cabinets are Polytec Ravine (a textured finish) in Maroso Milan and the wall and tall cabinets are Polytec Createc (high gloss board) in Ultra White. The feature shelving is Laminex 25mm Charcoal board. All of the drawers use Blum Tandembox softclose runners and all doors have Hettich softclose hinges. All of the appliances were Miele.
We were required to create a design that worked to the original tile line as no new slate could be sourced. The addition of the central island bench did’t create a problem as we were able to sit this on top of the existing slate tiles.
The pantry is located in a walk way so bi-fold doors were used to allow someone to walk through even with the doors open. The pantry has inner drawers to improve usable storage. The utility cabinet has a roller door to enable storage of all the mess of everyday necessities to be hidden away when not needed.
In the cooking zone there are two appliance storage cabinets each with a roller door. One provides a space to store food mixers/processors and other to store tools used for food preparation and the other a space to store the kettle and toaster.
Hard to use corners in the base cabinets were transformed into storage heaven with the use of the pull out wire systems shown above. The predominant use of drawers through out the kitchen renders accessible storage to be at a premium.
Matthews Joinery provided all trades and services for this renovation which ran smoothly and on time. I think the out come is fantastic and so does our client who will be able to enjoy the new kitchen for many years before they are ready to sell and reap the benefits again.
Pauline Ribbans
Designer
We recently installed a custom kitchen in Ballarat that needed to fulfill quite a specific brief. Our client’s wanted to achieve an industrial look for their new kitchen. Upon visiting our showroom our client saw the display of a custom door that is exclusive to Matthews Joinery. This door is hand crafted locally from solid timber and then the custom lime wash finish is applied by our polisher. It is a lovely aged look that works equally well for a country/farmhouse application.
Why WASTE space? We put the bin under the Butlers sink.
What can you do with a hard to reach cabinet under a butler’s sink?
A double butlers sink was supplied by Matthews Joinery and teamed with an industrial style tap. The bench tops are made from Caesar Stone, Cocoa Fudge. To make the cabinet below the sink useful we used a bin system specially designed to be fitted into a drawer. Bin placement is an essential element to a good kitchen layout. There is nothing worse than seeing a new kitchen with a bin sat on the floor at the end of a bench.
The unusual teaming of a traditional sink and the Industrial look makes this kitchen stand apart from the mundane.
All drawers have Blum Tandembox 30kg and 50kg full extension softclose runners.
custom pull-out open shelving in kitchen
Custom designed slide out kitchen shelving
The client requested open shelving. To improve the access to these we made them pull out on full extension runners. All doors are fitted with softclose hinges , a nice touch so nothing bangs! Our client was thrilled with the end result. The room has a lovely warm feel and is quite different from any other kitchen.
The team at Matthews Joinery pride ourselves on working with our client’s to achieve their dream and it is very rewarding for us all when the results are this good. Why not make a time to meet with me and discuss your ideas for your project.
Pauline Ribbans-Designer
UPDATED with a beautiful tiled splashback
Industrial Kitchen with WOW factor splashback!
Our Client recently sent me these updated photos with this beautiful tiled splashback! It really finishes off the look of the Industrial kitchen custom built by Matthews Joinery.
Introducing Matthews Joinery’s Bespoke Provincial Country Range.
This is a well loved traditional country look that can be custom designed to suit your personal taste. The doors and panels are manufactured locally and 2 pak painted in your choice of colour. This French Provincial style can be taken further with the inclusion of corbels, turned posts, pilasters and decorative capping or stripped back to a simpler country farmers door style. Glazed doors are a nice addition. We have used a decorative moulding to the base of these wall cabinets to give them a bit more country style and detail.
Custom chimney breast.
This country style chimney breast design was adapted to give more bench space in a tight area. The removal of the side cabinets and addition of the support brackets maintained the country chimney breast look whilst improving the functionality of the bench.
Showroom display
Here at our Ballarat showroom you can see a more traditional style of the country chimney breast with cabinets sitting on the bench either side of the cooktop. This display has a country style plate rack with a decorative shaped rail to the side, another nice element to consider for your country farmers style kitchen. Country style kitchens tend to have a lot more display cabinets and really aim to feel warm and homey. Warm colours and neutral tones are usually used.
Country style baskets
These country baskets could be incorporated to give a farmhouse charm to the design, functional and aesthetic.
Butlers sink in our showroom display
A butlers sink and decorative tap also help carry off the country look. We can supply this french porcelain Chambord sink in a single or double bowl. We also have a range of traditional taps available, this display tap is an Abey Gessi traditional mixer tap.
I feel that seeing a modern appliance such as the microwave can detract from the traditional country look of a kitchen.
A microwave space with a pocket door.
I therefore suggest placing the microwave behind a lift up pocket door, which conceals the appliance when not in use or putting it in the pantry if there is room.
Easy to use corner cabinet
Corners can be made user friendly with the addition of a pull out unit. So much better than having to get down on your hands and knees to dig around in a traditional corner cabinet. We have a wire pull out unit on display in the showroom.
Pull out bottle unit- 150mm wide
A small wire pull out unit can be used to give storage for oils and sauces that are frequently used when cooking. Other options are available and some of these are in our Ballarat showroom.
Small space but great storage
A small cabinet can give extra storage room with the addition of drawers and cabinets running down to the bench and still maintain the country farmers styling to a kitchen. Cabinets such as these can be used next to a fridge when it is necessary for them to be moved away from walls to allow the doors to open and access to vegetable bins.
Spice drawer
Even though the kitchen may have the traditional country look on the outside, the inclusion of new storage ideas on the inside gives you form and function. Here a drawer beside the oven has been designed to house spices. Having things such as oils and spices that are used often in the cooking zone will reduce frequent trips to the pantry and improve how your kitchen works for you.
Whilst our Provincial Country Range is highly customised and high end, we can help you achieve a similar look using alternative materials and finishes. The Formica vinyl door range has several doors that work well and with the addition of a matching vinyl capping mould. Additional elements such as corbels can still be added and we will paint them to match your vinyl colour selection. It is your choice whether you choose a laminate benchtop or a stone one. Although I advise a stone bench be used if a butlers sink is selected.
The handle selection really finishes off the look. There are so many handles to choose from. We have a selection on display in the showroom but we can source others if required.
If you love this look and would like to explore the possibility of making your new kitchen in this style why not call and make an appointment to talk with me and discuss your options.
Pauline Ribbans- Designer
The team from Matthews Joinery and kitchen centre , Ballarat arrived in Brisbane ready to see new and innovative ideas for kitchen cabinetry and joinery design and manufacture. Rod and Andrew spent a lot of time looking at all of the machinery for manufacture and ways to improve production techniques. There were some impressive machines on show.
Polytec had one of the most impressive stands where they launched many new materials and colours.
These can now be seen in our Ballarat kitchen showroom where samples are available.
Polytec are a major supplier of Board materials, Laminates and Vinyl doors. They offer many finishes and textures for doors and bench tops.
Polytec have some new and bold colours being launched, we will have samples in our Ballarat showroom in the coming weeks. They also had a new kitchen cabinet benchtop material that looked like concrete, but with less cost and less weight!
A lot of our kitchen cabinet hardware suppliers were represented with stands displaying new and interesting products.
The Hettich stand displayed a great pantry with a large flush fronted sliding door. When pulled back it revealed inner drawers and shelving, a combination that gives excellent storage and a very modern sleek look. We like to give the pantry a lot of thought at the design stage. A well thought out pantry can really make a kitchen’s functionality. We have a great display in our Ballarat showroom.
Handles.
I loved the stream lined look of this long integrated handle.
Handles are a major factor to consider for any joinery. They can make or break a ‘look’. Whilst the no handle look has been popular the re-emergence of the integrated handle was evident at the show. Furnware Dorset are major supplier of our handles, they have an excellent range available from Matthews Joinery and kitchen centre.
Timber Veneer on display.
A lot of LED lighting was on display. We are finding that LED lights can be successfully used in many kitchen cabinet applications. They can be used in other areas of the house too. Bathroom cabinets can have lights integrated under shaving cabinets or on top. We have even used them as feature lights under a wall hung unit. Studies can have task lighting under wall hung bookshelves. Examples of these are on show at our Ballarat kitchen and bathroom showroom.
150mm pull out unit
Here is a 150 mm pull out unit which I think could be used in many kitchen applications. Quite often we are stuck with a fridge in an awkward corner and we need to make a space to the side so the doors can open properly allowing the veggie baskets to be pulled out. This usually ends up as a wine rack or tall open shelf. This unit will allow much better use of that space! I can see this being used in a laundry to store cleaning products too.
I was very impressed with the Linak lifting systems on show. (Click the link here to view a video).
There were bench tops that slide remotely to the side or rose up and down to a selected height. There were lift up and drop down appliance cabinets and TV’s that rose magically up from inside a cabinet. I have a few videos that I can show anyone who is interested. These systems can be used in the kitchen, studies and entertainment cabinets very effectively.
We arrived home in Ballarat with very weary feet and lots of new ideas.
Pauline Ribbans – Designer
The original kitchen was built by Ballarat Joinery G.W. (Bill ) Matthews & Company in 1976. One of the biggest and best joiners in Ballarat in their day. This was Rod Matthews’ father’s business. So it was a rather nostalgic job for us! (Rod Matthews is the owner & manager of Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre)
The original Ballarat kitchen was well designed and of high quality but, it was time for an update. After meeting with our client to discuss her needs we came up with a new design. Storage and function were very important for the new cabinetry.
A 300 wide pull out bin was incorporated into the cabinetry. This provides a waste disposal solution and hides it away in an easy to use way. An additional in-bench stainless steel bin was included to house the food scraps for the organic recycling.
In the corner we included an appliance cabinet to house the toaster, kettle and various other items.
Below the bench we used a pull out blind corner wire unit. This gives great storage and access to the kitchen corner.
A wall oven tower in this Ballarat kitchen improved the functionality of the cooking zone. The cooktop was moved to the cabinetry on the other side of the kitchen. This gave more bench space either side of the cooktop. A range hood was then able to be fitted to extract steam and fumes from the kitchen.
Using a wall oven tower in the kitchen design allowed us to give the microwave a home. By raising the oven and placing the microwave above it everything is set up at a good height for access.
A special space was created in the cabinetry for the water cooler so it could be easily accessed when needed but stored out of sight when not in use.
Drawers were added to the base of the food storage cabinet for access to items stored in the bottom of the cabinet. So much easier than having to get down to a low shelf.
You will also notice the cabinetry and shelving beside the fridge is quite customised in this kitchen.
A vent comes down from the roof and created an obstacle that needed to be designed around. We used a feature colour for the doors and panels to make it visually interesting. We created a tall storage cabinet to house mops and brooms on the right and shallow depth shelving on the left houses medicines and other assorted items.
By visiting our Ballarat showroom our client was able to view lots of storage and hardware options. She was able to make a decision on drawer options by trying the drawers on display in the showroom. Door and benchtop colours and finishes were also able to be chosen using the Matthews Joinery showroom’s finishes selection area.
The doors selected were Formica Settler in Birch textured vinyl with matching panels and kicker.
We used Polytec Tessuto Milan in the Ravine finish for the feature cabinetry around the fridge.
For the be Polytec benchtop we used Tightform Polytec Laminate in Olive Fabrini.
The handle used was Hettich Sergovia and all drawers were Blum Tandembox.
Our client was very happy with the new kitchen supplied and installed by Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre. It was quite an update from the old one that she’d had for 38 years that Rod’s father had installed.
If you are looking to update your kitchen and take advantage of better storage solutions and the customised design service that we offer at Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre in Ballarat. Call to make a time to meet with me in our well appointed showroom to discuss your needs and ideas.
We can also help with Laundries; Bathroom Vanities; Wardrobes; Entertainment & Storage Units and Commercial needs too.
Pauline Ribbans – Designer
St Mary’s Redemptionists Monastery 1888, Wendouree Ballarat.
The construction of this beautiful Monastery began in 1891 and was completed in 1893. It was designed by Architects Reed, Smart & Tapin. The church was added to the building in 1915. It served as a base for an order of priests and brothers from the Catholic church in the Western District . At its peak in the 1960’s there were around 1000 priests and brothers living and working in Ballarat. The building was sold by the church in the late 1990’s and purchased by several developers. The site lay empty and became run down as the developers tried to get their plans through council. The building and grounds have significant heritage overlays that needed to be considered. 1999 brought us the first development with the construction of the Harvey Norman store on the corner of the grounds. Plans for the Monastery development to convert the building into 28 apartments were finally approved and they were completed in 2002.
Back Door to our Joinery Challenge
This large and solid door leads from the cloistered walkway into our joinery challenge. As you can see the walls are solid stone and very thick. Inside the building it stays a fairly constant 19*C. Our client’s apartment was originally the rerefectory / dining room for the Monastery, hence the decorative floors and ceilings.
*DESIGN JOINERY IN A KITCHEN THAT FUNCTIONS AND GIVES MORE BENCH SPACE with AN ISLAND BENCH
*DESIGN JOINERY THAT ACCOMMODATES CLIENT’S HEIGHTS, ONE BEING SHORT AND ONE BEING TALL
*DESIGN JOINERY THAT DOES NOT IMPACT ON THE HERITAGE TILES
*INCORPORATE LIGHTING INTO THE JOINERY
*HAVE A PLACE TO DISPLAY CLIENT’S MANY TRINKETS COLLECTED ON THEIR TRAVELS
Working closely with our client’s we began to develop some joinery solutions. Not being able to touch the floor created issues when we looked at getting power to the island joinery. Putting all of the appliances and sink along the one wall didn’t leave any bench space and didn’t address the need for variable bench heights. We needed to have a lower cooking and prep area and a higher sink and cleaning area.
CONCEPT JOINERY SOLUTION
3D renderings and comprehensive plans were discussed with our clients. In the final joinery solution we created an overhead panel to deliver light and power to the island joinery. The panel was constructed to look like a wall and continued throughout the design. Where the wall returns to the floor on the right side of the island joinery a cut out was created to lighten the look and allow the person cooking to see the dining table and out of the window.
The kitchen joinery has a handless look. We used a Solu extrusion in a natural annodised finish. The joinery doors and panels were fabricated from a high gloss board from Polytec in Ultra white. The bench tops are ESSA Stone Bone white 20mm thick. All of the drawers have Blum Tandembox softclose full extension runners with weight loadings of 30kg and 50kg. LED lights were used in the joinery to keep energy costs down.
Joinery Solution
Many storage ideas were incorporated into the joinery, creating a space for everything. The addition of the display cabinet to the Island joinery created the space needed to display the client’s travel memorabilia. We used glass shelves and LED lighting to showcase the cabinet. A 25mm metal frame was used for the doors with clear glass.
In summary, it was a delight to work in a building that has so much history. It was very rewarding to arrive at a design solution that fulfilled so many of our client’s needs. With the vast skills and knowledge of Rod and Andrew we were able to make it happen. The apartment has a lovely feel and now is also very functional. The light that the working areas now have is fantastic. Installation was executed by Dennis Moll who had been doing many renovations in the apartment. Dennis sub-contracts to Matthews Joinery.
This project shows that working with a qualified designer and a skilled team of joiners you can achieve great results that do go outside of the box.
I look forward to the next challenge, projects like this keep things interesting!
Pauline Ribbans – Designer
Horse Float- Ballarat
Ballarat Custom Joinery was required to fit out this Ballarat Horse Float. The kitchen needed some very clever storage solutions. A pull out bin was used for waste management. A pull out wire rack to a base cabinet gave versatile storage with easy access. An appliance cabinet with a roller door doubled up as a pantry.
All of the doors and drawers are fitted with a special handle that prevents them from flying open when the float is moving.
The kitchen bench tops were made from reconstituted granite from the ROXX range. Samples are available for viewing at our Ballarat showroom, which is open Monday-Friday.
The doors, drawers and panels in the kitchen were made with a high gloss board from the Polytec Createc range. We have the full colour range of Polytec benchtops and panels at our Ballarat showroom.
Matthews Joinery in Ballarat specialise in the fit out of large trucks and trailers. We have fitted out many Racing trailers. We have worked with H.S.V.; P.R.P. Engineering from Kynton; K.T.M. Austraila; We have fitted out x3 trucks for TEAM 25 – James McFadden of Warnambool and a truck for JAMES WREN form Ballarat.
Rod Matthews of Ballarat, is heavily involved in the Sprint Car World. He races V9, a winged sprint car. With the inside knowledge of the requirements for racing Rod and Andrew have created some pretty impressive fit outs. I hope to have some pictures of these to put up on the web site. If you have a truck or float that needs a fit out call us in Ballarat on 03 5334 3466 to discuss your project with Rod or Andrew.
With the arrival of this empty trailer came a challenge that would test the extensive knowledge and know how of Rod and Andrew, Matthews Joinery’s experts at trailer fit outs.
Rod sat down at the drawing board and worked out a design that would result in a trailer fitted out to function as a racing car transporter and workshop; provide a sitting and dining area; sleep 3 people and have a shower and WC.
There was an incredible amount of work that went into transforming the empty shell that arrived here into the amazing fully fitted trailer that left. The pictures taken do not show the huge amount of work that went into fitting in the wiring, plumbing and insulation. The trailer has 2 air-conditioning units, 2 stereo systems, a TV, LED lighting, a kitchen, shower and WC. That’s a lot of wiring and plumbing to hide!
The dining area was fitted out with custom made seating, supplied by Ballarat company, Buttoning Upholstery. The seats have large Blum softclose drawers below for additional storage. The table was manufactured by Ballarat Joinery, Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre from post-formed Laminex Diamond Gloss laminate, Ebony Marble. It has a fixed leg and is designed to be the first step for climbing into the bunks above. There is a TV mounted onto the front wall which is connected to a DVD unit and surround sound system.
The bunk beds were boxed out with a high gloss board and have recessed LED lights to the bases to give extra lighting to the dining area. Each bunk has its own LED reading light. The air conditioner is mounted between the two bunks. The front wall is insulated to dampen the noise from the generator. The roof is insulated to help maintain an ambient temperature inside the trailer. The mattresses were custom made by Buttoning Upholstery. Access to the bunks is gained by first stepping onto the table and then using the foot holes that have been mounted above and below the TV on the front wall.
The kitchen cabinets house a large Waeco fridge, microwave, sink and tap. A radio has been mounted above the microwave, which is hooked up to the surround sound system. The custom kitchen has an integrated waste system. All of the doors and drawers have Southco push to open handles. This ensures that nothing will open while the trailer is moving. The doors and panels are made from Laminex Board in Wild Birch with black ABS edge. Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre manufactured the bench tops, they are post-formed Laminex Diamond Gloss Laminate, Ebony Marble. LED lights have been fitted under the wall cabinets. The splashback is Laminex Metaline, Autumn Perle.
After the sleeping area had been insulated and lined, a custom made mattress was fitted. The mezzanine sleeping area has a window that slides open to allow the air conditioner in the dining area to cool it as well. The area can be closed off by shutting the bi-fold doors at the end of the mezzanine floor. The mezzanine will be used to store spare parts. Heavy parts can be moved in and out with the use of the Hoist and track system. The area has excellent lighting and a non slip floor. The walls have been lined with Marine carpet.
The workshop has been fitted with tool and spare parts storage cabinets. The portable hydraulic car hoist is housed behind bi-folding doors making them easily accessible when needed. A cleaning station with a large sink has been installed to the right of the steps that lead up to the dining area. The shower and WC are in the corner. A second air conditioner and stereo system have also been fitted into this area.
The lower floor provides more storage cabinets under the platforms that the car will sit on for transport and maintenance. Again LED lights have been used under the wall cabinets to provide good task lighting. The walls have been lined with Marine carpet and the car platforms have rubber flooring.
As you can see the empty trailer that arrived at Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre in Ballarat was transformed into a Racing Car trailer that will be the envy of all. The custom cabinets are second to none and we have a very happy client.
Here at our Ballarat Joinery we can achieve amazing custom joinery. We have a showroom to showcase some of our ideas and skills, but as a custom joinery our skilled team will work with you to bring your project to life the way you picture it.
Pauline – Designer
Why not call in or make a time to discuss your project with us.
Every home needs a place to store clothing and shoes. Wardrobes can become a nightmare when not well thought out and organised. We can help you create well thought out and easy to use wardrobes, whether for a new home or an existing home needing a renovation.
When you are building a new home you have the opportunity to work with your designer to really consider the best design for you wardrobes. Typically you will have a Walk-in-Robe attached to the master bedroom and built in robes to the other bedrooms.
Consider your needs, do you have a lot of shoes or handbags that you would love to be able to see and access easily? Do you have a lot of ties, belts, trousers or skirts that could be stored better? Would the addition of a washing basket or ironing board be useful? Could you use a specially designed jewelry drawer? Make a wish list for your new wardrobe and bring it to your design consultation with your new house plans. Together we can bring your dreams to fruition.
Have you come to the conclusion that it is time to start again with your wardrobe design? A lot of homes are fitted with a pretty basic wardrobe design. Over time things get jammed into hard to reach spaces and you can even forget what’s in there!
All it takes is some quick measurements of your room and a visit to our showroom and we can discuss your needs and get things underway for a new and well thought out wardrobe of your dreams.
To give a feeling of luxury to the wardrobe we suggest using a colour board for a walk-in-robe, as available in the Polytec Wardrobe Range or Formica’s range of decorative boards. Alternatively you could use a coloured back board with white panels and/or a matching coloured edge to the panel.
You don’t have to blow you budget to have a well considered design that looks great. A little bit of everything here works well. Most of us do not need a lot of long hanging space and will generally find a 500 mm wide space will suffice. Double hanging space is another matter, with most of us requiring as much as possible.
A set of drawers is a nice addition to the room if there is space. Small drawers can be used for jewelry,socks, jocks, bras and ties, with many organisation ideas available for each. Whilst deeper drawers can be used for jumpers and jeans.
Shelving is always useful and can be used to store many things, shoes and handbags being the most common. We have several ideas for shoe storage.
Most Built-in Robes will be behind hinged or sliding doors.
We would usually use whiteboard carcass in a built-in robe to the additional bedrooms. Which tend to be simpler in design. We have found that an adjustable rail in children’s rooms works well. It allows for the rail height to be adjusted to allow for the increasing length of children s clothes.
A set of drawers is a nice inclusion to the wardrobe design if there is space.
All you need to bring to your consultation are some rough measurements and a list of your storage needs and we can work out a design that will work for you.
Pauline Ribbans- Designer
Over the years pantries have had many names and many purposes. They have been known as sculleries, Butler’s pantries, larders and store rooms. Their uses have changed to accommodate our ever changing lifestyles.
Back in the era of grand mansions, such as Downton Abbey, the downstairs area was the engine room of the house.The Butler and house keeper ruled supreme, overseeing the smooth running of the kitchen, staff and household supplies.
The Butler’s pantry was usually a storeroom where the wine, household silver and tableware were stored. The Larder was for food preparation and usually housed a large table for working on. Washing of linen and dishes and rinsing of food was done in the scullery, were you would find a large ceramic sink.
Today Butler’s Pantry, Larder and Scullery are still used but have quite different connotations when we look at them in a modern home.
Most new homes will include a walk-in pantry where possible. Their design will vary with some having sinks, dishwashers and appliances. Usually open shelving is used in this room for quick and easy access to the provisions. We are finding the introduction of LED task lighting to be invaluable in pantries.
There is a trend towards these rooms becoming the working kitchen with a separate staging area for the serving of food. Whilst this hides the mess associated with cooking and cleaning it also hides the cook!
So the main function of the modern pantry is food and appliance storage. Whether this be in a walk-in format, corner unit or straight line cabinet. Over time we have designed and created many variations of pantries. Taking the time to discuss your storage needs with us will result in a practical and functional pantry that can look good too.
So call us to make a time to discuss your project or drop in to see our displays at our showroom.
All you need to bring to your consultation are some rough measurements and a list of your storage needs and we can work out a design that will work for you.
Pauline Ribbans- Designer
Our homes don’t just house us, they have to house all of our “stuff”! Life demands us to pay bills and taxes and this in-turn requires us to sit down somewhere and pay them. Having a dedicated spot to do this can be a luxury depending on the size and layout of your home.
Having a well planned study or a specially designed place to do these chores can make all the difference. At Matthews Joinery we will take the time to discuss your needs and put that extra bit of thought and effort in, resulting in a customised design.
Developing trends have seen us start to incorporate study nooks and charging stations into kitchens. With the onslaught of technology comes a copious amount of chargers and cords. A customised cabinet can house these items and you can re-claim your bench. The use of power points with USB ports in these cabinets really increases their functionality. The study nook can be built into an existing space or created within a new design. You can hide them behind doors or simply have a spot to sit at that has power points and perhaps a USB charging station.
If you have the luxury of a study a thoughtful design can really make it work. Your needs have to be considered, will the room be used by children for homework or exclusively an adult space? Or does everyone have to share? Do you run a home business or need a spot to read or draw? All of these things will lead to a different design and a personal solution for your study.
We need areas to house books, DVDs and ornaments. Custom cabinetry can provide clever solutions. Cabinets for coffee bars and something a little stronger can all be accommodated with a little thought.
Contact us today to discuss your project.
It’s amazing how useful the space below a window can be. We have created many window seats that double up as extra storage. They can have lift up lids or pull out drawers depending on what you will be storing in them. The tops can be upholstered or have loose cushions on them.
These window seats have shelving either side which increases the storage and aesthetic appeal of the room. The shelves and seats were made from Formica melamine board Hotham Oak. The drawers have a Solu handle that creates a finger well to pull them open without the need for a handle on the drawer front. This gives a nice clean look to the cabinetry.
If you have a view and may want to sit and soak it in a bit of comfort will be needed. Upholstered seats or cushions will do the job. We use Buttoning Upholstery in Ballarat whenever something like this is required. The cabinetry here is MDF with a 2 pac finish.
Another time to sit and relax is when you want to curl up with a book. If you have the luxury of a dedicated library or study you may have a reading chair or couch. Matthews Joinery installed lots of bookshelves over the years. From traditional shelving to modern and contemporary shelving we can custom design and manufacture whatever you need.
The study or home office will need one or two seats and storage for file and books. Matthews Joinery has installed many a custom study.
Breakfast bar and Island bench seating is very popular. This is often requested to be included in a kitchen design.
Matthews Joinery has also installed custom joinery and seating into horse floats and racing car trucks. These are small and compact spaces that require lots of knowledge and know how when it comes to making it work. All upholstery was done by Buttoning Upholstery in Ballarat.
So wherever you need to sit we can help! Call us now to discuss your project.
Our client’s dreamed of having a clean modern feel for their new home. We worked closely with them to achieve the look that they were after and kept things within their budget. The kitchen cabinets that Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre installed brought their dreams to fruition.
As stone Bench tops were an important design element for our client’s, we used -40mm ROXX reconstituted Granite – Pure Essence. The ROXX reconstituted granite is a 7 mm thick veneer that is laid up on a substrate and mitered to a 40mm thick front. Using this material can save between $500 – $1000 on most jobs. We have a huge range of reconstituted granite and stone on display in our Ballarat Showroom here at Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre.
To achieve a seamless gloss finish on the kitchen cabinets without the expense of a 2 pak painted finish – Formica Gloss Vinyl – Snowdrift White was used with a flat door profile, which is in keeping with a modern kitchen.
The handles used are Tekform Mid-line D in a Brushed Nickel finish. They give a modern linear detail to the drawers and doors.
All of the drawers are fitted with Blum Tandembox soft close runners for the ultimate luxury of soft closing drawers. Additionally softclose has been applied to all of the door hinges.
At Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre we go a little further than other joiners with our efforts to achieve excellence in design and manufacture. Just one of these details is the way we make kitchen wall cabinets. All of the under panels to wall kitchen cabinets are manufactured from the same material as your doors, this means that you won’t see any unsightly whiteboard under your kitchen cabinets. By making the kitchen cabinets in this way we can install LED lights easily and cleanly under the wall kitchen cabinets. LED lights can be many shapes and sizes and are now available with cool white, warm and natural lights. It can be worth thinking about the other lights to be used in the area and making them all the same. Some Rangehoods now come with cool white LED’s whilst some still have warm white halogens. Mixing cool white and warm white lights in the same room can look odd!
Splashbacks – Tiles by Beaumont Tiles Ballarat – Creswick Rd
With the addition of a walk-in butler’s pantry this kitchen has greater storage and functionality. A butler’s pantry can provide hidden bench space to leave appliances that you use often out. I think if you have the room to put a sink and dishwasher in the pantry it removes a lot of mess from the main kitchen area. This is especially useful when you are entertaining and can have prepared dishes ready to go but out of view before your guests arrive and have the dirty dishes hidden after you have eaten!
The same materials used for the the kitchen cabinets was used in the Laundry. With the inclusion a pull out laundry bin and under bench appliances a very clean and tidy laundry is achieved. A laundry bin is a great inclusion if you have the space to fit one in. Other hardware items that can be incorporated into laundry cabinets are pull out ironing boards, drying cabinets and hanging rails. We have used roller doors to create useful utility cabinets too.
Why not call in and see us at our Ballarat showroom to discuss your project. See our what-do-you-do- next page for helpful tips.
Pauline – Designer
Our Ballarat client’s were after a traditional Blackwood timber kitchen. They wanted to re-use their existing granite tops and kitchen sink and they needed a lot of storage! The room was not a large one and required some serious brainstorming to meet the clients requirements. The doors were manufactured locally at Martin’s Designer Doors.
The sink cabinet houses a twin bin, tea towel rail and wire rack to the doors. It is great to give these things a home inside your cabinetry. There is nothing worse than a bin sat out on the floor in your new kitchen. Having a tea towel rail on the inside of a cabinet door gets it off the oven handle and still allows it to dry. The wire rack can house items that you need quick access to, such as detergents.
A wall oven tower sets the oven and microwave up at really good heights for using safely. It is so nice not to have to bend down to the floor to put something in or out of the oven. You also get two drawers for pots and pans below the oven.
Having a cabinet above the fridge encloses it and gives you even more storage. Being high and deep this cabinet is perfect for items that you don’t use too often.
Having drawers instead of cupboards increases the amount of usable storage again. The top drawers in this timber kitchen have BLUM metal cutlery inserts and utensil dividers. By using the BLUM storage kits in drawers they become much more organised and easier to use.
The tall storage cabinets have shallow drawers below and fully shelved cabinets above.
This kitchen has a custom designed area for making coffee. The drawers below the bench house mugs and cups and other items required for coffee making. Above the bench we made a beautiful plate rack to house the client’s decorative plates. The bench also gives a home for the phone. As we were re-using an existing granite bench there was not enough for this new space created so we used Blackwood timber here to match the cabinets.
This kitchen has a substantial walk-in -pantry. Again Storage was very important to our client. The pantry has lots of open shelving to store food items and containers. The bench houses a large sink and creates a secondary prep area. The addition of the roller door to the right hand side was to hide appliances when not in use, keeping the pantry very tidy and organised.
This clean and crisp laundry has clever storage ideas. The main bench has space for the washing machine and tumble dryer below. To the left of the dryer is a pull out laundry bin. The cabinet to the right houses an inset laundry trough. This gives a lovely streamlined feel to the room.
Our client wished to incorporate a sewing centre into the laundry. The custom cabinet has drawers below to house cottons and threads etc. Beside it is an opening for sitting. Above the bench the doors bi-fold open. Upon opening a sensor switch lights up the inside of the cabinet. The sewing machine lives on the bench, with shelving above for storage of other sewing related items.
So call us to make a time to discuss your project or drop in to see our displays at our showroom.
All you need to bring to your consultation are some rough measurements and a list of your storage needs and we can work out a design that will work for you.
Pauline Ribbans- Designer
Our client requested a kitchen that would suit their needs in the immediate future but that would WOW a potential buyer when they were ready to sell. The client had a generous budget and we were able to use high end materials and an abundance of clever storage solutions. This resulted in a kitchen that not only looks fantastic but but functions at a level that can only be achieved with clever design applications.
We had the additional challenge of working to an existing tile line. This is something that Rod took care of with very thorough measuring. There was one spot where we needed a patch and working closely with our tiler a close match was found. When the floor was re-sealed you couldn’t even tell.
We organised the removal of the old kitchen and a full installation of the new one including all of the relevant trades required. We offer this as an optional service but it does make the whole process run smoothly and very quickly. Most kitchens are removed and installed within a week.
The kitchen base doors, drawers and panels are Polytec RAVINE Maroso Milan. The wall doors are white high gloss board.
The benchtop is a 40mm Natural granite.
These clever wire corner units pull all the way out of the corner giving great access to the hardest to reach spots in the kitchen. Being rectangular they are easy to store a multitude of items on. I have seen client’s use them for baking goods, casserole dishes, food items and small appliances.
Bi-fold doors were used to hide a high functioning pantry. With the use of drawers below a fixed shelf at bench height easy access storage was created. Drawers provide more storage space that is easier to access than a simple shelf.
A large single roller door was used to allow the study nook to be hidden away in an instant. These Tambortech Roller Doors can be used in many ways. We used the same system for the appliance cabinets that were placed on each side of the kitchen. One functions as a place to store appliances such as the food processor and mixer and the other for the kettle and toaster.
The introduction of the island bench was a little contentious. Having drawn up the kitchen on our 3D modelling program I could clearly see that an island bench would not only fit comfortably in this kitchen but vastly improve the functionality of it. Our client however not being used to an island was not convinced. We cut a template in MDF the size of the proposed island which was placed in the existing space on stools. The client was able to see that an island did work and was happy to proceed with the concept.
We created some visual interest and a place for the client to display their many pieces of interest with some custom shelving on the wall above the sink. We also used shelving to break up the hard lines of the panels to the appliance cabinet that faced the dining area.
Our client was very happy with the results as displayed by the lovely testimonial letter he wrote for us after the kitchen was completed.
Pauline Ribbans- Designer
Congratulations to Rod and his team for a most impressive kitchen renovation at my home.
Certainly, from design stage with the most helpful insight and advice from his designer – Pauline Ribbans to completion by skilled craftsmen, the project was completed to my absolute satisfaction and looks magnificent. The quality of the cabinetry is most impressive and installation of kitchen equipment including range hood and flue first rate workmanship.
I would also like to offer my admiration for the polished black granite benchtops crafted by the stonemasons of Rockworks, La Trobe st Ballarat which were integrated so skillfully with the cabinets.
Rodney Matthews and his team deserve sponsorship for an Australian Business Quality Award as a top quality business in Central Highlands.
Allan
Our clients live in the country on the far outskirts of Ballarat. The home has a country feel and we needed the new kitchen to blend in with this style. It was important that the kitchen was highly functional and optimised storage wherever possible.
There was a lot of custom cabinetry required for this kitchen. A fully integrated Lieber fridge needed customised cabinetry doors to be fitted. As you can see it blends the fridge away from sight as it seamlessly integrates with the other joinery.
The client requested glass display cabinets with side glass panels.
The Blackwood end panel hides a secret! It has a push to open mechanism that pops the panel open to reveal a charging station and document storage racks. Power points with USB ports provide a great spot to charge ipads and phones – keeping them off the bench. The document racks can be used for notices and bills, providing quick and easy access.
The kitchen doors, drawers and panels were painted with a 2 pak satin finish on a Polytec Valencia door.
The Island back and plant on kicker are Blackwood.
The benchtop is Caesar Stone – Creme Brule.
Could there be a better setting for a white country kitchen than in the beautiful countryside on the fringes of Ballarat? Our client’s were owner builders for their new home. We worked with them to design their dream kitchen, pantry, bathrooms and laundry.
This kitchen has great storage with the inclusion of lots of Blum Tandembox drawers to the cabinets. The dishwasher is cleverly hidden with the use of a fully integrated door. You will notice the Rangehood has been built into the cabinetry so the bulkhead can run through above and hide the ducting. Glass splashbacks have been used to give clean lines and no grout to clean.
We used a raised bench to give screening for the utility area around the sink. A cavity was created on the inside to give additional storage. This was all created from the ROXX bench material to give a seamless look.
The kitchen doors, drawers and panels are Formica warm white gloss vinyl in the Heritage style.
The benchtops are 40mm reconstituted granite from the ROXX range – in Voodoo
This kitchen has customised cabinets in the walk-in butler’s pantry. The addition of cabinetry like this not only gives great storage but easy access to food and appliances. Appliances can be left on the bench plugged in and ready to use. We incorporated a set of drawers with pull open fronts to give more versatile storage.
A clean crisp laundry with great storage. This white country laundry has lots of wall cabinets for additional storage and x2 laundry hampers below the bench.
The kitchen, laundry and vanity doors, drawers and panels are Formica warm white gloss vinyl in the Heritage style.
The benchtops are 40mm reconstituted granite from the ROXX range – in Voodoo
Here at our Ballarat Joinery we can achieve amazing custom joinery. We have a showroom to showcase some of our ideas and skills, but as a custom joinery our skilled team will work with you to bring your project to life the way you picture it.
Pauline – Designer
Why not call in or make a time to discuss your project with us.
It is very exciting to launch our custom range country farmers style joinery. The doors and panels are locally made at Martin’s Designer Doors and have a special 2 pak finish applied by our painters at the 2 pak shack. The Chimney Breast is a major feature to this style of kitchen. We can adapt our designs to suit your ideas. This kitchen has the wide shelf supports rather than the cabinets that rest on the bench as bench space was a major consideration for the design. We have an alternative Chimney Breast design on display in our showroom.
The Island bench also contributes to the overall wow factor of this kitchen. It is a large 1200 wide bench with rear facing display cabinets. The beautiful lighting chosen by the client really compliment this country farmers style of joinery.The benchtop is a 40mm reconstituted granite from the ROXX range – in Voodoo.
The corner cabinet is the bane of most kitchens! We have clever storage ideas to make these cabinets so much easier to access and use. This corner houses two kidney shaped pull out shelves. We also have a wire pull out system on display in our showroom that would be one of our most popular hardware items!
The microwave just doesn’t look good on display in a country farmers kitchen. The solution is to hide it. Here we have used a door that lifts up and pockets to the top of the cabinet to allow access when needed. If you use you microwave a lot, however you may find this a waste of time as the door will probably stay up! We could look at alternative ideas if this was the case.
Besides the lovely Belling Oven we have more clever ways to store bottles and spices. To the left is a pull out bottle rack and the drawers to the right house cooking utensils and spices.
The back of the island has been used to create a display area. This can be used for seating if the cabinets were to be omitted.
There is a small cabinet beside the fridge which we used as a small appliance cabinet. It is nice to have those heavy mixers plugged in and ready to go, rather than having to pull them out of a cabinet and lift them up onto a bench.
With Matthews Joinery’s Provincial country farmers range we can take the look in many directions. You can add more decorative pieces and really take it to the next level, or you can peel it back to a much more minimalist style that becomes the Hamptons look.
We have examples of the Hamptons style kitchen on our website too.
So call us to make a time to discuss your project or drop in to see our displays at our showroom.
All you need to bring to your consultation are some rough measurements and a list of your storage needs and we can work out a design that will work for you.
Pauline Ribbans- Designer
Horse Float- Ballarat
Small spaces must accommodate storage for food and preparation items, crockery, cutlery and waste. Clever storage design allows this compact space to even have the luxury of an appliance cabinet with a roller door to store a coffee machine. Every cabinet has been used to
A 32l bin pulls out from under the bench to store the waste. It has a small inner drawer above the bin’s fixed lid. This small drawer allows storage of ancillary items. An example of how every bit of space has been used to give maximum storage in this compact kitchen.
A slide out wire rack provides storage for food items.
Special locking handles are used to prevent any drawers or cupboards from opening whilst the float is moving.
The kitchen doors, drawers and panels were manufactured from a cream high gloss board.
The benchtop is 40mm reconstituted granite.
The Float has a dining space that converts to an additional sleeping space. The seats lift up to provide storage for bedding and clothing. Overhead storage cabinets have also been fitted into this area of the float. There is a separate bedroom with a double bed too. The bed and seating were custom made by Buttoning Upholstery in Ballarat, they specialise in the manufacture of high quality seating and bedding.
The Float has a shower and toilet. It is fully air-conditioned for complete comfort within the cabin. A TV and sound system were stored within the joinery too.
This really is a compact home away from home for the horses and their owners.
As you can see the empty trailer that arrived at Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre in Ballarat was transformed into a Horse Float that will be the envy of all. The custom cabinets are second to none and we have a very happy client.
Here at our Ballarat Joinery we can achieve amazing custom joinery. We have a showroom to showcase some of our ideas and skills, but as a custom joinery our skilled team will work with you to bring your project to life the way you picture it.
Pauline – Designer
Why not call in or make a time to discuss your project with us.
This stylish contemporary kitchen was designed with function and the aesthetic in mind. The seamless integration of the flooring to the island bench adds an interesting dimension and the feature colours give another focus of interest.
Soft closing drawers and doors, integrated bins, vertical storage, cutlery and utensil systems were incorporated into the design. A Customised Pantry /appliance cabinet house all of the necessary items for daily living with easy access from behind bi-fold doors. LED lighting is built into the cabinetry giving brighter work zones.
Crisp white cabinets with strong feature highlights and clean lines achieved the contemporary aesthetic.
The timber floor boards were run horizontally up the back of the island bench seamlessly blending it to the floor. The Island stone bench had added interest with 100 mm thickness to the back edge and slab end, running into 40mm to the inner edge.
LED Lights were fitted under the wall cabinets and into the panel achieving a much brighter and more comfortable environment to work in.
The wall cabinets were staggered in depth with the lower cabinets being highlighted in the feature colour. All cabinets were framed with 32 mm panels to the sides top and underneath. LED Lighting was installed into these panels. The BLUM Aventos lift up doors open by touch as they are fitted with Blum servo drive. Open shelving was incorporated above the fridge to allow for a clean line of upper wall cabinets and to the right of the wall cabinet run for display.
The pantry was highlighted in the feature colour. A coloured carcass was used so when the bi-fold doors were open there was no harsh visual shock of whiteboard. The Microwave was housed on a shelf in this cupboard allowing for ample storage of appliances below on the bench.
Solu extrusions, powder coated to match cabinet doors created a handle less look for drawers and base cabinets. A rebated handle was used for the bi-fold doors-also powder coated to match the doors. Blum Aventos with servo drive were used for the wall cabinets, allowing for easy opening and closing with no handles.
A large Euro Cargo Bin was included in the design and positioned in the food prep zone in the island.
Under the sink there was allowance for a tea towel and a wire rack positioned on the door for detergents etc.
A Blum Bottle set in the cooking zone was allowed for ease of access to oils and sauces.
A dedicated cabinet for vertical storage of trays and chopping boards was also included.
Blum Tandembox drawers were used for the remainder of the cabinets- giving great storage for crockery, cutlery, plastics and glasses.
Bench-Essa Stone 40mm New Chinchilla
Pantry Bench- Laminex Licorice Linea Laminate, Square edged.
Doors & Panels- Polytec Createc- Ultra White Gloss
Pantry & Feature wall cabinets- Laminex Licorice Linea Board
Handle- Solu extrusion – Powder Coated to match doors
Drawers- BLUM Tandembox 30kg & 50kg
Blum Servo Drive Aventos lift up doors
Hinges- Hettich softclose
This stylish and modern laundry has an extensive bench and houses a multitude of clever storage systems. Two pull out laundry bins for dirty clothes are housed behind a high fronted drawers. Drawers allow for storage of utility items. A roller door gives access to everyday items and the ability to quickly hide them away when not in use. Tall storage for linen and taller items is a plenty and the jewel in the crown is a customised drying cabinet. By using the same colours for the bench and the cabinets a clean and modern aesthetic is achieved.
The Laundry was designed to house the tall cabinets on one wall so as to free up space for a nice big bench as requested in the brief. A Roller door was used to allow the client to hide away items they wanted easy access to but felt were unsightly. A customised drying cabinet with removable racks was included along with tall storage cabinets for linen and taller items. Two pull out laundry bins were included for dirty clothes storage. Drawers were used for additional storage that is easy to access. The cabinets and bench were manufactured in the same colour; this gave the room a stylish and contemporary look and differentiated it from a kitchen.
MATERIALS:
The laundry benchtop was fabricated from Polytec Marni Lini Laminate with a square edge profile.
The laundry doors, drawers and panels were manufactured from Polytec Marni Lini board.
Handle- Tekform Midline D
Drawers- BLUM Tandembox 30kg & 50kg
Hinges- Hettich softclose
Here at our Ballarat Joinery we can achieve amazing custom joinery. We have a showroom to showcase some of our ideas and skills, but as a custom joinery our skilled team will work with you to bring your project to life the way you picture it.
Pauline – Designer
Why not call in or make a time to discuss your project with us.
Local Interior designer, Danielle Herman commissioned Ballarat’s Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre to bring her beautiful Industrial kitchen to life. A great deal of thought and planning went into the whole build of this beautiful barn situated on the fringes of Daylesford.
Just looks like a barn!
Whilst the exterior has a modest and simple vibe that blends perfectly with its environment the interior exudes warmth and luxury. The kitchen joinery and bedhead were extremely customised and had great detail.
The kitchen doors, drawers and panels were 2 pak white satin with the contrast feature cabinets in black 2 pak satin. They were manufactured by Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre with a V-groove detail. The modern machinery we have at our Ballarat factory enables us to manufacture custom joinery such as this.
The custom made benchtops have been fabricated from Stainless Steel and has an integrated sink in the Island bench.
The raised top is solid Jarrah and was installed to appear it is just floating over the island bench. Some clever cantilevering was required to make this happen.
The Bedhead was made using Timber Veneer. It houses the wardrobes on the other side. Effectively creating a division between the bedroom and dressing room and en suite.
Here at our Ballarat Joinery we can achieve amazing custom joinery. We have a showroom to showcase some of our ideas and skills, but as a custom joinery our skilled team will work with you to bring your project to life the way you picture it.
Pauline – Designer
Why not call in or make a time to discuss your project with us.
The doors, drawers and panels were manufactured from a white high gloss board.
The benchtop is 20mm ESSA Stone in Bone White.
An extrusion was used for the base cabinet handles and the wall cabinets have no handles.
Our client’s recently sent me updated pictures of their Industrial Ballarat kitchen with the addition of a Moroccan Tiled splashback.
Click here to see the whole story of this beautiful kitchen.
Matthews Joinery & kitchen centre recently installed this beautiful custom cabinetry. The finish on the solid timber Victorian ash doors and panels is highly customised. It is a painted finish that has been rubbed back and finished with 2 pak clear coating to seal it.
The benchtop is a 40mm reconstituted stone from the Caesar Stone range – in Cocoa Fudge (no longer available)
The old kitchen was dark and nonfunctional. Our client’s requested a complete transformation. They wanted white, bright and great storage and access in all of the cabinetry.
Given that a new floor was to be laid we had complete reign over a new design. An Island Bench for sitting at was requested.
Great storage and easy access were essential for our clients. We used a pantry with drawers to the base and doors above. The use of drawers not only improves access but increases the storage capacity of cabinetry.
The microwave was placed in a discrete position in the island bench. I don’t think this is an ideal position for a Microwave as they are better set at a height from 900-1350 mm. However, there is usually a compromise in any design and our clients felt they would be happy with an under bench microwave. You can add a pocket door to hide them away if you don’t use them often. Probably not worth it if it gets used a lot though, as the door would always be open. Equally an oven is best positioned in a tower, raising it up and giving much better access. This is not always possible depending on the room and layout in a room and sometimes it is just not the look that we are trying to achieve.
Drawers were used where possible, increasing storage to its maximum. Beside the oven we installed a pull out wire unit to house oil bottles and condiments that our client uses frequently. This not only gets them off the bench but prevents having to go back and forth to the pantry.
The corner houses the wire pull out corner unit, which gives great access to a blind corner. A towel rail and wire rack are placed on the inside of the doors under the sink. A twin bin is also in this cabinet, providing a hidden waste solution.
Matthews Joinery and kitchen centre was able to organise the tiler and plumber for this installation, as the client had their own electrician and plasterer.
The main kitchen doors, drawers and panels are Formica Gloss Board – Snowdrift
The feature panels are Formica Antler.
The benchtop is a 40mm reconstituted granite from the ROXX range – Irish Cream
We can help you achieve a transformation with your kitchen too. See the what to do next page and get your imagination going..
Pauline Ribbans – Designer
We will be closing on 23rd December and returning on 18th January. We look forward to making your joinery dreams come true in 2016.
We can help with kitchens, bathroom vanities, laundries, wardrobes and studies. We custom design and manufacture any joinery and cabinets that you need. Come and visit our showroom in the New Year and talk to us about your project.
This newly built country home has style and sophistication and the warmth a traditional farmhouse. This has been achieved in the kitchen with the clever selection of the warm tones of the natural timber floor, crisp white cabinetry in the traditional shaker style and muted blue tiled splashbacks. The bench tops have been fabricated from a natural Honed Carrara Marble and has the added feature of the Lamb’s Tongue detail to the edge on the island bench. The cabinets hide clever storage systems with a place for everything. The canopy was custom built by Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre and really gives a focal point for the room.
This large laundry has room to move! The cabinetry is in the same style as the kitchen. LED strip lights have been used under the wall cabinets. The inclusion of seating and coats hooks has become very popular, particularly in the country where the removal of muddy shoes and boots is common upon entering the home.
Window Seats
A place to sit and relax taking in the country vista. With the added benefit of storage, with the seats lifting up.
With a mixture of drawers and cupboards theses vanities look great and function well.
Ballarat in the 1850’s
This home was an original home from the 1850’s. Ballarat was a different place to live back in those days. The Gold mines made Ballarat a rich and growing inland city. We believe this home was a the homestead for a Ballarat dairy. I have found parish maps that show the original subdivision of the land from pastoral land to residential and industry. The land the home is built on, whilst now in a central location for Ballarat would then have been on the fringes of the city. An ideal location for a service industry such as a dairy.
Parish map
Ballarat Original Homestead
We were engaged to renovate the kitchen and pantry of this beautiful original homestead in Ballarat.
With the help of local builder Rohan Nicol rohannicol@hotmail.com 0409 970 997 the task of transforming the old and outdated kitchen and pantry began. Matthews Joinery and kitchen Centre provided the plumber, electrician, tiler and plasterer for this project.
The kitchen ceiling was lowered and the door on the left wall of the room was removed. The timber paneled walls were painted in a light colour. The door to the pantry was re-located to the other side of the fridge, which gave more usable space in the pantry and tucked the fridge into the corner and out of the main walk ways.
In the kitchen provision for a built-in rubbish bin was made. Beside the cooktop a Blum bottle set with two inner drawers was included. Storage cabinets to the back of the peninsula were added. In one of the top drawers a USB charging point was installed. This keeps the clutter off the bench and gives a convenient place to charge phones and tablets.
In the pantry every form of storage was used. We had custom made wine racks, wire baskets,drawers and vertical storage. We certainly made good use of a small space. A well thought out design can make all the difference in a small space.
The range hood was custom designed and made by Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre. The corbels were made to our client’s specifications. We are happy to work with our client’s to achieve any custom look they are after, we don’t just offer off the shelf elements. The doors for this kitchen were custom made at our factory and 2 pac painted by the 2 Pac Shack in Dulux Natural White Satin PN1E1.
The handles used are Kethy HT013 on the drawers and HT208 on the doors in the oxidised tin finish. 40mm Smartstone Athena reconstituted stone was used for the benchtops.
BLUM Tandembox softclose runners were used with Hettich softclose hinges throughout the kitchen and pantry.
Contact us today to discuss your project.
Original Home in Daylesford
Originally called Wombat, Daylesford became an official municipality in 1859. Its beginnings in 1851 began with the discovery of gold where Lake Daylesford is now. The town grew and many large mines were established in the area. In 1860 Town planners set aside 10 acres on Wombat Hill and the Botanic Gardens sprang to life in 1863. The Botanic Gardens can be accessed from one of the original town streets, Central Springs Road, where this original house is situated.
The house began as a one roomed brick cottage. The home still contains this structure which was built in 1852 by James McMillan. It is one of the oldest occupied sites in Daylesford. James ran the Ironmongers store from 1852-1903. Another long term owner of the home was William Weir who owned and operated the local movie theater from 1914. He was a Councillor and Mayor 1924-1925. The Weir family occupied the house for 50 years. It was purchased by the current owner in 1984.
Original Ironmonger’s Store in Daylesford
I believe this is the original Ironmongers store, see for your self , it looks just like the current Home and Hardware Store in Daylesford. The current owners claim that the store has been locally owned and operated for over 150 years. Could this be the store that James McMillan built and ran whilst living in this house?
I wonder if there is a picture of William Weir hung on the walls in this picture of the Mayor’s room. He owned and operated the first silent movie theater in Daylesford in 1914, in the Alpha Hall Galleria. Weir’s Tailors & Outfitters occupied the street level with the theater above. Its demise was inevitable when the Rex opened a few doors down in 1929 and then began showing films with sound in 1930. The building can still be found on Daylesford’s main street. It now houses the Clay Fire Gallery below and the Dress Circle of the theater has been converted into accommodation.
This Modern Country White Kitchen compliments its old 1800’s surroundings but has all of the mod-cons of the 21st century.
We manufactured the shaker door in our factory at Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre. It was painted with a 2Pac Satin finish in Dulux Lexicon Half B6.
The benchtop is 40mm Athena from Smartstone. This marble look has been very popular in country kitchens, although it does tend to be more expensive in most stone ranges the Smartstone range is well priced.
The splashback has been tiled with a traditional brick pattern in a white tile.
Matthews Joinery and Kitchen Centre supplied the sink and tap from our Furnware Dorset range of traditional Butlers sinks and Traditional Style taps. We utilsed the cabinet under the sink for a clever spot to place the bins. This is often a hard to reach spot but this pull out bin system fits into a drawer and makes accessing the bins easy.
BLUM Softclose drawers were used throughout the kitchen. The new Antaro range has weight loadings upto 60kg per drawer, fully extended! That’s a lot of plates! We also used some of the clever storage options that BLUM have in their range such as the Bottle Set and cutlery and utensil storage systems.
The corners were utilsed and made accessible with the clever wire pull out units from Titus Tekform.
The inclusion of an island bench is one of the most requested elements I get for new kitchens. The first question to be addressed is do we have enough space in the room to comfortably fit an island bench in? A minimum of 900mm walkway is required around an island bench, more is preferred if appliances are to open into the space between the benches, from 1000mm to 1200mm works well. For a person to be seated at the bench and allow enough room for someone to pass behind an 1100mm space is required.
An island bench can function in many different ways. We are all different and will work and use the kitchen in a personal and unique way. It is my job as the designer to discover how best to make your kitchen work for you. For example would you like seating at the island bench and if so for stools or chairs? Different designs and heights are required for different needs.
Do we need to accommodate any appliances or perhaps a bar fridge? Will power need to be accessed and electronic devices charged or stored?
An island can house clever storage features. Power can be supplied in custom designed cabinets for the housing and charging of phones, laptops and other media devices. You may need power to the island to use an appliance. There are alternatives to power points.
Once the island’s function is sorted the aesthetics need to be looked at. Is the kitchen style modern and contemporary or traditional and country? Each kitchen style requires a different look for an island bench to work visually.
The way the seating is designed can change both form and function of an island. A 900mm deep island with a rear overhang gives comfortable in-line seating for people at stools. About 600mm per person allows enough room to eat at the island, less for informal dining requirements. A raised rear bench at 1100mm high also will suite in-line seating on stools. A lower height of 750mm can be used for seating at a chair. A lower bench at this height can provide a more face to face dining senario.
You don’t have to have the same benchtop on the island as you have in the rest of the kitchen. You have many options for a very functional work surface. Budget may play a part here as some of these options are more expensive than others.
A laminate bench offers the greatest range of colours and is the entry point in cost. We have many sample boards in our showroom for you to choose from. I recommend you start with the bench top and work from there to door colours and flooring etc. If you have already chosen a tile or paint colour for walls I recommend that you bring a sample with you when we meet. That way we can make sure your selections all work together.
A re-constituted Granite benchtop is your next option. The 7mm granite is formed on a substrate to give you a benchtop from 25mm upwards in finished thickness. We have the Natura and Granite Transformation ranges available for viewing in the showroom, with several benchtops to look at too.
Engineered stone and marbles are 20mm thick and can be built up to other thicknesses such as 40mm or more. These include brands such as Quantum Quartz, Caesar Stone and Smartstone
Stainless Steel gives an industrial and commercial feel to a kitchen. It will scratch and mark over time, so if you love a pristine looking kitchen this one is not for you.
Timber and Bamboo are a popular choice. They can complete a traditional kitchen or a contemporary styled kitchen. They can be oiled or finished with a polyurethane.
Contact us today to discuss your project.
This kitchen was styled with a shaker door manufactured by Matthews Joinery and 2 pac painted in a satin finish. The handle gives the door the Industrial feel with a Furnware Dorset handle from the Iron Bridge range being used throughout the kitchen. The use of stainless steel elemnents and the subway tile add to the look the client was chasing.
The details in this kitchen really help pull the look into the Industrial vibe and away from the traditional Country look. The fabulous tiles with the dark grout have been laid around the open shelves creating a really interesting design element. The kitchen has 60 mm thick Neolith porcelain bench tops by CDK Stone in Basalt Grey. It is a very matt finish and looks very much like concrete. The roller door to the appliance cabinet is from Tambortech and has a stainless steel finish which picks up the Industrial vibe and matches the stainless steel kicker and appliances used in the kitchen.
A huge appliance cabinet houses a coffee machine, kettle and toaster. The drawers below allow food items to be stored and easily accessed. The corner cabinets make use of the wire corner units. These units really are one of the most useful and versatile bits of hardware. We have one on display in our Ballarat showroom. Even small 300 mm wide cabinets can provide great storage by using dividers, the Blum Bottle set and inner drawers as shown above. Drawers can be divided up with cutlery and utensil inserts so everything has a place and can be kept neatly and found when needed.
Contact us today to discuss your project.
You’ve done the research, asked around for recommendations, and have finally made the big step to hire a designer to help you create your kitchen. The designer’s most important role is to identify what’s right for the client, but how you communicate your requirements, taste, budget and priorities also play a crucial part.
Before you have that first meeting, there are a number of steps you can take to help get the project underway in earnest. Your early homework will not only allow that important initial meeting to be an efficient one, it will also make the whole design process more effective and productive to get you the best outcome – a kitchen you love. Getting your pre-meeting prep right vastly increases the chances of client and designer starting out on the same page.
The wishlist can cover all manner of kitchen-related things, ranging from big decisions such as essential storage requirements, to smaller concerns like designating a special place for the dog bowl. Sometimes you might want to limit change to only certain aspects of your kitchen and keep others: for example, update the finishes, but keep the kitchen layout. When thinking about your wishlist, the goal is to provide your designer with a clear account of what you want to improve in your kitchen (what doesn’t work) and how it’s going to be used. Ask yourself such questions as: how many people will cook in the kitchen? Are they tall or short? How do you like to prep? Do you have lots of pantry items, or china, or appliances?
Asking questions helps address uncertainties that may be lurking in the back of your mind – things you may even be shy about bringing up, such as how the designer will present options for you to make decisions on; what’s the fee structure; what’s the time frame; and is a deposit required? You might also ask what trade teams they’d recommend and discuss how sub-contractors will be managed.
This step, like the others before it, helps to establish the critical meeting-of-minds between the client and designer. Plus, it encourages you to discuss sensitive issues, such as financial arrangements and obligations, that can be awkward to discuss later. The earlier you can communicate your needs and wants and understand the design process, the better it is for you both and the closer you will get to the kitchen of your dreams.
Wishing everyone a great New Year! We will be back on Monday 16th January 2017.
Due to roadworks, access to our showroom and factory will be from a temporary service lane from the LaTrobe St end of Learmonth St as of 21st February.
So you’ve bitten the bullet and decided it’s time to replace the old kitchen and update. This should be an exciting time. At the end of the process you will have your dream kitchen. Or will you?
Getting quotes from joiners can be a minefield of technical jargon, different hardware and finishes. At the end of this first stage you could have three quotes for three very different kitchens and a seemingly impossible task of choosing one. If you are not using a professional design service to fully design and specify your kitchen you will need to educate yourself to avoid the most common traps that can befall you.
There are many manufacturers of drawer runners on the market. They all have a different price point, weight capacity and quality. Just because your quote says you are getting softclose drawers does not mean you are getting a quality drawer system. A good cabinet maker will have a showroom where they can show you the difference between the softclose options. You will notice a difference in the feel of the drawer as you open and close it. You should also be aware that some systems can take different weight loads and be larger drawers than others. Your needs will influence which system is best for you. Obviously there is a cost difference that may influence your decision here too. Above all though it is important that when your quote arrives you know which drawer system has been allowed for.
This can be a mine field! There are so many different finishes and companies manufacturing them it can be very hard for those not in the industry to know what they are getting. Each cabinet maker will have different buying power with certain companies and they will steer you towards those products first. Now this is fine because generally speaking a reputable company will only use reputable products. It can make comparing quotes very difficult.
Doors are made from many materials, check that everyone is quoting you on the same style and finish. The biggest thing to look out for though is does the cabinet maker do a matching under panel on the wall cabinets or have the carcase white showing! NOTHING LOOKS WORSE than this. It is a cheap cost cutting method used by some kitchen manufacturers.
Stone benches can be made from a reconstituted 7mm granite that is laid on a substrate and built up to the standard 40mm. Or 20mm reconstituted stone such as Caesar, Smartstone and Quantum Quartz can be used and also built up on a substrate to make up 40mm. Again just make sure all your quotes are for the same range.
With timber benches there are a multitude of species and finishes available. Tasmanian Oak/Vic Ash tends to be the entry level with Blackwood a close second. Bamboo is also very popular entry level top. These can be finished with a clear polyurethane to give a high gloss or an oil/wax which tends to have less luster. The finish will determine how careful you need to be with your top. An oil/wax finish can be easily repaired if the top gets scratched whereas a polyurethane top cannot.
Laminate tops have come a long way and are widely used in the average kitchen. There is a plethora of patterns available. The Duropal top shown above looks so like a real timber and even has a texture to it. The only trap with laminate tops can be the edge detail allowed for. Technology in bench manufacture has meant that a very square look is now achievable with various thicknesses of bench from 25mm, 33mm to 38mm. Don’t forget to check which range and style you are being quoted.
Don’t forget to check that you have a bin that suits your needs. What sort of cutlery tray has been included if at all? Is there special consideration for cooking utensils? Are LED lights included. How have the corners been dealt with? All of these little things will make or break how well your kitchen will function. They are so important and so often forgotten by someone who just wants to sell you a kitchen rather than design you one!
You need to know how much the additional trades will cost you so you can get a clear idea of budget. Do you need the cabinet maker to remove the old kitchen or can you take care of that? The gas/electricity will need to be disconnected and re-connected and the sink and Dish Washer re-plumbed. There is usually a bit of plaster work to have tided up too. Does your quote include these costs?
Ultimately, you need to have confidence in the cabinet maker. Your final choice should be an informed decision. You need to take into account the quality of the work the joiner does. Check out the website for testimonials and ask around. The design that has been proposed should take into account your lifestyle, needs and budget. This is a big deal and a good design is going to make your dream come true.
Kitchens in most older homes will have at least one corner cabinet. They are renown for being the spot in the kitchen where you will probably find that appliance or utensil that you are missing, expired food items or in extreme cases a forgotten member of the family. They are awkward to access and create deep cavernous spaces that are hard to see and reach into.
When planning for your new kitchen you can really make these corners work for you and increase your usable storage space by using some of the following hardware storage solutions.
This clever storage system is amazing. It makes a blind corner cabinet so versatile and gives you full access to everything stored in the cabinet.
This system has kidney shaped shelves that pivot in a smooth action out of the blind corner cabinet. There are options for the shelves to move together or independently.
The carousel comes in many forms. This is also known as the “lazy Susan” but that’s not really politically correct for Susan is it?
There are full circle, 3/4 units and half units for blind corners. They are available with plastic, solid and wire shelves. The full circle and 3/4 units will require a full corner cabinet with a bi-folding door for access, whereas the half units require a blind corner cabinet with a hinged door. Your kitchen layout will usually determine which unit will work the best. The material used for the shelving is usually a personal preference but can be determined by the types of things you may store in the cabinet.
This is a clever upgrade of the carousel, with the whole unit rotating and the centre sections pulling out. This unit requires a corner cabinet with a bi-folding door.
This is a clever complete unit from Hafele. The door rotates with the unit.
The corner drawer system is available from Blum and gives a different way to use the corner.
As you can see there are many ways to improve on the accessibility of a corner in your new kitchen. When you discuss your project with your joiner you can look at ways of incorporating the systems that appeal to you. They vary in cost, so budget may also be a factor. Have a good think about what you would like to store in the cabinet as this may also influence your decision.
Storage in a small kitchen is challenging, but with the use of some of these ideas the functionality can be maximised.
