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Kitchen trends may come and go but good design never goes out of fashion. Follow these basic tips to create a kitchen for your lifestyle, then add a dash of technology and a splash of colour, writes Carol Burns

- Carol Burns

OBJECT OF DESIRE

There was a time when the word Sodastream conjured up fun but less than healthy fizzy drinks - but this 1970s kitchen invention has undergone a 21st century make-over!

Let’s face it we all know we should drink more water, but it’s often harder than it sounds as we reach for the branded pop. This lovely looking gadget makes it easy to fizz up some water in a few seconds , using their storage bottle you can then store it in the fridge. Not only is it better for you it is better for the planet too. Within a week we were hooked and took carbonated mineral waters off the shopping list (our recycling bin is feeling the difference too). It is easy to liven up the fizz with a splash of fruit juice as the perfect alternative to sugar laden pre-prepared soft drinks - but I love it with ice and a slice of lime. The sleek design makes it easy on the eye displayed on your work surface and the ice white works really well on the most minimalist of kitchen looks.

THE WORK TRIANGLE

Kitchens do a lot of the work and as such no space should be wasted. Designers all agree that the workhorses of the room, the sink, the cooker or hob and a preparation area, should be laid out in a work triangle to reduce travel. Ideally this area should also be clear of people passing through the kitchen. Sometimes this basic design may require relocating water, electricity and waste pipes – but it will be worth the effort.

LOVE ISLAND