They say kitchens sell houses but is this true in Canberra?

One of the biggest investments in every home – whether it be new or a renovation – is in the kitchen and there is no holding back the amount of design and gadgetry that people are prepared to include.

Rick Meir of Hayman Partners says agents have no doubt about the importance of this central hub in any home.

“Agents always say kitchens sell homes,” he says.

“These days they’re really taking centre stage with inclusions like butler’s pantries, integrated appliances and built-in coffee-makers.”

Meir says well-designed and high spec kitchens undoubtedly add real value to homes and can make the critical difference for buyers.

“They need to be aesthetically appealing and complement the home’s architecture,” he says.

“But it really clicks when buyers imagine themselves entertaining family and friends; the kitchen is like a piece of theatre.”

Alexis Lovell manages the high-end Winning Appliances showroom in Kingston. She says a streamlined, minimalist aesthetic is hugely popular.

“People want very clean lines and surfaces and to integrate as many of the appliances as possible,” she says.

“Most of the preparation now happens in the butler’s pantry and there is ongoing demand to equip them.”

Lovell says product designers are continually developing new appliances with many having their origins in commercial kitchens.

“Vacuum drawers, slow cooking steam ovens and blast chillers are among the latest innovations entering the domestic kitchen,” she says.

“These can give the home chef the creative edge – and add real value to the kitchen.”

• Wow factor. There’s little doubt that kitchens have become the star of every home and their centre stage role is driving contemporary interior design with a focus on high aesthetics and functionality.
• Backstage. Butler’s pantries are now home must-haves and have taken over as meal preparation zones with traditional front-of-house kitchens taking all the design applause while remaining cool and spotless.
• Adding value. It’s a well-repeated truism, but agents really do believe that kitchens sell homes. An investment in design and in the selection of appliances can deliver a competitive selling edge.

Top pick of homes for sale with a great kitchen

HUGHES

8 Wylly Place

Price guide: $1.8 million +

5 bedroom, 3 bathrooms, 2 car spaces

Symmetry plays a starring role in the architecture and interior design of this stylish Hughes residence set over three levels.

Its kerb appeal is undeniable and the home’s pleasing geometry is complemented by equally meticulous landscaping whose full potential will be realised as plantings mature.

Inside delivers a series of pleasing surprises that are a tribute to the skill of builder Blackett Homes.

Spotted gum flooring highlights the entry foyer and stairs while skylights flood the area with light.

This is a home where everyday living is focused on the upper level to take advantage of views – and no expense has been spared in setting the standards of comfort and luxury.

The living area is spacious and highlighted by a raked ceiling and gas fireplace.

The home chef will enjoy the enviable combination of a superb gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry, by Pioneer Kitchens. There’s a seamless flow onto the al fresco terrace with a further kitchen for year-round entertaining.

There are five bedrooms (or four and additional living room) with the master complemented by a luxury en suite and generous walk-in wardrobe.

The other bedrooms on the ground floor are spacious and serviced by two deluxe bathrooms.

Families will appreciate the additional living area and access to the fully landscaped gardens and covered outdoor area.

Other features include double glazed UPVC window, reverse heating and cooling, under-tile heating in bathrooms and a double garage.

Auction: 11am, December 15

Agent: Hayman Partners, Rick Meir 0408 588 770