The Art and Science of the perfect kitchen

Kochi-based Nimmy Paul, who runs the cooking school Nimmy & Paul, knows a thing or two about the perfect kitchen. She’s been running her school for over two decades and has hosted thousands of people in her home. Between culinary classes, events, and dinner parties, she has designed her kitchen and cupboards to create a space that is functional, appealing, and welcoming. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and Nimmy’s tips will help you keep things organised and elegant.

1. Minimise Closed Shelving, Opt for Open Shelving

In Nimmy’s opinion, open shelving looks great since it is lighter on the eyes and doesn’t make the room feel cluttered and closed-off. Plus, displaying cookware and serve-ware on open shelves is a great way to decorate.

2. Design Your Pull-outs Based on What You Have

Nimmy suggests getting custom pull-outs made, rather than fitting in a modular one. You know best what utensils, crockery, and cutlery you own, their proportions, how often you use them, and how you store them. Designing around your utensils ensures everything has its place.

6. Mix up Your Crockery

When it comes to crockery, most of us own it in two main materials: glass and porcelain. There’s also ceramic, terracotta, and metal. The key is to display different materials together, instead of grouping all your glassware on one shelf and porcelain on the other. Glass by itself can be rather monotonous, so interspersing clear glassware with porcelain and other materials adds more life and colour.

7. Mix in Décor with Your Crockery

All of us have collected tchotchkes and trinkets and decorative objects from our travels. Just because you can’t use them for food and drink doesn’t mean they don’t deserve a place on your shelf. Place small glass figurines, souvenirs, thimbles, and other bric-a-brac between your serve-ware and plates to make each shelf a little more interesting.

8. Make DIY Plate-holders

Large and heavy plates need to be placed carefully, leaning against the back of the shelf. Ideally, you use a plate holder to keep the plate from falling. But if you don’t have a plateholder, use a cloth napkin. Fold it to the right size and place it under the plate. The cushioning keeps it from slipping and your plate stays put when you open the cupboard or move things around. Use pastel or embroidered napkins to make it colourful. But be sure to stick with cotton napkins, synthetic and silk napkins don’t have adequate grip.