Zeynep's Home Story: A Kitchen for Living, Enjoying, and Falling in Love
How interior design enthusiast Zeynep brought her dream home to life with her U-shaped Nolte kitchen.
How did you come to choose a Nolte kitchen in this style?
The decision for a Nolte kitchen was a conscious choice that resulted from a lot of considerations and comparisons. I immediately fell in love with the quality and timeless design. What excited me the most was the ability to customize the kitchen entirely to our needs and style. What makes Nolte special for me is the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. The handleless design creates a modern, elegant look, while the high-quality materials and well-thought-out details ensure that the kitchen is also practical for everyday use. It was also important to me to choose a kitchen that is durable while allowing room for personal accents.
Were there any specific trends or inspirations that influenced your kitchen choice?
At first, I was unsure whether to go for an entirely black kitchen. I loved the look, but I was concerned that it might feel too dominant. After much consideration, I finally decided on the concrete-look front from Nolte, which won me over with its modern yet stylish appeal and its extremely easy maintenance.
Did you design your kitchen yourself, or did you have it designed?
I designed our kitchen myself, and it was one of the most exciting challenges in shaping our home. From the very beginning, I had a clear vision of how the kitchen should look and what functions it should fulfill. It was particularly important to me that it be not only modern and aesthetically pleasing but also meet all the practical needs of our daily life.
What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process?
The most enjoyable part was the creative process, where an initial idea gradually became a tangible reality. Choosing the materials, colors, and fronts was especially exciting because I could carefully consider how each element interacts and contributes to the kitchen's overall aesthetic.
Was there anything during the planning process that surprised or excited you?
Yes, I was pleasantly surprised by how many flexible solutions exist to perfectly adapt the storage space to individual needs.
You chose a black-and-white kitchen—what do you like most about it?
The black-and-white design of our kitchen excites me mainly because of its elegance and timeless aesthetic. Black exudes strength and modernity, while white brings lightness and freshness. This combination creates a striking contrast that makes the space look both sophisticated and inviting. I especially love how versatile this color combination is, allowing me to continuously redefine the kitchen’s atmosphere with decorative elements or lighting accents. Additionally, the clean color scheme gives the kitchen a structured, calm appearance that perfectly matches my minimalist style.
What advantages do you see in the U-shape of your kitchen for daily use?
The U-shape of our kitchen was a deliberate choice because it optimally utilizes the space while remaining highly functional. The short distances between the work areas make cooking much more efficient and ensure that everything is within easy reach. Moreover, the U-shape provides ample counter space, which is especially useful when multiple tasks—such as cooking, baking, or meal prepping—are happening at once. The additional storage space offered by this layout was also a major advantage for me, keeping the kitchen neat and organized at all times.
What is the most important function of your kitchen for you?
For me, the most important function is the perfect balance between organization and practicality. Every cabinet and drawer has a clear purpose, ensuring that everything has its place and making work in the kitchen efficient and enjoyable. Another key element is the countertop. It not only needs to be durable and easy to maintain but also provide enough space to work comfortably. A well-thought-out functional design ensures that the kitchen is not just a workspace but also a place where I feel truly at home.
How often do you cook or bake, and what role does the kitchen play for you?
I cook almost daily, and the kitchen is the central place where I can be creative. Whether preparing simple dishes or elaborate meals, my kitchen provides everything I need to bring my ideas to life.
Baking is a particular passion of mine, especially when experimenting with new recipes. I truly appreciate the well-planned design and functionality of my kitchen, which supports me at every step and makes the process enjoyable.
What were three must-haves that absolutely had to be in your kitchen?
- High-quality electrical appliances.
- A durable and elegant ceramic countertop.
- A well-thought-out organization system in the cabinets.
Do you prioritize functionality or design in your kitchen?
For me, functionality and design are inseparably linked. No matter how beautiful a kitchen looks, if it is not practical for everyday use, it loses its value. At the same time, I believe that a functional kitchen does not have to sacrifice aesthetics. I placed great importance on making my kitchen both practical and stylish. For example, smart storage solutions and high-quality appliances make work easier, while the concrete-look design and handleless fronts create a modern and harmonious atmosphere.
How important is a well-organized interior in your kitchen, and how do you implement it?
A well-organized interior is essential for me to use the kitchen efficiently and create a calm atmosphere. I ensured that every compartment and drawer has a clear function to avoid clutter.
To achieve this, I use smart organization systems such as drawer inserts, carousel shelves, and hanging systems for kitchen utensils. This organization not only makes work easier but also gives the kitchen a tidy and inviting appearance.
If you could change something about your current kitchen, what would it be?
Overall, I am very happy with our kitchen, but if I had the opportunity, I would love to change the fronts in the future. The new slate-look front from Nolte has particularly caught my eye. It looks incredibly modern and stylish and would bring a completely new dynamic to the kitchen.
This small dream of change shows that design is always evolving and that there are always new ways to develop one's own style.
What are your three most important tips for a well-managed household?
- Regular cleaning and maintenance.
- Consistent organization.
- High-quality appliances and furniture that are durable.
What is your favorite place in your home and why?
My favorite place in our home is definitely the kitchen. It is the heart of the house and connects us not only as a family but also combines functionality and coziness in a special way.
I spend a lot of time here cooking, baking, and enjoying meals together. It is a space that is not only practical but also full of life and beautiful memories. Whether having a great conversation, experimenting with new recipes, or enjoying a cozy breakfast – the kitchen is the place that always feels like "home."
