Plywood kitchens have been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. These versatile and stylish kitchen designs offer a perfect blend of durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about plywood kitchens, from their benefits to design options and maintenance tips.
Why Choose a Plywood Kitchen?
When it comes to kitchen materials, plywood might not be the first option that comes to mind. However, this engineered wood product offers numerous advantages that make it an excellent choice for modern kitchens:
1. Durability and Strength
Plywood is renowned for its strength-to-weight ratio, making it highly durable. According to a study by the Forest Products Laboratory, plywood can withstand up to 25% more weight than solid wood of the same thickness. This durability ensures your kitchen cabinets and surfaces will stand the test of time, even in high-traffic areas.
2. Cost-Effective
Compared to solid timber or other high-end materials, plywood offers an unrivalled cost versus performance option without compromising on quality. This cost-effectiveness allows homeowners to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank.
3. Versatility in Design
Plywood's smooth surface and ability to be easily shaped make it incredibly versatile for various design styles. Whether you're aiming for a sleek, modern look or a more rustic, natural aesthetic, plywood can be adapted to suit your preferences.
4. Eco-Friendly Option
For environmentally conscious homeowners, plywood can be an excellent choice. Many plywood products are now manufactured using sustainable forestry practices. The Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies plywood that meets strict environmental and social standards [1].
5. Moisture Resistance
Unlike some solid woods, high-quality plywood is engineered to resist moisture, making it an ideal choice for kitchen environments where spills and humidity are common.
Designing Your Plywood Kitchen
Now that we've covered the benefits, let's dive into the design aspects of plywood kitchens:
1. Cabinet Styles
Plywood offers flexibility in cabinet design. Our popular cabinet styles include:
- Layon: Similar to a standard kitchen where the cabinet door overlays the edges of the cabinet.
- Inset: A classic design reflecting a mid-century look and the most popular choice of cabinet.
- Handle-less: Popular in German style modern kitchens, the cabinet features a continuous finger rail recess which runs the length of unit run.
2. Cabinet Finishes and Colours
One of the great things about plywood is its ability to take on various finishes. By default our cabinets are made from BB/BB satin lacquered birch plywood. The satin lacquer preserves features of the plywood grain and enhances the natural beauty of the timber:
- Lacquered Birch: A clear satin lacquer preserves the natural look of the birch.
- Melamine Faced Birch: A plain white melamine face applied to the birch.
- Veneered Birch: Real wood veneers bonded then finished with oil .
2. Frontal Finishes and Colours
There's a vast choice of finishes available for door fronts; here's the most common. Formica is our favourite as it's hardwearing and available in a wide range of colours.
- Formica: A hard wearing laminate face available in a range of colours.
- Lacquered: A clear satin lacquer enhancing the birch grain.
- FENIX : An amazing luxury-feel laminate, matt to the touch and finger print resistant.
- Veneered: Usually used as an accent to a plain colour.
3. Plywood worktops
While plywood can be used for worktops, it's often combined with other materials for added durability:
- Plywood base with laminate top: An affordable and low-maintenance option.
- Solid surface material on plywood substrate: Combining durability with the warmth of wood
4. Incorporating Other Materials
To add visual interest and functionality, consider combining plywood with:
- Stainless steel appliances and hardware for a modern contrast
- Reeded glass cabinet doors to break up the wood look
- Stone or tile back splashes to add texture and colour
- Tiled, concrete and cork are all popular flooring choices
Maintenance and Care
To keep your plywood kitchen looking its best, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
- Prevent Water Damage: While plywood is moisture-resistant, it's not waterproof. Wipe up spills promptly and use a dehumidifier if your kitchen is prone to high humidity.
- Refinishing: Over time, you may need to refinish your plywood edges. This can be a DIY project or done by professionals, depending on your skill level and the extent of wear.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading. Consider using window treatments to protect your plywood surfaces.
Cost Considerations
The cost of a plywood kitchen can vary widely depending on factors such as size, design complexity, and finish quality. The average price of a Plyko bespoke plywood kitchen is around the 15k mark with more complex designs costing more [3]. Our BASIK kitchens can cost less and are made with the same quality construction but available in fewer colour options.
Environmental Impact
For those concerned about sustainability, it's worth noting that plywood can be an environmentally friendly choice when sourced responsibly. The APA - The Engineered Wood Association reports that engineered wood products like plywood can have a lower carbon footprint compared to other building materials [4]. The timber we use is sourced from trade timber merchants in the UK. We only use responsibly sourced timber from these certified suppliers, each of these supplier hold certifications including the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).
Conclusion
Plywood kitchens offer a unique combination of style, durability, and affordability that makes them an excellent choice for modern homes. By understanding the benefits, design options, and maintenance requirements, you can create a beautiful and functional kitchen that will stand the test of time. Whether you're renovating an existing space or building from scratch, consider the versatility and charm of plywood for your next kitchen project.
Useful Links
1. Forest Stewardship Council: https://uk.fsc.org/
2.Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification: https://www.pefc.co.uk/
3. Bespoke kitchen costs: https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/bespoke-kitchen-cost/
4. APA - The Engineered Wood Association: https://apawood-europe.org/
