Gone are the days when the kitchen was consigned to the dark recesses of the home - as women's standing in society improved, so too did the kitchen.

Now considered top dog in the pecking order, kitchens have become the home's social hub and with new-style open-plan designs they are now part of the casual living areas and are under pressure to look good around the clock.

Hickinbotham design consultant Ruth Vagnarelli says kitchen selections warrant serious consideration - the design and finishes usually set the whole tone of the home and can affect property resale values. Kitchens require considerable planning to get the layout, style, finishes and function just right.

Space efficiency, light, traffic flow, cupboard openings and relationship to the outdoors are all issues which expert designers have already solved in every Hickinbotham design. The designers understand that a good kitchen is practical and efficient.

See for yourself and get some ideas - the company has over 30 inspiring display homes featuring rich veneers, clever arrangements, interesting colours and use of materials. Superior kitchens are a hallmark of every Hickinbotham design.