Kitchen is an integral part of a house. An organised kitchen looks neat, and stylish. When it comes to kitchens, you have options like modular and semi-modular kitchens. Here, we will talk about the semi-modular kitchen, its benefits, and disadvantages and difference between modular and semi-modular kitchens so that you can decide the type of kitchen well-suited for your home.
What is a semi-modular kitchen?
A semi-modular kitchen is like a partial modular kitchen. This is designed based on the size and look of the kitchen and not necessarily what a person wants in his kitchen. A semi-modular kitchen has a mix of prefab and custom made cabinets.
See also: Guide to choose chimneys and hobs for Indian kitchens
Components in semi-modular kitchen
Cabinets below countertop
Also known as base cabinets, these are available in standard size and generally opted in a semi-modular kitchen. This helps store things so that nothing is left outside in a kitchen.
Wall mounted cabinets
For those looking for extra storage in kitchens can opt for wall lofts. These are like base cabinets and define the look and feel of a kitchen.
Drawers below countertop: If you don’t have a lot of utensils and simply want to give a clean look to your kitchen, you can choose drawers and tandems below the countertop. These can be used to store ladles, cutlery, spices, etc. You can complete the look with a nice-looking gas/hob and chimney and the cooking space will transform into a grand space.
Advantages of semi-modular kitchen
These are cost-effective and you can combine two looks into one kitchen. For instance, if you have traditional cabinet on one side of a kitchen and the modular countertop on the other side, it looks good.
Disadvantages of semi-modular kitchen
The finish of a semi-modular kitchen may not always end up the way you expect it to be.
Difference between modular kitchen and semi-modular kitchen
| Modular kitchen | Semi-modular kitchen |
| These consist of built in modules available in standard set size that are prefabricated in factories, according to the specifications given by customers. The modules include tandem, cabinets, drawers, shelves, etc. | This is a combination of modular and custom built elements. While one may opt for similar base modular cabinets, he may like to opt for custom built cabinets for storage near the counter- top. Also, semi-modular helps in exploring the possibility of doing up the area near the gas stove and using custom placement for other part of a kitchen. |
| As it is a complete modular solution, there is high level of customisation and integration, ensuring each square feet space in kitchen is effectively used and looks good. Thus, customisation is done in terms of layout that is planned, the materials used, accessories incorporated, and the final finish given to a kitchen. | As there are many ways to do this, there is flexibility in the way you design the kitchen so that all elements blend seamlessly and the kitchen gets a gracious look. |
| The installation should be done with great precession as the alignment should be perfect. Only professionals should do these fittings otherwise the desired look won’t be achieved even after spending a lot of money. | While one part of the kitchen can be done by modular professionals, the other part can be done by local carpenter or anyone who is designated to design the space. |
| All elements in a modular kitchen are prefabricated and nothing is custom made. | Mix of prefab and tailor made. These can be both prefabricated and custom made and you can use an array of materials in this type of kitchen as these are two separate entities in a kitchen. |
| Comparatively 10-15% more expensive as the entire kitchen is designed. | Semi-modular kitchen is 10-15% cheaper than modular kitchen as you design only some part of a kitchen. |
| This involves some amount of civil work if there is a need of change in the look of a kitchen, like opting for two sinks, putting a dishwasher, etc. | Also known as civil kitchen as the kitchen is mostly installed without making any change in civil work. |
| Comes in full boxes assembled on site. Material used is expensive. | Use side walls and available space, hence material used is less expensive. |
| Installation time is long. | Installation time is less than one and half months. |
When should you opt for semi-modular kitchen?
- When your flat has platform and sink that you are happy with and don’t want to make any changes or don’t want to do any civil work.
- The size of a kitchen is not symmetrical.
- The kitchen size is very small and using a full modular kitchen will be very overwhelming.
- If there is a pillar in kitchen that you don’t want to remove.
- When you have a tight budget.
Semi-modular kitchen designs
Semi-modular kitchen #1: L–shaped tiny kitchen
Source: Pinterest/Backsplash
Semi-modular kitchen #2: One side of kitchen
Source: Pinterest/Livspace
Source: Pinterest/Theperfect
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest/livspace
Housing.com POV
A semi-modular kitchen is a pre-designed kitchen that has limited customisation possibilities and comes at a low cost. On the other hand, a modular kitchen is custom-made that fits all specific customer needs, offers much more options and comes with a big price tag. Both modular and semi-modular kitchens have their pros and cons. But with these two options, you get to design a kitchen the way you wanted in the given budget. So, it’s a good idea to explore all options and choose the best.
FAQs
Which material is the best for a modular or a semi-modular kitchen?
When choosing the material for a modular or a semi-modular kitchen, ensure that it is boiling waterproof (BWP) material.
What is the difference between modular and semi-modular kitchens?
While a modular kitchen is designed as per a person’s choice, a semi-modular kitchen is designed as per the kitchen.
How much does a modular kitchen cost?
The cost of a modular kitchen depends on the area and design, components. The starting price of doing a medium size kitchen will be above Rs 3 Lakh.
What are other points to remember while opting for a modular kitchen?
While opting for a modular kitchen, hinges, channels, and brackets are important. Choose the best quality available so that cabinets and drawers last long.
What are the various modular kitchen finishes?
The various modular kitchen finishes are glass, acrylic, and PU among others.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
