What are the benefits of closed kitchens? Here's how viral trend is making a comeback
Some time back, actually around two decades back, the Tuscan-style kitchen was nothing more than some quirky design no one had expected to see trend again. But now, it seems to be making a comeback.
While open kitchens have been all the rage in recent times, there is a noticeable shift in trends, House Digest observed, with many leaning towards kitchens with closed layouts – showing that no design choice is truly ever dead or immortal.
So, why are people opting for the closed kitchen design over the open one?
Benefits of closed kitchens
While open kitchens have a set of perks, they lack the privacy and separation from the rest of the home that closed kitchen spaces offer. House Digest notes this may cause the space to lose some of its charm or character.
Also Read | Small but mighty: Clever design ideas for compact spaces
The closed space, alternately, takes a more traditional approach with the cooking space becoming a dedicated area through a doorway. This design works for people who want to remain focused while cooking.
While one may not be able to chat with guests when preparing food, the closed kitchen plan also saves others the trouble of being exposed to the mess and odors that are inevitable in the cooking process.
Further, closed kitchens mean more walls, which translates to more storage space if cabinets and shelves are put up.
Finally, closed kitchen spaces convey a sense of intimacy, and since homeowners are leaning towards spaces that feel cozy, this design trend seems to be most obvious choice.
How to work with a closed kitchen design
It's important to have a kitchen plan – focused on functionality and practicality in place – before going with the decor. House Digest also spoke to designers who suggested that it is important to focus on a specific energy within the space – whether someone wants to go with cozy, conversational, productive, or calm.
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Mint
17 hours ago
- Mint
Best coffee machines for home: Top coffee makers for early risers and night owls alike
Are you someone who kicks off the day with a steaming mug at 6 AM or finds yourself reaching for a caffeine fix past midnight? All you need is a good coffee machine at home that can give you coffee anytime you crave. With work-from-home routines, long study sessions, or simply a love for freshly brewed coffee, investing in the right coffee maker means never compromising on taste or convenience. Product Rating Price Best value for money Kitchen Mart Filter Set (Big Filter, Small Filter and Fliter Lid) Suitable for Preethi Coffee Maker Models - CM208, CM210 and CM212 only View Details Philips HD7430/90 1000W Drip Coffee Maker View Details AGARO Imperial Espresso Coffee Maker, Coffee Machine, 15 Bars, With Foaming Milk, Frother Wand for Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte and Mocha, Steam Espresso Maker For Home, Adjustable Milk Frothing and Double Temperature Control System, Stainless Steel, 1100W. View Details Best coffee machine Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine By De'Longhi, Black, Pack of 1 View Details Most travel friendly Nescafé E Coffee Maker for Cafe-like Frothy Coffee At Home | Make Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte at Home with E coffee maker View Details View More From quick single-serve pod machines to bean-to-cup espresso makers that mimic your favourite café's menu, today's home coffee machines come packed with features to match your lifestyle and budget. They not only save you time and money but also let you personalise every cup just the way you like it, strong, mild, frothy, or cold. In this guide, we've rounded up the best coffee machines for home use that will satisfy both early risers and night owls alike. If you enjoy starting your day with strong, south Indian-style filter coffee, the Preethi Cafe Zest might just become a morning essential. It's one of the best coffee machines for homes that delivers consistent taste, saves time, and fits easily in any kitchen. No long wait times or messy prep—just effortless brewing that gives you the aroma and flavour you want. Ideal for busy households, it makes brewing coffee a no-stress routine you can rely on daily. Capacity 500 ml (brews 3–4 cups) Power Consumption 450 Watts Coffee Type Drip coffee using a reusable filter Build Material Lightweight, durable plastic Safety Feature Heat-sensitive thermal fuse for protection Brews authentic decoction without needing supervision Compact and lightweight—perfect for small kitchens No warming plate to keep coffee hot Not suitable for espresso or specialty brews What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers say it makes great filter coffee quickly and is easy to use, but some report poor durability and cheap plastic quality. You should choose this product because it simplifies how to brew coffee at home while staying true to authentic taste. For those who enjoy multiple cups without compromising on taste, the Philips HD7430/90 is a dependable choice. It's among the best coffee machines for homes, ideal for families or work-from-home setups. The Aroma Twister ensures each cup is consistent in flavour, and the auto shut-off gives you peace of mind. It simplifies your daily brewing ritual—no fuss, no guesswork. Just fresh coffee, ready when you need it. It's reliable, simple, and built to serve your coffee needs every day. Capacity 1.2 litres (makes 2–9 cups) Power Consumption 1000 Watts Coffee Type Drip with Aroma Twister technology Auto Shut-Off After 30 minutes Brews larger batches, perfect for families or guests Aroma Twister delivers consistent flavour from first to last cup Slightly bulky for small kitchen counters No digital display or programmable timer What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers find it easy to use and clean with good taste, but raise concerns about heating, build quality, and inadequate filter. You should choose this product because it delivers consistent flavour, serves more people, and fits seamlessly into your daily coffee routine. If café-style coffee at home is your goal, the AGARO Imperial is a solid pick. Unlike basic brewers, it doesn't just make coffee, it gives you control over every element, from steam to strength. Among the best coffee machines for homes, it lets you brew espressos, lattes, mochas, and cappuccinos with that authentic barista-like crema. The dual temperature control means your espresso doesn't burn and your milk froths just right. It's for coffee lovers who care about the process and the cup. Pressure 15 Bar Pump for rich crema Power Consumption 1100 Watts Build Material Stainless Steel Milk Frother Adjustable stainless-steel frothing wand Great for making café-style drinks at home with control Separate thermostats for espresso and milk steaming takes up counter space due to its bulkier design Requires some learning curve for beginners What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers find it user-friendly and great value, praising its strong coffee, rich crema, sturdy build, smooth espressos, and easy cleaning. You should choose this product because it brings café-style espresso brewing to your home with control, quality, and consistent results. Minimalist in design, powerful in performance, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is perfect for anyone who loves espresso but not the mess. It's one of the best coffee machines for homes where space is tight and expectations are high. Drop in a capsule, press a button, and in under a minute, you have a café-style espresso. It's ideal for busy mornings, late-night cravings, or simply when you need consistency without effort. No noise, no fuss, just quality in every cup. Capacity 0.6 Litre removable water tank Power Consumption 1310 Watts Pressure 19 Bar high-performance pump Operation Capsule-based manual brewing Compact size fits easily in small kitchens or office desks Delivers consistent espresso with excellent crema every time Only compatible with Nespresso capsules No milk frother for lattes or cappuccinos What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers find it convenient, beginner-friendly, and stylish, praising its espresso and lungo options, easy cleaning, good taste, and overall value. You should choose this product because it delivers effortless, café-style espresso at home with consistent flavour and zero complications. For those who love a frothy cappuccino but hate the cleanup, the Nescafé É Coffee Maker is a practical solution. It's one of the best coffee machines for homes where convenience matters more than complexity. You get your espresso, latte, or cold coffee with just one click—no loud noises, no bulky setup. Perfect for solo users or small households, especially if you're constantly on the move. It brews directly into a portable, spill-proof mug that fits your lifestyle just right. Capacity 210 ml thermal spill-proof mug Power Consumption 600 Watts Coffee Type Hot and cold brews Special Feature Silent brewing in 60–90 seconds Prepares both hot and cold coffee recipes quickly Easy to carry with travel-friendly, leak-proof mug Limited to single-serve brewing Doesn't support traditional espresso pressure or ground coffee What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like its ease of use and hot-cold drink options, but report issues with durability, Bluetooth pairing, app quality, and pod cost. You should choose this product because it delivers frothy, travel-friendly coffee at home without hassle, noise, or complicated setup. If you're looking for a dependable daily-use coffee maker for home, the Morphy Richards Europa is a smart pick. It brews 4–6 cups at once, making it ideal for families or coffee-loving households. One of the best coffee machines in its price range, it delivers consistent flavour and keeps your coffee warm with its built-in hot plate. The anti-drip system and dry heat protection add to its practicality, making it a no-fuss option for straightforward, satisfying coffee every day. Capacity 600 ml (brews up to 6 cups) Power Consumption 600 Watts Special Features Warming plate, anti-drip, dry heat protection Filter Type Reusable, removable filter Brews multiple cups and keeps them warm for longer Built-in safety features make it ideal for daily household use Limited to basic drip coffee, not suited for specialty brews No milk frother or steam wand included What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like the user-friendly design, quick brewing, and compact size, but report mixed performance, average coffee quality, and fragile carafe. You should choose this product because it delivers consistent drip coffee with built-in safety and warming features, ideal for everyday use. The Russell Hobbs Victory Grind & Brew is for those who take their coffee seriously. It grinds beans fresh before every brew, giving you maximum aroma and full-bodied flavour—all in one automated system. This is one of the best coffee machines for homes that value freshness and convenience equally. With a 24-hour programmable timer and WhirlTech technology, your coffee is ready when and how you like it. It simplifies how to brew coffee while preserving everything you love about freshly ground beans. Capacity 1.5L (brews up to 12 cups) Power Consumption 1025 Watts Grinder Built-in digital grinder with adjustable settings Special Feature 24-hour programmable timer Jug Material High-quality glass with markings Freshly grinds beans for every batch, enhancing taste and aroma Programmable timer makes it ideal for early risers and busy mornings Bulkier design may not suit compact spaces Slight learning curve for first-time users of grind-and-brew machines What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love this coffee machine for its stylish look, smooth and quiet grinding, and reliable overall performance. You should choose this product because it offers fresh-ground coffee with timer control, combining aroma, automation, and quality in every cup. The AGARO Royal is ideal for those who love freshly brewed coffee but don't want to overcomplicate things. As one of the best coffee machines for homes, it gets your brew ready fast, stays warm for up to two hours, and serves up to four big cups—perfect for family mornings or relaxed evenings. The glass carafe, cone filter, and easy-access basket keep your routine mess-free and smooth. This coffee maker for home is functional, reliable, and built for everyday convenience. Capacity 600 ml (4 large cups) Power Consumption 750 Watts Carafe Borosilicate glass with warming plate Material Stainless steel body, BPA-free components Special Features Auto shut-off, anti-drip, dishwasher-safe parts Keeps coffee warm for 2 hours without burning it Swivel basket design makes filling and cleaning easy No built-in grinder or milk frother Not ideal for single-serve use or custom brews What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate its quick 6-minute brew, easy use, and space-friendly design, though opinions on the glass jar's durability are mixed. You should choose this product because it brews multiple cups quickly, keeps them warm, and simplifies your daily coffee routine. If you love the depth of espresso and the joy of real milk-based coffees, the Inalsa Espressimo 15 is one of the best coffee machines for homes that won't disappoint. It brings café-level quality right into your kitchen, not just in taste, but in experience. You don't need to learn how to brew coffee like a barista, this coffee maker simplifies it while giving you control over flavour, temperature, and froth. Ideal for anyone serious about their coffee ritual. Pressure System 15-bar ULKA pump for optimal flavor extraction Milk Frother Adjustable professional wand for creamy microfoam Temperature Control Dual NTC system with visible thermometer Capacity Brews double shots with 15L tank Power Consumption 900 Watts Frother lets you craft café-style cappuccinos and lattes at home Manual controls offer precision without complexity Slightly bulky for compact kitchens Learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with espresso machines What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers find it easy to use, good quality, and say it makes great espresso, considering it excellent value for money. You should choose this product because it brings café-style espresso and cappuccino into your daily routine with real control. Brew up to 6 cups of rich, aromatic coffee with the Inalsa Brew Matic DX. Powered by a 650W motor, it features a 680 ml see-through borosilicate carafe, a 630 ml water tank, and a reusable coffee filter that saves you the cost of paper refills. Its anti-drip mechanism ensures a mess-free experience, while the Keep Warm function maintains coffee at an ideal temperature post-brewing. With overheat protection and easy-to-use controls, it's a reliable choice for daily coffee lovers. Capacity 680ml glass carafe for 6 cups Filter Type Reusable permanent filter Power 650 Watts with overheat protection Anti-Drip Built-in feature to avoid mess Keep Warm Function Warming plate retains drinkable temperature Reliable daily use without complicated controls Keep-warm function ideal for longer sipping windows Not suitable for espresso or milk-based drinks Plastic build may feel less premium What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love its fast brewing, ease of use, and compact design, calling it perfect for daily needs and great value for money. You should choose this product because it brews simple, tasty filter coffee daily without effort, mess, or expensive maintenance. The best type depends on your preferences. For convenience, pod machines like Nespresso work well. If you enjoy barista-style coffee, opt for an espresso or bean-to-cup machine. Drip coffee makers are great for brewing multiple cups, while French press or pour-over options suit manual brewing fans. Choose based on how much effort, time, and variety you want in your daily coffee routine. Maintenance varies by type. Pod machines need minimal cleaning, just descaling every few months. Espresso and bean-to-cup machines require more frequent cleaning of parts like the milk frother, drip tray, and grinder. Some models have self-cleaning features. Regular cleaning ensures hygiene, better taste, and longer machine life, so factor in how much upkeep you're willing to do when choosing a machine. It depends on your space and how many people will use it. Compact single-serve machines are perfect for individuals or small kitchens. Larger drip or espresso machines with multiple settings and a milk frother suit families or those who host often. Also, check the water tank and cup capacity, more frequent coffee drinkers benefit from bigger reservoirs to avoid constant refilling. Type of Coffee You Prefer Different machines cater to different styles—espresso, cappuccino, black coffee, or cold brew. Choose one that suits your taste. Pod machines offer quick convenience, while espresso machines offer café-style drinks. Ease of Use and Maintenance Some machines are plug-and-play, while others require more involvement. Check how easy it is to clean, refill, and descale the machine. Models with self-cleaning or detachable parts are easier to maintain. Coffee machines come in various sizes. Consider your countertop space and storage before picking one. Compact models are great for small kitchens, while larger ones may need dedicated space. Capacity and Frequency of Use Look at how many cups it can make in one go and how often you drink coffee. Single-serve machines are ideal for occasional drinkers, while multi-cup machines suit families or regular users. Set a budget, but also evaluate features like built-in grinders, milk frothers, programmable settings, and temperature control. Smart features usually come at a premium but add convenience and customisation. Best coffee machines for home Capacity Power Consumption Coffee Type Preethi Cafe Zest 500 ml (3–4 cups) 450 Watts Drip coffee with reusable filter Philips HD7430/90 1.2 litres (2–9 cups) 1000 Watts Drip coffee with Aroma Twister AGARO Imperial 1.5 litres water tank 1100 Watts Espresso, latte, mocha, cappuccino Nespresso Essenza Mini 0.6 litre removable tank 1310 Watts Capsule-based espresso Nescafé É Coffee Maker 210 ml portable mug 600 Watts Hot and cold brews Morphy Richards Europa 600 ml (4–6 cups) 600 Watts Filter coffee with warming plate Russell Hobbs Victory Grind & Brew 1.5 litres (up to 12 cups) 1025 Watts Fresh ground drip coffee AGARO Royal 600 ml (4 large cups) 750 Watts Drip coffee with warming plate Inalsa Espressimo 15 15L tank (double shots) 900 Watts Espresso, cappuccino, latte Inalsa Brew Matic DX 680 ml glass carafe (6 cups) 650 Watts Filter coffee with keep-warm function Disclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may get some commission on purchases you make through the retailer sites links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing pitch. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend verifying details with the retailer before making a purchase.
News18
20 hours ago
- News18
Chana-Ghugni Recipe: Try This Bihari-Style Spicy Dish That Packs A Punch Of Flavour
Last Updated: Made with black gram, whole spices, and mustard oil, Bihari-style Chana Ghugni is a spicy and flavourful dish that leaves a lasting taste. Perfect with mudhi, chuda or rice When Bihari cuisine is mentioned, Litti-Chokha often dominates the conversation. However, Bihar's culinary landscape is home to several lesser-known yet flavour-packed dishes, and one such gem is Chana ki Ghugni. A staple in many households, this spicy preparation made from traditional black gram offers a burst of flavour that lingers long after the meal. Chana Ghugni stands out for its robust use of spices and its fiery taste, often enjoyed with puffed rice (mudhi), flattened rice (chuda), or even plain rice. The preparation begins with soaking small black chickpeas for at least three to four hours. Once they swell, the chickpeas are rinsed thoroughly and set aside. Mustard oil is heated in a pan, followed by tempering whole spices such as cumin seeds, bay leaves, dried red chillies, cinnamon sticks, green cardamom, cloves, and a hint of nutmeg. Finely chopped onions are then sautéed until golden brown before adding ginger and garlic paste. Special care is taken while frying the ginger to prevent it from sticking or burning, which could turn the masala bitter. Once aromatic, Ghugni masala is added, followed by cumin powder, coriander powder, and a dash of black pepper. The mixture is fried until it starts releasing oil, indicating that the spices are well-cooked. The soaked chickpeas are then added and mixed thoroughly until coated evenly in the masala. Chana Ghugni, with its rich spice profile and traditional cooking method, continues to be a comfort food in Bihar. Often enjoyed during tea time or as part of a main meal, this dish remains a proud representative of the region's spicy culinary heritage. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Hindustan Times
Tumakuru ICCC launches ‘pick my garbage' initiative: QR code-based service offers garbage collection on demand
In a bold step to streamline urban waste management, the Tumakuru City Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) has unveiled 'Pick My Garbage,' a digital initiative that allows residents to schedule garbage pickup at their preferred times using a QR code, marking a first for the city's municipal services. While it has garnered online praise, concerns about potential misuse and pressure on sanitation workers have also been raised. (HT File Photo/For representation) ALSO READ | 'Yawning DCM, sleeping CM': BJP attacks Karnataka govt over DK Shivakumar's 'yawn' moment Announced Monday on the social media platform X, 'Pick My Garbage' immediately generated significant public interest, accumulating 11,500 views at the time this article was being written. The program is currently being piloted in wards 1 and 2 of Tumkur city, with the ICCC inviting residents in these areas to scan a QR code, request pickup, and benefit from door-to-door garbage collection at a time that suits their household – all free of charge during this trial phase. ALSO READ | Bengaluru man's ' ₹415 for 6 km' rant goes viral: 'Is Wednesday the day to avoid work from office?' ""Pick my garbage" is live now. You can use the QR Code to request for picking garbage at your time. Presently in pilot at ward no 1 and 2 of Tumkur City," the Tumakuru ICCC said on X. The move drew widespread support online, with residents lauding the program as a 'great' initiative that brings much-needed flexibility to civic services. Several social media users asked for the same service in Bengaluru, writing, 'Why can't the BBMP do this in Bengaluru?' However, some expressed concerns that the on-demand service might encourage people to dispose of garbage at their convenience, but will potentially lead to inefficiencies because of extra pressure on sanitation workers. ALSO READ | Bengaluru saree shop's ChatGPT-style display ad goes viral, fascinates the internet ICCC officials are likely to gather feedback, measure operational capacity and identify any potential bottlenecks during the pilot phase in wards 1 and 2 before considering an expansion to other parts of Tumkur city.
