Practical gadgets make kitchens convenient

BRENT AND Jo Russ have been running their own cabinet making business, In 2 Kitchens, for almost a year now and have been designing and making everything from kitchens and entertainment systems, to toy boxes and balustrades.
Their kitchens are designed to create less wasted space and use every space to its full potential.
"It can be frustrating having to strain to get something out of the very back of the cupboard," said Jo, while demonstrating a pull out pantry system.
The kitchens are tidy and practical, with gadgets hidden in pull out cupboards, aimed to utilise every space available.
One unique system was the toe trays. Hidden between the floor and bottom of your pantry, the toe tray is a simple draw that pops out with a touch of your hand, or if you can't be bothered leaning down, the touch of a foot.
"It's a great place to hide the chocolate from the kids," laughed Jo.
Brent has been in the cabinetry industry for 12 years and likes making sure everything is perfect.
"He's extremely fussy in his work, but it's a good thing, because that can be the difference between our work and somebody else's."
Part of making everything perfect, is the team effort between Brent and the customer in designing the best kitchen to suit the customers wants and needs.
Brent will travel to the customer's home and with their input, design the kitchen around the home.
"This often means working after hours for example in case the customers husband can't get away from work, because after all, hubby knows best," said Jo with a grin.
He talks to the customer about their likes and dislikes, makes up a 3-D plan of the kitchen then tweaks it to the customers liking.
Jo said the idea of it is to build an open relationship with the customer.
"They've got to feel comfortable in telling you what they like and if they want something changed," said Jo.
"That's why it's good for them to see a 3-D plan, so they can really get an idea of what it's going to look like."
Brent and Jo decided to open In 2 Kitchens almost a year ago, after making the choice to get into a business together.
"We went backwards and forwards to the accountant before we decided to go for it," said Jo.
"It's something Brent's good at and we both enjoy it. It's more motivating being your own boss and even though it's longer hours, it's more rewarding and flexible. It's also a great life learning experience for our kids."
Currently they have two other full time employees, Dennis McEwen and Lance Kuchler, plus a Stratford High School Gateway student who works one day a week.
"They're great," said Jo. "They always put in 110 percent effort and take pride in what they do," she said.
"And we like to keep a good balance of humour and professionalism in the work place. I've told the guys you have got to enjoy coming to work."
Hence the reason for their mission statement, 'to produce top quality products and customer service in a relaxed but professional manner.'
From looking around the workshop with an amateur eye, it can be said that they achieve this mission statement with success.
In 2 Kitchens also design and make a range of different products such as laundries, recycled furniture, fire surrounds, shelving, balustrades, display cabinets and wardrobes. They also repair furniture and wooden windows.
So for your next kitchen or furniture project, pop in and see the friendly faces at In 2 Kitchens.