Central Coast Home & Lifestyle Magazine Autumn 2026

UNDERSTANDING THE MATERIALS THAT MAKE UP YOUR KITCHEN W hen most people think of kitchens, they invariably think about the aesthetics - the doors, the bench tops, the appliances and the handles; the attraction of what they can see. What people rarely take time to consider, or even give a thought too, is the actual carcasses – the hidden foundation that breathes life into every kitchen. When designing or renovating your kitchen, choosing the right cabinet material is vital for both the look and functionality of the space to ensure your new kitchen will be sturdy, waterproof and provide the longevity that you expect for your investment, is easy on the eye as well as providing a focal point that brings the family together. Cabinets serve as the backbone of the kitchen, providing storage and organisation while contributing to the design and usability. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of different kitchen cabinet materials will help you make an informed decision specific to your needs. HMR particleboard is commonly used for the carcass material, providing excellent dimensional stability and strength. The water-resistant resin used to manufacture HMR particleboard ensures that it maintains its shape and strength, even when exposed to moisture, however it is not a totally

meticulously gluing thin layers of real wood veneer in a crisscross pattern, plywood boasts exceptional strength and resistance to warping, moisture, and everyday wear and tear. One example of this material is Rhino Ply – which is bonded with white high-pressure laminate on both sides, providing a much stronger ware surface. It is an ideal product for use in areas where moisture is present. Weatherproof board such as StyleLex can last for decades, making them a smart investment for homeowners who prioritise quality and longevity. StyleLex board consists of a high-pressure laminate on both sides with a weatherproof composite core. This product is completely waterproof and is perfect for use in wet areas or high moisture areas. Of course, the decision is yours when it comes to choosing your new kitchen, but there’s no shame in seeking the right advice and guidance from the experts. Gillmer Kitchens was founded by four brothers – John, Merv, Ron & George, with their father Eleaser and has been a family owned business since its establishment in 1955. Jim Gillmer started working with his family in 1981 and founded Hats Off Kitchens when moving to the Central Coast to be close to his family in 2005. His Aunty Terry was the director of Gillmer Kitchens at the time and retired in 2009 and passed the business onto Jim. Both businesses operate from our head office in Charmhaven on the Central Coast and are managed by Jim Gillmer and Jenna Hartman (Gillmer). We are proud to announce that we have now been operating for a total of 70 years! Phone: 4393 0037 or visit our showroom at 2/132 Chelmsford Road, Charmhaven.

waterproof product. Durable plywood

is constructed by

KITCHENS WITH A SMILE We provide dream kitchens at affordable prices

New kitchen Operating over 70 years Kitchen ‘face lifts’ Design consultations Laundries Friendly Service Excellent Reputation Reliable Appliances & Sinks HIA member

WE COME TO YOU FREE QUOTE

Larger, New Showroom and Of f i ce New Address 2/132 Chelmsford Rd, Charmhaven

PHONE: 4393 0037 Hats Off Enterprises PTY LTD Licence Number 301762C

23 Home & Lifestyle Magazine | Autumn 2026