[001] The present invention relates to a workframe comprising a work top and supporting frameworks, to a kit for assembling a workframe, a runner for supporting a V-shaped drawer for the workframe, and a V-shaped drawer having a plurality of shelves. [002] There is generally a perceived need to reduce the consumption of materials in developed economies and to find ways to do more with less. Currently kitchens installed in western Europe are made from a plurality of component parts in the form of boxes, each formed from solid or composite wood boards. As a result, the kitchens suffer from the following problems:

• component parts of a new kitchen take up a lot of space when being stored

· transportation of fully assembled boxes is cumbersome, resource wasteful and expensive;

• each kitchen component part is heavy to lift;

• each kitchen component part takes a lot of material to manufacture; and

• it is impossible to access services on a wall behind kitchen cupboards without dismantling that part of the kitchen, or by cutting arbitrary holes in the finished end product. [003] A way of ameliorating these problems has been sought.

[004] According to the invention there is provided a workframe comprising an upper surface member, a frame, and one or more storage elements wherein the frame comprises at least two frameworks formed from a plurality of members to support the upper surface member and to define apertures for the one or more storage elements wherein the one or more storage elements comprises a drawer and/or a cupboard.

[005] According to the invention there is also provided a kit for assembling a kitchen workframe which kit comprises an upper surface member, a frame, and one or more storage elements wherein the frame comprises at least two frameworks formed from a plurality of members to support the upper surface member and to define apertures for the one or more storage elements. [006] According to the invention there is also provided an angled drawer for use in the workframe.

[007] Advantages of the invention include that the kitchen workframes are lower cost, stronger, lighter in weight, use significantly less raw materials and are more easily installed than conventional kitchen units used to support upper surface members such as worktops. [008] Advantages of the angled drawer according to the invention include the user's ability to clearly see, at any one time, more of the products being stored with easier access to retrieval of the product from the drawer as well more efficient use of storage space.

[009] In some embodiments, a member may be a strut, cross-strut, rail, or an upright member. In some embodiments, an angled member may have an angle to the horizontal which is greater or less than 90° such as 30°, 45°, 60°, 120°, 135°, or 150°.

[0010] In some embodiments, a workframe may be a free-standing or wall-mounted. An example of a free-standing unit includes an island unit. In some embodiments, a workframe may have vertical or sloping sides. [0011] In some embodiments, a storage element may be a drawer or a cupboard. In some embodiments, a storage element may be an angled drawer. Advantages of an angled drawer include that it presents its contents (which in a kitchen may be packets, jars, cans, and/or bottles) such that the sides of the contents are visible. Typically, the information about the nature of the contents of kitchen storage elements is provided on the sides and so an angled drawer provides 100% visual accessibility to its contents. In a normal kitchen cupboard, only the sides of the contents at the front of the cupboard are visible (for a tin, this is about 14% of the contents of the cupboard) whereas in a horizontal kitchen drawer, none of the sides of the contents are visible because the drawer front is in the way. In comparison, in an angled drawer the sides of all of the contents are visible. Furthermore, there is greater efficiency in the use of space in an angled drawer compared to a conventional kitchen cupboard having two shelves or drawers. In an angled drawer, the unused space is about 54% compared to about 71% in such conventional kitchen cupboard. Due to increases in land values, there is a need for more efficient use of space in kitchens for new homes and so there is a demand for more efficient kitchen storage. Conventional kitchen design which utilises a series of open ended boxes constructed from wood or wood-based materials is not suitable for the provision of an angled drawer. Instead, a workframe according to the invention is needed. In some embodiments, a storage element may have one or more shelves. In some embodiments, a storage element may be a curved drawer or a V-shaped drawer.

[0012] In some embodiments, the at least two frameworks may comprise a front framework and a rear framework. In some embodiments, the at least two frameworks may be connected by one or more beams, and/or by one or more cross-frameworks. In some embodiments, the one or more cross- frameworks may comprise one or more beams and one or more upright members. In some embodiments, a beam and/or an upright member may be formed from wood, metal (such as aluminium or steel), and/or a composite material (such as glass reinforced composite or glass reinforced plastic). In some embodiments, a beam and/or an upright member may have a substantially square cross-section.

[0013] In some embodiments, the at least two frameworks may have a corresponding shape, for example in the number and configuration of their plurality of members. In some embodiments, a framework may comprise an upper rail. In some embodiments, a framework may comprise a lower rail. In some embodiments, a framework may comprise an outer structure comprising an upper rail, a lower rail and two outer members. In some embodiments, an outer member may be a rectilinear and/or curvilinear member, for example an angled rectilinear member. [0014] In some embodiments, a framework may comprise a plurality of inner members which may be rectilinear and/or curvilinear members. In some embodiments, a rectilinear member may be angled. In some embodiments, the plurality of members may be formed from wood, metal (such as aluminium or steel), and/or a composite material (such as glass reinforced composite or glass reinforced plastic). In some embodiments, the plurality of members may have a substantially square cross-section.

[0015] In some embodiments, a framework may comprise a plurality of framework trees wherein a framework tree is an assembly of rectilinear and/or curvilinear members. In some embodiments, a framework tree may comprise at least one upright member with one or more pairs of angled members branching off it. In some embodiments, a plurality of framework trees may be interlocking, for example by sharing an adjoining member.

[0016] In some embodiments, a framework may comprise a plurality of nodes having two, three, or four branches of rectilinear and/or curvilinear members. In some embodiments, a node may be formed by one or more joints between the members. In some embodiments, a node may comprise a member have two or more connectors and the members may have corresponding connectors. [0017] In some embodiments, a framework may comprise upper and lower rails, two or more upright members and a plurality of angled members which define one or more V-shaped apertures, one or more rectangular apertures, and/or one or more angled apertures.

[0018] In some embodiments, a storage element in the form of a drawer may be formed from a wooden frame and slats, or from boards, for example wooden boards. Advantages of using a wooden frame and slats to form a storage element include reduced use of materials to construct the storage element and improved ventilation such that fresh produce when stored in such a storage element may stay fresh for longer. In some embodiments, a storage element formed from a wooden frame and slats may also include a mesh screen for protecting its contents from flies. In some embodiments, a storage element may have from two to five shelves.

[0019] In some embodiments, the framework may comprise one or more members in the form of a strut for supporting an upper rail above a lower rail. In some embodiments, the framework may comprise one or more members in the form of a cross-strut for connecting a strut to an upper rail, lower rail, upright member, or strut. In some embodiments, a strut or cross-strut may be a rectilinear member (such as an angled member) or a curvilinear member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the workframe may form an aperture for receiving a kitchen appliance such as an electrically powered device (such as an oven, cooker, range, fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, tumble dryer etc) and/or a plumbed in device (such as a sink or gas cooker).

[0021] In some embodiments, a framework may be an angled framework comprising angled members, an orthogonal framework comprising orthogonal members, a tree framework comprising a plurality of framework trees, a curvilinear framework comprising curvilinear members, a stepped framework comprising stepped rails, or a hybrid framework comprising one or more of an angled member, orthogonal member, framework tree, stepped rail and/or curvilinear member, lower rail, an upper rail and a plurality of upright members which support the upper rail above the lower rail. Advantages of having a tree framework include that over 300% more storage space may be obtained per cubic metre of material compared to conventional kitchen cupboards or over 250% more storage space may be obtained per cubic metre of material compared to conventional kitchen drawers.

[0022] In some embodiments, a cross-framework may comprise at least one beam and at least one upright member, for example two beams and two upright members. In some embodiments, a beam may be a horizontal rectilinear member or board.

[0023] In some embodiments, the workframe may comprise an upper surface member such as a worktop, at least two substantially vertical frameworks to support the worktop, and one or more storage elements; wherein each framework comprises a network of vertical, horizontal and/or angled members wherein each member may be rectilinear or curvilinear; wherein the network of members form apertures for receiving a storage element; wherein each storage element comprises a drawer or cupboard.

[0024] It should be understood herein that a beam is a member which in use is substantially horizontal. In some embodiments, a member may be a framework support member. In some embodiments, the upper surface member may be a worktop or workframe ceiling. In some embodiments, a worktop may be formed from laminated chipboard, wood (such as a hardwood, plywood, or bamboo), plastics material (such as glass reinforced plastic, Perspex, melamine, or acrylic), composite (such as quartz, Corian (registered trademark), Maia (registered trademark), or Encore (registered trademark)), glass, porcelain, concrete (such as lightweight concrete or no fines concrete), glass reinforced cement, metal (such as stainless steel), or stone (such as granite, marble, sial stone, or slate.

[0025] In some embodiments, the workframe may be in the form of a corner cupboard which comprises a workframe ceiling, two wall-engaging frameworks, two cross-frameworks, and a door frame.

[0026] A further problem addressed by the invention relates to the efficient use of a corner in a kitchen. With conventional kitchens where the cupboards below and above the worktop are formed from carcasses having solid sides, it is not straightforward to use the corner space efficiently because a cupboard constructed to fit in that space would be too heavy to manoeuvre into it and could not be constructed retrospectively.

[0027] A way to ameliorate this problem has been sought.

[0028] According to the invention there is provided a corner cupboard comprising two wall-engaging frameworks, two workframe-engaging frameworks, door-framework, a door, and one or more storage elements. [0029] Advantages of this aspect of the invention include by constructing the corner cupboard from frames, it is lighter and easier to manoeuvre. It can be used to construct a corner pantry cupboard which is a more efficient use of the space.

[0030] In some embodiments, the wall-engaging framework may be an orthogonal framework. In some embodiments, a workframe-engaging framework may be a cross-framework. In some embodiments, a door-framework may comprise two upright members and an upper rail. In some embodiments, the corner cupboard may additionally comprise an upper horizontal panel to form a ceiling, and two vertical panels each to cover the workframe-engaging frameworks.

[0031] The invention will now be illustrated with reference to the following Figures of the accompanying drawings which are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention: FIGURE 1 shows a schematic first perspective view of a first embodiment of a workframe according to the invention;

FIGURE 2 shows a schematic side view of a frame for use in the workframe according to a second embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a frame for use in the workframe according to the second embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 4 shows a schematic exploded perspective view of the workframe according to the second embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 5 shows a schematic exploded perspective view of a frame for use in the workframe according to a third embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 6 shows a schematic exploded perspective view of the workframe according to the third embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 7 shows a schematic side view of a second embodiment of a cross-framework for use in a workframe according to the invention;

FIGURE 8 shows a schematic side view of a third embodiment of a cross-framework for use in a workframe according to the invention;

FIGURE 9 shows a schematic side view of a frame for use in the workframe according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 10 shows a schematic exploded perspective view of a frame for use in the workframe according to the fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 11 shows a schematic exploded perspective view of the workframe according to the fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 12 shows a schematic perspective view of a corner cupboard according to a fifth embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 13 shows a schematic structural view of a corner cupboard according to the fifth embodiment of the invention; and FIGURE 14 shows a schematic side view of a L-shaped workframe according to the sixth embodiment of the invention.

[0032] The workframe according to the first embodiment of the invention is indicated generally at 10 on Figure 1. Workframe 10 comprises an upper surface member 12 in the form of a worktop, an angled frame 15, and storage elements 71,72,73,74,75,76,84. Workframe 10 is a free-standing island unit having an inverse truncated pyramidal shape with horizontal upper and lower surfaces, vertical long sides and angled ends. Workframe 10 is mounted on the floor 5.

[0033] Angled frame 15 comprises a front angled framework indicated at 20A, a rear angled framework indicated at 20B, a plurality of lower beams 26. Angled frameworks 20A,20B are formed from a spaced array of the rails 22A,22B,24A,24B and the plurality of upright members 32A,32B and angled members 42A,42B,44A,44B,45A,45B,46A,46B,47A,47B such that a plurality of storage elements 71,72,73,74,75,84 are formed between the frameworks 20A,20B.

[0034] The following description of a framework is for angled framework 20A. Angled framework 20B has a corresponding shape. Angled framework 20A comprises rails 22A,24A, two upright rectilinear members 32A, and eleven angled rectilinear members 42A,44A,45A,46A,47A, each in the form of wooden rods having a substantially square cross-section. In an alternative embodiment, the rails 22A,24A and members 32A, 42A,44A,45A,46A,47A may be formed from metal (such as aluminium or steel), and/or a composite material (such as glass reinforced composite or glass reinforced plastic).

[0035] Rails 22A,24A comprise an upper rail 22A which is attached to the underside of the worktop 12, and a lower rail 24A which is attached to the floor 5. The upper rail 22A is supported substantially vertically above the lower rail 24A by the upright members 32A,34A and angled members 42A,44A,45A,46A,47A. Angled members 42A,44A,45A,46A,47A comprise four branched struts 42A,44A which connect the upper and lower rails 22A,24A, two cross-struts 45A which connect the upper rail 22A to strut 42A, two branched cross-struts 45A which connect the upper rail 22A to strut 44A, and three cross struts 46A,47A which connect the lower rail 24A to the branched cross-strut 45A. Branched struts 42A,44A are arranged at an angle of about 45° with upper and lower rails 22A,24A. Branched struts 44A are rectilinear outer members as they form part of an outer structure 54A with upper and lower rails 22A,24A. Upright members 32A,34A and angled members 42A,45A,46A,47A are inner members as they are arranged within the outer structure 54A to support the upper rail 22A above lower rail 24A and to form a plurality of apertures 61A,62A,63A,64A,65A,82A for receiving storage elements 71,72,73,74,75,84. [0036] Framework 20A has a central rectangular aperture 82A formed about halfway along rails 22A,24A. Rectangular aperture 82A is formed by a pair of upright members 32A, upper rail 22A and lower rail 24A.

[0037] To each side of rectangular aperture 82A, two framework trees 30A,31A are formed. Framework trees 30A,31A comprise branched struts 42A,44A, cross-struts 45A,47A,48A, and branched cross-struts 46A. Branched struts 42A,44A each form a three-branch node 38A where they meet cross-strut 45A or branched cross-strut 46A. Branched cross-struts 46A each form a three- branch node 38A where they meet cross-struts 47A,48A. The three-branch nodes 38A may be formed by mortise and tenon joints between the respective angled members. In an alternative embodiment, the three-branch nodes 38A may be formed from a metal or plastics material having a female or male connector at each branch and the respective angled member may form a corresponding male or female connector for engaging with the three-branch node 38A.

[0038] Framework trees 30A,31A are arranged as follows. A lower end of branched strut 42A is mounted on the lower rail 24A at an angle of about 45° where a lower end of the upright member 32A meets the lower rail 24A such that a triangular space is formed between upright member 32, branched strut 42A and part of upper rail 22A. Cross-strut 45A is arranged perpendicularly to strut 42A such that cross-strut 45A connects strut 42A to the upper rail 22A where an upper end of the upright member 32A meets the upper rail 22A. Cross-strut 45A connects to strut 42A about half-way along the length of the strut 42A such that the length of the first cross-strut 45A is about half the length of a strut 42A. The first cross-strut 45A divides into two the triangular space formed by each upright member 32, strut 42A and part of upper rail 22A such that first and second triangular apertures 61A,62A are formed where an upper first triangular aperture 62A is formed by an upper half of strut 42A, part of upper rail 22A and first cross-strut 45A and where a lower second triangular aperture 61A is formed by a lower half of strut 42A, upright member 32A and first cross-strut 45A. [0039] An upper end of the branched cross-strut 46A is mounted on the upper rail 22A at an angle of 45° where the first strut 42A meets the upper rail 22A. A lower end of the branched cross-strut 46A is mounted perpendicularly about half way along the length of second strut 44A such that the branched cross-strut 46A is perpendicular to second strut 44A. Second strut 44A forms an outer side of framework 20A. Second strut 44A connects upper rail 22A to lower rail 24A and is substantially parallel to first strut 42A such that first strut 42A, second strut 44A, upper rail 22A and lower rail 24A form a parallelogram aperture which the branched cross-strut 46A divides into an upper triangular aperture 62A and a lower trapezoid aperture. [0040] On one framework tree 30A, the lower trapezoid aperture is divided into two by a second cross-strut 47A which is mounted on the branched cross-strut 46A about one third of the length of the branched cross-strut 46A from where branched cross-strut 46A meets upper rail 22A such that second cross-strut 47A has about five sixths of the length of branched strut 42A and is substantially parallel to the branched struts 42A,44A. Branched cross-strut 46A, branched strut 42A, second cross-strut 47 A, and lower rail 24A form first angled aperture 63A having a trapezoid shape. Branched cross-strut 46A, branched strut 44A, second cross-strut 47 A, and lower rail 24A form second angled aperture 64A having a trapezoid shape.

[0041] On the other framework tree 31A, the lower angled aperture is divided into three by second cross-struts 47A,48A. One of the second cross-struts 47A is mounted on the branched cross-strut 46A about one third of the length of the branched cross-strut 46A from where branched cross-strut 46A meets upper rail 22A such that second cross-strut 47A has about five sixths of the length of branched strut 42A and is substantially parallel to the branched struts 42A,44A. The other second cross-strut 48A is mounted on the branched cross-strut 46A about one third of the length of the branched cross- strut 46A from where branched cross-strut 46A meets the other branched strut 44A such that second cross-strut 47A has about two thirds of the length of branched strut 42A and is substantially parallel to the branched struts 42A,44A. Branched cross-strut 46A, branched strut 42A, second cross-strut 47 A, and lower rail 24A form a first angled aperture 63A having a trapezoid shape. Second cross-strut 46A, second cross-struts 47A,48A and lower rail 24A form a further angled aperture 65 having a trapezoid shape. Branched strut 44A, branched cross-strut 46A, second cross-strut 48A and lower rail 24A form a further angled aperture 66 having a trapezoid shape.

[0042] The frameworks 20A,20B are spaced from each other and are connected on their respective upper rails 22A,22B by worktop 12 and on their lower rails 24A,24B by the plurality of lower beams 26. In addition, the frameworks 20A,20B may be connected by diagonal beams or braces (not shown) from an upper rail 22A,22B of one framework 20A,20B to a lower rail 24B,24A of the other framework 20B,20A. The braces may be mounted on brackets (not shown) on the upper and lower rails 22A,22B,24A,24B such that the braces may be removed for access between the frameworks 20A,20B.

[0043] A cubic storage element 84 is formed in the space defined between the rectangular aperture 82A of framework 20A and the corresponding rectangular aperture 82B of framework 20B. The cubic storage element 84 forms a receptacle for a cupboard 84 or a domestic appliance such as a washing machine, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, fridge/freezer, wine fridge, tumble dryer. [0044] The first triangular aperture 62A of framework 20A and the corresponding first triangular aperture 62B of framework 20B define a first triangular prismatic storage element which is shaped to receive a first V-shaped drawer 72.

[0045] The second triangular aperture 61A of framework 20A and the corresponding second triangular aperture 61B of framework 20B define a second triangular prismatic storage element which is shaped to receive a second V-shaped drawer or plate storage drawer 71.

[0046] The first angled aperture 63A of framework 20A and the corresponding first angled aperture 63B of framework 20B define a first trapezoidal prismatic storage element which is shaped to receive an inclined drawer 73. [0047] The second angled aperture 64A of framework 20A and the corresponding second angled aperture 64B of framework 20B define a second trapezoidal prismatic storage element which is shaped to receive an inclined drawer 73.

[0048] The third angled aperture 65A of framework 20A and the corresponding third angled aperture 65B of framework 20B define a third trapezoidal prismatic storage element which is shaped to receive an inclined drawer 73.

[0049] The fourth angled aperture 66A of framework 20A and the corresponding second angled aperture 66B of framework 20B define a fourth trapezoidal prismatic storage element which is shaped to receive an inclined drawer 73.

[0050] Drawers 71,72,73 are formed from a wooden frame and slats 79. Inclined drawer 73 has from two to four shelves.

[0051] The workframe according to the second embodiment of the invention is indicated generally at 110 on Figure 4. Workframe 110 comprises an upper surface member 12 in the form of a worktop, a tree frame 115, and storage elements 72,73,74,85,86. Workframe 110 is a wall-mounted unit having a cuboid shape. Like features of the second embodiment to features of the first embodiment are identified by like reference numerals which are prefixed by a numeral "1" where clarity is required about to which embodiment reference is being made.

[0052] The tree frame used in the second embodiment of the workframe according to the invention is indicated generally at 115 on Figure 3. Tree frame 115 comprises a front tree framework 120A, a rear tree framework 120B, and a plurality of upper beams 25. The shape and configuration of rear tree framework 120B corresponds to that of front tree framework 120A. Front tree framework 120A has an upper rail 22A, a lower rail 24A, and four framework trees 130A each formed from four angled members 46A,47A, and two upright members 34A,36A, each of which is formed from a wooden stick having a substantially square cross-section. In an alternative embodiment, the rails 22A,24A and the framework trees 130A may be formed from metal (such as aluminium or steel), and/or a composite material (such as glass reinforced composite or glass reinforced plastic).

[0053] Front tree framework 120A has an outer structure 154A which is formed by upper and lower rails 22A,24A, two upright members 36A, two angled members 46A and part of two upright members 34A. The other upright and angular members are inner members.

[0054] The framework tree 130A used in the second embodiment of the workframe according to the invention is indicated generally at 130A on Figure 2. Framework tree 130A comprises a lower upright member 34A, two branched cross-struts 46A, two cross-struts 47A, and an upper upright member 36A. Lower upright member 34A is mounted perpendicularly on lower rail 24A and has a length which is about two-thirds of the distance between the upper and lower rails 22A,24A. About halfway up lower upright member 34A, each of the two branched cross-struts 46A are mounted to each side at an angle of about 45° to the upper half of the lower upright member 34A to form a four-branch node 39A. The two branched cross-struts 46A have a length such that their upper ends are level with the upper end of lower upright member 34A. Each of the two branched cross-struts 46A are linked at a two-branch node 37A to the upper rail 22A by an upper upright member 36A which has a length which is about one third of the distance between the upper and lower rails 22A,24A. The upper end of lower upright member 34A is connected to the upper rail 22A by the two cross-struts 47A which are mounted to each side of the upper end of lower upright member 34A at a three-branch node 38A and at an angle of about 135° to the lower upright member 34A.

[0055] The two-branch node 37A and the three-branch node 38A are formed by mortise and tenon joints. In an alternative embodiment, the two-branch node 37A and three-branch node 38A may be formed from a metal or plastics material having a female or male connector at each branch and the respective angled member may form a corresponding male or female connector for engaging with the node 37A,38A.

[0056] Framework trees 130A form two angled apertures 68 having a truncated trapezoidal shape and a V-shaped aperture 62. Each trapezoidal aperture 68 is formed by an upper part of lower upright member 34A, cross-strut 47 A, branched cross-strut 46A, upper upright member 36A, and part of upper rail 22A. In use, each trapezoidal aperture 68 receives two angled drawers 73,74 except where the V- shaped aperture 62 above two adjoining trapezoidal apertures 68 receives sink 16 in which case each such trapezoidal aperture 68 receives a lower angled drawer 74. V-shaped aperture 62 is formed by cross-struts 47A and upper rail 22A. In use, the V-shaped aperture 62 receives a V-shaped drawer 72 or sink 16. Where sink 16 replaces V-shaped drawer 72, V-shaped aperture 62 and the upper part of the trapezoidal aperture 68 are covered by a panel 90. Drawers 72,73,74 are formed from wooden boards.

[0057] To form tree framework 120A, adjoining framework trees 130A share an upper upright member 36A. Adjoining framework trees 130A form a pentagonal aperture 67 which is formed by a lower half of the lower upright member 34A of each framework trees 130A, adjoining branched cross- struts 46A, and part of lower rail 24A. Between framework tree 130A and a wall (not shown), a trapezium aperture is formed by part of the wall, a lower half of the lower upright member 34A, a branched cross-strut 46A, and part of lower rail 24A. Pentagonal aperture 67 receives a correspondingly shaped pentagonal drawer 85. The trapezium aperture receives a correspondingly shaped trapezium drawer 86. Drawers 85,86 are formed from wooden boards.

[0058] The workframe according to the third embodiment of the invention is indicated generally at 210 on Figure 6. Workframe 210 comprises an upper surface member 12 in the form of a worktop, an orthogonal frame 215, and storage elements 83,84,87,88. Workframe 210 is a wall-mounted unit having a cuboid shape. Like features of the third embodiment to features of the first and second embodiments are identified by like reference numerals which are prefixed by a numeral "2" where clarity is required about to which embodiment reference is being made. [0059] The orthogonal frame used in the third embodiment of the workframe according to the invention is indicated generally at 215 on Figure 5. Orthogonal frame 215 comprises a front orthogonal framework 220A, a rear orthogonal framework 220B, and seven cross-frameworks 28. The shape and configuration of rear orthogonal framework 120B corresponds to that of front orthogonal framework 120A. Front orthogonal framework 120A has an upper rail 22A, a lower rail 24A, and seven upright members 32A which are arranged to support the upper rail 22A above the lower rail 24A such that six rectangular apertures 69 are formed to define storage elements 83,87,88 by supporting a rectangular door 83 to form a cupboard, supporting drawers 87, and supporting drawer 88 which itself supports a rectangular door 83 to cover rectangular aperture 69 which also receives two further drawers 87. Cross-frameworks 28 comprise an upper beam 25, a lower beam 26, and two cross- framework upright members 27. The upright members 32A,27 and beams 25,26 are formed from wooden rods having a substantially square cross-section. In an alternative embodiment, the upright members 32A,27 and beams 25,26 may be formed from metal (such as aluminium or steel), and/or a composite material (such as glass reinforced composite or glass reinforced plastic). [0060] Frameworks 220A,220B have outer structures 254A,254B which are each formed from the upper and lower rails 22A,22B,24A,24B and two outer upright members 32A,34B. The other upright members 32A,32B are inner members. The upright members 32A,32B are attached to the upper and lower rails 22A,22B,24A,24B by flush joints. [0061] In an alternative embodiment, the cross-framework 28 may have one or three or more cross- framework upright members 27. In a further alternative embodiment, cross-framework 28 may be replaced by cross-framework 128 as shown in Figure 7. Cross-framework 128 has two cross- framework upright boards 29, an upper beam 25, and a lower beam 26. In a further alternative embodiment, cross-framework 28 may be replaced by cross-framework 228 as shown in Figure 8. Cross-framework 228 has one cross-framework upright board 29, one cross-framework upright member 27, an upper beam 25, and a lower beam 26.

[0062] The workframe according to the fourth embodiment of the invention is indicated generally at 310 on Figure 11. Workframe 310 comprises an upper surface member 12 in the form of a worktop, a hybrid frame 315, and storage elements 87,89. Workframe 310 is a wall-mounted unit having a cuboid shape. Like features of the third embodiment to features of the first and second embodiments are identified by like reference numerals which are prefixed by a numeral "3" where clarity is required about to which embodiment reference is being made.

[0063] The hybrid frame used in the fourth embodiment of the workframe according to the invention is indicated generally at 315 on Figure 10. Hybrid frame 315 comprises a front hybrid framework 320A, a rear hybrid framework 320B, two cross-frameworks 28 as illustrated for the workframe 210 according to the third embodiment of the invention, two cross-frameworks 328, two upper beams 25, and two lower beams 26. The frameworks 320A,320B define apertures for receiving storage elements 87,89.

[0064] The shape and configuration of rear hybrid framework 320B corresponds to that of front hybrid framework 320A. Front hybrid framework 320A is a hybrid framework as it is formed from a plurality of both rectilinear and curvilinear members. These members comprise an upper rail 22A, a lower rail 24A, four upright members 32A, a plurality of curvilinear branched members 50A, and a plurality of curvilinear members 51A, each of which is formed from a wooden rod having a substantially square cross-section. In an alternative embodiment, the hybrid framework 320A,320B may be a curvilinear framework formed from a lower rail 24A,24B, an upper rail 22A,22B and a plurality of curvilinear branched members 50A and a plurality of curvilinear members 51A to support the upper rail 22A,22B above the lower rail 24A,24B. Hybrid framework 320A forms an outer structure 354A which comprises the upper and lower rails 22A,22B and two outer upright members 32A. In an alternative embodiment, the rails 22A,24A and members 32A,50A,51A may be formed from metal (such as aluminium or steel), and/or a composite material (such as glass reinforced composite or glass reinforced plastic). [0065] The four upright members 32A are arranged to support the upper rail 22A above the lower rail 24A such that one large rectangular space 19A and two small rectangular spaces 18A are formed. The two small rectangular spaces 18A are at each end of the framework 220A and are in the form of orthogonal sub-frameworks each further subdivided by two horizontal members 49 to form three rectangular apertures 69 for receiving drawers 87. [0066] The large rectangular space 19A is in the form of a curvilinear sub-framework and receives a plurality of curvilinear branched members 50A, and a plurality of curvilinear members 51A which are arranged in an interlocking array comprising a plurality of four-branch nodes 39A and three-branch nodes 38A, such that a plurality of curved apertures 60A for receiving a plurality of curved drawers 89 are formed. The three-branch nodes 38A and the four-branch node 39A are formed by mortise and tenon joints. In an alternative embodiment, the three-branch nodes 38A and four-branch node 39A may be formed from a metal or plastics material having a female or male connector at each branch and the respective curvilinear members may form a corresponding male or female connector for engaging with the node 37A,38A.

[0067] Cross-frameworks 328 comprise an upper beam 25, an upper intermediate beam 52, a lower intermediate beam 53, a lower beam 26, and two upright members 27. Cross-frameworks 128 are arranged to each end of frameworks 320A,320B. The upper and lower beams 25,26 are each arranged to correspond in height with the upper and lower rails 22A,24A of the frameworks 320A,320B. The upper and lower intermediate beams 52,53 are each arranged to correspond in height with the horizontal members 49 of the frameworks 320A,320B. Where the upper and lower intermediate beams 52,53 meet the upright members 27, four-branch nodes 39 are formed using mortise and tenon joints. In an alternative embodiment, the four-branch nodes 39 may be formed from a metal or plastics material having a female or male connector at each branch and the respective beams 52,53 and upright members 27 may form a corresponding male or female connector for engaging with the node 39. In an alternative embodiment, one or more of the beams 25,26,52,53 or upright members 27 of the cross-frameworks 28,328 may be replaced by boards.

[0068] A corner cupboard according to the fifth embodiment of the invention is indicated generally at 17 on Figures 12 and 13 of the drawings. Cupboard 17 is shown on Figure 12 to be constructed in a corner 4 between walls 2A,2B. A workframe 210A according to the third embodiment of the invention is mounted on wall 2A and a workframe 210B according to the third embodiment of the invention is mounted on wall 2B. Cupboard 17 is constructed in the corner 4 formed between inner end of workframe 210A and wall 2B and between inner end of workframe 210B and wall 2A. Cupboard 17 has five vertical sides of which two are wall-facing vertical sides 21A,21B, two are workframe-facing vertical sides 90A,90B, and the fifth is formed by rectangular hinged door 83 which is arranged in the gap between the edges of each workframe 210A,210B such that cupboard 17 has a five-sided horizontal cross-section in the form of a corner-cut square shape. Cupboard 17 also has an upper surface 90C and storage elements in the form of five shelves 78. [0069] The wall-facing vertical sides 21A,21B each are supported by a cupboard wall frame 415A,415B which comprises rectilinear members 22A,22B,24A,24B,32,49 which are formed from wooden rods have a square cross-section. In an alternative embodiment, the members 22A,22B,24A,24B,32,49 may be formed from metal (such as aluminium or steel), and/or a composite material (such as glass reinforced composite or glass reinforced plastic). [0070] The rectilinear members comprise an upper rail 22A,22B, a lower rail 24A,24B, an upright member 32A,32B, and a horizontal member 49A,49B. Wall frames 415A,415B have outer structures 454A,454B which are each formed by upper rail 22A,22B and lower rail 24A,24B and outer upright members 32A. Where the upright member 32A,32B and horizontal member 49A,49B meet, a four- branch node 39A,39B is formed by a mortise and tenon joint. In an alternative embodiment, the four- branch node 39A,39B may be formed from a metal or plastics material having a female or male connector at each branch and the upright member 32A,32B and horizontal member 49A,49B may form a corresponding male or female connector for engaging with the node 39A,39B. In an alternative embodiment, one or more of the upright member 32A,32B and horizontal member 49A,49B may be replaced by boards. [0071] The door 83 is supported by cupboard door frame 415C which has an upper rail 22C and two upright members 32C.

[0072] The workframe-facing vertical sides 90A,90B are supported by cupboard cross-frameworks 28A,28B respectively. Cross-frameworks 28 comprise an upper beam 25, a lower beam 26, and two cross-framework upright members 27 as shown in Figure 5. [0073] The workframe according to the sixth embodiment of the invention is indicated generally at 410 on Figure 14. Workframe 410 comprises an upper surface member 12 in the form of a worktop, a stepped frame 415, and storage elements (not shown). Workframe 410 is a wall-mounted unit having an L-shape which has vertical storage elements 469A in a first upright storage area indicated generally at 91 and horizontal storage elements 469B in a second horizontal storage area indicated generally at 93. Like features of the fourth embodiment to features of the first, second, and third embodiments are identified by like reference numerals which are prefixed by a numeral "4" where clarity is required about to which embodiment reference is being made.

[0074] The stepped frame used in the sixth embodiment of the invention is indicated generally at 415 on Figure 14. Stepped frame 415 comprises a front stepped framework 420A, a rear stepped framework 420B (which has a corresponding shape to the front stepped framework 420A), and upper and lower beams (not shown) to connect the frameworks together. The frameworks 420A,420B define apertures 469A,469B for receiving storage elements (not shown).

[0075] The shape and configuration of rear stepped framework 420B corresponds to that of front stepped framework 420A. Front stepped framework 420A is a stepped framework as it forms a series of stepped supports 25 at one end of the stepped framework 420A. The stepped supports 25 provide a basis for a series of stepped vertical rectangular apertures 469A which may be in the form of cupboards or vertical pull out kitchen storage units. In an alternate embodiment, stepped supports 25 and an upright storage area 91 may be provided at both ends of the stepped framework 420A,420B and the workframe 410 such that it has a U-shape.

[0076] Stepped framework 420A is formed from a plurality of stepped rails 24,21,23,22, a plurality of uprights 32, a plurality of horizontal members 49, and a plurality of upright members 36. The stepped rails 24,21,23,22 comprise an elongate lower rail 24, an elongate lower intermediate rail 21, a first stepped higher intermediate rail 23, and a second stepped upper rail 22. The elongate lower rail 24 and elongate lower intermediate rail 21 have corresponding lengths. First stepped higher intermediate rail 23 has a length which is shorter than that of the elongate lower rail 24 and elongate lower intermediate rail 21 such that a stepped support 25 is formed on the part of elongate lower intermediate rail 21 which extends beyond the first stepped higher intermediate rail 23. Second stepped upper rail 22 has a length which is shorter than that of the first stepped higher intermediate rail 23 such that a stepped support 25 is formed on the part of the first stepped higher intermediate rail 23 which extends beyond the second stepped upper rail 22. The stepped supports 25 separate the vertical storage area 91 from the horizontal storage area 93. [0077] To form the vertical storage area 91, uprights 32 are provided on the elongate lower rail 24, each stepped support 25 and on the second stepped upper rail 22 such that a stepped series of vertical apertures 469A are formed. The upright 32 on the elongate lower rail 24 forms an outer member for the stepped framework 420A,420B. The vertical apertures 469A are subdivided by the horizontal members 49 and have a horizontal upper rail 22 to provide an outer member which defines the upper limit of the vertical apertures 469A.

[0078] To form the horizontal storage area 93, each adjacent pair of rails 24,21; 21,23; and 23,22 is spaced from each other by upright members 36 such that horizontal rectangular apertures 469B are formed between them for receiving a storage element such as a rectangular drawer. The upright members 36 provide support for the upper surface member 12 and structural integrity for the horizontal storage area 93.

[0079] At the other end of the stepped framework 420A,420B from the stepped supports 25, two spaced uprights 32 are provided to form a vertical aperture 469A to receive a storage element such as a cupboard or pull out unit and to provide an outer member for the stepped framework 420A,420B. By using a stepped framework in this way, more flexible storage is provided in a visually appealing manner whilst minimising the use of constructional material.