But this midimalist kitchen proves that a neutral scheme doesn't have to be stark and lacking personality. It's the complete opposite, filled with natural materials and a sense of lived-in style, without the visual clutter.

With warm wood tones, statement lighting, and textured decor, it's a design that makes a case for midimalism in 2025 and beyond. Here's how the designer created this calming, timeless space.

It's not often you come across a home that exudes authentic mid-century style, but this home is a beautiful example. And while many rooms in this home preserved the original charm, the kitchen wasn't in quite as good a condition.

'The kitchen featured original mid-century cabinetry that our clients admired, but unfortunately, it didn’t function well for their family and couldn’t be preserved. The space felt dark and dated, with heavy tone-on-tone brown finishes that always appeared dingy,' explains interior designer Amanda Jacobs.

'Everything was removed, and we started from scratch,' she explains, which meant she had a blank slate to create the kitchen her clients dreamed of. 'We installed plaster floors, brand new white oak custom cabinetry, and gorgeous Taj Mahal kitchen countertops.'

The clients wanted the kitchen to feel light and airy, and white walls were a must, so Amanda was tasked with fulfilling this brief while ensuring the scheme still felt timeless and full of warmth.

'It was all about finding the right balance between the light wood cabinetry, pale plaster floors, and the clients’ desire for white walls. I was determined to ensure the space still felt warm and inviting despite the lighter palette,' she explains.

But there's no denying that the newly remodeled kitchen nails the brief, and has the perfect balance of light colors and warm, characterful details. And the wooden cabinetry is a key feature to add warmth and nod to the mid-century architecture of the home.

'The space feels modern, organic, stylish, and effortlessly refined with touches of mid-century elements. Its openness is truly striking, and the use of softer materials makes it feel warm, welcoming, and approachable,' Amanda notes.

But the open, airy brightness of the space isn't just down to the light colors used throughout the space, but also the transom windows that have been introduced to allow natural light to infuse the very tall room that would otherwise feature no windows.

'This space was a real challenge because its scale had the potential to feel overwhelming. Incorporating transom windows made a significant difference,' she explains.

'They helped preserve the sense of openness while softening the vastness, bringing in more natural light and framing views of the outdoors. It created a connection to the surrounding landscape that made the space feel grounded, airy, and more inviting.'

The overall kitchen layout is simple, but utterly effective for the room. L-shaped cabinetry, a large kitchen island, and open shelving for decor and aesthetic kitchenware fill the space without overcrowding it.

But for Amanda, it's the mix of materials that really stands out. 'The Taj Mahal counters tie everything together, while the smokey glass kitchen backsplash, used as the sole tile, adds just the right amount of contrast with its natural, raw-edged finish,' she explains.

And functionality has not been forgotten, rather combined with beauty to create a space that caters to the clients' needs while remaining stylish. 'A dedicated coffee and tea nook adds daily function, and a brass faucet at the center acts like a piece of jewelry – subtle but striking.'

But it's the decor throughout the kitchen that gives it a personalized, lived-in feel and gives us a glimpse into who the owners are. From the countertops to the open shelving, there are plenty of details to admire.

'This is where the fun begins: layering in unique materials and decorative accents to bring personality and interest to the space. It’s the finishing touch that makes it feel truly complete. The pendants’ smoky glass was such a nice accent and a nod to the previous brown color scheme,' says Amanda.

The countertops have been carefully decorated with art, candlesticks, and elevated kitchenware to ensure the space feels personal yet not at all cluttered. The shelving follows the same theme, with pretty glassware and potted plants taking center stage.

It proves that with the right decor, your kitchen can feel truly characterful without bold colors and busy features, and makes a strong case for embracing more pared-back schemes.

Shop the look

White kitchen cabinets are out, and they are being replaced by warmer, more natural finishes like the wood in this design. It's the perfect balance of clean and pared-back yet still full of style, character, and personality. It proves midimalism is a kitchen trend that's here to stay, and is a great way to introduce timeless kitchen design elements.

That's where SharkNinja comes in. Their latest lineup of outdoor-friendly Ninja cooking appliances is designed to take the stress out of hosting, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring the occasion. Whether you're firing up the grill for a hungry crowd or blending frozen piña coladas poolside, these smart, cutting-edge tools do all the heavy lifting for you, while you still get to take all the credit. From a sleek portable air fryer that's as stylish as it is practical to a frozen drink maker that instantly turns every backyard into a tropical getaway, each product is thoughtfully designed to elevate your hosting experience and make it feel completely effortless.

And the innovation doesn't stop at dessert.

Here are four standout Ninja appliances that will help you make the most of every gathering you host this summer.

Must-Have Summer Cooking Appliances

From upgrading kitchen hardware to decorating with paint, restoring vintage furniture pieces to switching out the lighting, there are so many straightforward and cost-effective DIY kitchen projects to consider, and we've rounded up our favorites for you here.

Whether you're looking to add more of a homey and lived-in feel to your space or are after clever ways to store practical items, these DIY kitchen ideas offer plenty of inspiration for a fun weekend project.

1. Repurpose a vintage table as a kitchen island

Decorating with vintage is a simple way to add character to any room, and in the kitchen, a previously loved table can serve as a functional island unit. Here, interior designer Kathryn Hunt of Kathryn Hunt Studio did just that – a simple and cost-effective way to upgrade a kitchen while tapping into the latest kitchen island trends.

'Originally a vintage table discovered at the Brimfield Antique Market, it was given new life with a bit of creativity and elbow grease. We loved its turned legs and classic shape, and with a little sanding, a rich stain, and a few tweaks, it became the centerpiece of the kitchen. For DIY-minded homeowners, reimagining a vintage find as a kitchen island is not only cost-effective but a great way to bring personality and practicality into the room,' says Kathryn.

2. Install a rail and hook system

One way to add charm to a kitchen is to keep functional items on show, and installing a rail and hook system allows for clever kitchen storage ideas. 'I love the functionality of rail and hook systems that help you keep your most-used kitchen tools at arm’s reach,' explains interior designer Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors. 'Clients love them for dish towels, too.'

'Try installing them underneath a floating shelf or on the side of the kitchen island. They also look amazing over a range, and even in a pantry for those pots and pans that are as pretty as they are functional,' adds Ashley.

Bring this idea to life and shop this rail utensil storage hanger from Amazon to keep your space organized.

3. Add rustic charm with beadboard

If you're looking for a way to make your kitchen feel more cozy and lived-in, consider adding beadboard to the walls. In the kitchen of Kathryn Faull of Maresca Textiles' historic Chicago bungalow, beadboard was just one of the kitchen DIY projects that transformed the space.

'Once we removed the upper kitchen cabinets, we needed a way to cover the walls,' explains Kathryn. 'We sourced the beadboard strips from our local hardware store and referenced YouTube videos to figure out the proper way to install them. We used individual boards, as opposed to sheets of beadboard, and installed them on the reverse side to give this space a more modern feel. My husband made the peg shelf above the beadboard to add much-needed storage in the entryway and sink area. We often use that peg rail to hang extra kitchen items.'

Beadboard is a wonderful way to add texture to a kitchen, whether you opt for white or paint it a bolder color. Shop this reversible wainscoting from Wayfair to create a similar look in your own kitchen.

4. Attach a curtain to a kitchen island

Another corner of Kathryn Faull's rustic kitchen inspires a further kitchen DIY project: adding a curtain to conceal kitchen island storage. 'I made the pleated skirt using a simple linen pinstripe fabric that’s ruched and then velcroed to the underside of the kitchen island, which we sourced from a kitchen supply company,' explains Kathryn. 'Again, I referenced online tutorials to determine the best way to execute this functional skirted island.'

Not only does this simple DIY project allow for items stored beneath a kitchen island to remain hidden, but it also adds softness to a space and an opportunity to experiment with pattern and color.

5. Update the hardware

One of the easiest and quickest DIY ideas for a kitchen is to update the hardware. Although a small detail, hardware can add lots of charm and textural interest to a space.

'In my farmhouse kitchen at Silent G Farms, we updated the hardware after buying the home. It was a subtle yet impactful change to our country escape,' says interior designer Elizabeth Bolognino of Elizabeth Bolognino Interiors, whose kitchen is pictured above.

This is echoed by designer Jessica Whitley, who adds: 'One of the simplest and most effective DIY upgrades in a kitchen is changing the hardware – it’s like jewelry for cabinetry. Swapping in modern pulls or classic knobs can instantly refresh the look.'

Whatever your design style, the latest kitchen hardware trends offer plenty of inspiration for your space.

6. Opt for a vintage storage cabinet

If you're on the hunt for more vintage kitchen ideas, opting for a vintage storage cabinet is not only practical but also a great way to add design flair.

'This featured storage cabinet, a restored vintage piece, lends character and soul to the kitchen,' explains the interior designer Natalia Miyar. 'Its natural patina and charm blend seamlessly with the home’s rustic architectural elements, such as original wooden doors and woven dining chairs. Juxtaposed against clean-lined design and modern marble surfaces, the cabinet provides a warm, historical counterpoint, adding depth, authenticity, and visual interest to this home.'

7. Give kitchen cabinets a fresh coat of paint

Don't forget about kitchen paint ideas when thinking of ways to elevate your space. A fresh coat of paint in a new color can do wonders to transform the room, whether it's on the walls or kitchen cabinets. Here, designer Nadia Watts chose Benjamin Moore's Nocturnal Gray for the cabinets, adding a splash of color without appearing too bold.

'For DIYers with moderate experience, focusing on surface upgrades and styling can bring warmth and sophistication without needing full custom millwork or stonework,' says Nadia, who recommends 'painting existing cabinets in a warm or deep tone.'

Whether you're drawn to neutral kitchen ideas or something more colorful, the latest kitchen cabinet color trends will help you choose a stylish paint shade to refresh your space.

8. Refresh your lighting with battery powered LED strips

Kitchen lighting ideas are not only a functional element, but a great way to add interest to your space, and swapping the light shades for something that adds design flair is a simple DIY project to consider. 'Swapping or installing pendant lighting is a relatively simple DIY upgrade with a big visual payoff,' says Nadia Watts.

Additionally, Nadia adds that 'battery-powered LED strips can mimic the under-cabinet glow without rewiring' – another easy DIY option if you're looking to enhance the lighting within your prep space.

Which of these kitchen DIY projects will you try out? Whether you're a DIY pro or are new to these ideas, these creative projects can help you add character and personality to your space. If you're looking for more stylish advice, the latest kitchen trends will no doubt give you some more inspiration.

Shea took to Instagram to shout about her spotlight list of kitchen trends – 'elements she's loving right now' – and on that list was the humble, but very chic right now, pot rail. All good farmhouse kitchen ideas feature a pot rail. Traditionally used for hanging pans and utensils within easy reach of the stove, they're a classic way of fusing practicality with style.

Despite being a more traditional kitchen feature, pot rails can transform a newly-built, stark space and give it a dose of character and patina (not to mention they're a nifty kitchen storage idea too). They are also easy to install, no demo needed, and I have found some really affordable options – this was the quick and affordable update my kitchen was in need of.

Taking inspiration from the past, Shea is embracing more traditional kitchen features. In her Instagram post, Shea said, 'Kitchen trends come and go, but some elements never go out of style. We’re spotlighting a few we’re loving right now: Unique countertop edge profiles, integrated sink drains, pot rails as backsplashes, built-in plate racks, and sculleries and butler pantries.'

Each feature can make all the difference to a new kitchen and brings a sense of history, age, and heritage that's so important in this space. However, I love the simplicity of the pot rail. It's a kitchen feature that costs little to invest in, it's fuss-free and easy to fit onto a wall, and it makes a surprising amount of impact, framing a backsplash while still being neatly tucked away.

On Shea's blog, the Studio McGee team shares more thoughts on the fixture; 'We’re loving seeing and using pot rails as a backsplash feature. Spanning nearly the length of the range, this kitchen trend provides the opportunity to bring in some character through styling.'

A classic country kitchen features a pot rail, whether it's above a backsplash like Shea recommends or hanging on a ceiling, you can count on this piece of hardware to create instant character and charm.

Shop chic pot rails

Recreating Shea's rustic country-style kitchens couldn't be simpler with this list of chic yet affordable pot rails that radiate character.

A feature that Shea has been loving, pot rails are a kitchen hardware trend that I don't see departing anytime soon. They are small but mighty and can transform an empty area into a charming display that radiates all things rustic.

'It was one of the most fun projects we've worked on,' Steven says. 'The home is 100 years old, which by L.A. standards, is historic. Much of it was in its original condition, so it was ready for a refresh, but we wanted to be mindful of its framework and respectful of its history, not just modernizing for the sake of it. But it was a bit quirky. Back in the 1920s, the original owners had staff, who had their own quarters on the back of this kitchen, and there was just a small receiving room. We wanted to reinterpret all that for today.'

The result is a scheme Steven was able to flex his design muscle in, pulling together different kitchen ideas in a way that has led to a rich and fascinating space. Here are the eight design lessons to take from it, to allow you to be a little more creative yourself.

1. Pick a hero starting point and build from there

'I tend to always love a big, bold, rich tone in the kitchen,' Steven says. 'And being mindful of the home's architecture, the kitchen flooring was the place we started. Throughout the house, there was a wonderful herringbone wood floor, and although it was worn in the kitchen and needed to be replaced, if we'd gone for a modern, bleached-out oak it would have contrasted with the rest of the home too sharply.'

Choosing the floor was what set the rest of the room's design in motion. 'We wanted to balance it with something more neutral – you can't have too many heroes in one space,' Steven says. 'So the kitchen island was a nicely grounding and neutral element, pulling in that bigger, bolder color of the floor, which was also balanced by the white subway tiles and the large white ceiling. You need a bit of warmth somewhere if you're using white.'

2. Create different color areas to keep the eye moving

Part of the charm of this kitchen is that Steven wasn't afraid to create different areas of color. The dark kitchen cabinets around the edge, painted in Benjamin Moore's Dark Pewter, is the exact opposite of the creamy island in the center, painted in a very light wash of Benjamin Moore's Driftwood.

'You want to pull the eyes to the middle of the room, and then back out again,' Steven says. 'The big expanse of white subway tiles draws the attention to the back wall and window, creating an immediate understanding of how expansive the space is, while the depth of color from the darker cabinets around the perimeter was important to bring richness, and make those paler shades stand out.'

3. If you're going to go dark, go big

While using dark colors in a light-filled kitchen can seem counterintuitive, Steven says they're important to use, and important to use with courage. 'Having a push and pull between dark and light is key,' he says. 'In a space this grand and wonderful, you need a pop of negative color to offset all the grandness.'

That's why he took the dark cabinets all the way to the ceiling, instead of keeping them below counter height. 'It felt like a natural choice,' he says. 'It's a misnomer that bold tones can't be easy to live with. And if this kitchen had been all white, it would have felt too safe.'

4. Dark countertops can't be one color

Dark countertops continue to be a big kitchen trend, but many of us are scarred by the way developers put a lot of big, black, glossy counters into modern homes in the last decade.

Steven has the answer as to how to make them work – texture. 'The island's countertop is black soapstone and has a subtle white veining to it,' he says. 'A fully white countertop would have been too easy on the eye, whereas a fully black one would have been too much. This sits somewhere in the middle and stops the surface from sucking in all the light.'

5. Don't be afraid to mix metallics

Conventional wisdom suggests we pick a metal finish and stick to it – aged bronze, perhaps, or on-trend chrome. But when there are as many metallic details as there are in this kitchen, having only one finish gets samey, fast so Steven chose to mix metals.

'It gets a bit repetitive to have the same metal throughout, especially when there is as much hardware as there is here,' Steven says. 'Waxed brass handles were informed by the home's existing architecture, and then contrasted by the chrome faucet. I always think chrome is a more practical choice for a faucet because it doesn't patina from water like brass does, and it recedes from the eye a little, meaning you tend to focus on the more interesting details elsewhere.'

6. A mix of wood tones is also encouraged

There are several different wood tones in this space – the floor, the counter stools, the table – and this approach flies in the face of the basic design rules that require uniformity. But Steven says they were essential to giving this kitchen the personality it has.

'The choice of woods was less about the color and more about the texture,' he says. 'The older farmhouse-style table has a real texture to it, while there is some relief in the grain of the stools, too. I like the thought of those pieces having their own resonance and character, that complements that which already comes from the floor.'

7. Create some sense of cohesion

Despite the mix of colors, metals, and woods in this kitchen design, Steven hasn't just used whatever he was drawn to whenever he felt like it. There are themes here that connect every choice and make them all work together.

They come together on the brass-fronted cabinets which line the dining table. 'They actually pull in all the elements of this kitchen,' Steven says. 'Their dark color reflects the darker cabinets on the other side of the room. Their gridded brass fronts mirror the gridded detailing on the ceiling. And their texture is similar to that found on the floor. Having a through-line like this allows you to be more playful in your design choices.'

8. Light sources don't have to all be on display

You'll notice the impactful light above the island, but other than that, you won't be able to see any other light sources in this kitchen design. But of course they're there, hidden in the details of the ceiling and cabinets.

'There is plenty of recessed kitchen lighting, hidden around the room,' Steven says. 'This allows you to wash the space with light, bathing you in a gentle glow that makes you feel so much more convivial than, say, spotlights would. Recessed lights are perfect for relaxed evenings in the kitchen.'

Shop the look

Steven has shown that, with a little cohesion and a lot of confidence, it's easy to mix colors and materials in the kitchen. Brass, silver, dark, light, they all come together here. These pieces will help you put together his look yourself.

One of the most common questions asked is, should your cabinets go all the way to the ceiling, and the answer is always yes. Stubby wall cabinets that stop short of the ceiling are almost always the cause of making a kitchen look dated.

Here's why designers always recommend ditching stubby kitchen cabinets, why they are such a problem in your design, and how to take your kitchen from dated to utterly chic with this one small fix.

You might think the height of your upper kitchen cabinets is just a small detail that doesn't affect the overall look of your space, but you'd be very much mistaken. It's perhaps one of the most noticeable details, and something designers always pay attention to for an elevated finish.

'Wall cabinets are always up for discussion, but I would go for slim, glazed, and big, as a good starting point. Stubby, deep ones can be quite ungainly and look a little top-heavy,' says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

Having a heavy profile at the top of your space is a quick way to not only make a kitchen look basic and outdated but also create an overcrowded atmosphere that feels uninviting. It will instantly make the room look shorter, bringing down the ceiling height, which is the opposite of what you want to achieve, especially in a small kitchen.

And the reason they look so dated? Because they quite literally hail from kitchens of bygone eras, when design and customization of cabinets were much less sophisticated than they are today.

'In the kitchens of the past, cabinet sizes were standardized and modular to reduce costs and production time. Standardized heights made it much more difficult to have cabinetry extend up to the ceiling, which is why short cabinets are a clear sign that your space is living in the past,' explains interior designer Kristina Khersonsky.

'Design customization has come such a long way over the years, and these days, there is no shortage of custom and semi-custom options that allow you to take full advantage of your ceiling height when installing kitchen cabinetry. This is one reason why shorter cabinetry can feel so dated – we have so many better alternatives to choose from,' she adds.

And those alternatives don't necessarily have to be a taller wall cabinet. You could replace your short design with a few open shelves, a pot hanger, or even a vintage plate rack for a dose of traditional charm.

The key here is to design a kitchen, and by extension, cabinets, that feels considered, stylish, and characterful. Your chosen cabinetry should work for the way you use your kitchen and adhere to your desired aesthetic, rather than being thought of as simply functional.

'Houses are no longer just utilitarian spaces. Short and stocky cabinetry is a mark of that past concept, where houses were more for serving basic functions and less about enhancing and enriching our lives,' says Kristina.

3 ways to fix your stubby wall cabinets

If you're looking to get rid of your stubby wall cabinets, replacing them with designs that go all the way to the ceiling is the best option to balance style and function. However, it's not the only solution, especially if you don't have the budget for a kitchen remodel.

There are plenty of alternatives, from open kitchen shelving to vintage finds that can add character and style to your cooking space in a more unique and unexpected way. Here are a few ideas that get the designer seal of approval.

1. Replace your short wall cabinets with open shelves

As our kitchens become more lived-in, personalized, and sociable, introducing opportunities for displays and decor is key. So, if you currently have short wall cabinets that are causing an eyesore, consider taking them down and replacing them with open shelving.

It's a design decision that retains storage for your favorite plates, cutting boards, and glassware, but allows you to have them on display, meaning they double as decor. layered with decorative pieces such as art, lamps, and vases, you can instantly add a more personalized touch to your kitchen that feels up-to-date and stylish.

2. Introduce a vintage storage piece

Removing your dated short wall cabinets opens up plenty of wall space to introduce a statement design that feels stylish and, most importantly, timeless. So, why not look for something vintage to replace them?

'Use your wall cupboards as statement pieces, maybe vintage, but always pretty or elegant rather than functional,' suggests Helen, who always recommends introducing something vintage to your cooking space for a more characterful feel.

A vintage glass-fronted cabinet, like in this kitchen, adds a more curated, decorative feel that adheres to the rule of taking them to the ceiling, while a plate rack feels more traditional yet still adds plenty of storage space for flatware and glassware, depending on the design you introduce.

3. Install custom trim to add height to your stubby cabinetry

If you're not in a position to remove and replace your stubby wall cabinets, there are a few workarounds that can make a huge difference. To take away that dated aesthetic, simply filling the gap will give your space a more custom feel.

'If replacing your short cabinetry isn’t an option, consider adding on to it instead. By adding custom trim, moldings, or even upper cabinets that are installed to match your current boxes, you can make your short cabinetry feel purposeful,' says Kristina.

You could opt for kitchen cabinet hats or pedestals, one of this year's biggest kitchen trends, to remove the void space between the cabinet and ceiling that feels fun and on-trend, rather than dated.

Alternatively, in a period home, introducing a trim in the style of the era will create a timeless look, rather than an outdated one.

No matter the style or size of your space, kitchen cabinet details (even the tiny ones) are important. A stubby cabinet that leaves a huge gap to the ceiling is the cabinet detail that's making your kitchen look dated, so try one of these alternatives for a more stylish look.

And as with any design decision, it also pays to know what not to do – what kitchen countertop colors and materials are out of style for 2025? We asked designers and kitchen experts which are the outdated kitchen countertop trends, and specifically what tones and textures should anyone doing a kitchen remodel in the next year avoid?

5 kitchen countertop materials that are out of style for 2025

Whether you want something that is super durable or you value sustainably-made designs, these are the kitchen countertops designers say are falling out of style, and what countertop trends, styles and materials you should consider introducing for a timeless and personality-filled room.

1. Manmade quartz

When we talk about countertop materials that are out of style, we're not just talking about aesthetics. In this instance, quartz countertops have fallen out of favor because they can create harmful silica dust during manufacturing.

'Man-made quartz countertops are finally being given the heave-ho in favor of natural marbles and quartzites with bold veining and color. While consumers have long favored quartz for its uniformity and stain-resistant qualities, it's also had some problematic press recently for the adverse health effects suffered by the workers who cut the material,' says interior designer Bethany Adams.

'The reality is that natural quartzite, when sealed properly, is impervious to both heat and stains. Clients are also finally understanding that living with marble doesn't mean a high-maintenance lifestyle. Living with marble means accepting the imperfections inherent in a beautiful, natural material, and allowing it to develop the gorgeous patina of age, that is, quite literally, priceless.'

2. Corian

For many designers and homeowners, sustainability is a huge factor when choosing the right countertops for their space. So, if you want a more planet-friendly option that still looks great and holds up well, there are certain materials to avoid.

'Materials like Corian are falling out of favor – partly due to sustainability concerns, and also because they don’t hold up well to heat and scratches,' explains Fiona Ginnett, co-founder at HØLTE Studio.

'If you’re looking for a more eco-conscious alternative with personality, Durat is a great option – it’s made with a high percentage of recycled plastic and comes in some really interesting colorways.'

3. Wood

This year, wood kitchen cabinets are having a revival, bringing a tactile quality and a warm finish to kitchens of every size and style. But as they continue to prove popular, countertops in the same material are losing their appeal.

'Wood is still very much enjoying a resurgence in kitchen cabinetry. Its natural grain and warm tones bring a grounding, tactile quality that reconnects us with nature – something people are really craving in their homes right now,' Fred Horlock, design director at Neptune.

'Because wood is increasingly chosen for cabinets and furniture, we’re seeing a decline in timber countertops as people prefer to create contrast with more durable, low-maintenance surfaces instead – especially those that complement the warmth of wood without requiring the same upkeep.'

Instead, people are gravitating towards countertops that complement their wooden cabinetry, like a light porcelain that looks like marble, or even dark countertops for a moodier, more industrial feel.

4. Delicate stones

Of course, natural stone countertops will never really be out of style, but choosing aesthetics over practicality is out for 2025. Stone can be a bad choice in a busy family kitchen, and if you aren't willing and ready to keep up with the maintenance, they will end up looking damaged and lackluster.

'Avoid high-maintenance, delicate materials – especially in high-traffic spaces. Kitchens are a busy place, and the countertop, more than any other part, really takes the brunt of this. Don’t make the mistake of choosing the wrong material,' says Jonathan Stanley, of Caesarstone.

'While natural stone still has its place, clients are increasingly prioritizing function as much as form. Materials that require frequent maintenance or show signs of wear too quickly are naturally becoming less desirable,' adds interior designer Tola Ojuolape, who recommends either opting for a man-made alternative with the look of natural stone, or going for a bolder look with something more colorful.

'Color is playing a bigger role in kitchens now, and a well-chosen countertop can really anchor the space. If the budget allows, I often recommend Pyrolave – a glazed volcanic lava stone. It’s incredibly durable and comes in a rich palette of custom colors and finishes. It also lends itself beautifully to bespoke detailing, which makes it ideal for tailored design schemes.'

5. Flat, plain countertops

It's not just the materials you have to think about, but how they look in your scheme. People are gravitating towards unique, characterful designs, so countertops that lack interest and personality feel very much out of style.

'We’re also moving away from flat, plain countertops,' notes Fred. Especially in spaces where you've gone for a pared-back scheme filled with neutral tones (think white kitchens with little contrast), reintroducing interest through your countertops is a must

'In 2025, the trend is towards surfaces with more depth and texture – gentle veining, natural movement, or honed finishes. Stones like quartzite and granite are rising in popularity as they combine unique character with lasting durability, offering the perfect balance of style and practicality.'

The countertops that are best for your kitchen will depend on how you use your space. Natural stone is timeless and beautiful, but if you need something more durable, there are plenty of marble countertop alternatives that feel just as luxurious. And if you want to ensure your space feels on trend rather than outdated, choose a kitchen countertop that never goes out of style.

Joanna Gaines has just proved that any space can be reimagined with the transformation of her son's bedroom into the chicest butler's pantry I've ever seen, complete with a beautiful island, floor-to-ceiling shelving, and a striking deep green hue.

And she's just taken to Instagram to share the before and after pictures, which show just how much of a transformation this room has had. Here's everything you need to know about the new pantry, how she got to the end project from the gray bedroom that came before, and the pieces you need to get the look.

'When my youngest, Crew, announced that he was ready to move into the big boy room, it meant reimagining how to utilize his bedroom (which just so happens to be a tucked-away space just off the kitchen),' writes Joanna via Instagram.

And the space has seen quite the transformation. What began as a gray bedroom with wood furniture and black accents has been transformed into a moody butler's pantry, filled with characterful details and luxury features.

'Additional space for cooking and entertaining became the leading idea, and from there we transformed this extra room into an inspiring butler’s pantry where all my sourdough dreams can come true.'

One of the most transformative design features is the deep green paint color (Cottage Grove Green from her own paint collection at Magnolia) that has been used to color drench the room. It instantly creates a more sophisticated atmosphere and helps the room's height feel less vast.

What used to be a mostly empty gray wall with a low dresser and a few framed prints on it is now a beautiful prep area. The paneled wall houses four open shelves displaying flatware, cooking essentials, and glass containers filled with pantry staples.

Deep green cabinetry along the same wall adds closed storage, while the thick marble countertop brings in a lighter tone and a luxurious element, beautifully finished up the wall into a backsplash. A brass pot rack perfectly matches the cabinet hardware, bringing a more classic touch to the space.

The wall opposite has become the appliance area, complete with storage and extra shelving for spices, bakeware, and potted plants. To tie in the wood elements throughout the pantry, she's chosen a modest wooden countertop here, rather than more marble.

In the gray bedroom, the red brick fireplace almost blended into the design, but in the pantry, it stands out as a beautiful feature to be celebrated, contrasting beautifully with the darker colors in the room.

And while you might expect to find a deep-toned island at the center of the room, Joanna has used it as an opportunity to add contrast to the space with a light wood work table island, instead.

It's been topped with the same marble counter as the perimeter units, but the wooden structure is a truly standout feature. The turned legs feel traditional and add a new finish to the space, while the freestanding nature of the piece gives the pantry a more relaxed and open feel.

But it's the windows that feel a world apart, even though the changes are relatively small. The white window frames and panes have been painted in the same green tone used throughout the space – they instantly feel larger and more in keeping with the design, blurring the lines between inside and out.

And what makes this transformation special is how lived in the room now feels. There's evidence of family life and use in every corner of the room, whether it's the cozy seating area by the windows, the collected artworks on the walls, or the eclectic stack of books topped with a lamp on the counters.

It proves that sometimes, completely changing a room's use is the best way to make the most of the available space in your home. Especially when the transformation turns out as sophisticated and timeless as this pantry.

Who would have thought transforming an unused gray bedroom into a moody butler's pantry could be so impactful? Sometimes, we can get stuck in our room ideas, and we forget that we can just rip up the rule book and change a bedroom into a pantry, home office, or movie room if we want to.

So, rather than incorporating loads of open shelving or forgoing upper kitchen cabinets entirely, I opted for some glass-fronted units that deliver both style and storage. But in reality, they've become a bit of a headache. Unless every mug, plate, and pantry item was perfectly arranged, the cabinets looked messy and cluttered.

Until I discovered this $7.99 hack on Amazon that is not only designer-approved and super renter-friendly, but can be used all throughout your own to rather beautiful effect. Here's how elevated my kitchen using this Reeded Glass Privacy Film from Amazon.

$7.99 Amazon Reeded Glass Hack

This clever peel-and-stick film is an excellent way to upgrade normal glass and give it a reeded, textured look at a fraction of the cost. Not only is it a totally on-trend style, but it offers privacy, protection, and couldn't be easier to install.

Simply apply it to a smooth and glass surface; it requires no tools or glue (although you might need scissors to cut it to size if required), and thanks to the static cling technology, it is easy to apply, move, and remove without leaving any residue behind.

The best part? It has completely changed my kitchen. If you're looking for a simple way to style glass-front kitchen cabinetry that doesn't require a big expense or countless decluttering, this might be the DIY for you.

Little upgrades like this are a smart way to refresh a space without committing to a full renovation. Whether you’re renting, on a tight budget, or just looking for a simple, stylish fix, this film might be the best $8 you’ll spend on your kitchen.

It is also incredibly versatile. Whether you use it on kitchen cabinet fronts like me, or to add privacy to a bathroom window or shower screen, upcycle an old dresser, or even add detail to a glass-fronted closet, this textured finish adds both form and function.

And it's also designer-approved. In a recent video, interior designer Marie Flanigan explains: 'If you're wanting to incorporate glass into a bathroom or into a storage cabinet of some sort but you're looking for privacy or to not see inside the cabinet… think about using an obscure glass that has a texture like a seeded glass, or even in this case [referring to the fluted shower screen] we used a fluted glass to create sparkle, create depth and texture.'

Sure, designers will recommend using specially made fluted or reeded glass, but if you're looking for a quick fix or a temporary solution, this Amazon find might just be what you've been looking for to give you a designer look on a dupe budget.

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Glass-fronted cabinets are a great way to make a kitchen lighter, but it can often be a pain to keep tidy and 'display-ready' at all times, as I've learned. If you're looking for an affordable, removable way to keep them looking a little bit more presentable, I'd love to hear how you get on with this hack.

So, if you're looking to create a luxury kitchen this year or next, it's worth noting that there are a few features that will no longer be a hallmark of the style, from colors and finishes to the way you live in your cooking space.

We appreciate that it can be hard to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of kitchen trends, so we've asked designers for the things you won't be seeing in a luxury kitchen this year and beyond, so you can make the most chic and timeless choices for your space.

5 things you won't see in luxury kitchens in 2025 and beyond

From quiet luxury to loud luxury, there are so many approaches to introducing a more high-end feel to your cooking space. But if you want to design a space that stands the test of time, designers say avoiding these features is the best way to make your kitchen feel more luxurious.

1. Fluted kitchen details

Fluted kitchen cabinets really had their moment last year, but it's a look that's beginning to feel overdone and slightly cheapened. It's also a fussy design feature that is often trickier to clean and maintain.

'Reeded and fluted timber details in kitchens and cabinetry have been popular for some years now, but may well fade back somewhat,' says Tom Wicksteed, co-owner and director at 202 Design.

'We are seeing an increase in clients and interior designers prioritizing open shelving and wall space over stacked wall-mounted cabinets, giving kitchens a cleaner, more open, luxurious feel.'

2. Overly curated spaces

There's no denying that the way we design kitchens has changed tenfold. 2025 has been all about creating a lived-in, personality-filled space, which means overly curated schemes are no longer the go-to for a luxury kitchen.

'This year, we’re moving past the kitchen as a showcase. Designs that feel overly curated, where every detail is styled to impress, are starting to fall out of favor. Instead, there’s a growing appetite for kitchens that feel instinctive and a reflection of the owner's personality,' says Michael Sammon, design director at Wodar.

Think cozy dining nooks, open shelving displaying a mix of kitchenware and collected decor, and kitchen countertops that feel used, lived-in, but not messy. Useful additions like hot taps and integrated appliances ensure your space is functional, yet still has the luxe look.

3. High gloss finishes

When it comes to paint, cabinetry, and even hardware, different finishes fall in and out of style, especially when it comes to creating a more elevated, luxurious design. But it's shinier options that are no longer featuring in luxe spaces, with high-gloss feeling the opposite of expensive.

'There was a time when ultra-reflective cabinetry and polished stone surfaces were shorthand for ‘high-end’, but that sheen now feels too slick, too man-made,' says Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport Kitchens.

'Today’s luxury is quieter, more tactile, and focuses on materials that invite touch and stand the test of time. We’re seeing a return to hand-painted cabinetry in soft, chalky hues that age beautifully; honed or leathered stone that reveals its character over time; and natural timbers with visible grain and depth,' he explains.

'It’s a shift towards authenticity and grounded in nature – surfaces that don’t shout for attention but exude craftsmanship and longevity in a way that glossy laminates simply can’t.'

4. Gray cabinetry

Kitchen color ideas really are key to the overall look and feel of your design. There are certain hues associated with luxurious schemes, from warm whites to natural wood tones. But if there's one color designers are not introducing to luxury kitchens in 2025 and 2026, it's gray.

'Gray, particularly gray gloss cabinetry, has been declared dead on arrival. Reining supreme for years as the aspirational go-to colorway, clients have become tired, if not revolted, by the idea of gray due to its ubiquitous use on everything from towels to tea cups, tiles, curtains, and paint since 2010,' says Rob Whitaker, creative director at Claybrook Studio.

'Warmer natural and neutral tones like soft ochre and beige, creamy whites, and soft apricots have crept into decor on countertops, kitchen cabinets, and walls. Tiling takes more of a front seat, both in zellige-like glazed tiles in hues of sage and peach, or marble, and porcelain that replicates marble, in tones of burgundy and caramel.'

5. High-shine hardware

High-shine, glossy finishes are out across the board when it comes to creating a luxurious kitchen. Alongside glossy cabinets, kitchen cabinet hardware and faucets are following along the same lines, with aged, matte finishes replacing them.

'We’re not expecting to see as much emphasis on overly decorative or high-shine hardware in 2025 and 2026, not because those finishes don’t have their place, but because there’s a growing preference for pieces that offer a more subtle quality,' says Gareth Hull, design lead at Hendel & Hendel.

'There will be a shift towards softer silhouettes, matte finishes, or handles that echo the lines of the cabinetry. There’s still space for contrast and detail, but it’s less about embellishment and more about balance,' he adds.

If you want to create a luxurious kitchen scheme this year and beyond, glossy finishes, overly curated spaces, and cold grays are out – surprisingly, all once things that were the epitome of a luxury kitchen. In 2025 and 2026, luxury means personality, it means character and charm, depth and interest, so follow styles you love and invest in pieces that reflect your unique style and you are well on the way to creating a luxurious space.

The kitchen in this Craftsman-style house has been transformed from dark and uninviting to a moody, traditional kitchen, yet it feels brighter than ever before. And it's a careful approach to color and materials that makes it work so beautifully.

From the reconfigured footprint and layout to the palette and unexpected approach to making a kitchen feel lighter, here's how the designer reimagined this kitchen into a space that honors the home's history while feeling unique and personalized.

Before

Dated, dark, and dysfunctional perfectly describe how this kitchen looked pre-remodel. Shiny dark floors paired with orange pine cabinets, black countertops, and mismatched appliances left the scheme feeling lackluster and left in the past.

The small footprint needed to be opened up to create a space required for the way the homeowners used the space, and merging rooms was the perfect way to not only make the kitchen larger, but also bring in more natural light.

'We completely transformed the space by opening up the wall between the kitchen and the sunroom, dramatically increasing the natural light. We also removed a hall bathroom and expanded the kitchen in both directions,' says interior designer Amanda Jacobs.

'By converting the sunroom into an all-seasons space, we extended the footprint and created a kitchen that truly feels like the heart of the home, anchored at the end of the house and seamlessly connected to its surroundings.'

The kitchen layout was a real area of contention, and one that Amanda was keen to focus on fixing in the redesign. The aim was to maximize storage space while maintaining a really natural and functional flow around the room.

After

But the result is a kitchen that is spacious, functional, and feels right at home in the Craftsman-style home. 'The style blends traditional English influences with craftsman details,' says Amanda.

The overall scheme is the perfect blend of traditional and moody, with rich tones and timeless design features seen throughout the design. There's a beautiful balance of light and dark, which makes this scheme a success.

The kitchen island, which became a huge focus throughout the remodel, really is the heart of the room, and she chose to introduce a dark wood finish here to add contrast and nod back to the heritage style.

'The island size shifted a bit during the process because we found a one-of-a-kind stone slab at the yard – it was the only one in that size, and it was so special we couldn’t pass it up. It was also quite delicate, so we knew that if anything happened to it, we’d have to start the search all over again,' she explains.

'The goal was to create something that felt as though it had always belonged, like it could have been part of the original Craftsman design. The walnut brought a rich, warm tone that complemented the existing woodwork and even echoed the walnut inlay found in some of the original floors. It was a timeless choice that grounded the kitchen and gave it a sense of permanence and authenticity.'

The dark wood pairs seamlessly with the green and white color combination introduced throughout the rest of the kitchen. And the inspiration for the palette came from the beautiful landscape that the home sits in.

'The house is nestled among mature trees and beautifully overgrown vegetation, so when we opened up the sunroom to the kitchen, it created a lush, green backdrop,' she explains.

'It quickly became clear that the interiors needed to reflect that natural beauty, which led us to design a cohesive, organic color palette that feels like an extension of the landscape,' she notes, referencing the classic Shaker cabinetry painted in Vintage Vogue by Benjamin Moore, contrasting with the lighter ceiling and walls painted in Aganthus Green by Benjamin Moore.

But what really makes this kitchen feel personalized and lived in is the decorative pieces that have been added. While the built-in elements of the space focused on honoring the home's history and location, the decor was all bout personalizing the kitchen.

'The decorative accents were where we introduced personality and a touch of folk-inspired charm. Drawing from our clients’ cultural backgrounds and their love of color and pattern, we took a more playful, layered approach to the styling to create a space that felt both rooted and expressive,' says Amanda.

The island is the main countertop space in this kitchen, so decorative elements have been kept simple with a wooden board topped with elevated kitchenware and a ceramic vase filled with seasonal branches.

A similar theme has been carried onto the kitchen counters on either side of the range cooker: pretty bottles, a vintage crock for wooden utensils, and a small kitchen counter lamp have been used to accessorize the area without feeling cluttered.

Various features have been added to introduce a softer finish to the kitchen, too, like the curved counter stools and the sheer cafe curtains over the windows. Every element feels considered yet not at all too curated.

It's a space that perfectly demonstrates how to decorate with a balance of light and dark, historic yet personal. It proves that just because your home is of a certain style, honoring it doesn't mean losing a sense of personal style – combining the two is a beautiful way to create a unique and timeless design.

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This kitchen is a lesson in balancing traditional style with personal style – and proves decorating with a moody color palette works in almost any scheme. This space is a unique take on a green kitchen that feels layered and timeless and, unlike the previous design, it's in keeping with the more traditional style of the house.

In the last couple of years, the way we design and use our kitchens has changed a lot, and they are still constantly evolving. And if we've seen such huge shifts in kitchen trends over one or two years, surely we can only imagine how much they will change in the next 10.

But interior designers have a few ideas about what kitchen ideas will look like over the next decade, from layouts and materials to colors and the way we use them. Here's what they had to say about the kitchen of the future.

7 kitchen designs, styles, and features that will be big in the next 10 years

Whether you have a small kitchen or a sprawling space with a double island layout, every size and style of space can embrace these up-and-coming designs that experts say will be big over the next decade.

1. Much cozier kitchen schemes

There's been a shift towards living kitchens recently, with our schemes becoming more than just cooking spaces. And it seems the lines between kitchen and living are going to blur even more over the next 10 years, as our schemes become more cozy and liveable.

'Much, much more lived-in kitchens will be in – meaning expanding on the kitchen with a breakfast nook to a kitchen with a lounge area,' says Sarah Snouffer, of the Washington, DC-based Third Street Architecture.

'We are seeing clients enjoying larger kitchens, which means seating areas are being incorporated in a more casual way. We are working on a few projects with sofa-style built-in banquettes. As we always note, the party always ends up in the kitchen.'

In many cases, we will be seeing the living room and kitchen really blending into one, with a cozy snug elsewhere for a separate escape, but not a main social space. And a couch in the kitchen will be an expected and beloved layout.

'This ‘kitchen as living space’ will include sofas for lounging and art on the walls, with dining a stone’s throw away for ease and entertaining. Larger kitchen islands for eating breakfast and hosting visitors will predominate, often in elegant marble and porcelain, softened with organic feeling wooden and crafted accessories,' says Rob Whitaker, creative director at Claybrook Studio.

'Living rooms will be reinvented as smaller spaces for late evening TV viewing and special occasions only, or to give kids space to do their own thing away from the main living and kitchen area,' he adds.

2. A deconstructed, '30s aesthetic

Trends and features from bygone eras often make a comeback, especially when it comes to kitchen design. But the next decade is all about bringing back features of the 1930s, an era that has flown under the radar but has plenty of stylish elements to consider.

'A more deconstructed aesthetic that harks back to kitchens of the '30s is only going to get bigger in the next 10 years – kitchens with glazed dividing screens for pantries and store areas, with food and appliances hidden away, leaving the kitchen and diner to become more of a living space day to day, free of clutter,' says Rob.

It's a step away from a fully open-plan kitchen, yet not completely closed off. It's a middle ground that creates zones without impeding the flow of the space. In this kitchen, a divider has been introduced to separate a more functional area and the cozy dining nook.

3. Galley sinks

We've seen different kitchen sink styles prevail over the last few years – take the farmhouse sink, for example, or even the fluted profile. But there's a more functional design that is predicted to prove more popular.

'The galley sink – or work station sink – is going to become more and more popular. We are starting to make these more standard, with cutting board and colander inserts, two faucets, and sinks as large as 6’ long or longer,' says Seth Ballad, of Ballard & Mensua Architecture.

It's a design that really blurs the line between function and aesthetics. 'Prepping near the sink becomes possible, and even serving out of the sink. It is a game changer,' Seth adds.

4. Unexpected cabinet materials

Personalized interiors are here to stay, and in the next 10 years, expect to see kitchen cabinet ideas taking on more unique forms, from mixed materials to interesting paneling details.

'I think we’ll see more cabinet doors incorporating materials beyond solid wood – particularly glass and other creative inserts. I expect a shift toward textured and reflective finishes like ribbed glass, antique mirror, or even metal mesh. These details add visual interest and depth without overwhelming a space,' says Lauren Carranza of Seasons For Designs.

'When times feel uncertain, people often gravitate toward more traditional design choices that feel familiar and lasting. But decorative inserts offer a nice balance – they bring in something unique and stylish, while still being relatively easy to update or switch out later. It’s a creative, lower-risk way to personalize cabinetry without committing to a full remodel.'

5. More colorful and personalized schemes

The future of kitchen design is set to be focused on unique spaces and personalized schemes. It's less about following in the footsteps of other people and more about designing a space that's bold and speaks to your personality

'Over the next ten years, we’ll see kitchens that get ever more funky and personalized – monotone color palettes are already being overtaken by a broader color range (for example, having the perimeter cabinetry one color, the island another), and I think this will continue to get bolder,' says Ellen Hatton, principal of BVA BarnesVanze Architects.

'I think we’ll see more kitchens that have unique cabinetry pieces that feel more like furniture, with each piece getting a different color, door style, countertop material, or hardware,' she adds.

This approach to designing a kitchen is less about a specific look, rather an ethos and a way of living in our spaces. 'One of the most powerful shifts we’ll see in the next decade is the rise of spaces that reflect the individuality and rhythm of the people who live in them,' says Catherine B. de la Sablonnière, creative director at Ateliers Jacob.

'This shift won’t result in one dominant look, but rather a more eclectic, expressive design landscape where the kitchen feels truly intentional. We’ll see a continued emphasis on natural materials like stone and wood, tones that range from soft neutrals to deeply saturated hues depending on the character of the home, and textures that create nuance and depth, even in quiet, tone-on-tone palettes.'

6. A larder revival

While some designers are predicting the emergence of new kitchen styles in the next 10 years, others are looking back and thinking about the more old-school, traditional kitchen features that will make a comeback.

'I predict we are going to be seeing a lot of larders in the next ten years,' says Ellen. While this traditional kitchen feature might not be a typical American kitchen staple at the moment, it's slowly becoming more prominent in designs.

'This European amenity is winning a spot with American home cooks, as they realize the benefit of having a food storage area that is cooler than room temperature, but warmer than a refrigerator – the perfect spot for fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, or a bottle of wine.'

7. Kitchen floors matching outdoors

When the warmer months arrive, there's nothing we love more than connecting our indoor and outdoor spaces for a seamless connection between the two. And it seems flooring will be a big part of this design ethos.

'Kitchen floors will move seamlessly outdoors onto patios and terraces in the same porcelain material, albeit a thicker 2cm option for outside, to improve visual flow and expand the living space,' says Rob.

'These terraces will also become an additional living zone, an extension of the kitchen for warmer days to host friends and relax, furnished in comfortable seating complementary to the neutral and tactile finishes used indoors.'

The future of kitchen design is all about personalized, lived-in spaces that are less about following trends and more about curating spaces tailored to your lifestyle. As Catherine B. de la Sablonnière says, 'In the next 10 years, kitchen design will be less about following and more about revealing an honest reflection of personality, comfort, and everyday beauty.'

And no one has embraced colorful kitchen ideas quite like designer Lizzie Green, who has taken her kitchen from dark, dull, and outdated to a bright, spacious kitchen that is filled with bold color pairings and luxurious features.

From the paint colors to the decor, she's embraced color in abundance, with not one white surface in sight. And her space is a lesson in decorating with color in the most classic and tasteful way.

The kitchen now might be a bright, spacious scheme that screams dopamine decor, but that hasn't always been the case. 'The kitchen before was the awkward middle room, it was small and cramped, but had lovely high ceilings and a large window to the side passage,' says interior designer Lizzie Green.

It was important to rethink the small footprint during the remodel to take the kitchen from small and cramped to a larger room that serves as the hub of a family home. And removing a wall was the only way to achieve this.

'We removed the wall between the hallway and the middle reception room, [and] we widened the openings into the back garden room to maximize the light in the kitchen. We also did a side return, where we created a full glass roof again to maximize the light,' she explains.

'I found a huge reeded glass window on Retrovius and ordered it, without really knowing where it could work in the house. When the builder removed the wall between the front door and front living room, I saw an opportunity to rebuild it, but incorporating the large window so you didn't walk straight into the kitchen.'

And the changes have worked beautifully, allowing abundant light to flood the room and create a more spacious kitchen layout. 'I wanted the kitchen to feel bright and fresh. I love the sky blue cabinets and that, combined with the Arebescato Viola and bronze hardware, creates a timeless look,' says Lizzie.

Color truly takes center stage in this kitchen design. The sky blue kitchen cabinets have been paired with soft pink on the walls and statement marble countertops and backsplash, instantly creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

'Color equals comfort for me. The sky blue and greens make me think of a stunning summer day and being in the countryside or on a beach, which is very much my happy place.'

'I have always loved the energy of heavily veined marble, and the viola worked so beautifully with the blue units, so we had to go for that, despite it costing more than the cabinetry,' she adds.

Opening up the room also allowed Lizzie to create new zones, including the dining nook, which added a functional and aesthetic addition to the design. 'It was important that the dining space sat within the kitchen – we host a lot, and having a young child, this felt key,' she notes.

'We pulled out colors from the heavily floral curtains and took these colors elsewhere within the room, including recovering the chunky pine dining chairs in a performance material from Perennials.'

But what really stands out is the design and brings abundant personality to the space are the decorative items that adorn the kitchen countertops and shelving above the backsplash, and even the mini kitchen library at one end of the island.

'We accessorized the kitchen with some bold and chunky pieces from Dinosaur Designs, which I'm obsessed with. They are huge chunks of colorful resin in these quite prehistoric shapes that give some impact to the scheme,' she explains.

Even throughout the dining nook, which features a vintage wooden sideboard and those pretty patterned curtains, the decorative theme has been continued with a botanical painting hung on the wall and a statement, oversized lamp topped with a striped shade.

And throughout the kitchen, she's chosen to decorate with mixed metals, a controversial choice, but one that looks utterly striking when done right. The brass kitchen cabinet hardware brings in a warm, classic finish, while a chrome faucet prevents the eye from being drawn away from the colorful decor.

Lizzie's design proves that a colorful kitchen doesn't have to be overly vibrant or contrasting; instead, selecting a few colors that pair beautifully and create a bright and inviting scheme is all you really need. It's a space that exudes character and personality, yet still feels classic and liveable.

This space is vibrant yet utterly classic – it's a source of inspiration for how to design a colorful kitchen that's timeless rather than a colorful room that quickly becomes dated. So, if you've been considering adding a touch of color to your neutral kitchen, this is your sign to take the leap. And if you're not sure what hues to choose, why not try one of these overlooked kitchen colors designers swear by?

We've all heard of two-tone kitchens, but the three-color approach takes your kitchen color ideas from basic to interesting, filling your space with contrast, depth and visual interest. And it's easier to get right than you might expect.

To help you get the look in a trendy, yet timeless way, we've turned to designers to find out how they are approaching this color-focused kitchen trend, and a few examples that will convince you to add a third hue to your design.

What is a tri-color kitchen?

So, you've heard of two-tone kitchens, but what about tri-color designs? This approach sees three different colors coming into play, giving your kitchen more dimension, contrast, and interest.

'Incorporating multiple colors within a single kitchen scheme gives the space room to breathe and creates a sense of considered balance,' explains kitchen designer, Tom Howley.

And this isn't a trend that only suits colorful kitchens – three pared-back hues or earthy tones work just as well for a neutral kitchen. It's not necessarily about creating a bold design, but rather a more dynamic, personality-filled one.

'We continue to see people gravitate towards creating unique and personalized spaces that fit their individual style and preferences. This can be done through using bolder colors or more unexpected color combinations,' says Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore.

'A tri-color kitchen beautifully blends three distinct colors to create a visually interesting space. Monochromatic looks will always be popular, but tri-color schemes offer a fresh alternative for people looking for more contrast and depth,' she explains.

5 tri-color kitchen ideas for every style

Designing a successful tri-color kitchen is all in the palette you choose and where you apply it. There are plenty of different areas of the kitchen to consider, so have fun with the colors and the application.

'Kitchens have a lot of different surfaces, which makes them a great candidate for a tri-color scheme. Countertops, backsplash, flooring, cabinets, walls, and ceiling all need to be thoughtfully curated to create a kitchen that has visual interest but isn’t too distracting,' says Arianna.

1. Opt for dark cabinetry, light walls, and wooden accents

The colors you choose will usually depend on your kitchen style and the hues you gravitate towards. But for Arianna, applying your darker shade to the kitchen cabinets and the lighter shades to the walls is a classic approach.

'I love a darker kitchen cabinet. Using something like Mysterious AF-565, shown here, is a great way to ground a space and bring depth to a room. Keeping the walls light and bright with Steam AF-15 creates the perfect backdrop for open shelving and blends seamlessly with the white kitchen countertops,' she explains.

And for the third color in this kitchen, natural wood has been chosen to bring in an organic, textural element that works with the home's architecture. 'A weathered wood ceiling and beams bring added warmth and character to the space to prevent it from feeling too stark or cold.'

2. Decorate with unexpected color combinations

Classic color palettes, like blue, white, and wood, are a great choice for a tri-color kitchen, but so are bolder hues for more of a statement. With the right shades, you can create a space that's full of contrast and personality.

'Kitchens are also a great place for a playful color combination. These spaces are often the heart of the home and can greatly benefit from more saturated hues to bring energy and life to a home’s color palette,' explains Arianna.

In this small green deVOL kitchen, dark green cabinets form the base of the design, while off-white walls keep the space feeling bright and uplifting. To bring in an unexpected pop of color, blue open shelving has been added – it's a subtle way to bring in a third color, but it has plenty of impact.

3. Introduce a statement furniture piece in a third color

If you've already got two-tone kitchen cabinets, or if you want to bring in a strong color that feels less permanent, bringing in one bold piece of freestanding kitchen furniture to add a colorful accent against more neutral hues can be incredibly effective.

'For those looking to dip their toe into color, a feature dresser, chimney breast, or even a selection of pastel-toned backboards can be a beautiful, understated way to add interest,' suggests Tom.

'Blending three complementary or contrasting tones allows you to define different zones in the kitchen – from statement islands to soft cabinetry and subtle backdrops – adding depth, character, and a cohesive, curated feel.'

4. Add a trending color to a neutral kitchen

This kitchen is a striking example of a tri-color kitchen. The white walls and wooden island have a very classic, timeless feel to them, but to add a more vibrant hue, the cabinets and shelving have been painted butter yellow.

But this space proves it doesn't have to be complicated. By having a color story that covers the walls, cabinets, and island, you can create a visually interesting kitchen that doesn't overwhelm.

Using wood as one of your colors, especially in a richer, darker tone like this island, is a great way to bring in a natural material that pairs with almost any color, which is particularly good if you're someone who likes to switch up the statement colors in your space.

5. Bring in all three colors through your cabinetry

If you really want to have fun with the tri-color kitchen method, why not bring them all in through your kitchen cabinet ideas? It will instantly add visual appeal to your space, while also breaking up solid runs.

This kitchen is a perfect example of how to decorate with three kitchen cabinet colors without overwhelming the scheme. A timeless yet unique color combination of blue, wood, and taupe offers the perfect balance of color and neutrality.

The kitchen island and lower cabinets are a strong shade of blue, while wooden upper cabinets add an organic element, and the taupe full-length cabinets are more subtle, almost fading into the background and helping the kitchen to look larger and brighter. It's the perfect way to balance the bolder hues.

Tri-color kitchens continuously prove to be an easy way to bring style, personality, and interest to designs. Choose a kitchen color combination that speaks to your interior design style, and don't be afraid to experiment with unexpected or overlooked kitchen colors. Sometimes, going for the bold choice is the best way to create something more unique.

I thought it was a fairly simple question to ask a designer, but I didn't think the answer would be such a simple and straightforward one. When I asked designer Marie Flanigan, who has designed plenty of beautiful, timeless kitchen schemes, what feature to focus on to ensure you love your kitchen for decades, her answer was one word – lighting.

Kitchen ideas look different depending on your space and style, but if there's one thing that can dictate a kitchen's longevity, Marie believes it's kitchen lighting.

It's easy to get wrapped up in color schemes, countertop choices, and cabinet designs, but one of the most important parts of your kitchen design process is the lighting. It impacts how colors read in the room, as well as the ambiance for different uses.

'When designing a kitchen, being intentional with your lighting selections makes all the difference. I always recommend layering different types of light to support everything from cooking to quiet evenings spent gathering with family,' explains Marie Flanigan.

'Lighting is always a recommendation – even over larger features – because it applies to every kitchen, no matter the size, shape, or layout. And when chosen well, lighting acts like jewelry for the space: functional, beautiful, and full of personality,' she explains.

'It brings character to a kitchen by introducing warmth, texture, and visual rhythm. A well-placed sconce or statement pendant can instantly shift a room from utilitarian to inviting. It’s a chance to reflect your personal style and make even the most hardworking spaces feel considered.'

If you're wondering how to layer lighting, it requires a balance of different types, from ceiling lights, task lighting, and more ambient mood lighting that adds warmth and a cozy feel to the kitchen.

'Start with well-placed overhead lighting for function – pendants over an island or recessed lights for general brightness – then introduce softer sources like sconces or under-cabinet lights to bring in warmth and dimension,' Marie suggests.

'Adding dimmers is one of the simplest ways to instantly elevate the atmosphere. They allow you to transition the space throughout the day, from bright and energizing in the morning to soft and ambient in the evening.'

If you're opting for dimmers (or just want to elevate the finish of your kitchen), it's a good idea to introduce slightly elevated light switch plates, like this Antique Brass Dimmer Switch from Corston. Because they are at eye level, they feel really noticeable. Simply swapping standard designs for something more luxurious and that matches your kitchen hardware makes all the difference.

Essentially, your kitchen lighting needs to cater to the various uses of the space. Make sure you have sufficient lighting for the functional needs of your kitchen above the island, over the countertops, and around the range. This could be a mixture of wall, ceiling, and under-cabinet lights for variety.

Then, consider ambiance. If you want to create a more social kitchen, somewhere you dine, socialize, and spend time, softer, warmer lighting is key. Think a low-hung ceiling light over a table, or kitchen counter lamps dotted around for a more inviting atmosphere.

'If you want to love your kitchen for years to come, I suggest selecting timeless silhouettes in natural materials – think aged brass, hand-rubbed bronze, or ceramic. Stay away from overly trendy shapes, and instead choose fixtures with clean lines and a sense of craftsmanship. Good lighting never goes out of style,' Marie advises.

'Thoughtful lighting not only enhances how you use the kitchen, but it also sets the tone for how the space makes you feel. It’s one of those small decisions that truly transform the experience of the room.'

Get the lighting right from the start, you won't have to worry about it in the future, even as the decor and colors you include evolve.

Lighting is the often underestimated yet crucial element of your kitchen design. If you get the lighting scheme right from the start you're on track for a kitchen you will love for decades.

Even if over the years you switch up the kitchen color on your walls, try a new kitchen cabinet hardware finish, or even bring in new accessories, a well-designed lighting scheme will truly stand the test of time.

Conjuring disco glamour and boho chic to space age and psychedelic, the 1970s was a flamboyant era that encompassed an array of different looks, and they weren’t for the minimalist. Bold colors, avocado geometric prints, rich wood veneers, and lots of linoleum, the 1970s were awash with groovy decorating ideas, many of which are keeping into today’s interiors.

If you’re a nostalgic soul looking to infuse your project with a little 1970s kitsch, then these ideas to steal from 1970s kitchens are for you. We’ve taken a trip down memory lane to look back at authentic kitchens of the 1970s to uncover the trends to tap into. Plus, we’ve gathered examples of modern kitchens with a 1970s feel to show how these once outdated kitchen design trends are being integrated into modern homes.

Of course, there are some trends from the 1970s that we don’t mind staying well and truly in the past – shag pile carpets being one of them – but there are lots of design features which can sit happily within the modern kitchen. Whether you want to be fully transported back in time, or simply bring a subtle dose of kitsch, these retro kitchen ideas are guaranteed to inspire.

1. Go for bold earthy colors – think brown, orange and avocado

Looking back, it seems the 1970s was an era of maximalism, and we weren’t afraid of embracing color. Many kitchens of this period were a burst of energy and featured boldly colored laminate and Formica cabinet doors, which wouldn’t look out of place today.

‘When thinking of '70s kitchens, one immediately thinks of color – yellow, orange, avocado green, even blues, reds, and purples,’ explains Estelle Bilson, author of '70s House. ‘Kitchen manufacturers realized they could market different "fashion" colors to consumers for the first time, especially as the "fitted" kitchen was a relatively new concept.’

'I think people were more open to brighter kitchen color ideas and didn't play things safe like today, where white, gray and black dominate the kitchen offering. Other design aspects would include either cork or patterned tiled floors and brightly patterned wall tiles.'

Above is Estelle’s colorful kitchen – an authentic 1970s design that she purchased second-hand and fitted into her own home. ‘I found it on a Facebook group. I'd been looking for a suitable vintage kitchen for nearly 10 years. This one came up, and it was the right size, in good condition, and fairly local. I paid £250 and had to dismantle it myself (with help from a friend) and put it into storage before fitting it in our home.’

If you’re looking to install a vintage kitchen, then 'buy one with more cabinets than you think you will need,' advises Estelle, 'that way you have flexibility, which is really important, as it's problem solving.'

'Flexibility is key, and don't be too precious,' she adds. 'It's an old kitchen, (mine is 50 years old) so it's never going to be pristine; however, everyone who worked on it remarked how good the condition was for its age, a modern kitchen wouldn't look that good after 40 plus years.'

2. Introduce groovy geometric patterns on tiles and wallpaper

Abstract, geometric prints were commonplace in 1970s interiors, with curvaceous, psychedelic designs particularly popular. For a subtle way to introduce them, why not try a splashback of funky tiles? For original 1970s tiles, try the Vintage Tile shop. Alternatively, Zia Tile has a range of cement tiles featuring bold 1970s-inspired designs.

If you’re daring, you could go add an ode to the '70s with a groovy wallpaper. Little Greene’s Starflower design is perfect for channelling the 1970s aesthetic.

3. Embrace wood veneers

Alongside colorful high-pressure laminate cabinet doors, veneered wood furniture and kitchen cabinets were commonplace in the 1970s as they offered an affordable way to capture the look of expensive hardwoods and were often seen in walnut, redwood, rosewood or oak.

In this mid-century home in South Carolina, architecture and interior studio Ario Studio were enlisted to modernize the interiors and create a space that paid homage to the mid-century architecture. For the kitchen, they drew on design from the mid-century modern period, opting for a mix of walnut and colorful custom cabinets with exposed plywood edges.

‘It was extremely important to keep the design and the finish selections as well as the layout choices in keeping with the architectural style,’ says Brittany Arnold, owner, architect, and interior designer. ‘Curated mid-century colors and materials throughout the home support the interior design and layout to create a cohesive concept.'

'The kitchen is a really special place in the house, it is oriented to maximize the views outside. Walnut, orange, and blue come together to create a warm yet dynamic atmosphere. The beauty of design lies in the details, and we love how these tones bring both energy and balance to the space,' adds Brittany Arnold.

4. Introduce industrial touches

During the 1970s, there was a fascination with space exploration and new technology, which filtered into interiors and manifested itself in sleek design features, metal finishes, and futuristic design concepts.

In this 1970s kitchen, a stainless steel countertop and splashback are paired with metal pendant lamps to give the space an industrial edge. If you are looking to bring a '70s touch into your current kitchen, this would be an easy way to do so. After a long love affair with warm metallics, chrome decor has made a huge comeback this year, so plenty of brands feature it in their latest collections. Or you could, of course, get thrifting for something original.

5. Add a home bar

Entertaining at home became more popular in the 1970s, and a home bar was a sought-after addition. The perfect place to prepare a Tequila Sunrise for guests before they sit down to their prawn cocktail, this 1970s style mini bar designed by Exactly Design oozes 1970s style with its orange tiles and walnut cabinets.

‘Geometric patterns and earthy tones were prevalent in 1970s interior design, and I find that I gravitate towards both when designing spaces,’ says Elin Walters, founder and principal designer at the studio. ‘I love mid-century design because of its simplicity, geometry, color, use of natural materials, attention to bringing the outdoors inside, and focus on functional form.’

6. Take a cue from 1970s glamour

From disco fever to glam rock, the 1970s fashion and music scene wasn’t short of sequins and sparkle, and interiors followed suit with opulent glass chandeliers, metallic surfaces, and plush velvets all bringing a luxe feel. To inject a little 1970s chic into the kitchen, why not hang statement pendant lamps over a kitchen island as done in this kitchen by Creative Tonic?

‘In designing this kitchen update for our clients, we drew inspiration from French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent during his iconic 1970s era. The combination of brass and peacock blue evokes his fun paisley prints, while the statement pendant lights from Arteriors remind me of his stylized ’70s jewellery,’ says Courtnay Tartt Elias, founder and principal designer at Creative Tonic.

When thinking about kitchen lighting, make sure you get the right light fitting for the right tasks. ‘A long, sexy, chrome or glass cascading chandelier is an iconic '70s feature over a dining table, it creates a statement for sure,’ says Estelle Bilson. ‘In other areas of a kitchen, you need more directional/task lighting. I've used original 1970s Nokia track lighting.’

7. Channel boho chic with hanging houseplants

The 1970s weren't just about disco fever and space age design, a yearning for freedom and creativity led to the rise of boho interiors imbued with a relaxed spirit and natural materials. Rattan furniture, kilim carpets, and woven macramé wall hangings found favor, and a trend for indoor plants emerged.

'In the ’70s, house plants were the vibe. I’ve added lots of plants all over our home. I have collected handmade pottery to plant them in and have hung several with macrame to give a nod to our home’s history,' says Laura Olden of @SavageHouse1970.

'Our home was built in 1970, we try to honor the home’s history and the architect’s original intent. We love that 1970s design isn’t afraid to use color and bold patterns. We recently added high-pressure laminate countertops back to the kitchen in a color that matches the original harvest gold ones,' adds Laura Olden of her 1970s-inspired kitchen.

For a quick and easy way to embrace boho kitchen decor, hang an array of house plants in macramé pot hangers or invest in some rattan or cane bar stools or home accessories.

8. Add colorful appliances

In the 1970s, the market for kitchen appliances grew hugely, and colored designs provided a great opportunity for self-expression in kitchens, which had not long since been viewed as purely practical spaces.

‘Changes in the way we worked and shopped meant that for the first time in history women were starting to work whilst married and raising children, this saw a boom in the sales of labor saving devices such as fridge freezers, front loading washing machines and even the start of dishwasher and microwave ownership if you had the funds,’ says Estelle Bilson.

Today it seems our appetite for colorful appliances has come full circle with companies such as Smeg, KitchenAid, and Lacanche all offering an array of bold appliances with retro styling.

While some design features will undoubtedly conjure the 1970s kitchen look, such as high-pressure laminate kitchen cabinets and bold orange and harvest yellow, there are no strict rules on how to capture the 1970s look in a kitchen. 'The 1970s was an era of diverse fashions and trends with no one defining look,' explains Estelle.

'Culturally, it's a really diverse and interesting era, and what I like to think of as the start of modern living. I love the diversity of style within the 10-year period, within that short time you have everything from the left over style of hippie and space age from the '60s right through glam rock, art deco revival, disco, punk and what would be called "cottage core" now with Gunn Sax and Laura Ashley.'

This small kitchen remodel proves how well it can be done. This once tiny, compact kitchen has been transformed into an open and airy space, without changing the small footprint.

The secret? A mix of design styles, careful contrast, and bold design decisions. Here, we speak to the designer to find out exactly how he transformed the space and the defining features that give the kitchen its unique appeal.

'The original kitchen was a tired and utilitarian space from the 1960s; small, enclosed, and lacking in personality. We completely reconfigured the layout, opening up both the floor plan and the ceilings to breathe new life into the space,' explains Tom Rutt, director and founder of TR Studio, who remodeled this whole home.

Located in an apartment, the kitchen has an undeniably small footprint, so Tom had to be creative in balancing style and function. And the kitchen layout was the first element to be reconsidered.

'We transformed the apartment by opening it up to benefit from dual-aspect natural light, while also revealing the drama of the vaulted ceilings and exposed rafters. This change created the perfect opportunity for the kitchen to become a central, characterful feature of a larger, flowing living, dining, and cooking area,' he explains.

Opening up the layout was a game-changer – the kitchen instantly seemed brighter, felt more spacious, and became the focal point Tom wanted for the space. And it was only right to introduce some truly bold statement features.

'It strikes a balance between playful and pared-back. The clients had previously lived with a stainless steel kitchen in Paris and were keen to reuse that material. The result feels simultaneously retro and futuristic whilst full of personality,' he notes.

'The simplicity and clean lines of the stainless steel cabinetry are a real highlight, especially the integrated handles, which enhance the minimal, unfussy look. It’s a space that feels effortlessly cool but thoughtfully designed.'

Stainless steel might be an unexpected material choice for a small residential kitchen, but it really works in this design. 'It’s striking, highly durable, and develops a beautiful patina over time, something we’re always upfront with clients about,' he adds.

It's such a success because he introduced a contrast of materials – the cool tone of the metal has been balanced out with warmer tones and natural materials. It brings in that more lived-in feel against the industrial elements.

'On the opposite wall, we balanced the cool industrial finish with warmer elements: painted storage units, open shelving, and a wooden worktop, which also accommodates a full-height fridge freezer to meet the needs of a family kitchen,' says Tom.

But it was more than a stylistic choice – every element of this kitchen has to cater to the compact footprint, which meant a few thoughtful kitchen storage solutions and configuration alterations needed to be made.

'Efficiency was key. Every decision had to maximize function without compromising on form. For example, we concealed the boiler in a corner cabinet that takes advantage of an otherwise awkward space. Storage and surface areas were also carefully planned to serve multiple needs within a tight layout,' he explains.

These elements of the design, while practical, were crucial to the final design. It's created a more seamless finish – a must-have in a small kitchen. And because your eye is not drawn to an unsightly boiler, the true stand-out features could shine, one of which is the bold kitchen floor color.

'Our client works in fashion and brought a great sense of boldness and creativity to the process. We trialled several colors in situ, watching how they behaved in different lights, before landing on a hue that energized the space without overwhelming it,' Tom notes.

Other than the two corner cabinets, he chose to forgo the upper cabinetry, replacing them with open shelves and a pot hanger to create a more open and airy feel. This also created the perfect place to display collected decor, something that really brings the kitchen together and makes it feel more personalized.

Between the two full-length cabinets, three wooden shelves display aesthetic kitchenware and clear containers of pantry staples, while the shelf on the opposite wall is reserved for statement art pieces. Art plays a huge role in this kitchen, also displayed on the walls and leaning on countertops.

This kitchen is a lesson in maximizing a small kitchen and making it shine. The space feels far from crowded, rather a bright, open space that perfectly captures the style and personality of the owner. Every feature has been expertly considered to be as stylish as they are functional – it's a design that makes a strong case for embracing smaller kitchens.

Shop the look

This design proves that a lack of square footage doesn't need to mean a lack of bold style. He's made the small kitchen layout really work for the space – the unexpected kitchen cabinet choice paired with the bold floor color makes the kitchen a focal point of the open plan space.

While your kitchen ideas will always have a functional element, they should be cozy, lived-in spaces that reflect your lifestyle. Whether it's a comfortable seating area, a dedicated drinks bar, or even a space for group cooking, there are so many ways to make your kitchen work harder for your social needs.

But what is the best approach that balances all the needs of your kitchen? We've turned to designers to discover their favorite ways to make a kitchen more sociable without compromising on style or function. And their ideas really are food for thought.

What's the appeal of a sociable kitchen?

Kitchen design has been evolving for quite some time now, no longer seen as just a utilitarian cooking space. But they are transcending into a more sociable realm, as the room dedicated to hosting and spending quality time.

'The rise of sociable kitchens is part of a broader shift in how we live and connect at home. While open-plan living has long been a popular way to maximize space, the kitchen has taken on a more central role in recent years – not just as a place to cook, but as the heart of everyday life,' explains Fred Horlock, design director at Neptune.

'From the growing focus on wellness and home cooking to the desire for more meaningful connections with family and friends, the kitchen is now designed as a place to gather, share, and spend time together. It’s no longer just functional – it’s emotional,' he adds.

In many ways, the kitchen has taken on the role the living room used to hold. 'The kitchen has become the natural gathering place in the home, not just for cooking, but for everything from family conversations to casual entertaining. People want a space that’s functional, but also somewhere they actually want to spend time,' adds Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport.

10 ways to make your kitchen more sociable

From layout to decor, there are so many design elements and accessories that can take your kitchen from utilitarian to something more sociable and inviting. Here are 10 ways to instantly give your kitchen a more sociable feel, according to designers.

1. Consider your kitchen layout

It's key to think about how you're going to create a more social atmosphere in your kitchen. Zones are still important, so think about the main area of your space that will be the gathering point. Your kitchen layout is key to this.

'To create a more sociable kitchen, start by thinking about layout. You want good flow between cooking, dining, and seating areas so that people can be together without getting in each other’s way,' says Richard.

'An island or a peninsula is a good anchor point as it creates a natural break between working zones and more relaxed areas, and it encourages people to gather,' he adds. If your kitchen doesn't feature a built-in island, there are freestanding accessories, like work tables, that can be introduced, even in small kitchens.

2. Create a seating area

No sociable kitchen is complete without some sort of seating area. If you want people to gather and spend time in the kitchen, it needs to be comfortable, welcoming, and have clear spaces that invite someone to stick around.

'Kitchen island seating invites people to gather, chat, or lend a hand while cooking, bringing a sense of theater and shared experience to food preparation,' explains Fred.

Where possible, it's also useful to have a more relaxed space to sit, relax, and gather. 'The big trend in this area at the moment is built-in banquette seating as it allows for a more relaxed gathering space,' says Richard. This is, of course, space dependent, but a banquette or even a small bistro set can make a difference.

'Introducing relaxed seating – such as a built-in bench or window seat – encourages people to linger in the space, even when cooking isn’t the main activity. It’s a simple way to create a cozy corner for reading, chatting, or enjoying a morning coffee, and it reinforces the idea of the kitchen as a room to live in, not just cook in,' says Fred.

3. Hide your appliances

'To make a kitchen truly sociable, it’s important to design it as an extension of the home, not just a room filled with appliances and cabinets. A sociable kitchen should feel welcoming and comfortable, not clinical,' says Fred.

It's a good idea to step back and look at what makes your kitchen feel more utilitarian. Hidden appliances will instantly elevate the look of your scheme and make it feel more homey, and think about ways to hide your small countertop appliances, too.

'Countertop cupboards or larders that hide appliances like toasters or coffee machines keep the space clean and calm while still being practical,' adds Fred. Appliance garages are a popular choice in spaces big and small. It's a small detail that makes a big difference for a sociable kitchen.

4. Introduce freestanding furniture

The desire for more lived-in spaces has meant that freestanding kitchens are proving more popular than ever. And it turns out, it's a great way to make your kitchen more sociable. It doesn't need to be a fully unfitted kitchen – mix freestanding furniture into your kitchen for a more casual, liveable feel.

'Incorporating freestanding pieces – such as a dresser, sideboard, or a dining table – adds warmth and a more lived-in feel, helping the kitchen flow effortlessly into adjoining spaces,' explains Fred.

In this kitchen, a more sociable atmosphere has been introduced with the freestanding island that doubles as a dining table. It's still functional, but it creates a much more inviting atmosphere that encourages people to sit and relax in the space.

5. Opt for open shelving and glass-fronted cabinets

A sociable kitchen should feel lived-in and the furthest thing from a purely functional space. An effective way to blur the lines between the two is to break up solid runs of cabinetry with different materials, finishes, and styles.

'Replacing some wall cabinets with kitchen shelves helps create a more relaxed, informal feel and offers a chance to display characterful pieces,' explains Fred. This is a great way to bring in a more personalized finish, too.

However, if you need the storage space that cabinets provide, introduce glass-fronted cabinets, organic materials, and even new colors to bring in warmth and contrast to the space.

'Open shelving or glazed cabinets can help soften the transition between kitchen and living areas, especially in open-plan spaces,' adds Richard. 'Materials and finishes also make a difference, bringing in timber, natural stone, or softer paint tones can help the kitchen feel less clinical and more like part of the home.'

6. Add luxury features that make life easier

A more sociable kitchen should cater to your needs outside of cooking. For example, if your kitchen is at the center of hosting and gathering, introducing features and appliances that make the task quicker is a must.

'A hot water tap is especially useful in a sociable setting, it makes everything from cups of tea to cooking prep quicker, and it frees up cooktop space and countertop clutter. It’s one of those small additions that noticeably improve how the space functions day to day,' says Michael Sammon, design director at Wodar.

The features you introduce will depend on your lifestyle and the way you use your kitchen. 'A second sink or a drinks zone can also help, particularly if you entertain often, as it lets people get involved without crowding the main cooking area. A drinks zone can be anything from wine storage to a dedicated bar or alchemist's cupboard,' adds Richard.

7. Create a layered lighting scheme

Kitchen lighting is really important if you want to create a more sociable space. Ambiance is key, and a room filled with bright, stark lighting is off-putting. So, introducing different light sources for the different uses of the space is key, especially for the more sociable zones.

'Layered lighting is especially important, task lighting over countertops, softer ambient lighting for dining or chatting, and ideally some flexibility between the two,' says Richard.

Try to include a mixture of ceiling lights, wall sconces, and countertop lamps for the perfect layered lighting scheme. Pendant lights above the island fuse style and function, while lamps create a sociable ambiance around a seating area.

8. Think about hardware

When you're designing a kitchen to be more sociable, you probably don't think of your kitchen cabinet hardware as a big part. But it's a small detail that has a big impact on how the kitchen is used, and the right designs will help to create the feel and atmosphere you desire.

'In sociable kitchens, handles get used constantly, by guests grabbing glasses, by kids rummaging for snacks, by everyone in between. So the finish, scale, and feel of the hardware matter,' says Gareth Hull, design lead at Hendel & Hendel.

'We always recommend something that sits comfortably in the hand and pairs well with the materials in the room. A finish like burnished brass brings warmth and softness, while aged bronze adds subtle depth and texture, both work especially well in kitchens designed for hosting and everyday use alike,' he explains.

It's not just the tactility that comes into play, either. In any style of kitchen, hardware plays a big part aesthetically – a sociable kitchen is all about softness and warmth, and the finish you choose caters to this.

'Styling a sociable kitchen isn’t about decoration for its own sake, it’s about creating a space that’s functional and inviting in equal measure. Hardware plays a quiet but important role in that, helping to tie cabinetry, surfaces, and lighting together into something that feels aesthetically pleasing and easy to live with.'

9. Decorate with personal pieces

Decorative pieces play a huge role in a sociable kitchen. It adds a lived-in, personal feel that instantly makes people feel more at home. And with the right pieces, it can feel beautifully styled in a truly authentic way.

'Styling should soften the kitchen’s functional edges and help it blend seamlessly with the rest of the home. Keep the area above kitchen countertops open where possible, and avoid crowding walls with upper cabinetry,' says Fred.

'Incorporate art, ceramics, or personal objects on shelves to make the space feel more curated and lived-in. A few well-placed plants or a vase of fresh flowers will add warmth and life, while natural materials – wood, linen, stone – enhance the inviting atmosphere. The goal is to make the kitchen a place people want to linger, not just pass through.'

10. Soften the space through textures and textiles

If you want people to spend time, relax, and get comfortable in your kitchen, it needs to feel cozy and feature lots of soft textures. There are plenty of areas around the kitchen that you can focus on.

'Softer furnishings can enhance a sociable kitchen to create a comforting and warming atmosphere. You can also introduce tactile elements like woven stools, open shelving with ceramics, and linen upholstery,' says Debra Hutt, kitchen expert at Wren Kitchens.

'These natural textures soften the space and add an inviting, curated touch. Equally, soft, earthy tones, like sage, clay, or off-white, complement natural materials and help the space feel calm, cohesive, and effortlessly sociable.'

Shop sociable kitchen essentials

Creating a more sociable kitchen doesn't have to be a major project – it really can be as simple as making your existing seating more comfortable and introducing new lighting.

It's all about creating an inviting and lived-in space that encourages you and your guests to stick around and spend time in. While a kitchen island is often at the center of a sociable design, it's not an essential – a small dining table or breakfast bar can have the same impact.

While we often talk about all the things you should do with your kitchen island, there are some mistakes you'll want to avoid if you don't want to end up with an island that makes your kitchen look cheap.

From layout and size to style and decor, these are the five things you need to look out for that could be making your kitchen island look cheap – plus designer advice on what you should try instead.

5 things making your kitchen island look cheap

From easy swaps to slightly larger fixes, there are a few things that could be ruining the overall look and feel of your kitchen island. Here's what to look out for if you want your kitchen island to look more expensive, and designer-approved alternatives.

1. Too much clutter

Your kitchen island is at the heart of your cooking space – it's probably the first feature your eye sees when you walk in. So, if the island countertops are covered in clutter, it will instantly look less elevated.

'Too much clutter is something that will always cheapen the look of a space, regardless, and kitchen islands are no exception. Take advantage of under-the-counter storage space for cooking tools and utensils, and style your island intentionally when it's not actively used for food prep,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

Styling your kitchen island to make it feel more elevated requires a careful balance of aesthetic features and items that feel at home in a kitchen. 'An understated vase of fresh flowers always looks lovely, as does an artful stack of cookbooks or a pretty crock to hold larger utensils,' suggests Kathy.

2. A dated or worn-out countertop

It's less simple to fix that clutter, but your kitchen countertop could be the answer to why your kitchen island looks cheap. Whether it's an outdated design or simply worn out and damaged, it's probably the first part of your island you notice.

Your countertop material choice should be guided by your household and the way you use your kitchen. While marble countertops are a beautiful, timeless choice, you need to be willing to commit to the upkeep and like the way it naturally wears over time.

If you need something lower maintenance and more durable, look to materials like porcelain, which can handle wear and tear with little to no damage, especially if your island is the heart of food prep and cooking.

You can also elevate the look of your island countertops by introducing a decorative edge, like in this design. It softens the edges and often helps to prevent damage to sharp corners that are prone to knocks.

3. Low-quality bar stools

You might think of bar or counter stools as a functional feature for kitchen island seating that sits beneath your counters. However, they have a bigger impact on the look of your design than you might think.

So, choosing the right stools is really important, as bad quality or a style that jars with your island will instantly make it look basic. This doesn't mean you can't opt for a simple stool design, but make sure they are high quality.

This kitchen island is the perfect example of how to get it right. The counter stools introduce warmth and contrast to the deep blue surrounding cabinetry and the white island.

4. An oversized design

Sometimes, the thing that's making your kitchen island look cheap can be the design itself. One mistake people make is choosing an island that's the wrong size for their kitchen, instantly throwing off the balance of the whole kitchen layout. It's something that will take a space from stylish and bespoke to confused and cheap-looking.

'Choosing an island that's simply too large for the space can completely overwhelm the room and cheapen the overall design. A kitchen island should enhance the flow of the space, not disrupt it. When it's too big, it not only looks out of place but also makes movement around the kitchen awkward and impractical,' says Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company.

'Instead, focus on proportion and purpose. If the space is limited, opt for a smaller, more thoughtfully designed island or even a beautifully crafted kitchen peninsula. The key is balance – choosing a size and shape that complements your kitchen's dimensions while still offering the function you need.'

5. Too many contrasting materials

Designing a kitchen island is a lesson in restraint – too much contrast can create a visually chaotic scheme and end up making your island look confused and mismatched, rather than a bold feature.

'An island that uses too many contrasting materials will feel out of place and disrupt the overall design aesthetic, lessening the overall elegance of a space,' says Selena Quick, founder and managing director, PAD Kitchens.

'We prioritize simplicity, functionality, quality materials, and integrated appliances in every island design, prioritizing storage solutions within the overall design scheme to ensure a kitchen island can easily be kept tidy and organized,' she explains.

The key to getting it right is cohesion. If you've introduced a bold countertop stone, let the colors guide the palette for the rest of your design. Try to include no more than three colors throughout your design, like this island, which has a timeless palette of white, dark blue, and a jewel-toned blue.

While it can seem overwhelming if you need to change your countertops or rethink your layout, these are fixes that will last a lifetime. And if none of these features resonate, it's probably looking elsewhere in your kitchen to find out what is ruining your design – it could be something making your kitchen cabinets look cheap

The good news? It can be possible to add an island to an existing kitchen, according to professional designers. But to assess if it is a viable project and ensure your room continues to function as it should and looks good to boot, you need some knowhow, including about what size and type of kitchen island would be suitable.

Here, kitchen experts and interior designers provide the guidelines to follow if you like the idea of incorporating an island into an existing kitchen. And they’ve also shared the details on complementing the room’s cabinets and counters.

Allow circulation space

The question of whether you have room for a kitchen island is just as pertinent when you’re adding one to an existing kitchen as it is when you’re installing one from scratch. Creating sufficient circulation space is crucial.

First, the ideal. ‘As a rule of thumb, I look for a minimum of 36 inches clearance around all sides,’ says interior and product designer Rachel Blindauer. ‘If the kitchen is a high traffic zone (especially between stove, sink, and refrigerator), 42 to 48 inches is ideal.’

However, there are ways to work with a little less. ‘You can cheat that space with rounded edges or narrower bases, but the moment you dip under 30 inches, the island becomes a liability,’ advises Danny Niemela, vice president at luxury home remodeling company ArDan Construction.

As an example, interior designer Kami Gray added an island to the kitchen shown above, paying careful attention to circulation space. ‘I had a client with a small kitchen, and having an island was absolutely necessary from a function perspective for food preparation,’ she says.

‘Bar seating was a bonus if we could squeeze it in. Our clients also wanted an eat-in table, and a space-saving banquette made the most sense. We were able to get the island, bar seating, and a breakfast nook in the space by making a concession for 32-inch-wide passageways.’

Consider scale

Bear in mind that scale matters as well as size. ‘Islands should serve a function first (ie, seating, prep, or storage) but they have to breathe,’ says Danny Niemela.

‘If you cram a giant rectangle into a tight U-shaped kitchen, the whole thing breaks. Use painter’s tape to map it on the floor before anything gets ordered. That visual cue will tell you more in five seconds than any 3D rendering.’

Think about seating

Kitchen island seating is a boon, but going without can allow you to add a useful feature to a compact area.

‘If you have limited space, you can still fit a small island without an overhang for seating, as shown in our project above,’ says Patty Hampton at Refresh Your Space. ‘We included stacked tile on the front, which added visual interest, and won’t be blocked by seating in this case.’

Choose the right island type

Adding an island to an existing kitchen requires thought about its type. ‘Not every space can accommodate a monolithic marble island, nor should it try,’ warns Rachel Blindauer.

‘I often custom-design islands with hidden outlets, charging drawers, or integrated seating on one side and closed storage on the other. One client’s space didn’t allow for a full island, so we created a fixed piece that looked like a furniture console with open shelving, instantly making the space feel considered rather than cramped.’

Look at freestanding islands

A movable or modular island can be the answer if you’re adding an island to an existing kitchen and space is at a premium.

‘These portable units typically range from 24 to 48 inches wide and require at least 36 inches of clearance around all sides to move comfortably,’ says Joy Allen, design manager at Next Stage Design + Build.

There’s a wide choice of portable kitchen island designs on offer. ‘Think butcher block carts, steel prep tables, or custom units with hidden casters,’ says Danny Niemela. ‘These stay functional but mobile. They can cost as little as $300 or as much as $3,000, depending on finish and features. More important than the price is the weight-to-use ratio. It should feel stable without feeling bolted to the floor. That kind of presence makes a difference.’

Complement the room’s style

Take time to think about the style of the island. ‘A successful island feels like it’s always been there,’ says Rachel Blindauer. ‘I typically recommend pulling cues from the surrounding kitchen cabinets – repeating the door style, wood species, or hardware finish – but introducing contrast through the countertop or color. A navy base with unlacquered brass hardware and a creamy quartzite top can bring personality while still harmonizing with a white kitchen.

‘For contemporary kitchens, I might go monolithic: one material wrapping all sides,’ Rachel continues. ‘For traditional homes, I often design an island that reads more like a bespoke piece of furniture, with legs, curves, and a bit of architectural detailing.’

Considering a movable island? ‘Modular islands work well in transitional or farmhouse-style kitchens, especially when paired with finishes that echo existing cabinetry or countertops,’ says Joy Allen. ‘For a cohesive look, choose materials or hardware that match or subtly contrast your current palette – like a navy base with brushed brass pulls if your kitchen leans classic or coastal.’

Follow the experts’ advice, and it is possible to add an island to a kitchen that wasn’t designed with one, so long as you have the right space to do so. You also want it to work with the style of your current kitchen, so if you work with the same designers as your original kitchen, that will ensure it's added seamlessly to the space.

But this Spanish-style kitchen proves that being sensitive to the architectural elements needn't limit your design. The original features have been honored and celebrated, but so has the owner's vibrant style and love for modern details.

With the right balance of old and new, the space has been transformed into a transitional kitchen that feels bright, inviting, and full of characterful details. And the designer even kept a few unexpected pieces from the old design.

'The kitchen was last renovated in the late 1980s and had dark green marble everywhere. It was dark and dungeon-like,' says interior designer Christine Markatos Lowe, who was tasked with transforming the space.

It wasn't just the dark atmosphere that needed to be addressed. There were several issues with the space, from the dysfunctional kitchen layout to an awkwardly placed staircase that impeded the room.

'We completely changed the layout by removing a peninsula that cut off the breakfast area from the kitchen and added a long island for prep and seating. We also added a skylight to help bring more light into the space, as well as multiple pendant lights over the island,' she explains.

And she devised a simple yet totally effective solution to the staircase issue, too. 'There is a landing for the stairs that lead up to the children’s bedrooms, which caused a dropped ceiling in the kitchen. We resolved the drop by using cabinetry to camouflage it.'

With the practical elements rectified, Christine was able to focus on the aesthetic of the space. The old kitchen jarred with the age and Spanish Colonial architecture of the property, so it was important to ensure the design of the new space felt sympathetic to its roots.

'We wanted the overall vibe of the kitchen to feel transitional, but still be in keeping with the 1920s architecture to feel original. The client also wanted it to be modernized to feel light and bright and have every bell and whistle,' she explains.

The kitchen color palette is a real talking point of the space. It's bright and colorful without feeling overwhelming or too vibrant. 'The client loves a sunshine-y yellow in a kitchen and I thought to mix it with other colors to create a softer multicolored palette,' says Christine.

'The custom-painted backsplash tile started the color story in the space, and from there we layered a range of blues and greens in the lighting, cabinetry paint colors, and upholstery. The marble slab was a fun find as it has streaks of sage green running through the creamy white.'

It's the kitchen backsplash that stands out as a star feature for Christine, in particular, the tile used. 'It is a hand-painted Tabarka tile that we custom colored in shades of yellow, blue, and green. I think it took four samples to achieve exactly the right balance.'

At the heart of the space, the kitchen island brings in a nod to a more traditional style, adding balance to some of the more contemporary features. The aim was to create a more vintage, freestanding look, which has been achieved with the reclaimed wooden countertop and the turned leg details on the seating area.

To retain the essence of Spanish style, she introduced a plaster range hood, which not only feels authentic with the existing architecture, but instantly draws the eye and creates a hearth.

What really stands out about the redesign is the retention of original features and the number of pieces that have been brought over from the old space. One feature that really stands out is the wooden plate rack behind the dining table.

'The antique pine pie rack was a favorite piece of the client’s and had lived in a different part of the kitchen previously, tucked away against the back wall. By moving it near the eating area, she could enjoy seeing all her beautiful vintage kitchen pieces on display, and it helped establish the breakfast room vibe,' says Christine.

It's a beautiful way to bring in the old among the new, and the kitchen floor tiles have a similar effect. 'Most of the house has original terracotta floor tiles in different patterns, including the kitchen, so we had to find new tiles to fill in where we had lost ones during the demo,' she adds.

'The new terracotta pavers were hand-cut to size, then antiqued, stained, waxed, and meticulously installed with an irregular grout joint so they blended with the original. It had to be seamless!'

All of these elements combined have resulted in a stylish, personality-filled space that nails transitional design. Antique pieces are balanced by contemporary features – it proves that the architecture of your home doesn't need to limit your design.

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There are some truly stylish decor pieces in this kitchen, from the collected vintage items on display on the plate rack to the lighting and countertop decor in the main kitchen area. These details are just as important to the overall look and feel of the kitchen as the larger elements like cabinetry, countertops, and color. Here are the pieces to buy to get the look.

The kitchen of a Spanish-style home needn't conform to a specific aesthetic or color palette. This redesign proves that as long as you honor original features and architectural elements, you can have fun with your space and bring your personality in abundance. It's also a lesson in mixing old and new, with contemporary design features pairing beautifully with the vintage pieces brought into the kitchen.

Cue this small kitchen design by kitchen designers deVOL, which proves that the right color pairings can be striking and characterful without overwhelming a room. Green cabinets pair with warm neutral walls and classic brass hardware to create a traditional yet personality-filled space.

We've spoken to the designer, Iain Chatburn, to find out exactly how they brought this little green kitchen to life and their approach to maximizing the smaller footprint. From the shade choice to the curated decor, it's a space that proves even the smallest kitchens can feel grand.

The goal with this kitchen remodel was to create a characterful kitchen that maximized the available space in the small footprint and replaced all of the previous dated kitchen features, including the 'intense' primary yellow walls and tired-looking cabinetry, appliances, and flooring.

And it wasn't just the features that needed a change – the kitchen layout also needed a rethink. 'One major layout change was to extend a straight run of furniture that faced the wall into an L-shape, creating more work surface and incorporating the window view,' says Iain Chatburn, senior kitchen designer at deVOL Kitchens.

'One extra-large wall cabinet provides much-needed storage, replacing several smaller ones that did not take advantage of the ceiling height. Maximizing storage in one place like this helps other areas to feel lighter.'

This project wasn't without its challenges – unsurprising considering the mews house dates back to the 17th century, so wonky walls and floors are a given. The age of the home also means that some of the proportions were difficult to work around, including the large sash windows.

'When windows finish below countertop level, there can be a hesitancy to cover them, but it was the perfect spot for the kitchen sink. Running the copper upstand across gives a considered look from the inside and out,' explains Iain.

'When surveying the room, we realized how wonky it is. This is where the skill of our production and installation team comes in. Extra tall skirting was planned and carefully scribed into the wobbly flooring.'

Despite the initial challenges, the result is a space that feels vibrant, welcoming, and full of characterful details. Even with the small footprint, the space has a sense of grandeur about it, and it's all thanks to the striking kitchen color choices.

'The colors are the real showstopper. The green was mixed specially for the customer and is the dominant shade. The walls are a calming complementary color, and a few pops of blue add freshness,' says Iain.

It proves that subtlety isn't always best in a small space. Covering every cabinet, deVOL's Real Shaker range, in the bold green hue has given this kitchen a real sense of style and personality – it's the epitome of dopamine decor.

Pairing it with the warm neutral paint on the walls and the slightly softer sage green on the window frames has created a perfect balance. Light bounces beautifully around the room, and the space still feels open and bright.

The aged copper kitchen countertops are another feature that ties in seamlessly, and help to create a more aged, lived-in, and patinated look that you wouldn't be able to achieve with a lighter finish or a stone alternative. It's unexpected, but it really does work in this scheme.

But for Iain, there's a different feature that really steals the show. 'A huge Lacanche range cooker tells you this is a kitchen for a cook who won’t compromise on aesthetics. The customer’s personality shines through in details such as the pineapple chandelier and the vintage table and chairs.'

As well as embracing the new, it was important to retain as many of the original features as possible. And while there wasn't much left, there was one element that could be restored and allowed to shine again.

'The original wooden floor was refinished, and sympathetic features like the cast iron radiator were added, helping retain the character of this historic property. The vertical ridges of the fluted sink, radiator, and reeded glass add a subtle cohesion to the design,' he explains.

There are a few new additions to the kitchen to help reduce the visual clutter, particularly on the countertops. 'A countertop cupboard now covers the boiler and pipework in the corner, a more grounded and neat solution than the previous high wall cupboard. Small appliances can also be hidden on the work surface behind the door,' explains Iain.

And while the previously mentioned features, from color to materials, add character and create a more traditional, lived-in feel, there are plenty of smaller, more decorative decisions that aid this, too.

Layered lighting, for one, is key. Brass double-armed wall lights add functional light sources above prep spaces, such as the coffee station, while the green and white gingham light shades add pattern and interest. Kitchen countertop lamps add a secondary light source, offering a softer ambiance and the option to move them as the homeowners need.

Throughout the kitchen, potted plants, stacks of recipe books, and colorful kitchenware add personality to the space. The blue floating shelves have become a curated place for decor such as art, collected candle holders, and elevated kitchen canisters to be displayed.

This kitchen truly is a lesson in designing a small yet colorful space without completely overwhelming the room. It might be a new kitchen, but it feels right at home in the property – it truly feels like it's always been there.

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If there's anything to take from this kitchen redesign, it's that bold colors can really elevate a small kitchen layout. Bold green cabinetry and warm neutral walls are a kitchen color combination that feels characterful yet utterly classic – the perfect way to create a timeless kitchen that still showcases your vibrant personality.

This beautifully accessorized neutral kitchen proves it's easier than you might think. At first glance, it may seem as though the shelves and countertops have been filled with decor, but it's actually a stylish curation of everyday kitchenware used as decor, elevated to look more aesthetic.

It's a space that perfectly executes a relaxed feel and effortlessly layered decor, and luckily is also so easy to recreate the look as many are the pieces have been sourced from designer Amber Lewis' store, Shoppe Amber Interiors. Here's a deep dive into the design and the pieces you can easily get your hands on.

We may have seen a rise in colorful kitchen color schemes this year, but neutral spaces will always have a place, especially when they are as timeless and elegant as this design. Warm beige cabinets and walls contrast beautifully with the white marble kitchen countertops, backsplash, and floating shelf.

Carrying the stone up the walls and into a floating shelf is a hallmark of luxury design, and instantly gives this space a sense of elegance. It's a very classic aesthetic, with brass hardware in a mixture of styles to create effortless interest. Plus, there's a subtly vintage feel here that adds to the space's appeal.

The kitchen floor tiles are another striking feature that is perhaps unexpected, but incredibly effective. The checkerboard pattern featuring a white marble and a warmer neutral hue not only creates an on-trend yet timeless feature, but it also helps to tie together the different tones throughout the kitchen.

But what really makes this space stand out is the decor. From the elevated functional kitchen essentials to the curated display pieces, it strikes the perfect balance of practical yet lived-in style.

There's a truly curated mix of elevated kitchenware and timeless decorative pieces throughout the space, but it's been styled in a way that feels effortless. It looks like a kitchen that is loved, lived in, and crafted overtime.

From the open shelving filled with a mix of tableware, kitchen essentials, and decor, to the countertops that are carefully styled with a kitchen counter lamp, books, and cooking essentials, it's a lesson in decorating a kitchen without it feeling overcluttered.

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Love this look? I've put my sleuthing skills to the test to give you the lowdown on all the pieces in this kitchen that make it feel elevated and chic. From the sculptural bar stools around the island to the smaller, unexpected accessories, these nine pieces are key to this kitchen's stylish finish.

Bonus, all of these pieces are in the Shoppe Amber Interiors Memorial Day sale.

This space proves that with the right decor and stylish, you can create a chic kitchen that feels luxurious and lived-in. Don't forget to mix in a few vintage kitchen pieces to balance old and new. Something as simple as vintage hardware or even lighting can add a characterful detail.

And so, carefully designing this hardworking space to be as practical as it is chic, through clever storage, durable materials, well-considered layouts, and other kitchen ideas, may have more benefits than you might first think. Here, we've rounded up the kitchen design decisions to make now that could increase your home's value, including timeless kitchen design elements that cater to remodels and smaller decorating projects.

'The kitchen has a significant impact on a home’s resale value,' says Sabrina Dylag, lead designer at MDI Luxury Design. 'Whether you're planning a full renovation or making a few strategic updates, certain design decisions can enhance both your quality of life and your home’s appeal to future buyers.'

1. Invest in high quality, natural materials

From kitchen countertops to fittings and fixtures, designers say that investing in natural materials such as marble and brass can add value to your home, offering timeless appeal and longevity.

'Timeless materials such as marble and unlacquered brass add enduring value,' says interior designer Jamie Gernert, founder of WYC Designs. 'These natural finishes develop a beautiful patina with age, adding warmth and character. Choosing materials that age gracefully, rather than following fleeting trends, is a smart way to maintain long-term, sustainable value in your kitchen design.'

'The best way to achieve a classic look is by selecting natural materials like marble or quartzite for countertops, rather than granite or quartz, which can easily date a space,' adds Gabriela Eisenhart, founder and principal designer at Silo Studios. 'I also recommend choosing a kitchen backsplash that complements the overall design without being overly bold, patterned, or colorful. Sourcing a timeless finish like bronze, polished nickel, or brass is always a good idea, as these finishes are classic and not going to date themselves.'

2. Choose wood kitchen cabinetry

Similarly, wood kitchen cabinet ideas also offer timelessness and durability, making them a good option if you want to increase the value of your home.

'When working with a client on the investments they make in their homes, we prioritize quality materials like the rich wood cabinetry,' says Dallas-based interior designer Angeline Hall of Angeline Guido Design. 'These selections offer both durability and visual appeal.'

'The warmth of stained woods and the timeless beauty of natural stone add depth and character, transforming the kitchen into a standout feature that elevates the entire home's design and desirability,' agrees Grayson Knight, principal designer at Layered Dimensions Interior Design.

3. Mix and match kitchen hardware

Mixing different kitchen cabinet hardware ideas is one smaller design detail that is said by designers to help elevate your space.

'Mixing hardware is a great way to add dimension and interest to your kitchen,' says interior designer Shelby Van Daley of Daley Home. 'Choosing a mix of hardware sizes and finishes will add value to your kitchen because it adds personality and charm to an otherwise simple, more builder-basic design. It’s a great element to pay attention to and add interest.'

4. Choose a clever kitchen layout

If you're designing a new kitchen, choosing the right kitchen layout is arguably the most important decision to get right.

'When I’m designing a kitchen with future resale value in mind, I always prioritize a thoughtful layout that supports natural traffic flow and maximizes functionality,' says interior designer Jessica Whitley.

'It’s not just about how a kitchen looks – it’s about how it works. I think about how people move through the space, where the most-used zones should be, and how to keep prep, cooking, and clean-up areas efficient and intuitive. A well-designed layout instantly makes a home feel more livable and valuable,' says Jessica.

5. Ensure smart storage solutions

While stylistic choices are bound to elevate the value of a home, it's also worth ensuring your kitchen makes use of kitchen storage ideas, reducing clutter and creating an organized space where everything has its home.

'I also emphasize smart storage at every opportunity,' says designer Jessica Whitley. 'Buyers are always drawn to kitchens that feel organized and spacious, even if the square footage is modest.'

'I often recommend scaling up kitchen islands – not just for visual impact or additional seating, but to integrate deep drawers, hidden cabinets, or even under-counter appliances. Permanent upgrades like soft-close cabinetry, integrated inserts, and generous pantry storage signal quality and thoughtfulness. Those added storage opportunities make a huge difference in how the space lives day-to-day,' says Jessica.

6. Add a kitchen island

Another consideration to make if you're in the process of designing a kitchen is to include a kitchen island, which designers say can help add value to your home.

'One of the most impactful upgrades is adding a kitchen island,' says interior designer Sabrina Dylag of MDI Luxury Design. 'Highly desirable in modern homes, an island offers multiple benefits: extra prep space, informal dining, and potential for added storage or built-in appliances like a sink or wine cooler. It also helps define the layout in open-concept designs, improving flow and functionality.'

7. Stick to neutral colors

While kitchen color ideas can be changed more easily than more permanent fixtures, if you're thinking about the value of your home, it may be a good idea to stick to decorating with neutrals.

'To boost a kitchen’s value without a full renovation, start with easy upgrades: repaint cabinets in a fresh warm white paint and update hardware and faucets with timeless finishes like unlacquered brass or polished nickel,' advises Isabel Brewster, founder and principal designer at Isabel Brewster Interiors. 'White marble, as used in our Rhinebeck project, instantly elevates the space with sophistication and longevity.'

'While we love embracing bold colors and textures, there are still a handful of clients who look for the timeless sensibility of neutral colors in the kitchen for lasting appeal,' agrees Marissa Rago, senior designer at PBF Homes. 'Neutral cabinets ensure the kitchen still feels fresh and relevant, whether the home sells in two years or ten.'

8. Invest in custom cabinets and panel-ready appliances

Lastly, opting for custom-built kitchen cabinets along with panel-ready appliances can add value to your kitchen, creating a seamless, space-optimized flow and an uncluttered look.

'One of the most valuable kitchen design decisions I recommend is investing in custom cabinetry and panel-ready appliances,' says Houston-based interior designer Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors.

'Custom cabinetry allows for thoughtful storage solutions tailored to how a family truly lives, while panel-ready appliances create a seamless, cohesive look that elevates the entire space. These choices not only enhance everyday function but also signal quality and craftsmanship – two elements that consistently add long-term value to a home,' says Marie.

If you're in the early stages of a kitchen remodel, consider these design decisions to maximize your space and potentially increase the value of your home. It's also worth being aware of common kitchen design myths that there's no need to adhere to.

That said, if you're not in the process of remodeling, consider making some small upgrades which could potentially increase your home's value. From painting kitchen cabinets and walls in soft neutral colors to investing in quality hardware, small changes can have a big impact.

We all know skirted furniture is big for 2025, but did you know you can add a skirt to your kitchen island? It's a kitchen island trend that feels like a natural continuation of the sink skirts that proved popular last year, but it's perhaps a more impactful addition, adorning the heart of the kitchen.

And it turns out, island skirts are easier to introduce to your kitchen than you might have expected, as there's no massive overhaul required to add one in. Here's why designers are loving the trend and how to bring the look to your own kitchen island.

Much like sink and cabinet skirts, this new take on the trend sees cabinet doors on your island replaced by a strip of material. It could surround your entire island, or even just one or two cabinets. It's simply about adding a new color, texture, or pattern while breaking up a solid run of kitchen cabinets.

'Skirted kitchen islands bring a cozy furniture feel to what can sometimes be an aesthetically sterile environment. They’re a beautiful way to introduce a fun pattern or color, and they evoke that lived-in feel we love, especially when leaning into an English country kitchen aesthetic,' says Heather French, creative director and principal at French & French Interiors.

'As a designer, I’ve noticed that clients are craving warmth and personality in their homes, and the skirted island answers that beautifully. It’s a fresh departure from hard surfaces and clean lines, bringing in fabric introduces comfort and a hint of nostalgia. Plus, it allows for customization and creativity, which feels very current,' she adds.

While it might seem like a big job to remove your island's cabinet doors, it's so much easier than you think. Once you've chosen a fabric that works beautifully in your kitchen scheme, it's simply a case of installing tape, or wire, or a rail.

'We love using a custom-fabricated rail system paired with curtain rings and pinch pleats. It gives the skirt an intentional, tailored look while allowing for easy access to the storage underneath,' explains Heather.

Don't rush choosing your fabric – it should feel cohesive with the rest of your kitchen colors, patterns, and style. For Heather, taking inspiration from what you already have in your space is a great place to start.

'Matching the skirt fabric to other elements – like café curtains – adds cohesion and charm, making the whole space feel thoughtfully pulled together,' explains. If you're working with a plain kitchen, you can introduce bar stools, kitchen rugs, or even towels and oven gloves that match your skirted island to create a seamless design.

Shop kitchen island skirts

Since an island skirt is so dependent on the size and style of your island, you typically can't buy them ready-to-install from major stores. However, places like Etsy offer beautifully made examples, or you can even buy beautiful new or vintage fabrics and turn them into island skirts yourself – it's a surprisingly easy DIY project.

A skirted kitchen island is a great way to soften your design, bringing in a more personality-led, lived-in feel. It's a kitchen trend that's here to stay, whether you have a countryside-style scheme, a modern kitchen, or something in between. In fact, it can even be a great way to make a modern kitchen feel older if you want a more characterful look.

But this country kitchen remodel, in which the design team was tasked with not only reintroducing character but also creating a more open-plan design, proves it can be done.

From the beautifully tactile materials used to the subtle decor that allows the striking architectural details to truly shine, this design is a masterclass in balancing characterful style and the pared-back, rustic elegance of a classic Cotswolds home.

When the design team for this kitchen project arrived on site, the full property was undergoing a remodel, so the original kitchen had already been completely stripped out. But it wasn't difficult to figure out what had existed before, after extensive conversations with the clients.

'The old kitchen was not only outdated in terms of style and layout, but it was also completely separate from the dining and living areas,' says Charlie Smallbone, founder at Ledbury Studio.

'The brief was to take a fresh approach – to open everything up and create a spacious, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area that would become the true heart of the home. The aim was to bring in more natural light, introduce practical storage solutions, and design a space where the whole family could gather, relax and connect.'

Opening up the kitchen to create that harmonious flow between spaces was one of the major changes made in the remodel. It was key to creating a brighter and more spacious kitchen layout, and as Charlie explains: 'This not only improved the overall flow between the different zones of the home but also dramatically enhanced the sense of space and light.'

The project wasn't without its challenges, some of which came with the nature of the property. 'One of the key challenges was working with the relatively low ceilings typical of a traditional country kitchen,' he notes.

'To preserve a sense of openness and avoid a cramped, cluttered look, we chose to forgo wall-mounted cupboards. This meant we had to get creative with storage solutions to ensure the kitchen remained highly functional.'

But removing the storage provided by upper cabinets meant he needed to come up with an alternative solution that didn't impede the open, airy feel or the classic Cotswold interiors that the clients desired.

'I addressed this by maximizing the base cabinetry and designing a walk-in pantry cleverly tucked beneath the stairs. Open shelving was also thoughtfully integrated into the sloped area under the staircase to make the most of every available space,' he explains.

In the end, it was undeniably the right move to make. The newly remodeled kitchen is everything the clients asked for. 'The kitchen now embraces a warm, rustic style that complements the period character of the home while still feeling contemporary and inviting,' says Charlie.

'A carefully curated mix of contrasting textures and materials brings depth and interest to the space. Cotswold stone clads the walls, enhancing the rustic feel, while Crown oak planks on the cabinetry add a natural, tactile warmth.'

Wood kitchen cabinets create a natural, timeless base for the whole scheme, which pairs beautifully with the exposed stone walls, the epitome of Cotswolds interiors. To create some breathing space between the two natural finishes, a light marble countertop has been introduced. It's classic, neutral, yet full of warmth and character.

To help create a seamless flow between the now open-plan kitchen and dining room, the same stone kitchen flooring has been carried throughout the whole space. The same neutral, natural palette has been continued, too, allowing the two spaces to feel connected.

And it's in the dining area that one of Charlie's stand-out features is located: the bespoke breakfast and drinks cabinet. 'It was designed with both everyday ease and entertaining in mind. Positioned conveniently between the dining table and sitting areas, it brings together function and flair in one show-stopping piece,' he explains.

'Clad in solid sheets of patinated Verdigris copper, it houses everything from wine storage and a fridge to handy drawers and open shelving. A small sink and a Belgian Blue marble countertop add to its practicality, while the back panel adds a touch of glamor. It’s a beautifully considered design that balances hospitality with high impact.'

The personal details really take this kitchen to the next level, imbuing a sense of coziness and lived-in style. Lighting plays a key role here, especially in the kitchen area, which, quite unusually, has no ceiling lights. Instead, wall lights do all of the hard work.

To ensure the space has plenty of functional task lighting, wall lights with long, movable arms have been added above the key work areas, like the kitchen countertops used for food prep, the kitchen sink, and surrounding the range cooker.

Wall lights have also been introduced in the dining section, as well as a large ceiling light, with a bold, colorful shade, above the table for ambient dining. It's a lighting scheme that works beautifully, thanks to the large windows that allow plenty of natural light to filter into both spaces.

The decorative details are subtle in this design, but just enough that you get a sense of the owners' style and personality. In the kitchen, framed art on the wall and a shelf displaying colorful kitchenware add color and playful design elements, while in the dining area, collected postcards are displayed on the wall.

This space is a lesson in designing a kitchen that reflects the local area, allowing the beautiful architecture to shine. It perfectly balances the functional needs of a kitchen with subtle hints of the owners without feeling overwhelming.

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As soon as you step into this kitchen, it's clear that you're at the heart of a quintessential Cotswolds country home. From the blend of natural finishes through the wooden kitchen and the exposed stone to the subtle pattern introduced via upholstery, it's an elegant take on a country kitchen, and a lesson in knowing when to let the architecture become the focal point.

But interior designer Nate Berkus' latest Instagram post couldn't have come at a better time. I've always loved his kitchen – it nails that blend of stylish and functional while feeling like a truly timeless and sophisticated space.

And his solution? Kitchen countertop lighting – a simple, affordable, and (as he describes it) unconventional way to introduce a warmer, more welcoming atmosphere to your space.

And with the right pieces, you can create a beautifully sculptural statement. Here's why Nate loves to adorn his counters with table lamps, and the best designs that will feel right at home in your kitchen.

'One of the things that I also talk about in Foundations, my new book, is how to style different areas in the home, including countertops and unexpected places to use things that you may not have thought of using them,' says Nate via Instagram.

We often think of table lamps as an accessory to add to living rooms or bedrooms, but they can be oh so effective as part of a kitchen lighting scheme, not just from a decorative perspective, but from a practical one, too. For Nate, it's counter lamps that make the difference.

'There's always a lot of plugs, and I really like having a secondary source of light, something that's charming, something that stays on when you first wake up in the morning, something that you have on when you come home at the end of a long day, or come downstairs to et waster in the middle of the night,' he explains.

It's also a feature that can take kitchens from being this purely utilitarian room, inviting a more relaxed, social atmosphere that feels cozier and more intimate. One or two lamps on your kitchen countertops will instantly invite a sense of warmth and symbolize that this is more than just a cooking space. It's somewhere to enjoy and relax, too.

'I love the fact that a kitchen doesn't need just overhead lighting, but something really cool and concentrated on the countertop as a source of light, and a little architecture, like these vintage pyramid stone lamps, is what it's about.'

The counter lamps you choose will depend entirely on your space and style. If you want a lamp on your counter beneath a wall cabinet, consider the height you have to play with. You will probably need something a bit shorter so it looks proportionate.

Or, if you're introducing a counter lamp on either side of your cooktop, something with a bit of height can create visual interest, or something sculptural, like the vintage lights Nate has in his kitchen, creates more of a design statement.

Shop kitchen countertop lamps

So, if you're wondering should you add lamps to your kitchen, the answer is absolutely! There are so many beautiful and timeless ways to refresh your kitchen with lighting, and counter lamps are an accessible and affordable option. But as Nate proves, it can also be incredibly chic – it's simply a case of finding the right designs and choosing the right placement in your kitchen.

It can be very easy to fall into the trap of opting for a kitchen that adheres to a specific aesthetic that suits the home and forget to bring personality and originality into the scheme. But this remodel is a lesson in balancing heritage and unique design.

The overall space has influences of a Mediterranean kitchen, with nods to the property's original period as well as its more modern addition. From the colors and materials the the style of the cabinets, there is much to learn from this expert design.

'The old kitchen was quite stark. The kitchen cabinets were a modern style, not in keeping with the rest of the house, were not of high quality, and in need of replacement,' says Helen Balshaw, kitchen design and training manager at deVOL Kitchens.

While the kitchen's footprint and general kitchen layout remained the same, everything else was overhauled to accommodate a new, more fitting kitchen for the owners' style.

'The kitchen is still in the same part of the room, so the customer didn't need to move plumbing or block up windows. They installed a new floor, new cabinetry, fixtures and fittings, tiled backsplash, and painted walls and ceilings in warm and inviting colors,' Helen explains.

Starting from scratch gave the team a blank slate to work from, and they were lucky enough not to face any major issues or challenges during the redesign and build. The only obstacles came in the form of creating the best flow for the room.

'This was a lovely room to design for the Haberdashers range as there was so much space and the customers have great taste. The only slightly awkward area was the wall on which the cooker and fridge fit,' she says.

'There were two existing windows on either side of the cooker which we were keen to not block up if possible, so this restricted the options for cabinetry and appliances on this wall.'

But it was a relatively easy problem to work around, and the finished kitchen is a truly stand-out space, filled with warm, inviting colors and an overall look that feels perfectly tailored to the homeowners' style.

'It feels warm, welcoming, light, and airy. The mid-century modern style of the Haberdashers' cabinets connects the historical cottage part of the house and the modern extension with texture and natural materials,' Helen notes.

The choice of colors (including Roman Plaster by Little Greene on the walls), materials, and textures gives the new kitchen an almost Mediterranean feel. It's organic, full of warmth, and exudes charm and tranquility. And there are so many beautiful textures that give the design more interest.

'The warmth of the colors and materials and the openness are the stand-out features of the design. The freestanding Haberdashers prep table is such a focal piece with curved copper ends,' she explains.

Glass-fronted kitchen cabinets and drawers add storage while also creating a place to display functional pieces and pottery made by one of the homeowners. It's a detail that brings in something more unique.

And the tiled fireplace wall cannot be ignored. It's a real focal point in the space, and adds so much visual interest to the overall design. The kitchen tiles, Rio reclaimed tiles by Bert & May, add to the Mediterranean feel of the space, and pair beautifully with the wall color and the wood tones throughout.

They also pick up on the color of the kitchen backsplash tiles, Hessian Glazed Bejmat tiles by Bert & May, which bring in another warming hue that pairs seamlessly with the wood kitchen cabinetry.

The smaller decorative details are just as key to the space as the larger elements, bringing in personality and a lived-in feel. From the vintage wall art and rustic ceramics to the wishbone chair topped with a stripe pillow and the layered kitchen rugs, there are so many additional elements that bring in a cozier, more inviting feel.

This kitchen proves that you can honor your style and your home's roots without leaning into the obvious aesthetics. This kitchen is a true reflection of the property's old-meets-new style – the classic design with nods to modern Mediterranean style feels perfectly at home in the architecture, while offering insight into the homeowners' personalities. It's the epitome of great kitchen design.

Get the look

If there's one lesson to learn from this space, it's that designing a kitchen should be equal parts honoring your home's heritage and embracing your personal style. Don't feel like you have to do for a specific design just because it's what is expected – there are so many kitchen styles, so embrace timeless kitchen design elements with pieces that showcase your personality.

In the heart of the home, the color-drenching trend – where one paint color is used liberally to coat the walls, ceiling, and woodwork – has gone from being a daring design decision to clever kitchen color ideas, making this functional room feel cohesive and exciting.

And so, we've rounded up a selection of our favorite color-drenched kitchens that prove this is among the most timeless paint trends. If you're considering going bold with color in your own kitchen, these spaces are bound to inspire you, whether you're drawn to soft shades or dark and moody tones.

1. A moody green kitchen color drenched in Vintage Vogue by Benjamin Moore

'In this city kitchen, we leaned into the intimate footprint by going unapologetically bold with color,' explains interior designer Lucas Goldbach, Partner and Design Director at Chicago-based En Masse Architecture & Design. 'Deep green cabinetry – selected not just as a favorite hue, but to subtly mirror the veining in the soapstone countertops – anchors the space with richness and cohesion.'

The kitchen cabinet color is Benjamin Moore's Vintage Vogue, of which Lucas adds: 'The saturated palette does the heavy lifting, adding depth, warmth, and a touch of drama without overwhelming the room’s scale.'

2. A chic plaster kitchen color drenched in Pediment by Mylands

Decorating with plaster tones in a color-drenched kitchen is a great way to add more warmth and interest than classic neutrals while maintaining a light and timeless look, as demonstrated here.

'When used in a small kitchen, color drenching can reduce visual clutter, giving an illusion of more space. In larger kitchens, color drenching can visually soften an expansive space, making the kitchen feel more intimate and warm,' explains Dominic Myland, CEO at paint brand Mylands. 'Here, painting the walls and ceiling in Pediment No.73, a warm neutral blush, creates a bright but cozy atmosphere.'

3. A tiny pink kitchen color drenched in Faded Rose by Zoffany

In this rustic kitchen designed by Nigel Hunt of Huntreay Design, the kitchen cabinets by Neptune were painted in Zoffany's Faded Rose, blending with the walls to create a cohesive space that makes the most of the smaller proportions.

'Color drenching is an effective way to bring harmony and impact to a kitchen. By painting cabinets, walls, and even the ceiling in single or related shades, you soften the room’s edges and remove visual interruptions, allowing the eye to move fluidly through the space, and not fixate on the cabinetry,' says Fred Horlock, Design Director at Neptune.

'The result is a kitchen that feels cohesive, calming, and seamlessly connected to the rest of the home. It works particularly well in smaller or more enclosed kitchens, where using one color throughout helps to open up the space and create a sense of flow,' adds Fred.

4. An all green kitchen color drenched in Sage by Neptune

In this green kitchen, the cabinets were painted in Neptune's Sage, a calming shade of green that works as a more interesting alternative to neutral tones.

'Soft shades like Sage bring a gentle, tranquil feel, while richer, earthy tones such as Burnham Red or Burnt Sienna add warmth and depth without overwhelming the room,' explains Neptune's Fred Horlock. 'The result is a space that feels both characterful and cohesive – a natural extension of the home.'

5. A warming kitchen color drenched in Fake Tan by Farrow & Ball

Rather than using just one singular shade throughout a kitchen, color drenching can be just as effective by layering varying shades within the same color family.

Here, Farrow & Ball's Fake Tan is used on the kitchen walls, creating the base for the warm color scheme. While the lower oak cabinets aren't painted, the upper cabinets are painted in Neptune's Burnt Sienna, and the kitchen island is painted in Neptune's Burnham Red, creating a color-drenched scheme with added depth through the various red tones.

6. An elegant mossy kitchen color drenched in Bespoke Dark Moss Green

While light neutral paint colors achieve an airy kitchen, going bolder with dark paints feels sophisticated and cozy, much like this deep moss green that wraps this space.

'For us, the benefits are that color drenching achieves a very serene look and feel – it feels cosseting and enveloping, especially when done in a rich, dark, or moody paint color,' says Helen Parker, Creative Director at deVOL Kitchens.

'It is quite amazing how it changes the feel of a room – we have been so used to pale ceilings and woodwork and doors being picked out in a white or cream that drenching feels so much more opulent. I think color drenching works really well in darker paint tones and stronger colors; it has more of a dramatic effect and feels bold,' Helen adds.

7. A trendy teal kitchen color drenched in Crisp Romaine by Benjamin Moore

Continuing the theme of green paints, this kitchen designed by James Thomas features Benjamin Moore's Crisp Romaine in a gloss paint finish across the cabinets, creating a statement and playful look.

'We chose Crisp Romaine because we wanted to infuse the space with a color that, first, reinforced the garden theme we used in the dining room – with the treillage walls – and second, created a bold, color-drenched atmosphere,' explains Tom Riker, founder of the Chicago-based design studio.

'We loved how this high-gloss green added a moody yet happy feel to the room, while also reflecting and amplifying the light. We treated this little double-galley kitchen like a powder room: an opportunity to make a statement and really dress it up.'

8. A dramatic kitchen color drenched in Venetian plaster and Soot by Benjamin Moore

This kitchen takes on a creative approach to color drenching, combining Venetian plaster on the ceiling and walls with kitchen cabinets painted in a similar muted blue, Benjamin Moore's Soot.

'I have only seen color drenching in a Venetian plaster once, so I knew I wanted to take part in this idea,' says designer Elizabeth Bolognino. 'I found the idea of an inky blue profoundly handsome. Because the rest of the house is so light, we wanted to create a different environment and feeling in this room. It is especially intriguing because we typically do not equate dark colors with an indoor-outdoor space.'

9. A sunny yellow kitchen color drenched in Giallo by Little Greene

While yellow paints are bold, they make for an instantly uplifting, cheery space when used liberally in a kitchen. Here, Little Greene's Giallo was used on the walls and cupboards in addition to the ceiling, creating a design statement in this functional room.

'The kitchen, often seen as the heart of the home, is the perfect space to use bolder colors such as Giallo, reminiscent of the golden sun, which will bring joy and create an energetic scheme,' explains Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene. 'For an impactful look, drench your space in color on all four walls. Used all over, Giallo will envelop the kitchen with sunshine all year round.'

From neutral kitchens to colorful kitchens, color-drenching is proving to be an incredibly timeless and enduring paint trend for the heart of the home. Not only is it a simple way to add design flair, but it's a clever way to make this utilitarian space feel more cohesive with fewer visual breaks.

Feeling inspired to take this paint trend elsewhere in your home? We've rounded up a selection of rooms that prove color drenching makes small spaces look bigger, in case you need any more convincing.

It's a beautiful way to bring a unique fixture into a room, but it can also be a complicated commodity to get right. From style to safety concerns, is it wise to decorate with vintage when it comes to your kitchen lighting ideas?

There's no denying how striking vintage lighting can be, so we asked the experts if we should be using it in the kitchen. It turns out, you absolutely can bring it into your cooking space, but there are a few things to consider first.

Is vintage lighting a good idea in a kitchen?

Vintage lighting brings a character to a kitchen that feels unique and lived-in. Whether it's a statement style of a bygone era or a delicate patina that can't be replicated, it's clear to see why so many people gravitate towards these older fixtures.

'Vintage lighting is a timeless addition that works beautifully in a variety of kitchen styles. In a modern space featuring elements like chrome or marble, vintage fixtures can add warmth and character, helping to ground the overall aesthetic,' says Sophie Salata, of Vinterior.co.

'If your kitchen leans more traditional, vintage lighting can enhance that classic charm while introducing a sense of individuality. It’s a simple yet impactful way to bring depth, personality, and a story into your space,' she adds.

Which vintage lighting is best in a kitchen?

When it comes to styles and eras, the vintage lighting that works best in the kitchen will depend entirely on your space and style. Spend some time researching to find the designs you gravitate towards most.

'For kitchens, I’m drawn to early 20th-century industrial-style pendants (think enamel or brass). They add character without overwhelming the space and work beautifully against natural materials like timber and stone,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

If you prefer something lighter and less industrial in style, there are other designs of the era that are just as striking. 'For a softer, more decorative feel, early 1900s milk glass or etched glass pendants can introduce subtle texture and warmth,' she adds.

Kitchen pendant lights are a great choice as they become an instant focal point wherever they are installed. 'Long-hanging vintage lights above a dining area or kitchen island are both stylish and practical,' says Sophie.

'They make a real impact and are still pretty flexible, as you can change out the shade very easily. I’d recommend looking for French fluted glass pendants or enamel shades for a classic feel.'

But other types of lighting can also have an impact visually and functionally in a kitchen. In rentals or schemes where swapping out the lighting isn't quite so simple, a vintage kitchen countertop lamp can be a useful and ambient addition.

'Placing a lamp on your kitchen counter or island is an easy way to make the space feel more lived-in and inviting. It’s low-commitment, you can move it around as your mood or layout changes,' says Sophie.

'I love the idea of a turned wooden base paired with a playful shade. Think of this as more of a styling accent than a primary light source, but it adds a ton of personality,' she explains.

Not every kitchen benefits from wall lights, but if yours does, introducing a vintage fixture is a great way to create a striking feature, especially if you go for a more statement design style to create contrast.

'If you're feeling bold, go for something that creates contrast with the rest of your kitchen, like a pair of Vico Magistretti sconces in a more traditional setting. They’re unexpected and they spark conversation,' says Sophie.

But regardless, it's important to choose vintage lighting that you truly love and that will stand the test of time in your scheme. 'At the end of the day, pick pieces that make you smile and create a space that feels uniquely yours.'

What do people need to consider before introducing vintage lighting to their kitchen?

In theory, introducing vintage lighting to your kitchen is a no-brainer. They look great and they add a historic feature, but there's more to it than the visual elements that make them so appealing.

While vintage lighting certainly adds history and character to kitchen schemes, Lauren says it's not always the best idea. 'Older fittings may not comply with modern safety standards, and wiring can be particularly problematic.'

Installing vintage lighting with old or faulty wiring can be incredibly dangerous. 'It’s always worth consulting a qualified electrician to assess whether a piece needs to be rewired or adapted to ensure it’s safe for everyday use,' she adds.

It's not just the wiring that needs to be checked for safety reasons, but also the entirety of the fixture itself. 'It’s also worth checking the structural integrity of the piece, especially with heavier fittings, to ensure it’s suitable for hanging. If in doubt, seek advice from a specialist who can assess its condition and advise on necessary updates,' Lauren advises.

Where to buy vintage and vintage-style lighting

If you're searching for vintage lighting, there are a few places you can shop online. Vinterior.co and 1stDibs have a vast range of fixtures from sellers and sealers around the US, or you can search Etsy to see what is available, although it's worth checking the sellers' reviews to make sure they are reputable.

If you want to shop in-person, check out your local vintage stores, antique fairs, or even estate sales, as you can find some real hidden gems, often for good prices. Buying from a specialised vintage lighting seller also means you can ask them for advice of the best fixtures and whether or not a piece will need rewiring.

If vintage lighting isn't an option for your kitchen, whether it's because you have spotlights or you are restricted due to renting, there are some really great contemporary fixtures that have been designed in the vintage style.

'There are some excellent reproductions available that feel like antique designs without the potential safety concerns, offering fixtures that nod to classic styles while meeting current standards,' says Lauren.

The verdict? Vintage lighting is a great choice for your kitchen, as long as you take the necessary safety checks and precautions. Ensuring the wiring is up to code is essential, so don't hesitate to call an expert if you're unsure.

And when it comes to the best vintage lighting styles? 'There are no strict rules – it’s really about finding pieces that complement your space and bring you joy, without overthinking it,' says Sophie.

Whether you want to start simple with a lamp or make a statement with pendant lights, take your time finding the perfect design. Take your kitchen cabinet hardware into consideration when choosing your lighting – mixing metals in the kitchen can be tricky to get right!

When I think about it, many of the items my grandma owned, she'd had for decades. So, in an effort to understand which vintage kitchen pieces you should be on the lookout for, I reached out to interior designers and vintage experts. Their advice proves the importance of investing in the right pieces and the (sometimes underestimated) power of old classics.

So, keep your eye on these six items next time you're at your grandma's.

1. Vintage china and transferware

My grandma's kitchen was filled with china, from blue and white Spode to more bespoke designs. No kitchen idea is complete without a good set. Whether inspired by vintage kitchen ideas or decorating a less traditional space, there's nothing like a good set of elegant plates to spruce up your walls or shelves.

While there are china display rules worth following, the beauty of these pieces is the vintage charm and patina they give to a space, be it a dining room, kitchen, or even entryway. They're classic vessels that will continue to impress guests, whether you're decorating with them or using them on the table, your grandma's china will continue to be a part of future family rituals.

Hattie Hansard from Joanna Wood says, 'Keep as much porcelain and chinaware as you can store – antique china is a true luxury. When mixed with contemporary pieces, it can create a really striking and personal look. Even if you only have one or two plates, don’t be afraid to repurpose them: they make beautiful soap dishes in bathrooms, or elegant trays for bath oils or jewellery on a dressing table.'

2. Antique glassware

Whether it's a champagne coup, goblet, or tea glass, you'll likely find some type of glassware in your grandma's kitchen. Traditional glassware is worth collecting, making excellent additions to the home aesthetically and functionally.

Hattie shares her expert tips on thrifting vintage glassware, saying, 'Antique glassware is also worth holding onto – mismatched sets can add charm and character to a modern table setting, and look great on a bar, even a single glass to hold cocktail stirrers and paraphernalia can really knock the stuffing out of a modern bar trolley.'

Fear not if your grandma's kitchen doesn't feature glassware; you can find plenty of reasonably priced vintage styles at estate sales and thrift stores, making starting an antiques collection a satisfying venture.

3. Good linen

My grandma knew how to set a dining table, always ensuring it was laid with a classic linen tablecloth and matching napkins. So if you're unsure how to choose a tablecloth, look to your grandma's timeless collection for inspiration.

Interior designer Tara Shaw says, 'When an event or holiday rolls around, I am so grateful to have my grandmother's china, vintage glassware, and linens. Not only does it bring back wonderful memories, but it elevates the dinner or event.' While some materials are unlikely to stand the test of time, organic linen will last if stored and cared for well, and will help you create a classic, traditional dining room look that pays homage to your grandmother.

Hattie agrees, saying, 'Good linen, vintage napkins, and old tablecloths are always worth saving. They bring a sense of heritage and texture to a table.' While there are plenty of vintage styles (hand-embroidered, crocheted, and block-printed are classic examples) on websites like eBay, countless homeware brands have created lasting table linen inspired by the past.

4. Decorative ceramics

Ceramics are a classic in any kitchen style, so you'll likely find some pottery in your grandma's kitchen, whether a hand-painted fruit bowl or a salad bowl and servers. Often bold and distinct, decorating with vintage ceramics is a classic way of giving the home a sense of whimsy and character.

Interior designer Georgie Wykeham says you should keep any 'Really good ceramics.' She continues, 'My Grandma had amazing plates, dishes, decorative china pots of oranges and lemons, she either hung it, had it in cupboards, or on display – none of it was a set, but it all worked so well together.' If one item catches your eye, the beauty of decorating with ceramics is the individuality of the pieces, so don't feel you need to match everything.

Georgie adds, 'She was a gluten for a bowl and I still today have lots of her little bowls, salt cellar, and the pot of ceramic lemons and oranges in my kitchen at home and I love them!'

Interior designer Shani Core says, 'My grandmother had a beautiful selection of porcelain antique plates, I love to hang them on the wall and mix with more modern elements. Bringing your grandmother’s memory into your kitchen is always a great idea and is easier than you would think!'

5. Quality cookware

There are countless ways to turn your kitchenware into decor, so be mindful of any quality cookware that your grandma may have once had. These pieces are functional and likely to last beyond their years, as well as being the perfect source of decoration for the kitchen.

Hanging copper pans can give you that farmhouse kitchen feel. Even the oldest copper pots and pans can be cleaned and made new, and work well alongside a variety of cookware. However, if you're planning to cook with these pieces, you might be better off with a newer version.

Shani says, 'My favorite item I inherited from my grandmother is her well-loved and used old cast iron skillet. When I am not using it, I love to keep it on my stovetop as one of my styling tools instead of hiding it in a cabinet.'

You might notice a Le Creuset Dutch oven in your grandma's kitchen, too. An example of kitchenware that lasts for years, keep your eyes on this style if you're looking for a reliable vessel that can be relied on for years of cooking. Store away in a cabinet or leave out on your stove for a characterful display that honors grandma's cooking.

6. Classic cutlery

While old cutlery isn't always in the best state, it's a good idea to swot up on the best vintage flatware styles and makers, as you never know, your grandma might have a collectible set. Fine quality silver or gold cutlery is a surefire way to elevate your table, too, and will make an impressive statement when having guests over.

Georgie says, 'I love a traditional bone handle knife – a nightmare as it adds to washing up, but there is something so good about the weight and feel!' Whether it's a set of ornate Art Deco spoons or Baroque-inspired dessert forks, these pieces will continue to shine for years. However, look out for signs you need to replace your flatware if planning on using these pieces often.

There are vintage pieces every kitchen should have, and that includes your grandma's collection of cookware, china, and linen. These pieces are not only classic in design, but they're also made with quality and endurance at their core, making them a wise and welcome choice for homes everywhere.

To help you make the best choice for your space, we've turned to designers to weigh in on the pros and cons of both designs, and which works best for your needs, layout, and kitchen size.

What's the difference between a breakfast bar and a kitchen island

Understanding the exact differences between a breakfast bar and an island can help you choose the best option for your kitchen. And there's more to it than meets the eye.

'The main difference lies in their placement and function,' says Natalie Rebuck, of Re: Design Architects. 'A kitchen island is a freestanding piece typically centered in the kitchen, allowing circulation on all sides. A breakfast bar is usually attached to a wall or kitchen cabinets, often extending from a kitchen peninsula or along the perimeter.'

Another one of the main differences is the way they function for the whole kitchen. 'A breakfast bar will be defined by having seating around it; for an island, this is optional,' says Jayne Everett, creative designer at Naked Kitchens.

They are both popular options – islands are often favored to serve as the heart of the kitchen as a multi-functional hub, whereas a breakfast bar is often favored in small kitchens for the sole purpose of providing an easy seating space.

'Both can be highly functional depending on the kitchen layout, appliance placement, and the location of windows and doors. The right choice depends on how the space is used and how movement flows through it,' adds Natalie.

Pros and cons of a breakfast bar

A breakfast bar is perhaps the less considered option of the two. Islands have become the most coveted layout, but that doesn't mean a simpler, smaller breakfast bar doesn't have its place. They are once again becoming increasingly popular where an island simply won't work, with many breakfast bar ideas for small kitchens proving popular.

'A breakfast bar is space-saving and ideal for casual dining with barstools. It’s generally more cost-effective and easier to install than a kitchen island. Because it’s attached to a wall or run of cabinets, it allows plumbing and electrical work to be hidden within the cabinetry, eliminating the need to open the floor, which is often required for islands,' explains Natalie.

One of the biggest draws of a breakfast bar is that it creates a more sociable atmosphere in a small or narrow kitchen. It can also create zoning without causing harsh visual divides.

'A breakfast bar is a great way to enhance the socialness of a kitchen, allowing space for family or guests to sit. Where space is limited, a breakfast bar is a great solution to achieve seating within a kitchen, along with extra kitchen countertop space, as this takes up less space than an island,' explains Jayne.

However, there are some limitations to a breakfast bar, especially if cabinet space is at the top of your list of priorities. 'Breakfast bars often offer limited storage and counter space, and can’t typically accommodate appliances or a kitchen sink,' says Natalie.

'From a design perspective, one major drawback is how they can interrupt the flow of the kitchen, creating a visual or functional “dead end” that restricts movement,' she adds.

Pros and cons of a kitchen island

There are lots of different kitchen island types, but most of them tick many of the boxes that a breakfast bar doesn't. There's plenty of space for storage, multi-functional surface space, and often the option to integrate appliances, a cooktop, or a sink.

'Kitchen islands offer flexibility and improved circulation, which is one of their biggest advantages. They allow for better movement around the space, making it easier for multiple people to work in the kitchen at once,' explains Natalie.

'Islands also add generous counter space, additional storage, and can accommodate appliances, sinks, and electrical outlets, making them highly functional,' she adds, emphasizing their versatility in a kitchen.

However, the larger size of an island isn't always beneficial, especially in small kitchen layouts. If you don't have the space to accommodate it, you can end up with a kitchen that feels crowded and dysfunctional.

'Islands require ample square footage to be effective. In smaller kitchens, they can feel cramped or hinder traffic flow. Installation costs can also be higher, especially if utilities need to be routed through the floor,' Natalie notes.

Installation costs are a huge consideration – if you want to move your sink or dishwasher to your island, you'll need to factor in the cost to reroute the plumbing, which can be costly, especially in older homes.

How to choose which is best for your kitchen

Whether a breakfast bar or kitchen island is best will depend entirely on your space and how you use it. The best place to start is to measure your kitchen to see what space you have to play with.

'Start with the layout and scale of your kitchen. Islands demand more clearance space – typically at least 36-42” around all sides to ensure comfortable flow,' says Natalie. Once you know how much space you have for an island, you will also start to see what shape will make the most sense, too.

While the classic rectangular island is the most used, square kitchen islands are also proving increasingly popular, as are double islands and work table kitchen islands for a more traditional look.

It's not just the square footage you need to consider when deciding between and kitchen island and a breakfast bar. You also need to consider the flow of the space, as well as where entry doors, windows, and large appliances are located.

'Evaluate how the feature will integrate into your kitchen’s flow, including door and window locations. And make sure the functional kitchen triangle between the sink, cooktop, and refrigerator remains intact, whether you’re adding a bar, island, or both.'

How you use your kitchen is also a key consideration – do you need a kitchen island? If prep space and storage are the priority, an island might be the best option as it provides everything you need.

But if it's additional seating you're after, a breakfast bar is a sleeker way to do it. Natalie also notes that budget needs to be a big consideration here, as a breakfast bar is a more affordable option than a full island.

The main things to think about when choosing between an island and a breakfast bar are space, lifestyle, and budget. If you've got a big budget, a larger kitchen, and the need for storage, choose an island.

But if you have a small space and simply want the seating space for casual dining, a breakfast bar will be perfectly suited for your needs. There are plenty of other features to consider, too.

If you don't need a built-in island but want more seating than a breakfast bar provides, you might want to consider whether you should choose a kitchen island or a kitchen table. And in more compact spaces, there are some small kitchen island ideas that provide the functionality without impeding on flow.

This is perhaps why some of the most coveted designs feature kitchen countertops in this natural stone with stunning veined details. But as beautiful as they are, there are a few things you need to know before jumping in with your marble kitchen ideas.

So, we've turned to the experts who have worked with marble time and time again to find out everything you need to know about the luxe countertop material – and how to make sure it's the right choice for your space.

What's the appeal of marble countertops?

It's clear to see why marble countertops are so coveted. This natural stone offers a unique finish from every cut, while the striking veining creates an eye-catching focal point in any kitchen.

'Marble is an incredibly beautiful, natural material with an organic elegance that’s hard to replicate. Its veining, tone variations, and tactile softness give it a rich, storied quality, full of depth, character, and history,' says interior designer Becky Shea.

'It’s one of the most special and timeless stones available, instantly elevating any space it inhabits. Whether in a modern or traditional kitchen, marble brings a sense of understated luxury and refinement that never goes out of style,' she adds.

Its timelessness and unique appeal are what make marble countertops so desirable, especially as kitchen trends continue to lean toward more personalized interiors with depth and visual interest.

'Each slab is completely individual, giving any kitchen a bespoke feel. Whether you choose classic Carrara or more unusual stones like green marbles or even semi-precious materials, marble brings a sense of natural beauty and sophistication that is hard to replicate,' adds Oliver Webb, director at Cullifords.

What are the benefits of marble countertops?

You won't be surprised to find that one of the biggest benefits of marble countertops is its natural beauty – the aesthetic it brings to kitchens of every style can not be overlooked.

'Its natural beauty is definitely at the top of the list. Marble has a timeless, organic elegance that brings warmth and sophistication to any space,' says Becky, who adds that there are more practical benefits, too.

'It’s also an incredibly durable countertop material – when properly sealed and maintained, it can last a lifetime. While it does require a bit of care, its longevity and unique character make it well worth the effort,' she explains.

Oliver agrees, noting that the combination of beauty and performance makes marble countertops a stylish choice. 'It is cool to the touch, making it excellent for tasks like baking,' he says.

'With proper care, it can last for many years and can be re-polished in situ to restore its original finish. It’s also worth noting that despite concerns over staining, marble outperforms many synthetic surfaces and woods in durability, and any stains can be removed with poultices. Plus, marble is a kitchen feature that adds value to a home.'

What are the drawbacks of marble countertops?

While marble countertops are a favorable choice for kitchen surfaces, there are some drawbacks that are typical of a more natural stone. And most of them are a result of not keeping up with the necessary maintenance.

'If not properly cared for, marble can be prone to scratching, staining, and water marks. It’s a softer, more porous stone, so it requires a bit more attention than other surfaces,' says Becky.

'That said, like anything of value, taking good care of it helps preserve its beauty and extend its life. With the right maintenance, marble can age gracefully and develop a patina that many find even more beautiful over time,' she adds.

As it's a natural material, marble will naturally age over time, unlike man-made alternatives that stay pristine for longer. However, many designers say this natural wear and aging is a lovely feature.

'Over time, marble will develop a patina, which many see as part of its charm, but others may find less desirable. Some marbles are softer than others, so performance can vary slightly between types,' explains Oliver.

This is something to consider when choosing your kitchen countertop material. If you don't like that natural patina, you probably won't like the way your marble countertops look after a few years, so it's best to go for a man-made alternative like porcelain countertops.

How to care for marble countertops

If you do want marble countertops, you need to be prepared to commit to the maintenance and upkeep that they require to stay looking and performing their best. 'Marble requires a bit more upkeep than other surfaces, so it’s important to go in with realistic expectations,' says Becky.

'Daily wipe-downs (often multiple times a day), always using coasters and pot holders, and being diligent about using a cutting board – especially when working with oils like olive oil – are essential to prevent staining and etching,' she explains.

Knowing how to clean marble surfaces, and doing it regularly is key. 'While sealed marble is more resistant to stains, no stone is completely stain-proof, so spills should be cleaned up quickly,' says Oliver, who recommends using 'light soapy water' and 'avoiding harsh chemicals' if you want to keep them in beautiful condition overtime.

Have a few cleaning supplies kept aside that you use solely to clean your marble countertops to ensure you don't risk mixing in any unwanted ingredients or chemicals. Refillable options, like these amber glass spray bottles, and a microfibre cleaning cloth are all you need.

'The good news is that any damage can be repaired – stains can be removed with a poultice, and the surface can be re-polished as needed. We always recommend taking samples home to get a feel for how the material works in your space,' he adds.

To keep your marble countertops in the best condition possible, Becky recommends consulting professionals on occasion to help with the upkeep. 'It’s important to have your marble professionally resealed every 3–5 years. Superficial scratches can typically be buffed out, so when it’s time to reseal, it’s a good opportunity to have your fabricator give the surface a light polish to restore its finish.'

How to style marble countertops

The beauty of marble countertops is that they can tie into almost any interior design style. From modern to traditional, Victorian to country kitchens of every region, there are so many ways to style them into a scheme.

'I think beautifully crafted stain-grade millwork pairs exceptionally well with marble. There’s something so special about placing two natural, organic materials side by side,' says Becky.

'The contrast between the smooth, veined stone and the warmth and texture of wood creates a striking, balanced harmony. It’s one of the most timeless and elegant combinations you can use in a kitchen

Wooden kitchens have been enjoying a revival this year thanks to their timeless appeal and ability to add warmth to a scheme, so the two natural materials feel like the perfect kitchen pairing.

If you prefer a painted scheme, marble countertops can work well with so many colors, made better if you choose marble with veining that matches the rest of your kitchen color ideas.

'Marble looks stunning alongside natural wood or painted kitchen cabinetry, especially in soft greys, whites or deep blues,' says Oliver. 'Brass or matte black fixtures complement marble’s luxurious feel, and natural stone floors or hardwood can enhance its warmth and texture.'

It's clear to see why so many designers are fans of decorating with marble in the kitchen. It's timeless, striking, and versatile. But marble countertops are not for the faint-hearted, so make sure you're prepared for the upkeep before you invest.

But the required maintenance doesn't take away from their beauty and the ability to create a unique scheme. There are so many kitchen colors that go with a marble countertop, so you can create a design that perfectly reflects your style.

While vintage kitchen ideas are a beautiful place to start, there are smaller ways to decorate with vintage in the kitchen that can be introduced to spaces of every style. From small decorative items to larger vintage furniture, there are so many pieces that can make a stylish impact.

But what are the must-have items? I asked interior designers which vintage pieces they think every kitchen needs, and their answers offer the perfect variety of characterful additions.

5 vintage pieces every kitchen should have, according to designers

There are so many reasons interior designers recommend bringing vintage pieces into your kitchen. They are not only more unique and characterful than contemporary designs, but they are also one of the easiest ways to make a modern kitchen feel older.

Take a look at the most coveted vintage trends for 2025 to gain an idea of what styles and eras to have on your radar – and take note of these vintage pieces designers say every kitchen should have for a characterful scheme.

1. A vintage butcher's block or prep table

When you think about adding decor to your kitchen, your mind probably goes to the smaller, more decorative items. But sometimes, it's the larger, more statement features that can have the biggest impact.

'I always love incorporating a vintage butcher block table or antique prep table into a kitchen. There’s something incredibly soulful about a piece that has seen generations of use; the knife marks, the weathered patina, the quiet history embedded in the grain,' says Vyanca Soto, of Market Studio Interiors.

'In a world where so much feels polished and new, a vintage butcher block brings warmth, authenticity, and a tactile richness that instantly grounds a kitchen. It reminds you that kitchens aren’t just places to cook, they’re places to gather, create, and live.'

2. Vintage glass and ceramics

For many people, bringing in vintage pieces is more about decor, and glass and ceramic pieces are the perfect choice. They can be displayed on kitchen shelving, mantels above a range cooker, and even on your kitchen countertops.

'We love incorporating vintage glass bottles and ceramics – especially when repurposed as vases. These pieces are perfect for displaying cut garden stems, dried florals, or even kitchen tools,' says Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia, founders of House of Hive Design Co.

'One of our absolute favorites is a classic seltzer bottle. They bring such a cool quality, elevating a counter vignette or open shelf. Whether it's a vibrant colored glass or a muted, aged metal mesh, they feel collected and nostalgic in the best way. We often style them alongside cookbooks, candles, or fresh herbs,' they add.

3. Antique and vintage plate racks

One of the most authentic ways to bring vintage into the kitchen is to choose pieces that once would have been a staple feature in a cooking space. Think of it as bringing back a traditional feature.

'Antique plate racks are another go-to,' says Kailee and Taylor. 'When we see one, we immediately think of the dreamy, slightly whimsical kitchen from Practical Magic (designed by Roman and Williams), which is a major inspiration for us when we’re thrifting or curating layered, charming kitchen spaces. They add such a grounded, old-world feel.'

This is also a great option in small kitchens, where full sized upper cabinets can make the space feel more compact – a vintage plate rack adds extra storage in a less intrusive and utterly stylish way.

4. Brass vintage lighting

You can also introduce a touch of vintage through the more essential aspects of your kitchen. From vintage kitchen hardware to add charm and character to your cabinetry to introducing vintage fixtures in place of your regular kitchen lighting ideas, they can be a more fun and less expected way to decorate.

'I always love to incorporate vintage lighting with brass details. It brings a timeless elegance and subtle warmth to the space. The aged brass patina adds depth and a soft glow that contrasts beautifully with modern finishes,' says Elizabeth Mollen, of Stone Textile Studio.

'It’s a simple way to introduce character and a sense of history without overwhelming the design. I’d style vintage brass lighting above a kitchen island or dining nook, pairing it with fun textures like stone or fabric.'

5. Vintage tableware and drinkware

Of course, decorating with vintage pieces that would have belonged in the kitchen is the best way to elevate your space, so why not look to the pieces you use day in, day out?

'Of course, vintage mugs, dishes, and silverware are staples as well. We always encourage clients to lead-test vintage dishware before everyday use, but there’s nothing like the delicate patterns or weighty feel of a well-made antique,' says Kailee and Taylor.

'And vintage silverware is a favorite of ours – the detail, craftsmanship, and patina just can’t be replicated in modern sets,' they add, all of which look truly beautiful displayed on open shelving or inside glass-fronted kitchen cabinets.

There's no denying that decorating with antiques and vintage pieces is the perfect way to add character and unique style to your kitchen. Whether you opt for larger items like a butcher block or smaller decorative ceramics, no space is too small for these pre-loved designs.

Be mindful of the things you buy second-hand and vintage, though – it's worth reading up on the kitchen items you should never buy at a thrift store or vintage market before curating your space.

And if you don't have any vintage or antique stored nearby, there are loads of places to buy vintage furniture online, as well as smaller decorative items that are perfect for your kitchen.

I wasn't really looking for tips on how to style a kitchen table when I was recently speaking with furniture designer Fred Rigby, I was looking for big, impactful changes and an insight into upcoming furniture trends. But he mentioned a very small and simple idea that would help elevate my table immediately. An affordable addition which, he told me, would change everything – adding a lamp.

Fred Rigby of Fred Rigby Studio designs beautiful tables and chairs, so I was naturally asking him about what makes the perfect kitchen table. After some chat about size, shape, and number of seats (six, since you ask, as long have you have room, of course), he started talking about finishing touches.

'You need a nice big lamp on your kitchen table,' Fred told me. 'Ideally, a portable lamp, so there are no wires trailing off. It needs to sit right in the center, and it needs to be dimmable. One that you can turn up to full brightness if you're reading and working, and down to a lower level for a dinner party mood. It will not only make the table more functional, but also make it a piece of furniture you're more drawn to, and that will look more curated. I'd also suggest adding a big, decorative fruit bowl.'

So I followed his kitchen lighting advice, and it worked. I got the Thebe portable lamp from Heathfield & Co., and its elegant frame and downward glow creates such a gentle pool that is so elegant to eat dinner by, and so functional for working.

I love the fact that it is wireless, so can be right in the middle of the table – or pushed to one end if we have guests, and its battery life is about 10 hours or so before it needs charging.

Best of all, it has made me treat the table with more reverence. I have stopped throwing whatever is in my hands on it, as the table now always looks like it's set for something, and not just a dumping ground. A total design win.

Portable lamps are a relatively new idea in design that has totally taken over. And they are huge in kitchen lighting trends due to the fact that you can add soft pools of light, anywhere you like, to this usually very practical space.

Advances in technology mean that battery life is longer, and they can often be used both indoors and out. Plus, they are great for rentals, or for anyone who has faced the struggle with not having a plug in the right spot for your lighting visions.

'Less is more when it comes to portable lamps,' says Pollyanna Wilkinson, the designer who collaborated with Heathfield & Co on the new range of portable lamps, which includes the one I own. 'There is a romance to just having one on the table, as less light is better for an evening mood – it's softer and prettier. Portable lights are very refined, and help you create an elegant space to live.'

These are some of my favorite picks that I came across while hunting for my own perfect kitchen table lamp.

This small tweak to my kitchen table really has made all the difference, and I am now dotting lamps all over the hardworking surfaces in my home. There's a tiny one on the coffee table, and I just added a portable lamp to my bathroom vanity that adds such a gorgeous glow in the evening.

And while there may be talks of white kitchen ideas being out of style this year, when done right, it can be the most classic kitchen color – and it's been demonstrated beautifully in this project.

A dated space has been given a transitional makeover to create a kitchen full of texture, interest, and timeless style. From the classic color palette to the personalized touches, there's plenty we can all learn from this transformation.

Designer Elizabeth Bolognino described the original kitchen as 'a bit of a mess.' Heavy door details, cracked surfaces, and an outdated porcelain tile layout left it needing a big refresh.

Thankfully, the existing kitchen has great bones, which gave her a solid base to work from. 'This kitchen cabinetry was in excellent shape, so instead of ripping out the boxes, we reused them. It saved so much money, not to mention trees,' she explains.

'I had to replace all of the appliances, given the existing openings of the original cabinetry. Renovating with the environment in mind is so important, and I’m so glad we reused part of the original kitchen. You don’t have to rip out to renovate.'

The new kitchen is a far cry from the dated space it once was. The white kitchen feels bright and airy, with added warmth from the aged brass and wooden accents. It exudes classic style and timeless appeal in abundance.

'Our kitchen walks that fine line between traditional and contemporary. It’s really important to renovate in a way that won’t age to protect a homeowner’s investment. We err on the side of classical, but with a clean, layered, minimalist approach. Honor tradition, but reinterpret it,' says Elizabeth.

Shaker cabinets are a hallmark of traditional kitchen design, and they bring a beautiful texture to the design, embellished with brass kitchen cabinet hardware. But it's the use of white that brings in something a bit more contemporary.

And it's been brought onto the kitchen island too, which boasts a beautiful statement countertop. 'The island stone is gorgeous, Calacatta Turquoise Antico. I love that it has plum tones that fade to turquoise towards the oven side of my island,' she says.

'I paired them with straight Calacatta Turquoise on the outer cabinets of our kitchen. The entire kitchen is honed, and we found the stones at ABC Stone in NYC.' Taking the more statement stone up the backsplash creates a stylish focal point and instantly brings in more visual interest to balance the white cabinetry.

One of the standout features is the new range hood, which adds a warmer finish to the scheme. 'With the help of my friends at RBL Metals, we created a custom hood to accent the La Dolce Vita range by Officine Gullo,' says Elizabeth. It picks up on the warmer tones used for the hardware and light fixtures, adding a more cohesive look.

And the range cooker is the standout feature for Elizabeth. 'The Officine Gullo range and burnished brass hood paired with Thomas O’Brien’s (he’s one of my idols) pendants create a beautiful triad.'

The dark wood dining table is the piece that really gives this kitchen that welcoming, family feel. Its deep tones, beautifully turned legs, and the slightly lighter chairs signal that this is a space to enjoy and spend time in, not just be used as a functional room.

There's a truly lived-in quality to this kitchen. A white scheme filled with clean lines and contemporary touches can instantly feel cold, but the decorative details in this space add warmth, texture, and a sense of personality.

The kitchen countertop decor is crucial to this – from the vase full of branches and abundant fruit bowl on the island to the open recipe book and collection of kitchenware displayed beside the range, the space feels curated but not fussy, lived-in yet not cluttered.

If there's anything you can take away from this kitchen, it's how to expertly toe the line between modern and traditional. Elizabeth has achieved a refined elegance that's not easy to do, with just the right amount of texture, interest, and decor to create a space that feels timeless and filled with personality.

Shop the look

Remodeling a kitchen is all about finding the balance between creating a space that feels reminiscent of your style while ensuring it won't feel dated in five years. Transitional kitchens are favored for this approach, or for something with a bit more playfulness, you can also experiment with midimalist kitchen ideas. However, you design your space, make sure you infuse it with character and personality – a sterile room will never truly feel like home.

In any well-designed kitchen, smart kitchen storage ideas are a priority, but achieving them is often easier said than done. Even if you’re of average height, chances are there are a few areas that are beyond reach, and most of us are probably wasting all that high-up cabinet space. These areas are so underutilized, home to appliances we never use, and the mountain of plastic containers we never reach for.

Thankfully, I recently found a really easy, on-trend solution – a sleek, chic ladder. Here’s why it changed my kitchen (and cooking) for the better.

I had always loved the look of kitchen ladders long before I ever took the plunge and purchased one. Growing up, the allure was irresistible; all that elegance and drama, gliding from shelf to shelf like something out of a storybook. Today, as we lean into creating spaces that feel layered and considered, the humble kitchen ladder lends an undeniable intellectual flair.

'We’ve seen a huge rise in demand for rolling ladders in kitchens and it’s easy to see why,' says Jessica Davis, Managing Director of The Library Ladder Company. 'They combine timeless, characterful design with everyday functionality, allowing homeowners to make full use of tall cabinetry and maximize vertical space. As more people embrace full-height storage, ladders have become not just practical, but a standout design feature that adds elegance and sparks conversation.'

Despite their scholarly roots, kitchen ladders needn’t feel austere; in fact, in my space it has given more of a modern rustic kitchen feel.

You can embrace bold hues and striking materials to bring a sense of playfulness too. 'Library ladders add an element of fun to the kitchen, and it’s a focal point that’s sure to grab the attention of guests. It’s also practical, and particularly useful for rooms with high ceilings containing cupboards or shelves in hard-to-reach places,' explains Lizzie Spinks, head of design at bespoke kitchen company Makers.

I drew inspiration from the Makers kitchen above, where a solid walnut library ladder pairs with apothecary-style drawers for a look that feels both elevated and timeless.

'It’s a unique reinterpretation of a traditional kitchen with a fresh and modern feel,' Lizzie says. The inclusion of a ladder draws the eye upward, accentuating the ceiling height – a clever way to make a small kitchen look bigger.

Today, you can take your pick of some of the most beautiful kitchen library ladders available. You might opt for an antique design with polished brass carriages and castor feet, an artistically white-washed number, or a striking statement in solid stainless steel. Whatever your style, there’s a kitchen ladder to match. Personally, I prefer mine on the romantic side, full of rich oak tones and timeless details.

For me, it proved an amazing small kitchen storage idea, a real game changer. Now I find myself reaching for bulky appliances like the pasta roller and food processor more often, knowing they’re within easy reach. It's a finishing touch I truly can’t imagine my kitchen without.

Practical yet undeniably elegant, a kitchen ladder has become a must-have feature, a true marriage of form and function. Since adding one to my own home, the entire kitchen feels more considered and complete.

As kitchen libraries grow in popularity – cozy corners dedicated to curated cookbook collections and artful displays – the kitchen ladder feels like a natural extension of this warm, academic aesthetic. It’s a small addition that makes a transformative difference, both in style and in everyday usability.

And while country kitchen ideas are nothing new, there are two specific styles that homeowners and designers alike just can't get enough of – schemes inspired by the rural homes of France and England are full of characterful features.

And while they bear similarities, there are a few fundamental differences between these two European countryside aesthetics. To discover what sets French country kitchens and English country kitchens apart, we've turned to designers who specialize in the looks to give us the lowdown. Here's everything you need to know before decorating your kitchen.

What's the difference between a French and English country kitchens?

As two country kitchen styles, there are, as expected, some similarities between the looks. They both echo their surroundings and have a sense of quiet history about them, which is what gives them that unique charm.

'Both styles feel at home in countryside settings like the Cotswolds and Provence. There is a shared focus on natural materials, including stone, aged woods, and exposed beams are all common to both, but it’s how these elements are used that gives each style its own character,' says Cotswolds-based interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

It's those more traditional details that create a common ground between the French country style and English country decor, but designer Benji Lewis says that's where the similarities end.

'Beamed ceilings and range cookers are possibly the only things that the two countries might have in common in their kitchens. In an English country space, I’d always imagine that the kitchen flooring finish would be flagstone or old timber boards, whereas in France I’d instantly think of terracotta tiles,' he explains.

French country kitchens stand out as the more rustic of the styles. They aren't overly polished or curated – there's a decidedly lived-in, almost collected feel about them that differs from English schemes.

'French country kitchens are typically more rustic in feel, often made up of lighter colors and soft textures that suit the warmth and brightness of the Mediterranean light,' explains Lauren. 'The kitchen layout is often more traditional and separate, with kitchens leading out to shaded terraces or gardens rather than being part of one large open space,' she adds.

As well as the way the kitchen flows with other spaces in the home, Benji notes there is a real difference in the way the structure of the kitchen is designed, too. 'In France, notably in places where the climate is kind, you often see kitchens in beautifully proportioned rooms with lofty high ceilings and big windows giving out onto the countryside.'

It's often not quite the same in English country kitchens, where the proportions are usually much cozier. 'Over here, possibly because we have to withstand long, brutally dismal winters, we want to hunker down in smaller spaces to try and keep warm,' he adds.

It's not just the layout of the kitchens that differs here. French country kitchens epitomize the freestanding kitchen style, filled with unique furniture and an unfussy selection of pieces.

'I think the idea of a fitted kitchen, even in rural homes, came later to France – we’ve invested in built-in cabinetry for years, whereas the French happily lived with beautiful freestanding furniture to accommodate their culinary requirements. The deconstructed look in France is still so lovely, with armoires serving the purpose of storing crockery and even jars of confiture or tins of confit de canard,' says Benji.

Where French country kitchens embrace a more rustic style, English country kitchens are slightly more polished. Think built-in kitchens with painted cabinets and deeper, more traditional color palettes, a stark contrast to the lighter tones typical of French schemes.

'English country kitchens often include painted cabinetry, natural timber, stone flooring, and traditional joinery. Because of our cooler, often cloudier climate, the colors tend to be a little deeper,' explains Lauren. And if you're wondering what color is good for a country kitchen of each region, there are some staple hues to consider.

'We often use rich greens, chocolate browns, or muted blues to bring warmth and depth to a space. These kitchens are usually part of an open-plan layout, with dining and sitting areas nearby, and are often supported by adjoining rooms such as boot rooms or utilities.'

While the essence of French and English country kitchens is really similar, their location and how they function for everyday life make them really quite different. Even down to the details – the type of brick or stone used to build the homes, when left exposed, feels worlds apart.

'The biggest difference lies in the way the spaces are planned and how they respond to their environment. English kitchens are often the centre of the home and built to support everyday family life, with open-plan layouts and extra rooms to manage the practicalities. French kitchens tend to be quieter, more contained spaces, with a simpler approach to storage and layout,' Lauren notes.

Shop French country kitchen decor

Want to bring a dose of French country style into your kitchen? There are a few features, big and small, that can bring this more rustic aesthetic into your scheme, whatever your current kitchen style or color.

'Some details I think of for a French country kitchen would be croissants on a plate under a glass domed cloche on the rustic freestanding sideboard, a linen bag hanging from a peg to hold the baguette, an array of copper pans hanging from hooks on the wall,' says Benji.

Shop English country kitchen decor

English country kitchen decor has its own feel, slightly more polished and refined, but with that countryside aesthetic we all know and love. Think pretty patterns, light wood tones, and even some moodier accessories to offer a nod to traditional decorating.

So, if you're wondering how to create a country kitchen, whether you're inspired by the English or the French way, these are the features to consider. 'Both styles are rooted in traditional materials and a strong connection to their setting,' says Lauren, which is what makes these aesthetics so timeless and sought-after.

While English and French schemes have some similarities, there are so many beautiful elements of country kitchens that make them unique. From the way the cabinets are designed to the color chosen and the decor introduced, it all comes back to the natural surroundings and how they influence the way of life.

Many kitchen countertop ideas and materials get the designer seal of approval. But two we see cropping up time and time again are quartz and granite. They are both great options, so how can you decide which one is best?

We've asked the experts to find out everything you need to know about both materials to ensure you choose the best countertop for your kitchen. They are both stylish and timeless; it all comes down to whether you need something uber durable or you prefer the more natural look.

Is quartz or granite better for kitchen countertops?

Much like your kitchen cabinet ideas, your countertops are crucial to the overall look and feel of your space. But your counters have an extra layer, needing that functional element for food prep, cooking, and everyday wear that other features in your kitchen don't experience on the same scale.

'Kitchens are a busy place, and the countertop, more than any other part, really takes the brunt of this. Don’t make the mistake of choosing the wrong material,' says Jonathan Stanley, VP at Caesarstone, who recommends taking your time when choosing your kitchen countertops.

The best way to decide between quartz countertops and granite countertops is to weigh up the pros and cons, consider how they will impact the way you use your space, and the overall aesthetic you desire. To help you do that, we've asked experts for the lowdown on both materials and how they compare.

Quartz

Quartz is an engineered stone, boasting benefits of durability and stain resistance, which is why it is such a popular kitchen countertop material. And it's why experts often recommend it as one of the best options.

'Quartz countertops perform really well as kitchen work surfaces, thanks to their ability to create and change with the current kitchen trends. The colors are constantly evolving, and being quartz, the surfaces are extremely hard,' says Oliver Webb, director at Cullifords.

'They are stain resistant and the surface is very resistant to cutting on, and although they are not impervious to UV, so over the years will fade a little and lose their lustre, they are a fantastic option for a kitchen countertop,' he adds.

There's no denying that the durability and hard-wearing properties of quartz make it a favorable material in busy, family kitchens, but there are some drawbacks when it comes to its visual appeal.

'I don’t see any major drawbacks to quartz countertops from a functional standpoint – they’re durable, low-maintenance, and non-porous, which makes them a great choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops,' says interior designer Becky Shea.

'My only hesitation is more aesthetic: I’m not a fan of quartz when it tries to imitate natural stone. It rarely looks authentic and often has a screen-printed or overly uniform appearance that lacks the depth and movement of real marble or granite,' she adds.

If you opt for quartz countertops as a durable alternative with the hope of getting the look of a natural stone, your scheme is probably going to fall flat, and it could end up making your kitchen look cheap.

'That said, if you’re choosing a quartz design that embraces its own look rather than mimicking something else, it can be a really beautiful and practical option,' she adds.

Granite

On the other hand, granite is a natural stone that offers a unique look and more natural beauty and variations. And as far as natural stones go, granite is one of the more durable, even if it can be a touch more expensive than man-made alternatives.

'Similar to quartz, granite countertops can be absolutely stunning – there are many varieties that feel timeless, natural, and rich in character. However, not all granite is created equal. Some styles, especially those with heavy patterning and multiple competing colors, can feel dated or overly busy,' says Becky.

'Think of the type of granite with six different colors swirling through it – it’s been overused in standard apartment finishes and doesn’t always lend itself well to a more refined or contemporary aesthetic. That said, when thoughtfully selected, granite can be a durable and elegant choice with lasting appeal,' she adds.

It's the beauty of granite and its natural variations that make it so popular. It's the fact that every cut is different, bringing in a more bespoke feel to a kitchen, as long as you choose the right one, as Becky says.

'The beauty of granite as a natural stone is the colors and variance you can get from it, and the real natural feeling you get from its touch. Each block will bring a touch of individuality and unique style to your kitchen,' says Oliver.

'Arguably one of the most popular choices for countertops, a granite surface is both durable and functional. Ranging from hard to soft, granite is a natural stone and, as such, offers a huge variety of shades and patterns.'

People often consider granite to lack durability, assuming it is much like some marbles that are very sensitive to wear and tear, but granite can withstand a lot more than you might expect. There are some things to be aware of – while granite is renowned for its durability and heat-resistance, so praise for being one of the best countertops for cooking, it always pays to be cautious.

'Although the majority of granites should be able to withstand hot things being placed on the surface, there is always a slight chance of thermal shock, so it is best to use a trivet or chopping board,' Oliver adds.

The verdict?

Both quartz and granite are great materials for your kitchen countertops, offering style and durability – the duo every chic kitchen needs. Which you choose to go with depends entirely on your personal style and the needs of the space.

'For those who value unique natural beauty and the authentic feel of natural stone, granite would be the better choice. Its individuality, elegance, and timeless appeal are unmatched by man-made materials,' says Oliver.

'On the other hand, for homeowners who prioritise uniformity and even higher resistance to stains and scratches, quartz would be more suitable. Ultimately, both materials are fantastic, it simply comes down to whether you are drawn more to the natural individuality of granite or the modern consistency and performance of quartz.'

For Becky, granite comes out on top, offering the perfect balance of beauty and functionality, especially for a timeless kitchen that will last for years to come.

'I lean toward granite, particularly because I’ve worked with varieties like Absolute Black and Steel Grey in past projects, and they’re truly stunning. These options have a natural depth and veining that feel sophisticated and timeless, especially when finished in a leathered or honed texture. That tactile quality adds a beautiful, elevated touch that quartz sometimes lacks,' she explains.

'Granite is also incredibly durable, which is a major factor when designing kitchens that are not only beautiful but also highly functional. When selected thoughtfully, it can strike the perfect balance between form and function,' she adds.

Both are great options offering durability and style, but it seems granite is the slightly better option if you want the perfect blend. However, if you're designing a very busy kitchen for a family, quartz is likely to hold up slightly better – just don't try to mimic the look of natural stone, it's better to embrace quartz for what it is.

Quartz and granite are both durable, stylish, and timeless materials to choose for your kitchen countertops. While there has been some talk about what's replacing granite countertops, it's clear there is still a place for them in our kitchens. Not only do they look visually striking, but they are amongst the most durable of the natural stones.

But it's understandable why busy households prefer the unwavering durability of the man-made option of quartz. Even though it's hard-wearing, make sure you read up on how to clean white quartz countertops properly to ensure they stay in beautiful condition.

If you're scrolling through the pages of Homes & Gardens hoping to discover the most wonderfully stylish kitchen ideas, you will likely regularly spot this much-loved British kitchen brand and their highly fanciable kitchen case studies from around the world.

The brand's Creative Director, Helen Parker, is of course a wealth of knowledge on all things kitchens, so I sat down with her to find out more about deVOL, her design background, her personal style, and her expert tips on designing a kitchen.

What is your personal kitchen style aesthetic?

My kitchen style is very much old and new, I like textures and I like patina, but mostly I enjoy finding things that feel soulful and unusual. I love color, but not bold bright colors, just a mix of soft, muted tones.

I love traditional styles such as Victorian and Georgian, but with a contemporary twist. Decorating with artwork is something I like to use to add a big, bold, unexpected look to a room, a splash of quirkiness to stop it feeling too obvious.

I like a mix of styles rather than sticking wholeheartedly to one look. Decorating with vintage pieces is an absolute must for me. I love collections of things, pictures, objects, anything that becomes a cluster. I also like things to be done boldly, I like big grand things even in small spaces, I’m not big on lots of little bits and bobs unless they are carefully displayed to create a collection.

How did it all begin?

It all began in a delicatessen! I was working part-time as my children had moved up to senior school, and I wanted something a little more than being a full-time mum. Paul O’Leary had a little shop called deVOL, they made freestanding kitchens, and he used to buy his lunch from the deli.

He approached me one day as he thought I looked like a middle-aged lady who might relate well to his customers. I had no experience in selling kitchens, but I did have a passion for design and art, and no formal training. It was one of those moments, a chance encounter that changes your whole life, literally in an instant.

deVOL was a tiny shop with a handful of employees in a little village in Leicestershire, England. I began chatting to customers, doing window displays, and then, after a while, designing kitchens. With a lot of support and help from Paul and his little team, I found myself; I loved the creativity I was able to demonstrate, and I found that for the first time in my checkered working career, something I was actually good at.

What inspires you?

Walking the streets inspires me, I have since found there is a word for this, a 'Flaneur', which I am very pleased to know, as it feels like a proper pastime now.

My favourite streets are those around Spitalfields in East London, England. I have an unhealthy interest in everything that has gone on in this area over the centuries, and now I love nothing more than to wander.

The colors of the woodwork, the grandeur of the houses, a peek through a window, it’s all so beautifully old and carefully preserved, but in a sympathetic way. I love this, things that feel as if time has stood still, houses where people don’t change the windows, add extensions, knock out walls, or just generally try to change things.

My other passion is the Mediterranean, another place where things are far more likely to stay the same, old bars, restaurants, and homes. These people seem less intent on always having to change things, they are content with what they have. I love that. I am not one for changing for changing's sake, I like to enhance a space with beautiful things, but I like those things to be very carefully considered so even if they are new, they feel at home in their space.

Do you have any specialisms?

Designing and styling our showrooms has become my thing. I love the process of imagining how I want a room to look. Choosing the colors, the layouts, and sourcing every tiny little item that will then dress the room.

I love to find unique pieces, old or new. I spend so long imagining the finished rooms down to every little detail and scour the antiques fairs and eBay for special things that are just perfect for every little spot. There is such a thrill when you see the rooms take shape, and you can unpack boxes of treasures that you’d forgotten about.

The final job for me is to ensure, with deVOL's photographer Tim, that we get the most beautiful images to show the world. I always know if a room has worked for me if the images look good, it’s one of the most important things to me. The styling of an image for a photoshoot and getting a beautiful shot is where I am at my happiest.

What else do you offer at deVOL?

deVOL has gone from kitchens to a whole range of accessories for the home, again, all these beautiful things have a historical background. We wanted to sell things that used to be easy to find, but for one reason or another, they stopped being made, or they have been reinvented or modernised. Because we love traditional, classic interiors, we wanted traditional, classic things to put in our homes and showrooms, so they feel authentic, humble, and made to last.

We have recently made the most beautiful solid brass door knocker, just because it's impossible to find a proper one, and it reminds us of the houses in Spitalfields. We don’t have a plan; we just make what we can’t find, and the list we have is never-ending.

Every so often, you will see something new on our online shop. It’s a passion here at deVOL, it adds another element to our customer experience, allowing them to add fixtures and fittings to their homes as well as kitchen cabinets.

Who are your dream clients?

We have so many dream clients from all over the world, those with the big Manhattan apartments or the tiny Brooklyn basements have been truly exciting for us, our clients in America have embraced us wholeheartedly.

The classic city of Bath in South West England has also brought us some very special clients since we opened in 2023, their homes are quite possibly the most beautiful. Big windows, high ceilings, incredible light, and so many original features.

There's nothing more beautiful than a Bath townhouse basement kitchen, full of stone and atmosphere. These kitchens are the best to photograph, the light is unbeatable, bouncing off the honey-colored stone.

What's next for you and deVOL?

The West Coast of the USA is our next move. Starting in New York was scary, but the most fun, and we are hoping this will be the same.

The buildings are different, low and modern, so creating the deVOL look may be more challenging, or maybe we will go more West Coast ourselves and embrace the light and warmth to create a slightly different feeling in our showroom.

While keeping the less attractive kitchenware and essentials out of sight might be the answer to a tidy, stylish space, you still need to consider where you will store the things you need easy access to every day, as well as the features that make using your space easier and more practical.

This doesn't mean you have to ruin the visual appeal of your kitchen ideas, though. In fact, designers say there are plenty of features you can add and change to make life easier, from small additions and accessories to bigger furniture pieces. There's something here for every style, space, and budget.

7 kitchen features that will make your life easier

Whether you're in the planning stages of a kitchen remodel or you simply want to make your existing space feel more functional, there are a range of features that will make your life easier for every budget. From thoughtful kitchen storage to functional decor, introducing even one of these expert suggestions will make a huge difference.

1. A windowsill planter or pot for easy-access herbs

If you're an avid cook who likes to season and garnish with fresh herbs, you probably have a few potted plants dotted around your kitchen or filling up your windowsill. And left displayed in their plastic pots, they end up looking a bit messy and cluttered.

But the simple addition of a windowsill planter will completely transform your indoor herb garden. With a designated place for them to grow and a beautifully designed planter for them to be displayed in, your kitchen will instantly feel tidier and more curated.

Not only does it look better, but you'll probably find your potted herbs thrive better as they are less susceptible to damage from accidental knocks and overcrowding.

2. A coffee bar

Your kitchen should function for the way you use it, not just the things that are trending. So, think about the things you use the most and how easy they are to access. If your morning rituals are the most important, why not consider a coffee station?

'I always tell clients that the most successful kitchen features are the ones that support your daily rhythms. A dedicated coffee bar is one of my favorite additions. It keeps everything from mugs to beans in one spot, creates a morning ritual space, and helps reduce clutter on the main countertops,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan.

In this kitchen, a full-length cabinet has been transformed into a charming coffee nook, complete with a coffee maker, morning brew essentials, and a selection of mugs. Simple yet oh so effective.

3. A pot rack or hanger

Perhaps most effective for making life easier in small kitchens, but pot hangers are making a comeback, and they are the perfect solution for storing your everyday pots and pans that just won't fit in your drawers or cabinets.

But even in larger spaces, a pot rack on the wall – usually on the backsplash behind a range – adds a decorative detail to your scheme and keeps your pots within easy reach when you cook.

This truly traditional feature is making a comeback because it looks stylish and makes life easier. You can often find beautiful brass examples for a reasonable price, too.

4. Layered lighting with kitchen lamps

Before anything, a kitchen is a utilitarian room dedicated to food preparation and cooking. And any home chef will know that kitchen lighting is so important to get tasks done easily and without injury.

Interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe says a layered kitchen lighting scheme is key to making your life easier. 'We always think in layers. A pair of pendants over the island gives focus and symmetry, while a wall light beside the larder or above a shelf adds gentle warmth.'

But one element of lighting that most people forget is lamps. Often considered the go-to for more ambient lighting, they also help to illuminate countertops in darker corners of the kitchen, especially if you choose a more portable design.

5. A custom cutting board

'Another helpful kitchen feature I love is a custom cutting board that’s designed to live on the counter,' says Marie, who designed this kitchen island, which has a beautiful contrast between the brown marble countertops and the light wood cutting board.

'When it's tailored to your space and materials, it feels intentional, not like an afterthought, and encourages cooking with ease,' she adds. Think of it as a modern take on a butcher block.

It creates a hardwearing place to chop and prepare food without damaging your kitchen countertops, but it can also be removed if you don't want it to be a permanent fixture in your space.

6. Double faucets

There are a few smaller elements to consider when it comes to the kitchen features that make everyday life easier and more functional. And one of them, perhaps unexpectedly, focuses on your kitchen faucets.

'If you have the room, double faucets at the main sink can be a game changer. Whether you’re prepping for a dinner party or just cleaning up after breakfast, having two workstations makes the whole space feel more efficient and gracious,' says Marie.

7. Carefully considered storage

We all know that storage is a really important element to a kitchen's design, but carefully planning what each cabinet and drawer will ensure everything has a home, making your life easier in the long run.

'Carefully considered storage is key. Whether it’s a dedicated cabinet for appliances or open shelving for cookbooks and everyday pieces, the right storage makes a space feel calm and effortless to live in,' says Lauren.

This is something to consider in the planning stages, but totally worth it. Remember to factor in deeper storage for pots and pans, and make sure you include plenty of drawer space. It's always a feature people wish they had more of post-remodel.

Whether you introduce a windowsill planter for your herbs or curate a dedicated coffee corner, these ideas will instantly make everyday tasks that little bit easier – and in some cases, perhaps even a little bit more elevated and luxurious.

Remember to consider what works best in your kitchen layout if you're thinking about storage options – think about how you use your space and where different kitchen items are most accessible, for example, storing your pots and pans near your range.

Guild Anderson, one of the UK's most celebrated kitchen design companies, is always brimming with the best kitchen ideas, so it took on the task of thoughtfully reimagining this space to create a contemporary country kitchen. With cozy window seats, hidden fridges, a Victorian cook’s table, and no shortage of luxurious details, the result is a space brimming with character and charm.

Step inside this historic English kitchen that feels as though it’s leapt from the pages of a storybook. With all the lovely details on display (and the modern appliances carefully concealed), it’s a masterclass in thoughtful curation.

Nestled in beachy Cornwall, in the south west of England, lies a rare gem. Trewithen is one of Cornwall’s finest examples of eighteenth-century Grade I Palladian architecture, a time when mathematical principles of symmetry and proportion ruled British design hand in hand with the grandeur of neoclassicism.

The stately home has been occupied by one family and its direct descendants for 300 years. Now, the next generation of custodians, a young and growing family, has sought to update the home for modern living. After the client enlisted the help of interior designers Salvesen Graham, kitchen makers Guild Anderson were tasked with designing a kitchen worthy of the remarkable history and continuity of the house.

'The brief was to update the domestic spaces sympathetically, and to do justice to the architecture while remaining subservient to it,' says Nick Anderson, Guild Anderson’s lead designer on the project.

The original kitchen was in a different part of the house, but the clients chose to move it into what was once a small living room, complete with sun-soaked views of the garden.

As the property is Grade I listed, Guild Anderson faced restrictions on what could be altered architecturally. To navigate this, they seconded the adjacent lobby, ordinarily a walkthrough space, to serve as the kitchen’s dedicated storage area.

Thankfully, Guild Anderson’s expertise lies almost exclusively in historic houses and listed buildings. Modern appliances were discreetly concealed behind panelled doors in the lobby, preserving the kitchen’s period charm. This kitchen gives a whole new definition to invisible kitchens, a trend usually only seen in minimalist kitchens. You would never guess what lies behind the elegant panelling and deep cornicing.

China display cabinets flank either side of the external door, giving the space a refined, airy sensibility. A glazed pantry dresser rises to the full height of the room, harking back to the days of a maid’s scullery, now storing fine glassware — and the occasional gin and tonic mix.

Inside the kitchen, the scene feels Austen-esque and very pretty. Your eye is immediately drawn to the large Victorian cook’s table, hand-painted in Invisible Green by Little Greene, and adorned with antique brass hardware that catches the sun. A long slab of rare native elm lies on top, a nod to a once-common material in English country homes.

The resulting bespoke freestanding kitchen island, with exquisitely turned legs, conceals an integrated Sub-Zero & Wolf warming drawer within. The choice to go freestanding lends the kitchen a breezy elegance: 'What one might lose in kitchen storage, one gains in atmosphere,' says Nick.

To one side, a kitchen preparation sink sits ready and waiting. Barber Wilson faucets rise from the honed Carrara marble worktop and backsplash: luxurious materials used with quiet confidence in a high-use area.

There are two types of backsplash ideas at play here, tiled and marbled, a striking contrast in this country kitchen. Nick was keen to include Carrara marble, it being the favored stone during the 1700s, when Trewithen was built. However, the stone alone risked becoming too one-dimensional, so additional texture was introduced through tiling.

A cream AGA sits in a recessed nook, framed by a charming tableau of green and white tiles, a simple border illustration that gently frames the aromas wafting up from the stove.

Opposite, the scullery area has been inserted into a disused fireplace, again framed, this time by exposed brick arches, offering a touch of rustic history beneath soft pink walls. The scene is lit by cheerful yellow wall lights and anchored by an arched plate rack, echoing the china display cabinetry in the lobby.

A former doorway leading to the next room was transformed into a cabinet, now housing an abundance of cups and crockery. It’s a sweet moment – shelves lined with everyday objects that speak to family life – but the real surprise lies within. The Folies Bergère Paper in Blue Ribbon wallpaper steals the show. It’s one of Nick’s favorite hidden details and perfectly captures the design spirit of Salvesen Graham.

'Salvesen Graham knows how to inject playfulness and color into a beautiful country house, and we could pick up on this within our design and incorporate it into spaces such as the large storage cupboard,' says Nick.

Outside lies 200 acres of lush parkland, with uninterrupted views of blossoming shrubs and serene natural beauty. Light streams through daily, bathing the kitchen in a gentle wash of changing tones and texture. A window seat, often occupied by the family dog, makes the most of the view, framed by sweet foxglove curtains that flutter overhead.

The overall effect, walking into the space, is unlike any other. 'A feeling that this kitchen has been there for many years. The space blends with the rest of the genre of the house and imbues a feeling of home comfort and family living,' says Nick. A kitchen not just of beauty, but of lineage and lived-in style, curated across generations, and ready to serve many more to come.

Shop the look

This kitchen is a lesson in 'show, don’t tell'. With all the loveliness on display as one would find in a traditional kitchen — and everything else thoughtfully tucked away — it allows a busy modern family to enjoy the comforts of a historic home with ease.

Your kitchen layout forms the basis of your kitchen – if you get it wrong, your entire kitchen will feel awkward and dysfunctional, but when done right, your entire space will perfectly balance function and style.

And it's a lesson that has been perfectly executed in this kitchen renovation. It was out with the dated cabinets and mismatched proportions, replaced with a beautiful blend of colors, layered materials, and a more considered flow.

When you look at the kitchen now, it's filled with texture, warmth, and visual interest. But the 'before' looked much different. 'The existing kitchen was very open to the front entry and inadequate storage provided a chaotic first impression to visitors of the home,' says Michelle Vassallo, of MV Architects.

'Although the space was physically open to the entry and living room, the kitchen’s dated cabinetry, small windows, and tiled floor made it feel stylistically disconnected from the rest of the home. The U-shaped layout and lack of seating made it difficult for the family to utilize the space together,' she explains.

To fix all the things that weren't working, the layout required a complete rethink, which was achieved by shifting the space and incorporating the former dining room, creating more usable and functional space.

'This change allowed the working parts of the kitchen to be located away from the entrance, while the seating area with a coffee bar acts as a buffer between the messier parts of the kitchen and the formal entry to the home. Moving the dining table to the living room eliminated the need for a formal dining area in the kitchen.'

One of the major challenges during this project was trying to fit in all of the beautiful features the clients asked for. They initially wanted a large kitchen island to create a hub for the family to gather, but it became clear it just wasn't practical for the space. But Michelle and the team came up with the perfect compromise.

'A peninsula was added to provide more cabinet storage and counter surface, and a built-in banquette filled the need for informal seating and created a place for the family to connect,' she explains.

And as you explore the new kitchen design, it's clear to see it was the perfect choice. 'Although it is more physically separate than before, the new kitchen fits in seamlessly with the rest of the home,' she says.

'New hardwood flooring was installed throughout the first-floor living areas, connecting the different spaces. The rich, dark flooring acts as an anchor to the light blue kitchen cabinetry.'

There are a lot of beautiful textures and details throughout the kitchen, so the custom cabinetry, painted in a beautiful light blue hue, was kept clean and simple, and has been elevated by paneled accents and more decorative base moulding on the furniture pieces, which Michelle explains added some much-needed vintage charm.

'The layering of varied materials, including wallpaper, stone, and tile, adds depth to the space, while wood tones and metal accents in the lighting and kitchen cabinet hardware provide warmth,' she adds.

The dining nook is another new addition that adds a cozy, social aspect to the space and makes the most of the opportunities the kitchen peninsula offers. It instantly creates zones without adding a huge visual divide.

But for Michelle, the range cooker is the true star of the show. 'The Majestic II induction range pops against the painted cabinets. The range, a utilitarian piece of art, is accented with an oversized painted wood hood above, and flanked on each side with casement windows and pendant lights.'

There are so many beautiful details working together to create this midimalist kitchen design. From the cozy nook to the traditional plate rack and layered lighting scheme, the finished space now feels warm, welcoming, and multifunctional for family life. The peninsula island was, without a doubt, the perfect choice.

Shop the look

This light blue kitchen proves it pays to go against the predictable layout to create a kitchen that looks timeless and maximizes functionality. The peninsula kitchen layout and dining nook make this space feel cozy, lived-in, and multifunctional. And the mix of materials shouldn't be ignored – it truly is a lesson in layered, textural design.

It's a style that blends warm, layered design with functionality, so it's no surprise that Japandi kitchen ideas are more coveted than ever. And it's an aesthetic that totally transformed this once dated kitchen into a warm space full of texture and contrast.

From the wood cabinetry and lime-washed walls the the beautiful marble and cozy nook, this kitchen is a lesson in getting this pared-back style right in 2025. These are the details to know about and how to recreate a few of them in your own kitchen.

'This Colonial-style home, built in 1996, had a distinctly builder-grade 1990s aesthetic, with faux brass and gold finishes, 12x12 porcelain tiles, and a cramped floor plan,' says designer Sara Swabb, of Storie Collective, who worked with Tanya Smith-Shiflett, founder of Unique Kitchens & Bath.

'The kitchen felt closed off and restrictive, making both cooking and gathering less enjoyable for the homeowners,' she adds. All in all, the existing kitchen felt crowded, dysfunctional, and visually outdated – everything a kitchen shouldn't be.

The style and layout were the biggest considerations during the redesign, although the latter certainly created challenges for the team. 'The biggest challenge was reworking the kitchen layout to make it feel more expansive and functional without significantly altering the home's structure,' says Sara.

'The previous floor plan made entertaining difficult, so we focused on thoughtful spatial planning – widening openings, refining circulation, and maximizing storage – to create a space that feels both efficient and open.'

But with a few thoughtful changes and reconfigurations, she has transformed the kitchen into a more open and functional space without completely changing the footprint. A large archway between the kitchen and family room has created an easier flow between rooms and allowed space for a much larger kitchen island.

'The new kitchen is Japandi-inspired, blending Scandinavian minimalism with Japanese warmth and balance. The goal was to create a space that feels modern yet deeply inviting, moody yet tranquil,' explains Sara.

'The design layers organic materials, warm wood cabinetry, rich marble, and earthy, muted tones to achieve a look that is both elevated and comfortable. Soft brass accents and hand-troweled plaster walls add texture and dimension, making the space feel collected and timeless.'

The key elements of Japandi style were perfect for creating the homeowners' dream space. They craved a space that felt 'calming yet sophisticated' and could function for day-to-day life as well as more social occasions.

'The design was deeply informed by their lifestyle, ensuring that the space would feel welcoming at all times of day, whether sipping coffee in the morning or gathering around the island in the evening.'

But it's the materials and finishes that are truly striking. Warm wood tones pair beautifully with the soft tones and veining of the marble, while brass hardware adds a classic finish. It's the perfect balance to create that warmth, contrast, and visual interest.

'We wanted the space to feel grounded, timeless, and rich in materiality. Every finish was chosen to create a layered, lived-in elegance – nothing too stark, nothing too trendy. The result is a kitchen that feels as beautiful as it is functional, a place that invites gathering, conversation, and ease,' Sara adds.

Texture really comes into its own in this kitchen, not just from the wooden cabinetry and the marble kitchen countertops, but also on the walls that have been finished in a textural plaster design, ensuring the upper half of the room feels considered.

But it's the new dining nook that has added a functional and cozier element to the kitchen. 'We transformed the breakfast room, which previously had an integrated office, into a space that supports both remote work and true relaxation with family and friends.'

Banquette seating has truly been elevated here, upholstered in a soft, ribbed fabric that gives a more luxurious appeal to the space. Accessorized with throw pillows in timeless patterns and rich hues, it's a space you instantly want to spend time in.

And the perfect finishing touch? The decorative details. They add a refined elegance that feels right at home in a Japandi-inspired scheme. Linen pendant lights above the island with subtle pleating add a new texture, while brass wall sconces add contrast to the more neutral finishes. On the kitchen countertops, ceramics and earth-toned kitchenware add a more lived-in style to the space.

The remodeled space is filled with warmth, texture, and layered design. The custom wood cabinetry adds that rich, textured base that instantly pulls you in. Paired with the statement marble on the counters and backsplash, it's the perfect blend of classic design and unique style.

Shop the Japandi-style look

This might be a neutral kitchen, but the layers of tones and textures ensure it feels anything but flat. From the warmth of the wood kitchen cabinets to the softer textures introduced through the dining nook and the window treatments, this design is a lesson in getting Japandi style right and making it feel authentic and lived-in.

Inspired by the popular color trend from the early 2000s, the ombré color trend is having something of a renaissance. At Milan Design Week 2025, Cesar, who have been designing modern kitchens for over 50 years, showcased this exceptional finish on their N_Elle kitchen. The Nuance Verde Comodoro glass finish is something of a modern marvel.

Ombré, which means 'shaded' in French is the blending of one color hue to another, usually moving tints and shades from light to dark. It initially become a popular feature for hair coloring, nail art, and even baking, but recently it has seeped its way into home decorating and design. But forgo notion of the harsh, straight lines of the early 2000s. These days, ombré is much more sophisticated, subtle and elegant.

Our Content Director, Lucy Searle, was one of the first to witness the unveiling of the new design concept, which she believes will change the way some of the best kitchen designers will incorporate unique finishes into kitchens in the future.

'Salone del Mobile in Milan offers a crucial glimpse into future kitchen trends,' notes Lucy. 'This year, Cesar's showroom presented a standout kitchen innovation that particularly impressed me.

'The focal point was a kitchen island crafted from toughened glass. This cool-to-the-touch piece boasts a matte, ombré finish, transitioning subtly from a deep petrol blue at one corner to a sophisticated gray-green white.

'The stove, sink, and hidden controls are seamlessly integrated on the far side. Despite its ample storage, the island appears remarkably light, enhanced by the darker blue's placement on the lower half. I expect to see variations of this captivating design influence trends in 2026. It was certainly a sight to behold.'

This was without a doubt one of the stand-out piece at Milan Design Week – and was garnering much attention. What we love about this finish is that its subtle color gradient isn't ostentatious – it feels natural, as if it is at one with nature.

With the rise in popularity of the colorful kitchens, I expect this rich and nuanched kitchen color trend to stick around for the long haul.

So, if you're wondering how to style a range cooker in your kitchen, an alcove is the answer. It's a space that, in most cases, has always been the cooking hub of the room, so why not lean into tradition and reintegrate this stylish feature?

There are so many ways to design a range alcove depending on the space and style, so we've turned to experts to discover their favorite range alcove ideas – and there are some truly timeless designs to consider.

5 range alcove ideas that make a stylish feature of an awkward space

Alcove ideas are vast and varied, but there are a few ways to utilize them in a kitchen that prove enduringly stylish and, most importantly, functional. Whether you want to make use of a large former fireplace or you're trying to design your kitchen around a colorful stove, these spaces offer plenty of inspiration.

1. Utilize a period fireplace

Sometimes, making the most of a kitchen alcove or old fireplace means breaking the usual rule of introducing the range at the center of a run of kitchen cabinets. Thinking outside the box and designing a bespoke look for your space can result in a beautifully unique space.

'We prioritize the range and hood, strategically placing them on a separate wall to enhance traffic flow and create a standout feature,' explains Tiffany Matthews, Greensboro-based founder and lead designer of Motif Homes.

The kitchen in this period home features an old fireplace, still beautifully framed with exposed brick. By slotting that range cooker into the opening and adding freestanding kitchen furniture nearby, it's made the most of an otherwise unusable space that stille feels connected with the rest of the kitchen.

2. Add colorful tiles to tie your range alcove to the rest of your design

The range cooker is the heart of the kitchen. It's where food is prepared, and it's often a feature installed front and center, whether you include a kitchen island or go without one. But introducing details that tie in with the rest of the kitchen is key.

'We spend a lot of time talking about chimney breasts and alcoves for range cookers. It’s a tricky part of kitchen design, but we have learned that simplicity and keeping it understated are the absolute key,' says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

The range alcove really is the focal point in this kitchen, despite it not being connected to any cabinet runs. To ensure it still feels a part of the rest of the design, pink tiles – deVOL's plain square Rose Lace Market Tiles – have been added to create a kitchen backsplash, which has been replicated elsewhere in the space.

3. Create a sense of symmetry with your range alcove at the center

'Centralizing the kitchen design around a range or island hood can be a powerful choice,' says Jessica Petrino, educator & appliance expert at AJ Madison, which is usually the case if you are integrating your range into an alcove.

To make it feel more integrated into your design, installing cupboards on either side will instantly add a sense of symmetry, while still letting your range alcove be the centerpiece of your space.

That's the exact approach that was taken in this Studio McGee kitchen. A large alcove has been utilised for the range – with enough space for a small countertop on each side – and framed by the warm wooden kitchen cabinets. It's a great way to make a range alcove feel more transitional, rather than traditional.

4. Add a wooden surround for a traditional finish

If you do like the more traditional look, leaning into the period style can create a lovely detail. The alcove in this kitchen clearly used to be a fireplace, so instead of changing it, they've embraced its heritage by reintroducing a mantel.

And it's a charming, cottagecore addition that adds so much character to the space. It maximises a small range alcove and makes it more of a standout feature. The simple addition of the pot hanger gives it a more decorative finish.

For a small pot hanger to install into your range alcove ideas, McGee & Co.'s Metal Pot Rack has a traditional brass finish with a length of 36 inches, or for something more industrial, this Williston Forge Pot and Pan Wall Rail from Wayfair comes in a matte black finish.

5. Utilize an alcove to accommodate a large range cooker

In some kitchens, an alcove can be the saving grace to your design. This kitchen is a perfect example – the range is deeper than the cabinets, so inserting it into the alcove allows the range to sit flush with the cabinetry.

It's a simple solution to a common problem in kitchens of old homes. They've taken it one step further by adding pale pink tiles and a brass pot filler, adding a touch of classic luxury to the space.

To make the most of the space between either side of the chimney breast, alcove shelving has been added, creating open storage for kitchenware, decor, and potted plants within easy reach.

A range alcove is becoming more popular, as homeowners continue to appreciate unique features that give kitchen ideas a more personalized look. Introducing a range alcove will depend on your kitchen layout, but these spaces prove that they work beautifully in period homes and more modern kitchens.

Whatever the size of your yard, outdoor kitchens ensure you can spend more time out there. The best-equipped outdoor kitchen allows you to do everything you might when preparing meals inside your home, and creates a hub for socializing, too.

And if you want the space to look high-end as well as prove functional, these are the designer-recommended ways to achieve it.

1. Create areas of both sun and shade

Making your outdoor kitchen look and feel more expensive isn't just about the materials you choose or the decor you add, it starts right in the beginning with the positioning. Where you locate an outdoor kitchen is crucial. Nothing says expensive like perfect pools of sunlight over your seating area at just the right time of day or the shade coming over just as it gets too hot to be eating at the outdoor dining table.

‘Luxury is about planning and response to the environment, so study the sun and where it sets, where the shady parts of your space exist, and if they don’t,’ says interior designer Summer Jensen of Hawk & Co. ‘No matter how much sun you like, others will want shade,’ she advises.

Think about the outlook, too. ‘Thoughtfulness as you plan for the space allows you to situate your outdoor experience with the best view, so planning and placement are key,’ she says. Patio shade ideas will help you create further comfortable seating areas.

2. Don’t skimp on features

Again, this is something to think about in the planning stages. Luxury comes from opting for features that make an outdoor kitchen convenient. An easy to use space that's totally self-sufficient will always give a more expensive feel. Need ice? It's in the ice maker just steps away. Want to refill the water jug? Just use the outdoor sink. Not having to go back and forth from the house is the ultimate luxury.

‘By incorporating items such as beverage coolers, a pizza oven, high-end hardware, and more, you can replicate a refined, resort-like feel right in your own backyard,’ says Aaron Brundage, director of operations at System Pavers.

And do opt for a sink as part of the design. ‘A sink is always a welcome addition; when you’re working with raw meat, how often do you need to run into the house to wash your hands?’ asks Jeremy Martin, the landscape designer, project manager, and owner at Willow Gates Home and Landscape. ‘Even a small sink makes working in your outdoor kitchen so much easier,’ he says.

3. Bring in color

Stainless-steel outdoor kitchen cabinets are a durable choice, but you might want to give the material a twist with an unexpected outdoor kitchen color to elevate the finish and make the space more luxurious.

‘For higher-end outdoor kitchens, we've been specifying stainless steel cabinetry that has been powder-coated to a color,’ explains Joseph Richardson of Washington, DC-based Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture. ‘This is a custom element that really takes a traditional outdoor kitchen to the level of an interior kitchen,’ he says.

4. Add a backsplash

Repeat an element from the kitchen inside your home for a more expensive look outside – a beautiful backsplash.

‘An outdoor kitchen is a fantastic opportunity to incorporate eye-catching backsplashes, especially since the available space is often more compact,’ says Helen Bergin of Helen Bergin Interiors.

It’s also a great focal point. ‘A striking backsplash or a built-in bar gives your eye something to land on,’ says landscape designer Andrew D’Allienne at Lifescape Colorado.

5. Focus on the countertop

You can boost the luxe of your alfresco cooking area with the outdoor kitchen countertop you select.

‘A soapstone or honed concrete countertop adds a timeless, sophisticated touch,’ says Sacha McCrae of Living Gardens Landscape Design. ‘Steer clear of tile countertops, as they can appear busy and are difficult to maintain due to grout lines. Aim for a clean, simple, and elegant design.’

Check your choice is suitable for the situation, too. ‘A big mistake I see a lot of people make is sourcing the wrong countertop material,’ says Summer Jensen. ‘Believe it or not, not all manmade counters can be used in direct UV sunlight, so please check your specifications and look for “Outdoor OK”.’

Don’t leave yourself with too little countertop either. ‘Be sure to include ample counter space – not only for prep work, but also to accommodate a buffet setup when entertaining,’ says Sacha. A cramped layout can make the kitchen feel like an afterthought.’

6. Zone an outdoor kitchen

An outdoor kitchen with an expensive style replicates the usability of a kitchen indoors. And think about how you use your indoor kitchen, you'll likely find you have zones within the space you use for certain tasks – take this approach outside to ensure your outdoor kitchen flows well.

‘We like to create distinct zones for prep, serving, and lounging to make sure your outdoor kitchen functions as well as it looks,’ says Aaron Brundage.

7. Plan in plenty of lighting

Expensive outdoor kitchens have kitchen lighting ideas to rival those indoors. Take a very similar approach and layer your lighting so there's the right light for every occasion. You'll want some task lighting in the cooking and prep areas, and then softer accent lighting where the mood is more relaxed.

‘Lighting makes or breaks an outdoor space,’ points out Andrew D’Allienne. ‘From string lights to built-in fixtures, great lighting makes the space usable and beautiful at all hours. Task lighting for grills, ambient glows for dining – it all matters.’

8. Introduce natural materials

Balance the manmade materials of an outdoor kitchen with those with a natural origin for an expensive look.

‘I encourage the incorporation of natural materials for outdoor kitchen and dining spaces,’ says Laurin White, founder and designer at Cambridge Row. ‘You may still choose ones that are durable, of course, but they don’t have to be bland. Layering honest materials makes an outdoor kitchen space feel more inviting, charming, and perfectly imperfect,’ she adds.

9. Don’t neglect details

The smaller elements of an outdoor kitchen can contribute to making it look expensive. Think vases, platters, jugs, vases of flowers, a bar cart, and of course, soft furnishings like outdoor rugs and throw pillows.

‘Try adding some luxe decorative additions like upscale cheese boards, carafes, dinnerware, and vases of flowers,’ says interior designer Kathy Kuo. ‘Just take some time to add personal touches and you’ll instantly see an elevation in the level of luxury.’

You don’t need a large yard to create an expensive-looking cooking and dining space, and small outdoor kitchens can have luxe touches, too. But if, on the other hand, yours is generous in its size, maximize its practicality and give it a high-end finish with an outdoor kitchen island.

You might have already seen the midimalism trend in cozier rooms, but it's finally made its way into cooking spaces, offering cozy, characterful, and balanced kitchen ideas. It's about taking your favorite elements from minimalism and maximalism to create a space that feels perfectly decorated for your style.

We've turned to designers and kitchen experts to discover and share their favorite midimalist kitchen ideas for getting this balance of two extremes right.

8 midimalist kitchen ideas that get the expert seal-of-approval

A design style that sits somewhere between the simple, pared-back designs of minimalism and the bold, busy schemes typical of maximalism, blending your favorite features of each is the perfect way to nail midimalism in the kitchen.

And these spaces are the perfect guide for how to get it right. From bold marbles with muted colors to simplistic schemes emboldened with busy wallpapers, there's plenty here to inspire.

1. Mix materials for a midimalist look

Bringing midimalist style into the kitchen requires a bit more consideration than in other rooms where you can add soft furnishings and decorative items. Instead, look to materials and how you pair them to bring in warmth and contrast.

'Midimalism is about restraint with character with refined forms, elevated materials, and just enough warmth to make minimalism feel liveable. In the kitchen shown here, the midimalist approach is expressed through a pairing of soft matte cabinetry, natural timber, and the bold veining of the marble countertop that brings in the maximalism touch,' says Gareth Hull, design lead at Hendel & Hendel.

'The kitchen cabinet hardware in burnished brass adds a subtle sculptural detail that ties the whole scheme together. There’s warmth, but it’s considered. Curved seating, pared-back kitchen lighting, and arched windows echo the softness of the design language. It feels intentional, calming, and beautifully balanced; the very essence of midimalism.'

2. Pair soft colors with pretty patterns

Focusing on pattern and color is a great way to bring a sense of midimalism to your kitchen – in this case, how the chosen kitchen cabinet color pairs with the patterns used for the window seat area.

'This kitchen gets beautiful natural light throughout the day, so we wanted to keep the design clean and pared back,' says Louise Copeland, founder and designer of L.B. Copeland Interior Design.

'To bring in subtle interest, we used a tonal pattern: a white chevron tile on the walls adds texture, and a blue floral Roman shade – closely matched to the cabinetry – introduces softness without breaking the palette. It’s layered, but in a quiet, controlled way that keeps the space feeling calm.'

3. Layer natural materials and neutral colors

The design of this kitchen is a different approach to midimalism. It takes the color palette typical of minimalism and blends it with the textural layers of a more maximalist kitchen.

'There’s a lot of detail in the materials, but the palette is restrained. The paneled walls are tonal and low contrast, and we focused on mixing natural, neutral finishes – wood, stone, plaster – rather than introducing bold color. It’s all about subtle layering that adds depth while keeping the space grounded,' explains Louise.

The addition of the rich wooden island ensures the space has depth and tonal contrast, while the layered decor brings in a sense of personality of lived-in style.

4. Blend warmth and uncluttered design

The base of this kitchen feels really minimalist, with clean lines, light hues, and an uncluttered finish. But what brings it into the midimalist realm is the open kitchen shelving filled with layered decor of varying materials, textures, and styles.

'The kitchen pictured is a beautiful example of midimalism in action. The pale, shaker-style cabinetry keeps things refined, while the expressive marble backsplash adds visual interest without overwhelming the space,' says Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport.

'Decorative elements like wooden stools, artisan ceramics, greenery, and a curated shelf display layer in warmth and texture. It’s relaxed yet refined; proof that a kitchen can feel both beautifully designed and genuinely welcoming,' he explains.

5. Focus on how your flooring mixes with the rest of your midimalist scheme

Often, midimalist kitchen ideas focus on kitchen cabinets and kitchen countertops, but there's another key element that has a huge impact on your kitchen: the flooring. And this design is a perfect example of how it can aid a midimalist scheme.

'The space is a stunning example of midimalism, and the kitchen flooring does much of the heavy lifting. The large-format Limestone flagstones bring instant warmth and a sense of permanence, grounding the space in natural texture,' says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'Paired with the gently veined marble countertops and backsplash, it creates a rich, tonal palette without ever feeling busy. It’s a space that feels both elegant and effortless, precisely what midimalist design sets out to achieve.'

6. Bring in maximalist color to a minimalist design

One of the easiest ways to create a midimalist kitchen is to give a minimalist design a dose of bold color. In this design, on-trend yellow instantly brings a simplistic design to life.

'We designed and accessorized this basement kitchen with the original early Victorian Grade II listed house very much in mind. It was to be a hard-working kitchen as our client is a keen cook who loves entertaining, therefore a midimalist approach was taken to create not only a warm, inviting aesthetic but one which welcomed useful kitchen tools and tableware to be on display,' says Georgina Cave, of Cave Interiors.

'The open shelving housing the crockery on the sink run, and the shelf over the AGA with hanging rail under display a range of vintage china and cookware all at immediate hand. This not only helps in terms of ease of use but adds to the overall character without being overly cluttered.'

7. Combine simple features that add personality

This warm neutral kitchen has been given a midimalist makeover with the addition of a green island, layered decor, and a patterned blind over the window. It's the accessories and attention to detail here that make it the perfect middle ground between minimal and busy.

'At its core, it's pared-back and purposeful, but it’s also filled with thoughtful touches that invite you in. The generous farmhouse dining table anchors the room as a place to gather – whether for long, lazy lunches or spontaneous evening meals. A statement range sits at the heart of the space, adding both function and flair,' explains Charmaine White, associate director of interior design at HollandGreen.

'Crittall-style windows allow the light to flood in, while brass hardware and soft floral textiles introduce warmth and gentle contrast. Linen and wicker elements add textural depth, making the space feel relaxed and grounded. It’s a space that proves minimalist design doesn’t have to be cold – it can be full of soul, and designed to be lived in.'

8. Add a bold wallpaper to a pared-back kitchen

If you currently have a very sleek, minimal kitchen, there are a few ways to can infuse character to give it a more midimalist finish. And we're not talking about changing the core elements – simply adding collected accessories and a bold kitchen wallpaper will make a difference.

'Midimalist is a relatively new term that blends the warmth and character of mid-century design with the clean, uncluttered principles of minimalism. This kitchen captures that essence beautifully. The clean lines of the handleless cabinetry provide a sleek, minimalist base for the handcrafted wood cabinets with reeded glass fronts,' explains Judith Gelling, of Kitchen Architecture.

'Decor in a midimalist kitchen is all about balance. Here, the wallpaper adds just the right amount of pattern and interest – enough to express individuality but never overwhelm the space. Midimalism is about calm, considered design with character. This kitchen nails it.'

What is a midimalist kitchen?

Midimalism is a relatively new and emerging style in the world of kitchens. Taking the best features of minimalism and maximalism, it's a design ethos that's growing as more people want kitchens that feel lived-in and full of personality.

'A midimalist kitchen strikes the perfect balance between minimalism and warmth. It retains the calm, uncluttered feel of minimal design, but introduces soft textures, natural materials, and carefully chosen decorative details that make the space feel lived-in and inviting. You still have the clean lines and considered layout but with more personality and soul,' explains Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport.

Certain approaches work best to create a midimalist kitchen. And for Ca' Pietra's Grazzie Wilson, it's all about the materials and how you layer them. 'Midimalist kitchens are all about mindful layering, think natural materials, soft tones, and just the right amount of decorative detail.'

'Unlike minimalism, which often strips a space back to the bare bones, midimalism invites warmth and character. It’s about balance: clean lines meet earthy textures, and every surface is chosen to feel beautiful, tactile, and liveable,' she explains.

While the midimalist style is trending, it's far from a fleeting kitchen trend. It's a style that's gaining traction because it's achievable, balanced, and adds the coziness people desire without impeding on function.

It's a kitchen style that embodies lived-in style and personality-filled design – from the kitchen colors introduced to layering textiles and decorating with vintage pieces, there are so many ways to create the look. It's a style you should definitely consider adding to your kitchen this year.

In fact, your kitchen color ideas can really dictate the overall look and feel of your space. Warm neutrals signal a more minimalist design, while others feel more classic and cozy.

And it was the color palette in this kitchen remodel that really set the tone. What was once an outdated space is now a warm, welcoming, and totally timeless kitchen – and it's thanks to the bark blue, warm white, and natural wood combination.

While wooden kitchen ideas might be back in style, the original kitchen here was nothing short of dated. The space was filled with orange tones, from the floors to the wood finishes used throughout, so it needed a complete rethink.

'We removed much of the early 2000s wood finishes and refinished the floors to create a calmer, more balanced backdrop. The goal was to soften the visual weight of the space, ensuring that each design element could breathe while still feeling cohesive,' says Sara Swabb, of Storie Collective who collaborated with Tanya Smith-Shiflett, of Unique Kitchens & Baths.

But the aesthetics weren't the only issue that the original owners had. The kitchen layout was confused and dysfunctional, featuring a too-small island and a peninsula that awkwardly divided the space.

'Additionally, what is now the breakfast nook was previously an office, making the layout feel disjointed and inefficient. The space did not work for the family's needs, limiting flow and interaction,' Sara adds.

To bring the scheme up to date and infuse personality and interest, the space required a rethink and some major changes. They opened up the kitchen, reconfigured the layout to create a more open, airy space, and converted the former home office into a dining nook.

'We refinished the floors to eliminate the red-orange undertones, bringing in a softer, more refined feel, and updated the cabinetry with a deep, rich blue-black and natural oak with custom detailing, striking functionality,' she explains.

The kitchen now is a stark contrast to what once was. The moody blue kitchen cabinets paired with the textured wood island is a truly timeless choice, adding interest and contrast to the scheme.

'We wanted the kitchen to feel rich but not heavy, warm but not overwhelming. The deep blue-black cabinetry anchors the space, while the fluted wood island brings in natural texture and warmth,' Sara explains.

'This combination allows for contrast while keeping the overall feel inviting and approachable. The mix of materials – painted and wood kitchen cabinets, stone, and brass – ensures the space feels layered and collected over time, rather than overly designed.'

There are so many beautiful details throughout the scheme that are key to creating the look and feel. Alongside the on-trend fluted wood detail on the island, an Ilve range cooker brings a more traditional detail that adds functional elegance, while vintage lighting and accessories bring a beautiful blend of old alongside the new.

'The client loves the best parts of mid-century modern and modern farmhouse aesthetics but wanted to retain the home’s traditional character. The result is a stylish, layered blend of old and new,' explains Sara.

But it's the new breakfast nook that stands out, adding a casual seating area full of textural interest. Even though it was once a separate room, it now feels like a crucial part of the finished kitchen.

'The breakfast nook is designed to be both functional and inviting. Originally an office, this space felt disconnected from the kitchen. By reimagining it as a cozy dining area, we created a natural extension of the kitchen where the family can gather,' Sara adds.

'The built-in seating fosters intimacy and comfort, making it a perfect spot for morning coffee, casual meals, or even reading. The upholstered bench adds softness, while the vintage-inspired floral fabric on the bench cushion and Roman shades bring in warmth and personality, a subtle nod to the early 1900s. The layered textiles and mix of materials make it feel seamless, comfortable, and beautifully intentional.'

Every element of this kitchen has been thought-out and perfectly curated. The rich hue of the cabinetry is replicated on the nook window treatments to tie the large space together, while the wood floor offers a nod to the old kitchen, but in a more timeless finish.

And the vintage details are the ideal finishing touch. From the lived-in style of the runner to the old style of the pendants and the brass finishes throughout the room, the kitchen really feels as though its always been part of the bones of the home.

From the dark blue kitchen cabinets to the textural natural materials, this kitchen is a masterclass in classic, timeless designs. It demonstrates how to weave a thread through your kitchen design while still giving each zone its own sense of identity.

The newly remodeled space feels bright, open, and functional, while still having that cozy, lived-in feel thanks to the soft furnishings and pretty vintage prints and patterns. Even if you don't have the option of opening up different parts of your home, you can apply the design elements here to small kitchen ideas, too.

After pivoting and falling in love with wooden countertops for their warmth and country charm, I quickly learned that while they're undeniably beautiful, they can also be prone to water damage. Especially around the kitchen sink.

So, I took to Pinterest and discovered a handy hack inspired by deVOL Kitchens that allowed me to bring together the two looks. Enter: my nifty marble sink inset. Here's why I’d recommend this little trick to anyone dreaming of a butcher block countertop with a high-end feel.

A firm favorite in country or farmhouse-style kitchens, a wooden kitchen countertop is a timeless choice, but it has fallen out of favor of late, replaced by statement marble or more modern materials like quartz or granite.

Bringing warmth, texture, and a sense of character that few other kitchen countertop ideas can match, timber counters are not only a budget choice but great for creating everything from a rustic feel to a more modern organic look.

But for all its beauty, wood like oak or iroko (which was my personal choice for its deep tones) isn't the most forgiving – and it certainly doesn't play well with water. It can require regular maintenance, is prone to strains and scratches, and is super common for water rings, swelling, or dark patches to form around the sink if you aren't hyper vigilant.

I grew up with a very English kitchen with wooden counters, and it was the entire family's job to ensure such a fate didn't fall on my mom's beloved butcher block. So, I knew when I chose it for my recent kitchen redesign that I needed to think outside the box.

It wasn't until I came across a series of images from deVOL that I realized there was a design idea that could give me the best of both worlds: the look and durability of marble with the rustic charm of wood.

This small but mighty trick simply involves embedding a rectangle of marble into the wood to house the tap fixtures around my farmhouse-style butler sink. This can be done with an off-cut of solid marble countertop (which you can usually source relatively cheaply from a stone supplier), or for an even more budget-friendly choice, pick up a large marble floor or wall tile and have it inserted into the wooden counter.

It’s a clever, high-end detail that’s surprisingly easy to DIY or ask your builder to add. As you can see in the image above, it is important that you choose the two materials at the same thickness for a seamless look. But if that is proving tricky, you can alternatively have your joiner or kitchen fitter router out some of the wooden countertop to recess the marble into the wood.

Mixing materials like stone and wood adds instant interest and brings a layered, thoughtful quality to a kitchen. And placing a marble inset around the tap is not only practical, it makes the sink feel more bespoke and luxurious, creating space to put dish soap and brushes without worrying about water stains.

Of course, I still have to be careful with my wood. We always ensure we have a draining board next to the sink for the washing up and are extremely strict with hot pans (wood is not heat-resistant!) and curse anyone who places a cup down without a coaster.

However, I can't believe how much this little slice of marble has transformed the look and feel of my kitchen sink. If you love the look of wood countertops, like me, but hate the stress of water stains, then this clever fix might just be for you.

For such a small detail, this little piece of marble has made a surprisingly big impact on my kitchen – both aesthetically and practically. And it is one of the first things visitors comment on as something they love about the space. It’s the kind of upgrade that feels thoughtful and bespoke, even though it was simple and budget-friendly to pull off.

If you also have a wooden countertop and are looking for clear instructions on how to oil a wooden kitchen countertop, we've broken it down step by step in our dedicated feature. But if you're still at the early stages of a kitchen remodel, I urge you to research the best countertops for a kitchen before pulling the trigger.