Best New Kitchen Trends To Get On Your Radar Now

Designer for luxury British kitchen designers Roundhouse, Victoria Marriott, is all about the ‘Broken Plan’ kitchen design. This moves on from the traditional open space, dine in kitchen to a more complex, intriguing space.

“The space is physically divided,” says Marriot, “by changes to floor levels or materials such as glass partitions, partial walls, shelving, bookcases or even storage or furniture”. This open but divided approach means that cooks can prep and organise (and deal with the odd tense flambé moment) without guests distracting them, but without also being totally separate to the action.

It also helps a division of activity; homework can be happening in one part of the room whilst organising the larder in another. Together but separate, this solution allows family members to coexist with a little more personal space.

Modern kitchens tend to have to work hard, and do several jobs, as well being the epicentre of activity in a home. This drive for multi-function has also seen a demand for items that become more like the premium designed pieces in other living room spaces, with the standard kitchen items looking more discreet. The dining area also links more seamlessly with the kitchen design. “Built-in means having furniture in the living space that echoes that of the kitchen,” says Marriot.

“For example, audio-visual furniture or shelf units that are made in the same materials in the same style as your kitchen, thereby maintaining a coherent overall design.” Even colours in the kitchen are becoming more connected to the rest of the home, “becoming softer and paler with lots of greys but also peach, pink, green as well as strong navy and black” suggests Marriot, breaking down the traditional switch into a more practical look as design moves into the kitchen.

To make a kitchen feel more luxurious, managing the light is essential. Subtle lighting that runs under units that can be adjusted can create a glamorous evening mood, but daylight also needs to be managed or it can bounce aggressively off the hard surfaces making the room feel stark.

A sheer window coverings like Duette® blinds will allow light to flow in but gently soften and diffuse it. The window is also a great place to add interest, such as this subtle ombre design.

Alternatively, add in a modern fabric Vertical Blind as you can adjust the slats in increments, to get the light and privacy you want. A great way to add in a softer textured look, especially for large windows.

Always a popular choice for kitchens, the new trends give wood a very modern edge. “Although there are still lots of dark woods around, the tones appears to be becoming blonder,” says Marriot, “and it’s a great material for open storage for curated displays.” Wood grain is also being employed as dramatic surface decoration and works beautifully to warm up industrial spaces and contrast against matt materials such as concrete or slate.

Still the star of the interior design show, metal details are everywhere. From subtle detailing in handles or trims through to metal wrapped kitchen doors in finishes that include Burnished Copper, Bronze and Hammered Silver. “There is a move away from uniformity and a trend towards more individuality,” says Marriot.

“Finishes like these are reflective and rich, with depth and texture and look very arresting when used with matt or gloss lacquers, beautiful book matched veneers or textured finishes to create a layered effect.” Although they may seem very luxe or high maintenance, such materials age beautifully as they gather a patina over time. A trend that just gets better as it ages, the ultimate in style staying power.