A kitchen makeover not only boosts the value of your home, it enhances functionality and style too. Phoebe Harper explores the latest designs
Top image by Higham Furniture
Today’s ideal kitchen is smarter, sleeker and more stylish than ever before. Gone are the days of cramped layouts that revolve around the simple triangle of sink, oven and fridge – instead, more and more people are looking to create seamless, high-tech spaces where everything is in easy reach.
Think touchscreen controls, AI-powered appliances and intuitive designs that work with you, not against you; like built-in coffee stations to elevate your morning brew or sous vide vacuum drawers and steam ovens to add a gourmet touch to everyday meals.
While modern kitchen design is a real source of excitement for any interiors enthusiast, revamping your cooking space remains one of the biggest home expenses, and it can be daunting having to make long-term aesthetic choices. But if you give it the time, consideration and investment the space deserves, there’s no reason your kitchen can’t be the perfect marriage of style and functionality.
Go with the flow
Before diving into colours and countertops, and getting bold with your palette, it’s essential to go back to basics. Start by assessing the space – can you extend it or reconfigure the layout to improve functionality? A thoughtful design will ensure smooth movement between key areas. When it comes to effortless cooking and entertaining, flow is king. Ask yourself whether everything is within easy reach or you’re constantly dodging obstacles?
Let the three fundamentals of space, flow and lighting be your guiding principles. Smart storage solutions, such as pull-out drawers and built-in pantries, can maximise every inch, while lighting is a game changer. A mix of ambient, task and accent lighting will create a warm and inviting atmosphere while ensuring that work areas are always well lit. Natural light is ideal, but under-cabinet lighting and stylish pendants can enhance brightness.
UK-based Life of Ply offers natural-looking furnishings for a rustic feel
In answering these questions and identifying the solutions that work for your space, consulting an expert is key. “Kitchen appliances have had to progress with the technology,” says Allison Lynch, manager of the Cambridge showroom for bespoke local kitchen company Roundhouse Design. “Customers are looking for more efficient ways to use their kitchen, while also looking for greater energy efficiency and convenience.” Some of the key modern innovations Allison has observed include the introduction of an air fryer function into ovens by high-end appliance manufacturers, thereby saving counter space and providing a more attractive alternative to free-standing air fryers.
“The vented hob is another prominent space-saving feature that can add to the aesthetic and makes it easier to design with. In addition, we’re seeing lots of boiling-water taps that eliminate the need for a kettle. These can offer sparkling water too, which frees up space from bottled water storage and is a more environmentally friendly alternative.”
Elsewhere, design touches like bi-fold lift-up doors on wall units make for easier access if you’re short on space. “Our Fulham pantry at Roundhouse, for example, includes touch-to-open bi-fold pocket doors and a pull-out worktop for more efficient use of a pantry cupboard when worktop space is limited.”
Style notes
Choosing the perfect style for your kitchen is all about balancing aesthetics with practicality. Consider the overall vibe you want – is it sleek and modern or rustic and cosy? This choice will influence everything from cabinet styles to colour palettes. Fixtures and fittings also play a crucial role in defining the space. Matte black or brass hardware will add a contemporary touch, while classic chrome suits a more traditional look. Think about surfaces too – marble and quartz worktops bring luxury, while wood adds warmth and character. The choice of materials here, as well as your desired flooring, are the two biggest decisions to get out of the way since these will dictate the colours chosen elsewhere.
“Japandi design is really exciting,” says Allison. “It’s a mix of Japanese and Scandinavian design, and offers a lot for kitchens – simplicity, natural elements, comfort and sustainability.”
Like any other room, kitchens should have flair and personality; find the details to finish your look at Grohe Taps
While a timeless look will serve you well with such a long-term investment, don’t shy away from statement features. Bold splashbacks, stylish pendant lighting or open shelving can bring personality and charm. Most importantly, your kitchen should reflect your lifestyle. Do you love entertaining? Then a kitchen island with bar seating is a must. Prefer a clutter-free space? Go for sleek, handleless cabinets. By blending aesthetics with smart design choices, you’ll create a kitchen that’s both stunning and functional.
“We always pair natural materials to create an interior that meets the client’s style and flows throughout the house,” says Allison at Roundhouse. “There’s a lot of intention behind selecting the right colours, greens being more natural, then throwing in some neutrals too for balance.”
Practical pointers
Embarking on a kitchen refurbishment requires careful planning, especially for structural changes like rerouting utilities, removing walls or relocating doors. These modifications can significantly enhance your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetic appeal, but come with practical considerations and costs.
Altering the positions of sinks, stoves or electrical outlets necessitates moving plumbing and electrical systems. This process can be complex and costly, depending on the size and layout. Bear in mind, retaining the original floor plan and structure will minimise these expenses.
While open-plan kitchens are here to stay, they inevitably involve the knocking down of internal walls. As such, it’s crucial to determine if the wall is load-bearing, first of all, as removing these will require additional support structures, significantly increasing costs. Hidden utilities such as electrical wiring, gas pipes or plumbing within the wall might also need rerouting.
Storage such as this dark, elegant option from Higham Furniture affect the space’s overall feel
You might be bursting with exciting ideas and have the perfect kitchen inspo Pinterest board, but what are the financial implications? Naturally, any refurbishment will vary based on the project’s scope and the quality of materials used. However, Refresh Renovations estimates a basic kitchen makeover in Cambridge costs up to £11,500, based on keeping existing layouts, while extras like utilities rerouting or structural changes increase costs up to £17,100. Mid-range renovations typically cost between £17,500 and £29,000.
Roundhouse Design undertakes a variety of kitchens and finishes that cater to a range of budgets – not to mention that you also benefit from the priceless expertise of putting your kitchen in safe hands. “This varies from our modular Studio range, starting at £35k, through to bigger spaces with feature materials, which tip the price closer to £100k,” says Allison. “There are plenty of choices in between too, and working to all budgets means we have something for everyone.”
Regardless of your refurbishment’s scale, it’s always advisable to consult with professionals to assess structural implications and obtain accurate quotes tailored to your specific renovation plans. Only by doing so will you be able to bring to life a stylish, functional space that enhances your lifestyle and makes those everyday moments feel more special.
Useful contacts
The Cotswold Company
cotswoldco.com
Good Home by B&Q
diy.com
Higham Furniture
higham.co.uk
Lochanna Kitchens
lochannakitchens.co.uk
Porcelain Superstore
porcelainsuperstore.co.uk
Roundhouse Design
roundhousedesign.com
Tomas Kitchen Living
tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk
