Be creative with colour
Unique designs often come down to creative uses of colours and patterns. Traditional all-white kitchens can feel uninspired. More vibrant colours and patterned tiles can inject life into the kitchen, making it feel uniquely yours. Consider painting one wall in a bold colour like teal, burnt orange, or mustard yellow, creating a focal point. Or if you’re going for a more cohesive look, you might paint the backsplash wall in the same colour as a kitchen island base.
Tile patterns like Moroccan, Mediterranean, or encaustic tiles can bring more charm. Geometric tiles might suit a more modern kitchen design. Consider the kitchen floor: a black-and-white checkerboard floor can add a retro vibe, while ceramic tiles in blue, green, or earthy tones can suit a bolder look.
For just a hint of colour, try coloured cabinet fronts or island bases while keeping the rest of the space more neutral. If you go this route, you can easily update the room with a new colour scheme later. Colourful cabinets, including two-tone cabinets (upper and lower cabinets painted in different colours), can create more interest without overwhelming the space.
Open up with glass doors
Internal doors between kitchen and adjacent rooms, like your dining area or living room, can make a big impact. Internal doors are available in a range of styles, including white oak, primed and glass doors. Glass doors can make for stylish room dividers and enhance the flow of natural light, making the kitchen feel more open and spacious. This can be particularly beneficial in homes with limited natural light, letting light pass through rooms to create a brighter environment.
Prioritise lighting
Lighting plays a big role in creating ambiance. Pendant lights or chandeliers can add glamour and some rustic charm. You might hang pendant lights over the kitchen island to draw attention to the room’s central point. For a more eclectic look, you could mix different fixtures like sconces and under-cabinet lights, which offer flexibility for both task and mood lighting. A dimmer switch can control light intensity, giving brighter light for cooking and a softer feel for dining.
Mix and match materials
Mixing different materials and textures can give a room real character. Various materials like wood, stone, and glass can give a more custom, designer feel. Try using natural materials for cabinets and countertops, alongside modern elements like stainless steel appliances and metal shelves. Glass doors on cabinets can showcase dishware or your favourite ornaments and cooking books. This mix and match approach creates visual contrast and can make a room feel more inviting.
Personalise with décor
After you’ve decided on the design’s foundation, incorporate personal touches like plants, vases, clocks, and artwork. Kitchens are typically about function but if there’s room for artistic flair, the space will feel more like your own. Hang a favourite painting or place a favourite vase to decorate the room. Greenery can also bring a fresh and inviting look – a small herb garden on the windowsill or some flowers on a kitchen island could be the perfect finishing touch.
