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Walk into a kitchen showroom and it can be a little overwhelming…with so many options and ideas from the latest appliances to technology, a new kitchen doesn’t happen overnight.
As Lizzie Beasley, head of style and design at Howdens, says: “Autumn is peak kitchen renovation season, and today’s kitchens are much more than a collection of fitted cabinets.
“They are multi-functional spaces with personality, providing focal points, social areas and practical features… Whether you have a modern or classic kitchen, a good design should balance utility with visual appeal.”
Here, Beasley breaks down what’s trending, blending form and function…
layout trends
The designer says layouts are becoming more personalized and adaptive. “While open-plan kitchens remain popular for their sociability, we’re seeing a rise in broken-plan designs, which use shelving, islands or partial walls to create subtle zoning within the space.”
cabinetry features
Cabinetry is more than storage, it’s the center of your kitchen’s personality, Beasley highlights. “From the classic Shaker doors to the sleek handleless design, every detail matters.”
“The pull-out larder, pantry and drawer organization system with interior oak details provide both beauty and utility,” she explains.
modern kitchen
Beasley says modern kitchen design is heavily influenced by European trends. “It often features a mix of colors and textures with minimalist slab doors and smooth, narrow shaker profiles.
“Metallics and woodgrain are leading the way, supported by a wide palette of color options – including muted greens and warm neutrals.”
Furthermore, she says that modern kitchens are constantly redefining themselves. “Featuring clean lines, layered textures and innovative materials, modern style is both functional and expressive.”
For example, she says today’s modern kitchens can use flat slab doors, bold or matte finishes and integrated lighting to create a sleek, seamless feel…
“Narrow-profile Shaker styles bridge the gap between modern and classic.”
Beasley points out that another major trend is style fusion, which blends modern and traditional elements for a more personal and grounded aesthetic.
“For example, pairing a modern Shaker door with minimal hardware and a stone countertop creates a look that is both timeless and visionary.”
classic kitchen
Classic kitchens draw inspiration from historical references, whether it’s the simplicity of the Edwardian era, or the grandeur of the Georgian period, Beasley outlines.
“These styles are usually built around the Shaker frontal, with attention to detail. The finish can be woodgrain or smooth, with or without beading.
“The most premium classic designs feature in-frame Shaker doors, where the door sits neatly within a framed frame.”
When it comes to exploring styles, she says Shaker Kitchen is evolving while maintaining its timeless appeal.
“Defined by its framed simplicity and balanced proportions, Shaker style is suitable for a wide range of interiors, from rustic to sophisticated,” Beasley highlights.
Indeed, she says the versatility of Shaker kitchens means they can be classically styled with rich wood finishes and subtle beading. “Or they can be stripped back and modernized, with smoothly painted facades and minimal detailing.”
To get the look, Beasley says the key to a successful shaker design lies in a balance of materials, proportions and details.
“Combine wood cabinetry with stone worktops, traditional handles and feature dressers or mantles to create a warm, timeless aesthetic.”
Colour
Beazley highlights that choosing the right color or combination of colors is essential to achieving the style and atmosphere you envision for your kitchen.
“Warm neutrals create a timeless, inviting feel, perfect for cozy, livable spaces. Deep greens and deep blues add a layer of elegance and depth.
She adds: “Whereas bold statement colors like saffron communicate instant personality.”
Appliances, Sinks and Faucets
Beasley explains that a well-designed classic kitchen benefits from a focal point, drawing attention and framing the space.
She says appliances, sinks and faucets often serve this purpose, and it might be a range cooker framed by a decorative mantle; or a beautiful porcelain belfast Sink paired with classic tap.
“Modern kitchens include smart, integrated appliances, from coffee machines and downdraft hobs to hot water taps and seamless refrigeration.
She adds, “These innovations support a more streamlined, functional kitchen that works around your life.”
work surfaces
Clearly, Beasley says work surfaces now play an important role in both form and function. “They can soften bold color choices, introduce texture, or add vibrancy and warmth to a more subdued palette.”
“Far from being purely practical, they are now a defining element in kitchen design…Natural stone, engineered composites, and wood accents help to accentuate bold cabinetry or elevate minimalist schemes,” Beasley outlines.
How to get started: Howdens offers a wide range of kitchen collections. For more information and to book a free design appointment online, visit howdens.com,