In the ever-changing world of kitchen design, choosing a cabinet color can feel like a high-stakes gamble. While trends come and go, experts agree that the key to a lasting kitchen is a color rooted in timeless design principles, not fleeting fads.

Luckily, we don't have to guess. The ultimate authority in home and design, Martha Stewart, has shared her secret to a truly timeless kitchen. In an exclusive interview with Homes & Gardens, she revealed the kitchen cabinet color that has kept her own kitchen looking brand new for two decades.

'I designed my kitchen 20 years ago,' Martha told us. 'I bought an old farm and I redid the kitchen, and it looks brand new. It looks like it was made yesterday. That's how nice and well-made it is.'

This simple yet brilliant choice is proof that embracing smart kitchen color ideas is the best way to future-proof your space.

She continued, 'The kitchen cabinets are made with gray frames, a beautiful Bedford gray, as I call it. All the buildings are painted the same color gray, and the panels in the cabinets, flat-paneled cabinets, sort of in the American shaker style, are beautiful tiger maple. And they look pretty in the gray cabinet.' The relaxing beauty of the cabinets creates the perfect environment for cooking, socializing, relaxing, or in Martha's case, enjoying a glass of her favorite Pure Leaf iced tea.

Beyond color, Martha also recommends choosing no-fuss kitchen cabinet hardware to create a truly enduring look. She says, 'I like small knobs that are efficient and pull out so you don't catch anything on the cabinets. My drawers have small knobs on them.' This preference for minimal hardware is completely resistant to fleeting trends and is a hallmark of her classic style.

Her commitment to simplicity extends to the cabinet design itself. While many kitchen ideas feature decorative moldings or raised panels, Martha is a fan of smooth, flush cabinets. 'In my kitchen everything's flush,' she said. This sleek, clean-lined approach isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about practicality. 'If you have a spill off a counter,' she explains, 'it's not going to go into the drawers and get stuck into all the fancy moldings and stuff. It's elegant but simple.'

This smart design philosophy is a powerful reminder that the most enduring kitchen trends are those that perfectly blend form and function.

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Elegant but simple seems to be the name of the game in Martha Stewart's timeless cabinet playbook. Gray and natural wood, small hardware, and flush surfaces unite for a look that will never go out of style.

For more inspiration, our list of timeless kitchen design ideas is a great place to start.

The greatest challenge for anyone designing a kitchen is creating a space that feels on trend for right now, but will also last for decades to come. The kitchen trends of 2025 have been all about creating spaces filled with character, color, and texture. And it's minimalist kitchens that have been on the out, but really, we all know minimalism is never really out of style, it will always have a place as a timeless look that transcends trends.

And the kitchen of singer Michael Bublé and actress Luisana Lopilato proves how timeless a minimalist kitchen can be. They've designed a bright, white kitchen that masterfully blends clean lines and classic finishes – a tiled backsplash, clutter-free countertops – anchored by one crucial element: handleless cabinets.

Design experts agree that this detail is the key to the kitchen feeling both timeless and on trend. As Paul Dore, kitchen worktop expert at County Stone, notes, 'A minimalist aesthetic is never more desirable than in a kitchen. Handleless kitchen cabinets aren't anything new, but sleek, minimal kitchens are once more becoming the go-to for homeowners all over the world.'

The uncluttered, sophisticated look of Bublé and Lopilato's kitchen is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most enduring design is the most simple.

'While handleless cabinets may be seen as modern, they do, in fact, offer a timeless look that integrates with almost every kitchen style,' explains Dore. 'Whether you’re looking for that ultramodern kitchen style with clean lines that oozes sophistication, or you’re lusting after a more traditional look straight from Instagram, their uncluttered appearance can add elegance and a point of difference to any kitchen.'

Beyond their sophisticated appearance, the resurgence of handleless cabinetry is also driven by significant practical advantages that appeal to modern, busy households. This seamless style offers more than just good looks.

'The absence of prominent handles also means there are no more accidental bumps and snags - ideal for busy young families where the kitchen truly is the heart of the home, as well as those who have limited mobility or accessibility,' adds Dore. 'A simple push-to-open and close mechanism makes them particularly perfect for kitchens that are used throughout the day or as a through-room.'

Plus, it works in a small kitchen too. Bublé and Lopilato's home feels light and bright, and although square footage might not be limited, thanks to the simplicity of the cabinetry, the room is open and airy.

'Regardless of how big your kitchen is, there will always be a need for more storage. As such, floor-to-ceiling and full-wall cabinets have become a popular choice as people look to use all available space. You may think that this makes the room feel smaller, but the uninterrupted lines that are created by handleless kitchen cabinets across a space can actually give the impression of a larger and more space.' Dore says.

It's also impossible not to note the benefits of cleanliness when it comes to a minimalist kitchen with handleless cabinets. 'We all know that a clean kitchen is never clean for long, but handles just make that little bit harder to keep clean,' Dore comments.

'Handles attract dirt, grime, and germs from all over and require more in-depth cleaning to get into nooks and crannies. But with the absence of handles, a quick wipe with a cloth will leave your kitchen looking like it jumped straight out of a magazine.'

Changing your cabinet fronts to match Bublé and Lopilato's handleless design might not be a switch you can make in an instant, but there are plenty of smaller decor changes you can make to give a kitchen a sleeker, more minimalist feel.

Ultimately, the reason a minimalist kitchen like Bublé and Lopilato's endures is simple: timelessness is often achieved by keeping things simple. When you remove the busy detail, the unnecessary hardware, and the clutter, what remains is pure form and function. This focus on essential quality ensures that the look will remain sophisticated and relevant for decades to come.

When David Beckham shared a photo of his son Brooklyn's kitchen, it wasn't the cooking that caught our eye, but a design choice that signals a major trend shift.

Rather than filling the kitchen space with traditional upper cabinets, the aspiring chef opted for a simple, yet stylish, pot rack. This choice is a testament to a growing movement away from bulky cabinetry and toward more open, functional, and personalized kitchen ideas.

In a smaller space, a lack of upper kitchen cabinets can create the illusion of more space, making the room feel airier and more modern. The pot hanger trend is a perfect solution, allowing you to beautifully display your favorite pots and pans, turning everyday kitchen tools into a work of art.

Not every kitchen item needs to be hidden away. In fact, embracing decorative kitchen storage ideas can dramatically change the look and feel of your space. Pot racks, hangers, and hooks have been around for a while, but it's only in recent years that they've been making a major comeback in kitchen design.

‘A good chef will organize contents rigidly, making sure everything is easy to see, at a glance, so that ingredients and equipment can be gathered quickly,’ says chef and author Peter Sidwell, brand ambassador for Symphony Kitchens. In a true chef's kitchen, open shelves, wall-mounted knife blocks and pot racks are similarly efficient in terms of speed and accessibility. They are a must for anyone who spends time cooking at home.

While they were once exclusively the domain of chefs, used as a purely practical alternative to kitchen cabinet ideas, today's pot racks serve a dual purpose. They are a wonderful way to display not only beautiful pots and pans, but also decorative objects like copper crockery, charming linens, and fresh herbs that add a burst of color and fragrance.

'A single pot rack – or two racks flanking either side of a kitchen backsplash – work particularly well in a small kitchen where there may be a fair amount of closed cabinetry taking up space along the walls,' says Molly Malsom, kitchen editor at Homes & Gardens. Beckham's individual display adds an element of interest that draws the eye, all while helping to keep kitchen countertops clear.

This trend is all about putting your favorite tools and objects on display, making the kitchen a more personal and inviting space. It proves that you can do more with your kitchen walls than just add cabinets. Instead of a bare wall or a closed-off design, you can create a beautiful feature that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

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This clever accessory is more than just a storage solution – it’s a way to inject textural interest and chef-inspired style into your home. It’s no wonder designers and culinary enthusiasts alike are embracing this elegant alternative to traditional kitchen storage.

For further inspiration, we explore more ways to decorate above kitchen cabinets in our dedicated feature.

This year's kitchen trends capture the desire to add interest and layered design into our spaces. They embrace individuality and abundant texture, so it's no surprise that fluted kitchen cabinets are trending.

As far as kitchen cabinets go, classic styles like Shaker and slab-front have been the most prominent designs. But 2025 is all about introducing unexpected design elements – and this textural cabinet design does exactly that.

But what's the appeal of fluted kitchen cabinets – and is it a design feature we should be embracing this year? We've turned to design experts to see if they're a good idea, and how to introduce them to kitchens of every style.

Why are fluted kitchen cabinets trending?

It's easy to get pulled into the classic cabinetry designs, especially if you're trying to create a scheme that never dates. But timeless kitchen style doesn't mean you have to shy away from more unique details – like fluted cabinets.

'Fluted cabinetry brings a distinctive tactile and visual quality to kitchen design, enhancing depth and interest with its rhythmical, vertical grooves. Whether crafted from glass, stone, or wood, fluted finishes exude refined elegance, achieving a timeless aesthetic while offering a modern architectural edge,' says Charlie Smallbone, founder at Ledbury Studio.

While they can work beautifully in a range of interior design styles, they have a particular appeal in more modern kitchen designs. It's their tactile quality and ability to feel modern without being a flat, cold surface.

'Contemporary kitchens tend to be quite plain, so introducing areas of fluting into a kitchen design is a simple way to add character and interest without the need to introduce a distinct 'pattern', which could easily date over time,' adds Victoria Spencer-Eves, of Veves Interior Design.

This kitchen trend also brings with it the opportunity to play with different materials, whether you add a feature stone or introduce a mix of contrasting materials for a more dynamic design.

'For decades, flat-panel kitchen cabinets were seen as the epitome of modern design – sleek, minimalist, and effortlessly chic. In the last decade or so, we’ve seen a shift. A new wave of richly textured materials – wood, metals and stone is becoming popular, pushing past the clean lines of the past and adding depth and character,' says Andrew Hay, founder of Cabbonet.

As well as its more aesthetic traits, fluted cabinetry adds much more than just a stylish feature. We often talk about catering to all of the senses when designing a room, and fluted details weave into an often-forgotten sense in a kitchen.

'Kitchens are highly tactile objects within a home, and something we engage with every day. Fluting encourages us to touch, it's human nature, so as a result it feels very welcoming,' explains Victoria.

3 ways to introduce fluted cabinets to your kitchen

Fluted kitchen cabinets are more versatile than you might think – and there are a few different ways to bring them into your scheme. Here, design experts share their favorite methods for a chic and dynamic space.

1. Pair fluted cabinets with simpler styles in the same color

While we often talk about two-tone kitchen cabinetry being a great way to add interest to your space, the same effect can be created by using two styles of cabinetry – and applying one cohesive color is a great way to create a bold yet cozy statement.

'I personally love fluted cabinets when the kitchen is one color, and the key is to apply it selectively. Applying fluting to the lower half of the units draws the eye down into the heart of the kitchen, and applying a simpler door (in the same color) for anything high level creates a feeling of height and airiness,' says Victoria.

In this kitchen, the same deep green hue has been used for the fluted cabinetry and the smoother floor-to-ceiling cabinets. The result is a visually interesting scheme that feels dynamic, textured, and timeless – especially when paired with a statement stone waterfall countertops.

2. Embrace fluted wood cabinets

Wood kitchens are enjoying a revival at the moment, and fluted cabinets are a more playful take on a classic kitchen style.

'Fluted wood is an exceptional choice for kitchen islands. When used on this central feature, it brings a touch of texture and warmth that contrasts beautifully with smoother cabinetry and countertops,' explains Charlie.

This design is a perfect example, where fluted wood cabinets add a more textural feel to the space, pairing beautifully with simple marble countertops and the glass-fronted cabinet. 'The result is a dynamic, inviting space where the fluted detail adds layers of interest and artistry.'

3. Add a statement accent with fluting

If you're not sure about bringing fluted finishes to the entirety of your kitchen scheme, you might prefer to create an accent feature instead. This could be one tall cabinet, a freestanding piece, or the kitchen island.

'Fluting works best as an accent in a kitchen space. We like to design kitchens with a mix of textures and materials, and fluting is a great surface to work with. It complements modern, contemporary, and transitional kitchens and can be created in a multitude of finishes like timber, painted, metal, or stone,' says Andrew.

Adding an accent rather than a full run of fluted cabinets helps to create a focal point and can feel a bit more versatile in a scheme. Fiona Ginnett, co-founder at HØLTE, agrees with Andrew, explaining that smaller fluted additions can be more characterful and adaptable, especially on an island.

'Fluted cabinets are incredibly versatile. In modern, minimalist kitchens, they add the perfect touch of texture without disrupting the clean lines. In traditional or transitional spaces, they bring character and a sense of heritage, while keeping the design fresh. I love using fluted panels on curved back or end panels of an island, as it brings a sculptural element to the space,' she explains.

Whether you go all in with a full run of fluted kitchen cabinets or add an accent on an island, this textural trend is a fun way to bring visual interest into your scheme. For a less permanent option, a freestanding fluted cabinet is a great way to introduce two huge trends for 2025. You can find out more about how to mix freestanding furniture into your kitchen in our dedicated feature.

Beautifullly-designed storage is a combination of a lot of things, from being multifunctional to maximizing space and adding decorative interest.

When it comes to storage, not everything needs to be hidden away. Decorative kitchen storage ideas and solutions can make a huge difference to your kitchen's look and feel.

A common presence in a chef's kitchen, a cluster of simple floating shelves works particularly well in a kitchen where a fair amount of closed cabinetry may take up space along the walls. They add an element of interest that draws the eye, all while helping to keep countertops clear.

If you need a visual cue, American actor Josh Brolin's kitchen, elegantly crafted by the team at Pierce & Ward, used shelving to create delightful decorative moments in this one-of-a-kind yellow kitchen.

Be they decorated with ceramics, vintage glassware, plants, or recipe books, kitchen shelving can be used to add individual style to a kitchen, as Mike Fetherston, design director of Hetherington Newman, explains.

‘As kitchens are increasingly central to the home and where families come together for meals and to socialize, areas for display are important to personalize the space and add interest, giving a more relaxed and welcoming feel.’

In terms of positioning, it’s best to mount open shelving just above eye level and within easy reach if you intend for the shelves to hold day-to-day items, such as plates and mugs.

Shelving doesn't have to always be practical, it can be used to house quirky curios and objects. For a stylized look, stack collections of your favorite crockery, line up fresh herbs and incorporate small pieces of art along a run of open shelving.

The best kitchen designers and experts love Brolin's kitchen shelving. It proves you can do more with your kitchen wall decor than just adding closed kitchen cabinets.

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This year, I'm all about championing functionality, accessibility and minimalist approaches. After all, if a tidy home reflects a tidy mind, there's no better time like the present to cut clutter and get organized.

From purging paper, taming tupperware, and creating a donation station, simple small steps are almost always the best way to beat the chaos, and they'll make the process smoother and easier, too.

I'm a professional organizer and these are my decluttering tips to try in 2025. Ready to take on the challenge?

My expert decluttering challenge 2025

1. Declutter with purpose

Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, set your intentions for your space, which will make it easier to decide what to declutter later down the line.

As founder of Diisorganized, one of the core ideas in my Organize Yourself Healthy method is that your environment has a direct impact on your well-being, and that a tidy and clean house really does make you happier.

Before you start decluttering, take a moment to think about how you want your space to feel. Is it calm and cozy? Energized and inspiring? Let that vision guide what stays and what goes. The benefits of a beautiful and tidy home are not to be underestimated.

For example, if you want your bedroom to feel restful, keep only the items that make your bedroom more relaxing – like soft bedding, a good book, or a calming candle. Let go of distractions that don't serve that purpose (looking at you, laundry pile, and old tech gadgets).

By aligning your space with your goals, you're not just tidying up – you're creating an environment that truly supports the lifestyle you want.

All prices correct at time of publication.

2. Start small, start easy

The next step is to pick one tiny area that feels doable – like conquering the dreaded junk drawer or tackling one of the most cluttered areas of every home. Starting small lets you feel accomplished right away, and that momentum makes tackling bigger areas easier later on.

Set a timer for 15 minutes, crank up your favorite playlist, and put a decluttering method to the test, seeing how much you can can clear out in that time. It's amazing how much better you'll feel after just a short session!

A tip to turbocharge your decision-making process is to use the Didn't Know decluttering method. If you didn't know, or remember, you had something, it's time to let it go.

3. Tame your lidded storage

Food storage containers are notorious for causing clutter, which can make organizing kitchen cabinets a real chore.

Empty your entire collection onto the counter, taking cues from the chaos decluttering method, and match each container with its lid. Toss any unmatched pieces, or ones that are cracked or warped, recycling them to be sustainable at home.

Then, neatly stack the containers and lids to organize your plastic containers so you can easily grab what you need without causing an avalanche. By the end of this task, you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner!

4. Purge the paper pile

As one of the most common types of clutter, paperwork can build up before you even realize it.

To successfully get rid of paper clutter, tackle one stack at a time, and use the pile decluttering method to sort papers into three piles: keep, shred, and recycle.

Then, to organize paperwork at home, important documents like birth certificates should be filed in a safe place, such as a document box like the Sterilite Portable File Box Plastic available at Walmart, while outdated bills and junk mail can go straight in the shredder.

You'll feel a weight lifted as those piles disappear, and you'll be better organized for the future – there's a reason why this is one of the types of clutter minimalists never have.

Just remember important paperwork is one of the things you should never store in an attic, and to use a security stamp, available from Amazon if you can't shred sensitive data.

5. The forgotten drawer dive

Every home has at least one of those drawers. You know, the one filled with mystery keys, old receipts, and maybe a random charger or two.

Take a deep breath and dive in! Pull everything out and sort through it. Toss the truly useless things to get rid of in your junk drawer (yes, those dried-up pens), relocate things that belong elsewhere, and organize what's left, making sure to only include essential household items to keep in your junk drawer.

This forgotten drawer often holds items you didn't even know you had, and clearing it out can feel like finding hidden treasure – or just a lot of junk you're better off without!

6. The bathroom cabinet cleanout

Bathroom cabinets are prime real estate for half-used products, expired medications, and things you didn't even know you had, which is why sorting them out should be top of your bathroom decluttering checklist when organizing a bathroom.

Pull everything out and sort it into categories: skincare, haircare, medications and so on. Toss anything expired or no longer useful (bye-bye, dried-up mascara, and questionable sunscreen).

Use small bins or organizers to keep what's left neat and easy to find, taking inspiration from some of the things organized people have in their bathrooms. Just make sure you're clued up on what not to store in a bathroom cabinet before getting started.

7. Round up children's clutter

Kids are experts at accumulating clutter – think toys, craft, supplies, and clothes they quickly outgrow. Involve them in the process by making it a game.

Ask them to choose toys they no longer play with or clothes that don't fit and donate these items to families in need. This not only helps to organize a playroom and clear up space, but also teaches children the value of giving back.

If you're still short on storage, these playroom storage ideas make the most of small playroom must haves, and are ideal for successfully avoiding any playroom organizing mistakes.

And, if you don't have kids, take this time to organize pet supplies if applicable, or sort out any supplies you use for your hobbies, be it arts and crafts, DIY, or reading.

8. Apply the 'What Even Is This?' test

Every home has those random items you look at and think, 'What even is this?'.

Dig through storage spaces and find those mystery objects eliminating items you didn't even know you had. You can also use the KonMari method and ask yourself if this item sparks joy. If it doesn't, thank it, understand what it's taught you (for instance, that you have too many clothes) and let it go.

After all, if you don't know what it is, can't remember why you have it, or it doesn't make you happy, chances are you don't need it. Let it go, and enjoy the newfound space!

9. Create a home for everything

One of the biggest causes of clutter is not knowing where things belong. As you declutter, assign each item a dedicated home – whether it's a drawer, bin, or shelf.

When everything has a designated spot, it's easier to maintain order, find what you need, and quickly tidy up with a daily reset. This helps to prevent losing control of clutter. This simple habit can make a huge difference in keeping your space organized long-term, boosting your home organizing ideas and keeping rooms orderly.

10. Set up a Donation Station

Finally, set up a designated spot in your home for items you're ready to let go of. A box by the front door will work just fine, as long as you don't find it a source of visual clutter in your entryway. Opt for something like the INDRESSME XXXLarge Cotton Rope Basket available at Amazon, which has strong, durable handles.

Whenever you find something you don't need anymore, pop it in the box. Once it's full, schedule a trip to your local donation center. Keeping the process ongoing makes decluttering feel less overwhelming.

You can also try the 30-day Minimalism Challenge. However many days the month has, declutter that many items, with one item going into your bin a day.

If you're feeling inspired to set yourself some more challenges, the 5 minute cleaning challenge helps to carve out time and conquer clutter.

New year, same old cluttered kitchen cabinets? Don't worry – you're certainly not alone.

But, if you're looking to use to get your home in order for the coming months, why not start small by tackling your cabinets before moving onto larger sections of the home. After all, doesn't have achieving the organized kitchen of their dreams at the top of their 2025 resolutions?

Here, professional organizers share their decluttering tips for maximizing on storage space, and turning disorderly to organized.

Why do you need to declutter kitchen cabinets?

As with anything, decluttering is an effective and efficient way to clear space and keep on top of your belongings. As Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized, explains, taking the time to do so with your kitchen cabinets should be top of your kitchen decluttering checklist – and is the key to unlocking a stress-free environment that's perfect for cooking up a storm.

'Decluttering your kitchen cabinets is all about making your life easier and your space more functional,' she says. 'When your cabinets are organized, you'll spend less time digging around for a missing lid or hunting for that missing can opener. It also helps you to stay on top of expired food and spices – because, let's be honest, who knows what's hiding in the back of those shelves.'

'By clearing out what you don't need, you create space for the items you actually use and love, making your kitchen feel more open and inviting. Most importantly, a clutter-free kitchen brings a sense of calm, reducing that overwhelming, chaotic feeling when it's time to cook.'

1. Empty everything from your cabinets

The very first step to decluttering like a line cook and organizing your kitchen cabinets is removing everything from them, taking tips from the chaos decluttering method.

Maria Anderson, cleaning and organizing expert at Henfield Storage, says, 'This way you will be able to see all you have, access the space, and be much more effective with your planning.'

Once your cabinets are emptied, take the opportunity to clean your kitchen cabinets, using a microfiber cloth and multi-surface spray, such as the Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner available at Walmart to tackle two tasks at once. Ensure you avoid any kitchen cabinet cleaning mistakes by avoiding using anything too abrasive, like scouring sponges or potent chemicals. If you're worried, why not try cleaning with vinegar for an all-natural alternative.

2. Toss or donate

Then, throw away any edible expired items in a durable trash bag, such as the Hefty Ultra Strong Trash Bags available at Amazon, and put aside any decluttered items you want to sell or donate, or pass to a loved one.

Professional organizer Ter Avest advises, 'Check those dates on food and spices. If it's gone bad, it's got to go,' which is why neglecting to regularly taking the time to sort through food stores is one of the things people with tidy kitchen cabinets never do. And, when it comes to organizing kitchen utensils, less is more. 'Do you really need five spatulas?' she asks. 'Keep the best one, and donate or recycle the rest.'

Finally, if you haven't touched an item in a year, such as old appliances – 'hello, popcorn maker,' says Ter Avest – it's time to let go.

Stuck on what to clear out? There are some things people over 30 should not have in their kitchens, which are a great place to begin.

3. Categorize items

Next, in order to take stock of everything you have accumulated in your cabinets, categorize your items recommends Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing.

He says, 'Everything in your kitchen belongs to a specific category, like baking, cooking, entertaining, everyday, utility and decor.' Sorting your items into these categories is one of the first things to do when organizing kitchen cabinets, and doing it at this stage will make the process – and avoiding future clutter– easier in the long-term, particularly when it comes to determining where items should be kept, and spotting unneeded duplicates that would be better off donated.

For example, 'The cabinets near the sink are a prime location for frequently used items such as everyday plates and glasses,' continues Soreff. 'If your dishwasher is also nearby, then everyday plates and bowls should live close by.

'Additionally, if you do coffee or tea, then the mugs and reusable bottles should living in those cabinets as well. If you drink hot beverages or smoothies every day, then dedicating the space to this category is important, and not a waste, as some people may feel.'

This principle can then be applied to every category in your kitchen, and is a great way to declutter to make your kitchen storage ideas work for you, instead of vice versa.

4. Remove things you don't use frequently

In a similar vein, ask yourself whether items you have stashed in your kitchen cabinets actually need to be stored there, which will make it easier to organize kitchen cabinets to improve traffic flow later down the line.

As professional organizer Soreff says, 'Decluttering 101 can be distilled down to this simple rule. The things we don't use frequently should be stored more remotely,' or even decluttered fully and donated or sold.

'If we are talking about the kitchen specifically, then items like entertaining or holiday service (those huge Thanksgiving-only serving platters) can live in the kitchen run-off areas, typically, in the basement,' he continues.

'The next step is that items we use frequently need to live in an area for ready, easy use. After reviewing our kitchen items and determining which items should be stored more remotely, and which items can be donated or tossed, we can then find the best location for the remaining items.'

6. Maintain your organization system

Finally, the best way to curbing clutter in the long run is by following the 'One in, one out' rule, says professional organizer Anderson.

She advises, 'In order to keep your cabinets forever organized, have a simple rule where for every new item that enters, one old item has to leave. This will prevent clutter in the future.'

If you find yourself at a loss as to what to get rid of, these are the things in your cabinets to get rid of right now – to make decluttering a breeze.

FAQs

How often should kitchen cabinet be decluttered?

In general, you should aim to declutter your kitchen cabinets once or twice a year, giving them a thorough cleanout every six to 12 months, advises professional organizer Ter Avest. 'In between, it's helpful to do quick mini-check-ins every month or two.'

While this may seem like overkill, it's one of the things people with organized kitchen cabinets always do, and helps you to keep on top of clutter. 'These small tidying sessions let you toss anything expired or broken, and keep space manageable so it doesn't feel too overwhelming when it's time for a bigger clean out,' adds Ter Avest.

Feeling inspired to get organized? Why not try the Japanese concept of 'Mottanai' to declutter your kitchen cabinets, which H&G freelance journalist Rebecca Shepherd says taught her that 'everything can serve a purpose.'

When it came to designing the kitchen in my remodel, I knew I wanted it to feel more than just functional – I wanted it to sing with personality and charm.

Aside from scrolling and pinning thousands of inspiring kitchen ideas, I started with a list of three key elements to use as the springboard for my entire design, including a vintage Le Creuset collection passed down from my Grandad.

And of course, that couldn't be hidden away. Here is my hack to creating a burst of personality in the heart of your kitchen with a simple switch-up to standard kitchen cabinet ideas.

Typically when designing a kitchen the first things one might consider are sensible factors like budget or how to create the perfect kitchen triangle, but for me, it started with a few aesthetic pieces.

Leaning into the colorful stove kitchen trend, the first thing I sourced was a secondhand olive green Rangemaster Elan that gave me all the hallmarks of a traditional English kitchen and became the starting point not only for my kitchen layout but also for the color palette.

Secondly, I had to ensure I found space in my tricky kitchen layout (it is a bit of a wide galley with two different ceiling heights) for the butcher block island that I coerced my Grandma into parting with after eyeing it up for most of my childhood where it sat in her living room with the TV on top. Criminal, I know.

And finally, a vintage Le Creuset collection my Grandad bought in the 70s that consists of 10 different pots and pans in bold hues of retro orange and green that I knew I simply couldn't just hide away in a cupboard.

As you can see above, I chose a timeless, neutral kitchen cabinet color (Shaded White from Farrow & Ball) and then chose to add color and charm with accessories and details like a marble backsplash and a deep dark iroko wooden countertop.

I then worked to weave the hues of my heirloom Le Creuset collection into the entire fabric of my kitchen, picking up the green with the range cooker and in small details like vases, ceramics, and a lamp.

So that’s where open cabinetry came in. This slightly unexpected kitchen cabinet idea works in a similar way to open shelving and is essentially a traditional cabinet without any door fronts that allows you to create more display opportunities in your space.

In order to make my budget-friendly off-the-shelf kitchen feel more custom, I chose to balance a few open units among closed cupboard and drawer storage to create a unique design – and ensure certain items remain hidden to avoid clutter.

I have one open cabinet that serves as our coffee nook with a cute under-counter curtain to hide mugs and appliances, a thin open space next to the cooker that we slot oven trays into, one next to the sink with a pull-out pole for hanging the dish towels, and of course: the Le Creuset cabinet.

Personally, I think it is a simple hack that all my previous kitchen renovations have been missing. By interspersing a few open or glass-front cabinets at countertop height, you give yourself the opportunity to be more creative with your storage and curate displays of pieces that reflect you.

Whether that's a vintage cookware collection, colorful cookbooks, ceramics collected from your travels, pantry staples, or a hanging rack of copper pans.

Additionally, this look can be achieved with a kitchen island – or your Grandma's vintage butcher block. Often seen as the centerpiece of the kitchen, an island with in-built open shelving or niches is perfect for showing off your favorite items.

If you don't need the extra space underneath for cabinetry (we all still need hidden storage, let's face it) then opt instead for more freestanding pieces like this statement yellow island designed by Plain English to display things like serving platters and dishes.

This clever use of freestanding kitchen ideas is a great way to bring vintage pieces into a kitchen and add a sense of openness to the space.

Collections add character to a kitchen. They can reflect your personality, making the space feel more authentic and less like a showroom. By using open cabinetry, shelving, or glass-front cupboards, you can create little displays of these cherished pieces while keeping them accessible for everyday use.

Of course, the key to successful open decor is thoughtful curation. Editing is essential. Limit what you display to items that are either functional, like cookware or day-to-day glassware, or truly beautiful. Everything else can stay hidden behind closed doors.

This small design choice can really make a big impact, transforming a pretty standard space into one that’s filled with charm.

Designing a kitchen around personal pieces is about more than just aesthetics, it’s about creating a space that feels uniquely yours.

A kitchen should inspire you daily, and when it's infused with beloved items that you can see and touch, it helps it to become a place you genuinely want to spend time in. Even if you're a miserable cook like me.

My vintage-inspired kitchen has become that for me and I'm a big believer that this hack is the secret ingredient that turns such a functional room into a well-loved hub of your home.

Marie Flanigan has been creating timeless, enviable spaces for years. She founded her interior design company fifteen years ago and has been an interior design trailblazer ever since. She's known for incorporating exciting new design trends within her interiors and fusing them with her classic and sophisticated touch.

Marie is not afraid to be bold, and that's been proven in her recent project where she created a dramatic and opulent mural on a set of dining room cabinets. An effective way of combining aesthetics with practicality, she decorates an otherwise boring built-in cabinet with a beautiful and ingenious wallpaper idea.

Marie adds her mural to a dining room, a space we all know can be tricky to really make a statement in because they have to be very practical rooms too. So if you can elevate your storage and keep that balance of aesthetics and practicality then do so. But really this hack could work to update any cabinetry in any room –a children's closet, a bedroom wardrobe, an understairs cupboard.

It is undoubtedly the wallpaper that makes this look so successful. As it's the main component of the overall area, Marie selects a chic forest landscape that is timeless in design and the darker colors don't overwhelm the neutral space, but ground it.

Although this might look like a complicated DIY, many mural designs are available in pre-cut rolls, so usually minimal math is involved. But the key to this look, as with any wallpaper or mural, is to be exacting right down to the last detail. Luckily Marie also posted a step-by-step for how she created the look...

1. Select a wallcovering

Marie's first step is to select the wallpaper, mural, or covering. It's entirely up to you what style of paper you use, but if you're looking for a lasting look that will both stand out and tie in with a space you can't go wrong with a classic landscape design. Marie selects a luscious forest landscape for her cabinets which she had custom-made, but there are plenty of similarly luxurious-looking options available.

2. Measure the cabinetry

You don't want to run out of wallpaper and be left with half-covered cabinets, so make sure you add extra width when measuring so you have plenty of material to work with.

Marie's top tip is to 'add extra width to accommodate the strike side of the cabinet door.' This will allow the pattern to 'seamlessly transition' when you're both applying and cutting your paper. This is what you can see Marie's team doing in the video.

All the details have been considered with Marie's design, even the inside of the cabinets which are painted in a blue that coordinates with the exterior frame. Note that Marie paints a layer around the circumference of her cabinets and matches this with the interior of the cabinets. The deep blue hue is sophisticated and ensures the unit is coordinated throughout. Marie describes this as 'a layer of drama' that makes the look seamlessly cohesive.

3. Install the mural

This step is the hardest to get right so we can see why Marie left the installation to the professionals but if you have the time and patience you could DIY this look too. Remember to prep your cabinets first and then go in with your wallpaper. The material will need to be neatly applied and measured correctly and then trimmed according to the remaining excess paper.

4. Go in with the hardware

Another key detail that Marie considers is the hardware. In this case, she selects brass door handles that match the mural and other accents in the dining room.

She advises to 'use minimal hardware to maximize the flow of the mural.' Picking up on the metallic in the landscape, the handles subtly blend in while enhancing the cabinetry with a touch of metallic. Marie has also hung pictures in gold frames and fitted a wall lamp with a gold base to ensure that the room becomes one with the mural, 'We love the idea of continuing the mural across a room for a complete wallpapered look,' she adds.

Marie's wallpaper hack proves wallpaper is not just for the walls, and is such an easy way to add some character to plain cabinetry. Whether you call in the professionals or give this a go yourself, it's a simple and affordable way to elevate your storage.

If there’s one thing that irks me more than having a cluttered home, it’s a wasteful one. Whilst I know some household waste, is inevitable, I try to do my bit to avoid over-consumption wherever I can.

One concept that lives and breathes this philosophy is the Japanese philosophy of Mottainai, which is the method of not being wasteful. After speaking to organizing pros, I decluttered my busiest kitchen cabinets, something I have found tricky in the past, with the facets of Mottainai firmly in mind.

It was so effective, I'll now be using this not only to declutter my kitchen, but many other areas of my home.

What is the Japanese concept of Mottainai?

In short, Mottainai is the art of encouraging the mindful use of resources. Or, as Lilian Chiu, professional organizer and owner of Peony Professional Organizing puts it, Mottainai is the Japanese concept of not being wasteful. ‘It's about valuing and respecting our resources in this world,’ the expert explains. ‘By having a meaningful connection with our things, we avoid wastefulness.’

The concept aligns with the under-consumption trend, which is all about using up everything we buy before buying new. To some, this might seem like common sense. But in a world driven by consumerism, it's refreshing to see.

While Mottainai isn't necessarily a decluttering technique, Lilian tells me it can be applied much like a decluttering golden rule, making it easier to clear your belongings, and declutter your kitchen cabinets. The Mottainai concept can even be used to easily organize chaotic clothes drawers, too.

‘If you decide to declutter an item, we like to educate our clients about what they can do with it,' the expert says. 'Donating the item is a great option as others may find it useful in their lives,' Lilian suggests. 'I also recommend giving it to a friend or to another in the community via 'Buy Nothing' groups so that others may reuse or re-purpose the item. Recycling or composting are also wonderful options if they apply,’ Lilian adds.

1. It helped me streamline my busiest cabinets without waste

Decluttering my small kitchen isn't something I tend to do every week or month. It's one of the busiest spaces in my home, so if I'm not using it to cook, entertain or spend time with my loved ones, my partner is.

I know there are a number of things that always make your kitchen look cluttered, such as leaving lots of small appliances on the countertop, or keeping utensils within reach on surfaces. So while I might keep the countertops pretty clear, my cabinets are usually full to the brim.

I decided to tackle my cabinets one by one. First up was my glassware store. I took all the glasses out and used a microfiber cloth, like this FIXSMITH Microfiber Cleaning Cloth from Amazon, with some 4.5-star rated Method Antibacterial All-Purpose Cleaner, available Walmart, to clean the shelves.

Next up, I needed to decide which glasses I wanted to keep, recycle or reuse. To help, home organizer, Meaghan Kessman, recommended asking myself two questions:

1. Can this item serve another purpose?
2. Might someone else benefit from this?'

With these parameters in mind, I earmarked some unused champagne coupes to re-purpose as candle holders (it turns out you can never have too many), and I place some water-stained drinking glasses to one side.

After learning how to get rid of hard water stains and getting them looking brand new again, I donated them. This extra step helped make use of items I would have otherwise consigned to the trash.

So far, so good.

2. I can now find things more easily

My spice cupboard was next. For far too long I've been meaning to organize my spices in a neat and orderly fashion.

In an ideal world, I would have the time, space and budget to decant each spice into its own jar, like these transparent Glass Square Spice Jars from Target, that come with a metal cap to keep the freshness intact. I'd also invest in some minimalist Spice Jar Labels, like these paired-back options from Amazon, which I could then stick to said jars.

But, in keeping with the concept of Mottainai, my mission here is to value and respect the resources I already have. Not add more items to my home.

Therefore, I repeated the process of decluttering my kitchen cabinet by taking all of my spices out and wiping down the insides. I checked the use-by dates and tipped any duplicates of the same item into one jar or pack.

All of my spices tend to come in glass jars, which is handy because I recycle any empty ones. Overall, I was left with more space than before and didn't have any waste. There was certainly no declutter regret for me in this busy area of my kitchen!

I restocked my cupboards with all items facing forward, so they could be easily found and, perhaps more importantly, used!

3. I've given previously unwanted items a new lease of life

The great thing about Mottainai is that it's more than just a philosophy you can use to help you declutter your home. I love the fact this Japanese concept helps you make the most of everything you have, and turns everyday items into a meaningful object that serves a purpose.

For example, in my third and final kitchen decluttering bout, I decided to tackle the snack cupboard.

As you might imagine, after Christmas, my snack store was looking pretty full. Some items, such as a metal Quality Street tin, which was once full of chocolates but now empty, would typically end up in my recycling.

However, instead of throwing this colorful tin away or buying another storage basket, like this white Mainstays Large Easy Access Plastic Storage Bin from Walmart to house our snacks and treats, I decided to re-purpose it and use it as a form of storage in its own right.

The concept of Mottainai has certainly given me a renewed appreciation for the belongings I choose to keep.

My verdict

Ever since trying out the 90/90 decluttering rule earlier this year, I've taken on a 'less is more' approach to consumption, especially in the wardrobe department. However, using the Japanese concept of Mottanai to help me declutter my kitchen, especially the busiest cabinets, has reinforced the fact that this same method of 'waste not want not' can be applied to other aspects of my home life.

Completing this decluttering challenge has helped me become more mindful of the items I bring into my home and inspired more thoughtful decisions about using, donating, or re-purposing items.

As home organizer Meaghan adds, 'Sometimes, a simple shift in perspective can make all the difference.' And that it does!

Shopping essentials

Meaningful and well-thought out purchases won't be wasteful as they will help you in the future to avoid duplication and food waste. These three kitchen storage ideas are among our favorites, and most useful, here at Homes & Gardens:

If you're all decluttered out, why not learn how to embrace the Japanese cleaning tradition of Oosouji, or using Wabi-sabi to organize a home? This is a deep-cleaning practice you can make use of all over your home.

As a successful restaurateur, it's only natural that Ayesha Curry's personal kitchen should be as delightful as the dishes she cooks up. Her minimalist space is ultra-modern yet still feels warm and inviting, and it ranks highly when it comes to practicality, too.

Kitchens are increasingly versatile spaces. Besides their primary purpose, they play host to a variety of events – from family mealtimes to more sophisticated soirees – so functional storage is a must. Nobody wants to be greeted by cluttered countertops or towers of tins collecting dust atop your cabinets; if you want your kitchen to impress, a streamlined space is a must.

Luckily for you, it's something Curry knows how to execute all too well. In her wood-clad kitchen storage idea, she makes use of the awkward 'dead' space that often lurks above vertical cabinets by stretching hers right to the ceiling. The result is a sleek, nearly invisible effect that makes for a streamlined space with storage that works double as hard.

For too many years, the standard for upper kitchen cabinets was a fixture that left space along the top. In theory, they offered an extra surface to store lesser-used items. In reality, however, they became neglected spaces that do little more than collect dust.

Nowadays, you'll notice a theme across all streamlined modern kitchens. Instead of leaving space above kitchen cabinets the units stretch right to the ceiling, maximizing storage space while also offering a much cleaner aesthetic.

That's exactly what Ayesha opted for in her calming wooden kitchen cabinets. Her built-in slab doors wrap all the way around her walls and right up to the ceiling, creating an almost invisible effect by blending with the ceiling's millwork while also finding a far better use for that dreaded dead space.

Get the look

'This style of cabinetry is one of the greatest to use when wanting to give the illusion of tall ceilings or hidden cabinetry,' explains interior designer Beth McMillan. 'With a flat front modern face, it elongates the space without a horizontal line from where a “normal cabinet” would break in height. This face style is used to bring a sleek contemporary edge to the look and becomes a wall, in theory, not a cabinet.'

Besides the illusion of height, McMillan highlights how this style of vertical storage capitalizes on every inch of space for added practicality and function. And for chefs like Curry, that means more hidden space to organize your collection of kitchenware. 'It’s a brilliant way to have the highest of functionality with a very sleek and modern surrounding,' she says.

One thing she does point out, however, is that choosing to incorporate a crown or molding will completely change the look of the room. 'If you leave it crown-less, as Ayesha did in her home, and just take the flat fronts to the ceiling, it will create a modern gallery-like aesthetic and surround,' McMillan explains. 'If you leave just a few inches of wood above the cabinets to be able to clear when opened and then add a decorative crown or molding, the room will become more formal or traditional in style.'

If you're still wondering if kitchen cabinets should go all the way to the ceiling, Curry's kitchen makes a great case in favor. For a cleaner and more streamlined kitchen that maximizes storage, these tall vertical cabinets are a no-brainer.

Today kitchens are more sophisticated than ever with smart appliances, sleek and seamless ‘invisible’ cabinetry and clever integrated storage solutions. Yet, despite all of the kitchen tech and innovation, on the flip side, there seems to be a trend for looking back rather than forward.

Yes, when it comes to kitchen design the unfitted kitchens composed of freestanding furniture such as the butcher's block, baker's table and freestanding larder cupboard are all making a comeback as we seek a more homely, lived-in aesthetic.

However, that’s not to say fitted cabinets are going anywhere, they’re here to stay, but homeowners are increasingly pairing runs of cabinets with additional kitchen storage and preparation solutions to get a space that features the best of both.

Of course, it’s not all about aesthetics, kitchen designs made up of individual pieces have a number of practical benefits including the ability to have a flexible layout and the option to bring pieces with you should you move, which is also a bonus from a sustainability perspective.

We reached out to the interior designers to get more insight into this growing kitchen trend and why they think unfitted kitchens are proving so popular.

Why are unfitted kitchens on the rise?

An unfitted kitchen, also known as a freestanding kitchen, is a kitchen comprised of individual pieces of portable furniture rather than fitted kitchen cabinets which are fixed to the walls and specifically designed to fit the dimensions of a room. Once commonplace in the kitchens of the past up until the dawn of the fitted kitchen in the mid-20th century, the unfitted kitchen style is growing in favor with lovers of the modern rustic look.

Of course, having a completely unfitted kitchen is not practical, after all, you still need a fixed sink unit plumbed to the wall, but there appears to be a trend for keeping fitted cabinetry to a minimum and instead supplementing these with movable, freestanding kitchen storage, prep tables and appliances.

‘An unfitted kitchen is easy to live with, it comprises of well-made cupboards and not too many of them, this allows space in the kitchen and whether the room is small or large it creates a place to live rather than just a place to work, because it feels less structured and formal,' says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL kitchens.

The key draw of the unfitted kitchen is its flexibility. Today kitchens serve so many purposes in addition to cooking such as socializing, work, hobbies, creative projects, workouts – the list goes on. Having pieces that are easy to move means that you can quickly reconfigure the space and layout to suit multiple functions. For example, a kitchen island set on casters can be quickly wheeled out of the way to make space for an extending dining table to accommodate large social gatherings.

'The fitted kitchen island has become a key consideration for many when designing a new kitchen, however, more often than not, it can quickly become a design flaw, being too large and cumbersome for the space and restricting flow around a busy room. Today, many are investing in freestanding pieces for the kitchen, providing flexibility in design as well as the added benefit of being able to take it with you if you move house,’ explains Lisa Coppin is Chief Creative Officer at The Cotswold Company.

Freestanding kitchens are also a great way to future-proof spaces. While fitted cabinetry can be designed around your needs, these needs inevitably change over time - the beauty of the freestanding kitchen is that it can change with you and can evolve.

So why are freestanding kitchens becoming more popular? We asked the interior designers for their insights and have compiled the key reasons interior designers and homeowners love this kitchen style.

1. Create flexible layouts that flow with your home

With the trend for open-plan living spaces still going strong, many kitchens are today integrated into larger living spaces which in turn has an impact on their design. Open-plan kitchen layouts comprising unfitted units which can easily be moved help bring multi-functional use to these spaces, as they can be easily repositioned.

'It’s interesting how freestanding pieces that make up a kitchen feel so much more at home in their surroundings than a wall-to-wall fitted kitchen,' says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL. 'The flow from one room to another in your home is made much easier with freestanding furniture, it is a softer, more sociable and comfortable way to use the space.'

Visually, using freestanding and vintage pieces to furnish kitchens helps them integrate with open-plan living spaces. Kitchens by Holloways has seen increased demand for combining customized antique pieces alongside their fitted units to create a lived-in look.

'People are definitely thinking about kitchens as more ‘liveable’ spaces – whilst a few years ago this may have been reflected in open plan configurations, this is now being brought into layout and even furniture and material choices, making kitchens less clean-lined and more inviting and full of unique character,' says Robert Burnett, co-founder and director at Kitchens by Holloways.

'We are often asked about incorporating certain items of furniture into a scheme, whether it is a vintage heirloom that they wish to work with the scheme or something they’d like us to source, homeowners are often wanting something with a bit of history added'

2. Unfitted kitchens evolve with your needs

Unlike fully fitted kitchens which have a set layout and style, unfitted kitchens can be altered and added to over the years which is a real win in terms of future-proofing your space.

‘Once installed, fitted kitchens become a permanent fixture of the home, leaving little room for future modifications without significant expense or effort. This can be particularly limiting in today’s fast-paced world, where the ability to adapt and change is increasingly important,’ says Paul Staden, Founder and Designer, Pilgrim House.

'Unfitted is a thoughtful response to the evolving needs of modern living. Instead of replacing an entire kitchen when styles change, you can simply swap out. This not only reduces waste but also encourages a more sustainable approach to home design. The pieces changed can be sold or repurposed - considerably less impact than ripping out an entire kitchen, just to be dumped.’

However, achieving this relaxed and versatile space still requires plenty of prior planning advises Paul Staden.

‘Careful thought needs to be given to the overall layout. It's essential to plan for a layout that accommodates this flexibility, ensure areas like the sink and cooker are logically placed and easily accessible, regardless of how you choose to arrange the other pieces.

The big things to watch out for are plumbing, electrics, and gas he says. 'In a fitted kitchen, these are often concealed behind units and within walls, but in an unfitted kitchen, you’ll need to think creatively about how to hide or integrate these services without compromising the look. For example, pipework may need to be channeled into walls or under floors, and power points should be positioned thoughtfully to avoid unsightly cables.'

3. You can tailor your storage solutions

Unfitted kitchens can be comprised of all sorts of components and the beauty is you can choose what suits you, from freestanding islands on casters for easy portability to large glazed dressers for displaying collectables and china and marble-topped tables for keen bakers. There’s a wealth of freestanding furniture in all manner of sizes allowing you to tailor your storage and preparation needs around your lifestyle and needs. One key piece which continues to grow in popularity is the pantry. There are many companies that offer new designs, alternatively, vintage cupboards are perfect for adding rustic charm.

'Vintage pantries are the easiest and most popular addition to a fitted kitchen, they add a little character and personality not to mention practicality,’ says Helen Parker. ‘You can buy a reasonably inexpensive pantry cupboard at a flea market or antique fair, play around, paint it, and add new hardware, you can add café curtains inside the doors if it is glazed and suddenly you have something special and unique to you.’

The movable island is also a staple of the unfitted kitchen. Not only do these provide extra prep and storage space they cleverly zone cooking and social spaces. There are a huge amount to choose from from vintage-style drapers' tables to industrial stainless-steel designs.

'You should opt for pieces that can be easily moved or repurposed as your needs change. A movable island, for example, can serve as additional prep space today and be relocated to create a dining area tomorrow,' says Paul Staden.

'Having everything matching in a room is not imaginative, but add a lovely scrubbed pine kitchen table and some pretty painted chairs and all of a sudden the kitchen feels homely and a place you want to stay,' adds Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens. 'Smart old wall cupboards, open shelves and plate racks are other popular extras that work well integrated into an existing fitted kitchen.'

4. You can mix different styles

If you love the retro kitchen, quirky boho or modern rustic kitchen looks then the unfitted kitchen style is for you. While fitted kitchens require you to settle on a specific style, taking an unfitted approach allows you to mix and match furniture styles from across the eras to create a unique space that reflects your personality.

'You can add to freestanding kitchens, starting with a few pieces and adding as time goes by. When you find that certain special piece that may be vintage, perhaps an old, stripped pine plate rack, so hard to find but when you do it’s a joy,' says Helen Parker. 'You just can’t add to fitted kitchens in the same way, they get fitted and that’s it, but with freestanding, things evolve and change. You have options, you can switch things around, add things, swap things, paint things, and change the mood.'

In this London kitchen, the owners chose to mix fitted cabinets with carefully curated antique pieces to create a fun mix of old and new.

‘This kitchen is the vision of a creative London couple who have spent years collecting antiques, curiosities and other furniture for their Edwardian family home. Pluck’s design includes an L-shaped layout that works with the shape and flow of the room, says Leila Touwen, co-founder of Pluck Kitchens. 'The cupboard doors are Elm and Brockwell Moss cabinetry, the different materials add to the sense this is not a traditional fitted kitchen, something that was important for our clients.'

Pluck’s pared-back cabinetry style is reminiscent of mid-century design, an era when utilitarian simplicity was celebrated – an inspiring ideology for us. In our homes now, we tend to mix different eras and styles, and that is the joy of this uncluttered design, it can be combined with personal flourishes, collections and more elaborate furniture and it works beautifully.'

This kitchen is about the layers of old and new, the combination of antique and modern, it feels like a room rich with stories and history, but it is not stuck in the past.'

5. Unfitted kitchens can feel more open and spacious

Opting for freestanding storage units and kitchen islands with open shelves can help spaces feel more open rather than having boxy fitted cabinets. We’ve noticed that open work tables are increasingly popular alternatives to the robust, fitted kitchen island as they help zone spaces while keeping them feeling visually unified.

These are particularly for small kitchens as demonstrated in this space designed by Christian Bense. In addition to islands, opting for storage units that sit on legs can also enhance the feeling of space within a room as they keep floor space open.

We’re also seeing many interior designers and kitchen companies choosing bespoke or vintage worktables designed to capture the aesthetic of the ‘under-the-stairs’ working kitchens of the Georgian and Victorian eras.

Taking inspiration from Victorian designs and blending heritage styling with up-to-date functionality, the Cook's table from Artichoke can be cleverly designed to incorporate plumbed sinks and electrics, with wiring and pipes all hidden in the structure. Of course, this means they aren’t strictly freestanding, but visually they bring the sought-after unfitted feel.

‘The cook’s table was a classic element of a Victorian kitchen and in recent years we have seen a revival of its popularity in the modern home. It sits beautifully in period houses allowing light and space to flow through the room, whilst also functioning as a modern multi-purpose prep area and social hub,' says Neil fox, director at Artichoke.

6. You can incorporate antique pieces

For those who love to decorate with antiques the unfitted kitchen is the way to go. Antiques can often have superior quality to modern pieces and feature beautiful patinas and textures from years of wear and use, adding unrivalled character to your space. Taking this approach allows you to furnish with antique pieces to create a really unique. It’s also a good approach if you live in a country cottage or a rustic barn conversion or farmhouse as the aged pieces will really complement the exposed materials and character of the architecture.

In her country kitchen Lisa Mehydene, founder of home brand Edit58 chose to combine a run of traditional shaker-style cabinets from British Standard by Plain English with an array of antique storage which each has a story to tell.

‘Whilst the cabinetry was new, we didn’t want the kitchen to feel as though it had just been installed, as it wouldn’t feel right in our old Barn. We, therefore, added a vintage shop counter from Belgium which we use to store all our serveware/platters/table linens etc,' says Lisa Mehydene. 'A vintage Indian wall cabinet from our Local farm shop houses glassware, a long vintage florists table that sits centrally in the space is used for everything from dining to Lego building and around that sits a set of original 1930’s Thonet Bentwood chairs sourced via a dealer from an abandoned cinema in the Chez Republic.’

Interior designer Kristin Mullen is a master at sourcing and furnishing with antiques and often uses these in her kitchen projects. 'I have always loved a draper's table to add textural contrast and functional charm. In fact, these same clients had a draper's table in the previous kitchen we designed for them. We sourced this antique one for the project and love that it imparts a touch of rusticity to the space, tying in with the wood beams and antique built-in cabinets,' says Kristin Mullen.

There are many pros to an unfitted kitchen, and although this relaxed, laid back layout is a trend right now, it's also a timeless look that's been around for centuries. The best approach seems to be a mix between fitted and unfitted pieces so you get a balance between flexibility and practicality.

White cabinets are an enduringly popular choice among the range of possible cabinet colors, and despite falling out of fashion a decade ago, they are back and better than ever.

American media personality and socialite Khloe Kardashian's kitchen is the perfect example of a modern white kitchen that embraces beautiful craftsmanship and simple lines.

Decorating with white is a fantastic way to perfect a pared-back palette. Elegant and timeless in their simplicity, white kitchen ideas are a stalwart in the world of interiors. Evoking purity and cleanliness alongside confidence and sophistication, white is a wonderfully versatile color for kitchen cabinets.

For fans of contemporary kitchens, white is the ultimate clean and minimalist shade, but it also suits traditional, transitional, farmhouse, and Scandinavian kitchens equally well.

‘White kitchens are renowned for their clean, fresh look, which creates a bright and airy feel,' says Molly Malsom, Kitchen and Bathroom Editor at Homes & Gardens. 'In Kardashian's kitchen, the metallic chrome hardware and marble kitchen countertops stand out against the white cabinetry, drawing the eye without overwhelming and making the kitchen look modern and cool.'

With matte or gloss finishes available, whites can look strikingly different. There’s a huge variety in shades, from the crispest of pure whites to those with subtle warm or cool undertones. White is also the perfect partner to other colors and materials, whether used as major elements or accents.

Jane Landino, creative head of studio at Taylor Howes, says using a white or natural palette is all about adding depth and contrast in different layers and textures.

‘To make a white palette feel designed and considered it’s important to mix and match patterns, albeit neutral ones, and occasional accents of color.'

Here, Kardashian has added color through her floral arrangement, which sits proudly on her counter.

Just because your kitchen cabinetry is white doesn’t mean your whole kitchen needs to be minimal or plain: think about adding texture and pattern elsewhere – timber kitchen flooring or marble kitchen countertops, for example.

There is no hard or fast rule with finding the perfect white, it really depends on what atmosphere you want to create. If the desire is to create a modern space, then use a cooler white paired with gray, blue, or pink accents.

Shop the look

American fashion designer, TV personality, and socialite Kathy Hilton is no stranger to style, and the mother of Paris and Nicky Hilton certainly knows a thing or two about curating a designer-worthy home, too. In particular, Kathy's blue kitchen cabinet color scheme has caught the attention of color aficionados and experts everywhere.

Designed by Nicole Gordon Studio, Kathy Hilton's indigo kitchen is a masterclass in color, style, and personality. It is one of the most exceptional uses of this room color we've seen in recent years. Many designers champion this color to replace navy blue in 2025.

With a new year comes the opportunity to look to a bright future, and where better to start than by injecting your home with a regal, mood-enhancing color? Conjuring endless skies and infinite seas, indigo blue is the color of the moment – after its initial popularity in the early nineties, this strong color is set to top color trends once again.

Fresh, airy, and imbued with the restorative power of nature, indigo blues have next year been tipped by interior experts as the perfect backdrop to modern living. But what is it about blue kitchens that designers and color forecasters love so much?

Blue regularly tops the list of most popular kitchen color choices, and it’s easy to see why. Despite being on the dark side, indigo blue is a safe choice that works in most kitchens, contemporary or traditional, no matter their size. It’s surprisingly calming and easy to live with too – a must-have in such a busy space that often acts as the heart of the home. Best of all, indigo blue kitchen cabinets look great with everything, from wood and stone to marble and granite.

'When choosing room color ideas, indigo is a timeless and versatile shade to use in an interior space, says Patrick O’Donnell, Farrow & Ball's Brand Ambassador. ‘Indigo can create a very regal backdrop for a sophisticated kitchen when teamed with paler delft blue, as seen in Hilton's kitchen.'

Used for centuries, decorating with blue is enduringly popular, harmonizing with many hues for gloriously diverse results every time. The depth of pigment of darker indigo blues means that they offer an emotional content that can be as nurturing or soothing as any green, particularly when you color drench a room in a dark, velvety blue. For some homeowners, the idea of dark colors might feel foreboding, but for others, it is the dark ‘night’ of a shade that offers serenity in a room scheme.

This historic hue feels very much at home in a contemporary interior, offering a sophisticated backdrop for displaying favorite collected pieces, as well as metallic hardware, such as the ones used in Kathy Hilton's kitchen.

It is also important to consider what colors go with blue to avoid any costly mistakes. ‘To get the best out of a blue like this, pair it with neutrals to give it a chance to sing. Mixing it with too many other strong or vibrant colors will result in a confused look akin to an accident in a child’s paint box.’ Sarah Davies-Bennion, senior designer, Kate Guinness Design.

Pair it with neutrals such as white and cream for classic calm, or with stronger tones of mustard, olive, sienna and navy for a unique, head-turning scheme. Whether you opt for a subtle hint or go all out, stay on trend this year with a beautiful blue-hued kitchen.

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If repainting your entire kitchen isn't an option for 2025, why not invest in beautiful blue kitchenware and decor instead? These gorgeous designers have been hand-picked to give your kitchen a contemporary blue update in an instant.

Is there anything more suited to 2025 than a seafoam green color scheme? At a time when our happiness and health have seemed more important than ever, it's only right that we'd want to surround ourselves in shades that symbolize nature, growth, and renewal.

This hasn't gone unnoticed by interior designers and decorators who recognize the power of green and have reintroduced it into their kitchen ideas in smart and sophisticated ways. In fact, many trend and color forecasters predict that this color will continue its resurgence in popularity well into 2026. Used in imaginative ways, it is a color that will transcend all fads.

When it comes to decorating with green in 2025, we're noticing a departure from once-popular navy blue toward mid-tones that feel much fresher. Expect to see colors like seafoam, pistachio, and mint in 2025, serving up a bold yet tranquil dose of color.

In actress Anne Hathaway's modern rustic kitchen, the subtle pale green kitchen cabinet color scheme sings rather than shouts. The shade is transformational when used in the kitchen. It’s a versatile color perfect for creating calm in busy rooms or adding tranquillity to quiet spaces. Evocative of warmer climates, seafoam green will create a beautiful backdrop to almost any other neutral shade.

Serene yet uplifting, this muted green acts like a neutral in interior design, permeating spaces with the comforting tones of nature. Busy spaces often benefit from muted and quieter colors and a kitchen, with its modern-day hub-of-the-home status, is just one of these rooms.

Green is entwined with the permanence and beauty of nature and is a timeless choice for quiet luxury kitchens. Decorating with green, especially in its paler variations, is in general a relaxing color. Being the room color that represents nature, it makes us feel good and positive. A fundamental desire for the heart of the home.

Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador for Farrow & Ball agrees: ‘Green is a joy to use: the primary color of nature. It is the perfect option to deliver calm and tranquility and therefore has the flexibility to be applied to the busiest rooms in the home to ensure it remains a place of comfort. It symbolizes renewal and growth.'

In this modern rustic kitchen, the pale green hue, inspired by the Caribbean sea, is a perennial favorite for classic and timeless décor. One of the cleverest greens in the spectrum, this color-shifting hue shares subtle blue and green tones, making it a sophisticated choice for modern homes, as well as introducing biophilic benefits with its organic origins.

‘We are noticing a change to the use of softer hues, such as sage and seafoam being used all over as a base color, just how neutrals have been used traditionally,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. ‘These are very calming, positive shades with a timeless quality, that are muted but not enough that they fade into the background, so they work beautifully as a foil for similar earthy tones and richer colors such as browns and ochre, which can give a more dynamic effect.’

Our Interiors editor, Hebe Hatton, believes that this kitchen cabinet color trend will endure beyond 2025. 'In addition to its mood-enhancing properties, pale green is loved by interior designers for its versatility, and it is a color that I expect will dominate our homes in 2026, too.'

Classic, calming, and synonymous with nature, pale seafoam green is a hue that keeps the peace.

Shop the look

It's been just under one month since Pantone unveiled its much-awaited Color of the Year for 2025: Mocha Mousse. Since then, there have been mixed feelings about the 'mellow brown' – perhaps not bold enough amid a year largely defined by daring color trends.

Given the – by comparison – more adventurous nature of its 2024 offering, Peach Fuzz; Mocha Mousse takes on an unassuming form, but I am fully on board with it.

Liveable and grounding yet offering more warmth and depth than lighter neutrals; read on to learn why I think Pantone's Color of the Year 2025 makes a strong contender for a stylish kitchen color.

2024 saw plenty of 'new neutrals' ranging from plaster pinks to rich chocolate browns. But when it comes to designing a kitchen, often a costly and well-considered design project, I'm cautious of veering too far into the world of color trends.

For me, paint colors that fall into the Mocha Mousse camp: warming light browns and taupe shades, are a happy medium. They feel more interesting than predictable neutrals such as warm white paints, yet timeless enough to not feel too trendy.

Interior designer Andrew Griffiths, founder of A New Day Studio joins me in enjoying the understated quality of Mocha Mouse, adding that in addition to its calming feel, it's versatile enough to complement many rooms:

'I’m glad that this shade is being given its moment as it's part of a family of colors that I’m a big fan of. It brings both subtle warmth and a calming softness to a space, as well as being a really versatile color, playing well with different hues – both strong hits of punchy color but it’s also a balancing shade that blends with more subtle palettes of earthy tones.'

'I think this brings a comforting feeling to a room, something people are looking for more and more,' Andrew continues. 'The color is a natural evolution from the earthy pinks that have been popular for quite a while now, and I like this move in a slightly darker, earthier direction. For me, this color pairs extremely well with both dark and light woods and when paired with a soft off-white gives a feel of real sophistication and elegance.'

In this dining room designed by A New Day Studio, the beige walls demonstrate how colors similar to Mocha Mousse can create a soothing and stylish backdrop, without feeling overly trend-led.

If, like me, you're inspired by warm and earthy taupes as a color trend for the kitchen, why not try them out for yourself? Below, I've rounded up a few of my favorite Mocha Mousse-adjacent paint colors – if I were doing a kitchen decorating project myself, these would be on my list to try.

Looking for more color inspiration ahead of the new year? Take a look at the most popular paint colors of 2024 from the leading paint brands – from neutrals to bold hues.

Kitchen cabinet curtains have been a huge trend this year, and it's not hard to see why. They can offer a bold splash of pattern and a tactile texture into the room in the home which is often the most hard, angular and plain.

The idea of a kitchen cabinet curtain may make you think of your grandparents' house, and you are not wrong. The trend has circled back around and is making waves in all the most stylish of kitchens.

Tapping into the kitchen trend for Cottagecore – a cute, English countryside style – kitchen curtains are best suited to more traditional, shaker style kitchens. While most commonly used under the sink, they can in fact be used as a replacement to any or all of your lower cabinets.

As with any design decision you make for your kitchen, there are practicalities to keep in mind. So before you tear out your cabinet doors and in favor of your latest favorite print,

We've spoken to interior designers and kitchen experts to share the pros and cons of going soft, and how you can make a kitchen curtain work for your space. So scroll down before you tear out your cabinets and hang a pole, there is much to be considered.

The pros of switching cabinet doors for curtains

Kitchen cabinet curtains bring a soft feel to a scheme

A key reason why you should replace your kitchen cabinet with a curtain, is because they bring a softness and warmth to a scheme, making it feel instantly more homely.

'Adding cabinet curtains complements a casual aesthetic and can make kitchens feel more like inviting, lived-in rooms rather than purely functional, utilitarian spaces,' says Lauren Lothrop Caron, founder of Studio Laloc. 'Kitchens typically feature hard finishes, so curtains are great for bringing a softer feel to the space, creating a homey atmosphere that aligns with the current popular design direction.'

As more and more of us want our kitchens to be more like comfortable living areas rather than simply places to cook, we're spending more time and money on making them feel comfortable, as well as practical.

An increasing desire for swapping cabinets for curtains 'reflects a broader shift towards embracing more relaxed, homey interiors that balance functionality with a cozy, lived-in feel,' says Victoria Fletcher, senior buyer at Garden Trading.

They offer design flexibility

As curtains are generally easy to swap in and out, they offer more design flexibility, allowing for an easy way to chop and change your kitchen's look. If you're someone who tires of a scheme easily or likes to adapt your rooms to the season, this is a great way to do that.

'With so many different fabrics and colors to choose from, you can really have fun mixing and matching your ‘doors,' says Molly Mahon, founder of a British textiles company of the same name. 'They are so easy to change and you can have a set or two that you can interchange when the mood takes you, or when they need a quick wash, bringing an instant refresh to your kitchen.'

And you don't need to stop at just two designs. 'Kitchen cabinet curtains offer endless design possibilities, allowing you to easily change fabrics with the seasons or interior design trends, giving your kitchen a fresh look without a complete overhaul,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe, creative director at Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors.

Cabinet curtains are very cost-effective

If you're keen to spend your money wisely, a curtain can be considerably less expensive than a run of cabinet doors, so the money you save can be put towards other design features, like a granite worktop or statement kitchen tiles.

'Replacing cabinet doors with curtains can often be more budget-friendly than custom cabinetry,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe.

And Victoria agrees, 'Curtains are a cost-effective solution for updating cabinets without the expense of new doors.' Even a high quality, water resistant curtain will be less expensive than the least expensive of doors, so it's a great way to get an expensive look for less.

The cons of switching cabinet doors for curtains

Cabinet curtains provide less protection

While a solid door completely conceals what's behind it, providing a barrier from steam, dust, and smells, a curtain simply doesn't offer the same degree of protection.

'Unlike solid doors that can keep items safe from dust and grease, curtains may offer less protection for what’s behind them,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe.

This is something to consider if you'll be storing delicate items, or pieces which are precious to you, such a wedding gifts or inherited items. Your best pots and pans, trays or jugs are likely to last longer if they're kept behind a solid door.

'Curtains don’t provide the same level of protection as solid doors, so you may need to be more mindful of dust and spills,' Victoria reiterates.

Don't forget to consider other ways to use kitchen curtains too. 'Curtains tend to work best in spaces where practicality isn’t the highest priority, such as the laundry rooms. Here, concealing items like the washer and dryer with fabric can help maintain a clean, organized look,' says Victoria.

They trap dust and allergens

Kitchen curtains do tend to get dirtier than cupboards. With excess material which often sweeps across the floor, they can gather dust and dirt very easily.

'As curtains can attract dust and allergens, they may not be ideal for those with sensitivities,' says Lauren. If you have a condition or allergy that's worsened by dust, it may be best to avoid this design feature.

It's not surprising, then, that kitchen curtains may require more maintenance than a solid door. 'As they collect dust and dirt easily, they are more time-consuming to maintain,' says Lauren Lothrop Caron.

You can keep the maintenance as simple as possible by choosing the right kind of curtain. 'Be sure to choose durable, easy-to-clean fabrics,' says Victoria. There are even hardy, water-resistant designs out there, which can make removing stains quicker and easier.

They are less durable than doors

If you're a keen chef who treats their kitchen like a pro culinary space, there is a chance a kitchen curtain could be a little impractical. If you're in a hurry, a curtain may slow you down as you hunt for your favorite pan, and it could be fiddly to open and close.

'In kitchens where splashes and spills are common, curtains may require more frequent cleaning than solid doors,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe. 'Fabric may not hold up as well as cabinetry over time, particularly in high-use areas where they can get caught or torn.'

The kitchen cabinet door v curtain debate does mostly come down to aesthetics and if you want to create that cozy farmhouse kitchen feel. But there are practicalities to consider too, a kitchen is a hardworking room and bringing lots of fabric into that space might not work if you and your family like to cook and host. A good option if you like the look but are not sure it's the most practical decision for your space is to have a balance. Maybe just replace a few doors with curtains in areas that don't see a lot of wear and tear, like in the pantry.

Cooking might be a passion, but interior design is Magnolia magnate Joanna Gaines’s true calling, which is clear from her famous on-set kitchen, used to film Magnolia Table. The Gristmill, where the show is filmed, and constructed in the late 1800s, is this old piece of history.

Aligning with a wider shift in interiors to nature-inspired design, the bare stone walls, and raw, unpainted kitchen cabinets, give this space a rustic feel that still is unlike anything we've seen on television cooking shows before.

In a conversation with Architectural Digest, Joanna Gaines spoke about wanting to craft a completely authentic space that pays homage to its original beauty. 'The beams were painted, and sanded down so you could see the raw wood,' she says. 'I wanted it to feel textural, simple, and clean.'

The balance of old and new is captivating, but it is the raw kitchen cabinet idea that is the real standout star. Future kitchens are about dispelling any notions of a decorative show home, and introducing some modern rustic features into a kitchen will instantly look and feel warm, and lived-in. Yes – unfinished, unpainted cabinetry is a kitchen style we predict will once again top kitchen trends in 2025.

Unpainted cabinets may have fallen out of favor in recent years, yet they can bring warmth and character to a space that may otherwise feel cold and clinical. However, take care not to overwhelm the space with wood finishes – consider adding painted elements, and contrast tones and textures to prevent the space from looking homogenized, as in this design by Joanna Gaines.

‘Consider ways to bring interest to the kitchen with lighting, knobs and countertops. This way you will still have some personality in your space but keep true to the core of the Shaker aesthetic of clean lines and flat surfaces,’ says Georgia Zikas, founder of Georgia Zikas Design.

Cameron Shepherd and Jill Norman, co-founders and principal designers at Studio Mesa share our undying adoration for this aesthetic.

'We love that the tide is shifting toward natural wood cabinets in both new and old kitchens. There are so many opportunities to lean into the inherent beauty of wood.'

There is no standard template for a traditional kitchen, similar to Gristmill, simply it must be warm, welcoming, and filled with heritage-inspired elements. Get the look by embracing softly-grained wood kitchen cabinets, or even oak cabinet kitchen ideas.

Each year there is a new ‘must-have’ paint shade for cabinetry, but well-made wooden cabinetry with beautiful graining and depth is an excellent way to achieve a timeless look. For example, this unfinished timber design has a rich aesthetic quality that is believed to be good for our well-being.

The use of natural materials has increased considerably since the recent pandemic and will strengthen in appeal as unpainted wood becomes a firm fixture in our modern kitchens. Not only do they have cozy-like qualities, but they are increasingly being recognized for their health benefits (reducing the amount of chemically treated items in the home).

Shop the rustic kitchen edit

When you are remodeling, everything comes down to budget. From realizing your dream space to navigating budgets, schedules, and unexpected contingencies, it’s a journey that tests both your patience and your wallet.

No matter if your budget is unlimited, on a shoestring, or somewhere in the middle, we all want to know we're investing our money into the right areas to really make an impact in a renovation.

Having (almost) completed two full house remodels myself, I've learned a few tips and tricks along the way that helped my vision come to life without blowing the budget. But knowing where to spend and where you can save isn't always obvious. Here, I'm sharing the lessons I’ve learned, often the hard way, about where to allocate your budget in a home renovation.

Where to spend and where to save in a remodel

The first thing to note is, of course, that there are elements of the project, like utilities for example, where there isn't just an option to spend or save – you simply have to get them done and get them done well.

A renovation is overwhelming and it can be hard to say no to things that are high up on your wish list, but compromises often have to be made. Trust me, I've had to make a lot of them.

'When planning your next home renovation, think carefully about where your spending will have the greatest impact,' advises Michael Valente, co-founder and CEO of Renovation Sells. 'Spend on renovations that add real value to your home and consider the long-term benefits of your investments. By focusing on the areas that matter most like kitchens, bathrooms, and flexible spaces you can enjoy a home that’s both comfortable and functional.'

So whether you’re tackling a single room or a whole house, these tips should help you avoid pitfalls and feel confident in your renovation decisions.

1. Spend on flooring and tile

The general rule of thumb is that you'll need to splurge on items you use and touch day-to-day and any foundational elements that are hard to change later on.

Flooring is such a crucial part of your home, it impacts the look and feel of each space and it needs to withstand constant use. A beautiful, well-made floor creates continuity and elevates every other element in the space.

I've learned the hard way that cheap flooring just doesn't last, and you often end up having to replace it, meaning you've paid twice and not actually saved yourself any money in the long run.

2. Save on cabinetry

This might be a controversial take, but if you're looking at your kitchen remodel ideas and realizing that there are a lot of cuts to be made then I'm here to help you save some cash. I think the kitchen is one of those spaces where you can look to save the most money. Yes, it is the heart of your home and you of course want it to look, feel, and perform beautifully but there are ways to save and places to push the budget a bit further.

Cabinetry can quickly become one of the most expensive aspects of a renovation, but if you stick to a standard shaker-style kitchen there are plenty of ways to then jazz it up with countertops, tiling, and decor. This also allows you to spend a little more on a statement kitchen island or pantry cupboard that helps elevate the entire space.

IKEA hacks really come into their own here too. There are plenty of places to shop to update IKEA kitchen cabinets where you can buy new fronts to upgrade their basic units, and IKEA cupboards and wardrobes can be upgraded with paint and moldings to look more bespoke on a budget.

3. Spend on countertops

Kitchen countertops are one of the most used surfaces in a home. Investing in a durable, timeless option will add interest and keep your space looking pristine for years.

Cheap countertops will always look cheap because they're so tactile – you touch and use them every day. Choosing a low-quality countertop may save you money upfront, but they are prone to chipping, staining, and warping over time. Whereas cheap cabinetry can be dressed up with a beautiful marble worktop and instantly look more expensive.

'We always think it's worth it to spend on stone material because it can carry a lot of impact – even with simple cabinetry details,' interior designer Wendy Labrum agrees. 'Also, prioritize your spaces – spend on primary usage areas and save on secondary spaces that won't see as much action,' she adds.

'Upgrades like new countertops, modern fixtures, and efficient appliances can transform your kitchen into a central hub for cooking, entertaining, and gathering,' agrees Michael Valente.

4. Save on furniture

In my slow renovating journey, one of the biggest ways we have saved money is on the furniture in our home. Granted, it isn't all furnished yet as not every room is finished, but I think I could count on one hand the amount of brand-new pieces we own.

One of my favorite things to do is shop for vintage furniture. A pre-loved piece with a bit of history can add so much charm to a space while saving you so much money. Consider shopping for second-hand furniture from vintage shops, flea markets, or places to buy vintage furniture online and on platforms like Facebook Marketplace.

Now there is a caveat to this. And that is that the pieces you sit on often need to be new. Your sofa, dining chairs or banquette, bed (including mattress), office chair, and armchair in your reading nook all want to be as new and comfortable as budget allows.

5. Spend on bathroom fixtures

Many interior designers will tell you that plumbing fixtures in your bathroom are simply one place where you need to dig rather deeply into your pockets.

Sure fixtures, fittings, and faucets can get expensive, but trust me, they are worth their weight in gold (or chrome, depending on your style). High-end faucets and showerheads, for example, are often made from superior materials like solid brass or stainless steel, which resist corrosion and wear over time.

In my first home, we chose really cheap taps and shower fixtures from Amazon, and while they worked really well, all the plating wore off after a few months. On the other hand, I have second-hand fittings in this house that are super solid but have been used well past their sell-by date and are now stiff and leaky. Cheap fixtures might look good initially but often fail when it comes to daily wear and tear.

6. Save on home decor

While the small details are my favorite, this is certainly an area where you can save a little. Sure, a great statement piece of art might set you back, but you can re-balance the scales by shopping for some more budget-friendly throw pillows.

Home decor is where you can have the most fun experimenting without breaking the bank. It’s the finishing touches, not the foundation of a build, so it doesn’t always need to be a huge investment made and can be easily swapped out as trends change or your tastes evolve.

There are plenty of affordable retailers out there offering stylish decor items, from blankets and vases to rugs and candles, that can transform your space without costing a fortune. You can also find unique pieces by shopping vintage markets, thrift stores, or online platforms like Etsy.

7. Spend on switches and sockets

You might have realized by now, but the pieces that you come into contact with every day are the items that deserve a little more money spent on them. And the small details, like switches and sockets, can often make a huge impact.

In my reno, we have recently started swapping out our switches and sockets for brass options from Pooky including some really beautiful toggle switches that make turning the lights on a delight. Again, it's the little things.

If you're looking for ways to make your outlets and switches look nicer, look for designs that align with the room's overall style. Sleek, modern chrome or nickel plates for contemporary spaces or more classic styles for traditional homes like unlacquered brass or clear switch plates for wallpapered spaces.

8. Save on lighting

This is one that requires a bit of explanation. I'm not saying save on the electrics, as that is incredibly important and something you want to get right, but rather lighting ideas themselves.

Good, well-placed, layering lighting makes all the difference to the look and feel of a space, so that is of course worth investing time and money into. However, there are ways to save.

Lighting design doesn’t have to be expensive, it’s more about placement and layering than the price tag. Try sourcing cheaper fittings like wall sconces or lamp bases and put your money into a beautiful shade to upgrade the look. Alternatively, you can also save some cash by choosing rechargeable, battery-operated lights that don't require wiring – very useful if you forgot an outlet in your lighting plan.

9. Spend on hardware

Finally, my favorite thing to spend a little more on is hardware. Like the jewelry of cabinetry, hardware is the key to truly making something feel custom and curated, rather than store-bought without thought.

'Do choose natural, durable materials that will wear well with time,' suggests Charlie Bowles, director at Original BTC. 'Hardwearing metals that age well, such as weathered bronze, copper, or brass, are all excellent choices. They require little upkeep, and will not deteriorate over time, but build character.'

I'm a big fan of unlacquered brass. Our kitchen cabinet hardware, including the tap, is all by deVOL and has developed its own unique patina over time. Try to find room in your budget to upgrade handles, drawer pulls, door knobs, and other hardware to something more unique that will bring you joy every time you use it.

'The key to a successful remodel is understanding your lifestyle,' concludes designer Giovanna Fiorello of Fiorello Designs. 'Spend on what you use the most and what adds the most value to your space – whether that’s the kitchen, bathrooms, or living areas. If certain rooms aren’t as high-traffic or don't impact your daily life as much, focus on budget-friendly updates that add style without overspending.'

Remodeling a home is a delicate balancing act between making smart, strategic investments and finding opportunities to save without sacrificing on your vision. The key is to prioritize what will truly enhance your home’s functionality, such as triple pane windows, and long-term value, while still managing to spark joy every day.

There are no rules, and you can spend your money however you choose, but hopefully, these tips from someone in the know go a good way to helping you make some informed choices.

Today, kitchens are more sophisticated than ever, featuring smart appliances, sleek, seamless cabinetry styles and ingenious integrated storage solutions. However, despite all the kitchen tech and innovation, when it comes to kitchen design, it seems there’s a trend for looking back rather than forward.

Increasingly, we’re noticing interior and kitchen designers incorporating freestanding pieces into kitchens to achieve a homey, relaxed look, and, as part of this kitchen trend, there’s a key feature we’re spotting again and again – the pot hanger.

Available ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted, this simple, age-old piece of kitchen furniture seems to be making a comeback, although passionate home chefs who want a real cook’s kitchen might argue they never really went away.

To find out why this humble piece of kitchen hardware is becoming the new kitchen must-have, we spoke to interior designers for their insights on its enduring appeal.

Why choose a pot hanger?

Pot hangers mounted from beams or ceilings have been gracing kitchens in various guises for centuries. Originally created from wrought iron or wood, today’s pot hangers are more innovative than their forebears and can be tailored to your space with options for integrated lighting and an array of custom finishes available and it’s these bespoke versions we’ve noticed proving particularly popular.

‘The activity and inquiries around the pot racks are the most robust we've ever seen and we’re selling more than ever before,’ says Sam Schinderman, director of New York-based company Ann-Morris, which specializes in luxury, bespoke pot racks.

Practically, pot hangers and racks have a number of advantages. Making clever use of the height of a room, they provide ample kitchen storage for large pans, pots and cookware without encroaching on valuable drawer and cupboard space. Hanging large pots and pans not only saves space, it also makes them far easier to access rather than having to bend down and rifle through low cabinets or drawers.

'You're able to use it for pan storage but it also makes a beautiful centerpiece. It's a great fixture for clients who actually cook and utilize their kitchen,' explains Sam Schinderman. And it’s not just cooking pots and saucepans they can be used for, ‘the hooks can hold baskets, bags of vegetables, bags of meats, cookware with large handles, etc,’ he adds. Designs with integrated lighting also provide essential task lighting over a kitchen island for preparing food.

'Pot hangers work especially well in a space with high ceilings, adding a sculptural element to the room,’ adds Bruce Hodgson, founder of British kitchen and joinery bespoke company, Artichoke.

1. Free up your cabinet space

One of the key benefits of having a pot hanger or rail is saving on valuable storage space. If you have a small kitchen where cabinet space is at a premium then making use of the height of the room by fitting alternative storage is a clever alternative. Cookware takes up lots of space in cabinets and drawers so hanging these can really free up lots of space for tableware, groceries or appliances which can otherwise end up cluttering worktops. A discreet pan rail is the easiest solution, as used here by Sean Symington.

Not only does the pan rail save space, it also makes a feature of the client's lovely copper pan collection.

2. Use a pot hanger to create a focal point

If you have a kitchen with high ceilings the space can end up feeling a little cold and empty – adding a custom pot rack is a great way to fill the space and make a practical and stylish focal point as done here by interior designer Carolyn Brandwajn, founder of Cbespoke design. 'The kitchen has very high ceilings; I incorporated an Ann-Morris pot rack, not only to showcase the client’s copper cookware collection, but to also add a design element on the ceiling,' explains Carolyn Brandwajn.

Featuring a warm brass finish, this design also brings a touch of warmth and glamour to an otherwise neutral scheme.

3. Show off your cookware

Bespoke pot hangers inspired by restaurants and kitchens are perfect for those who really love to cook. 'It creates a feature of the cooking paraphernalia, in particular with copper pans adding warmth and a heritage feel. This bespoke feature is often commissioned by our clients who are passionate about cooking, looking to display their beautiful cooking utensils as part of the design,' explains Bruce Hodgson, founder of Artichoke.

'The metal of the pans and the pot hanger are echoed in the materials around the room for an industrial nod in this New England scheme. The rectangular steel hanger mirrors the footprint of the island below along with the shape of the room and the shapes of the cabinetry. These considered, refined details are entirely bespoke to the client and their home, working in complete harmony to create a kitchen that looks like it has always belonged.'

4. Make cookware easy to access

Having your saucepans close at hand whilst cooking cannot be underestimated. While separate pantries can provide great storage, it can be frustrating having to keep going back and forth for what you need. Stacking heavy cookware in low cabinets and drawers can also be laborious, not to mention very noisy.

Be it ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted, a pot hanger allows you to instantly locate and retrieve the pan you're looking for, plus they can be easily and quietly replaced after use. 'The pot rack allows for the pots to be more accessible, and, as the ceiling is pitched, it fills some volume for a more robust look,' explains interior designer Gary McBournie who chose a bespoke Ann-Morris design for this relaxed Nantucket kitchen.

If you're after the practical benefits of a pot rack there's no need to install a large ceiling-hung rack, a simple rail hung from a ceiling beam or a wall can be just as effective.

'Hanging rails are a big yes, too, I love nothing more than a brass rail and all the storage display options it gives me. Plants on the ceiling, tea towels by the sink, dried chillies above the range. The list is exciting and endless if you pick a subtle understated slim rail,' says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens.

5. Create a rustic country feel

If you're a fan of the rustic unfitted kitchen composed of freestanding and vintage furniture then traditional wrought iron, curved pot hanger designs are a great addition, conjuring scenes of a rustic Tuscan farmhouse kitchen or an English country cottage kitchen.

Perfect in front of a traditional range cooker, over an island or prep table, deVOL's pot hangers are hand-forged to order in the UK by skilled blacksmiths and boast characterful handcrafted markings and textures which beautifully complement historic homes.

'We love to include hanging storage in the kitchen. A simple pot rack above a cooker, nothing too ornate, a simple utilitarian rack allowing you to easily store and reach your biggest and heaviest pans, are such a great look. They are practical and hold way more than you could ever fit easily and accessibly in a cupboard,' explains Helen Parker.

6. Conjure the look and ambiance of a retro French bistro

Pot hangers aren't confined to the rustic country look, they can look stunning as part of luxury and urban kitchens, too. New York-based company Ann-Morris, founded in 1947, create bespoke pot racks with integrated lighting and an array of finishes from polished nickel and brass to the more mellow oil-rubbed bronze which are perfect for glamorous, luxury kitchens. You can even have two-tone finishes and custom finishes.

'Our pot rack is inspired by 20th-century French Bistro-style pot racks. My Father, Herbie Schinderman, who designed the pot rack, was inspired during his buying trips to France. When back in the USA he set up manufacturing of the pot rack as early as the 1980s,' explains Sam Schinderman, director of Ann-Morris. 'The Ann-Morris pot rack is completely custom-made and bespoke to the client's kitchen island space. They are made in New York City using the highest quality materials by master metal craftsman. The quality is generally one of a kind and clients want a piece of that in their kitchen.'

Where should you hang a pot hanger?

Pot hangers are generally hung over kitchen islands. As they are designed to store and display pots and pans, they need to be located near the cooker so that the pans are easy to retrieve when cooking. If you’re thinking of installing a ceiling-mounted pot hanger then you’ll need to check with a professional whether your ceiling can support – sometimes the ceiling will need reinforcement.

‘The installation process needs to be handled by a knowledge contractor or electrician,’ says Sam Schinderman of Ann Morris. ‘The ceiling needs to be reinforced and appropriate steps needs to be taken by the contractor for proper installation.’

The return of the pot hanger might feel like a trend, but this look has been around for centuries and it won't be falling out of fashion anytime soon. A practical solution to storing awkward pots and pans and yet aesthetically pleasing and versatile the pot hanger is an asset to any kitchen.

Gray has a bad reputation for being foreboding, unsexy, and just rather plain. But done right, gray is one of the most versatile neutrals you can use in your home. This sultry shade goes with every color and can be used to add depth and sophistication to any room.

Of all the neutrals, gray is one that instantly brings gravitas. Gray is a color that has its own weather system of light levels and hues. From the gentle gray morning rain to the breathtaking drama of dark storm clouds, the scope for creating beautiful interiors is endless, especially when it comes to the heart of the home. It is a shade that has always been popular in the kitchen – and for a good reason.

It comes as no surprise that British actor Henry Cavill has chosen this unsuspecting non-color for the kitchen cabinets in his modern kitchen. It pairs beautifully with the beige backsplash and black hardware for a contemporary look.

Decorating with gray harmonizes well with almost every other hue, making it a most adaptable neutral and giving good reason for its popularity, says Helen Shaw, director at Benjamin Moore. 'It is the reason why gray kitchen ideas are, even though it has had a recent dip in popularity, still at the forefront of our kitchen cabinet color choices.'

Despite our love for gray fading in recent years, we expect 2025 to see something on a comeback for this unsung neutral.

A new kitchen is a big investment while updating an existing one can involve a lot of upheaval, so whichever style or color you opt for it must have staying power. Gray has the benefit of being neutral, which means that it will look timeless on its own, contrast well with other colors, and complement many different materials and surfaces.

‘Gray is calming and softens a room,' says Suzanne Francis, kitchen designer at Tom Howley. 'In psychology, it represents peace and balance which is so important within a home. It’s practical, simple and reliable.'

‘When it comes to kitchen color trends – soft, muted gray tones can create a warm atmosphere for dinner parties without the worry of passing color trends and fads,’ adds Tom Howley, design director. It is why I believe that gray will never truly date – it all depends on how you style it.

Shop the gray look

Whether it's artwork, books, ceramics, or decorative objects, collectibles are a wonderful way to bring unique personality into interiors. As well as having aesthetic appeal, collectibles hold meaningful stories and bring a sense of narrative to a room. They can spark happy memories, make great talking points with guests and add depth and texture. However, without careful curation, cherished possessions can easily become clutter.

To help you make your collections look beautiful (and not like an over-stuffed charity shop) we’ve reached out to professional interior designers for their tips on creating artful displays including ideas for collectibles to display and how to arrange them, no matter what your interior design style.

How can you make collectibles look beautiful?

Filling spaces with the things we love is what puts the heart and soul into our homes, but collections should always enhance a scheme rather than hinder it - the key to success is all down to careful curation and display.

‘When thoughtfully displayed, collectibles bring warmth, individuality, and a sense of story to any space,’ says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

‘We all have things that we love, and these personal mementos are what makes a house a home. By creating a really cohesive and stylish display, you can really transform what some might think is 'clutter' into intentional, artful collectibles.’

When decorating with antiques or collectibles, giving your pieces the space they deserve is important, so the first step is always to start with a blank canvas. Decluttering before you create your displays is key and when embarking on a room design try to incorporate plenty of concealed storage from the outset - this allows you to hide away eyesores, leaving surfaces clear for curating considered and beautiful displays. Once you have a blank canvas, it’s much easier to visualize how your collections will look and how you want to display them.

The world is really your oyster when it comes to what collectibles to display and how to display them. There are no set rules, however there are a few tips that can help elevate your collections. When we asked the interior designers grouping objects by theme was a popular approach.

‘The key is to be intentional by grouping similar items together for unity, for instance, hanging a collection of plates/baskets on the wall to create a feature out of them,’ says Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs. ‘Arranging objects with shared materials, patterns of colors helps to create cohesion, whilst playing with shapes and sizes will add visual interest.’

'You then want to complement the displays with textiles and accessories in other parts of the room that echo their colors, like cushions, throws or other decorative ornaments,' adds Emma. If you're looking to turn your clutter into considered displays these stylish ideas and expert tips are just what you need.

1. Work in odd numbers and triangles

When decorating shelves, many interior designers and stylists advocate arranging items in groups of three of five and working in triangles to create visual balance. To create pleasing vignettes begin with a large item at the back such as a painting and then add items in stages of height on either side until you have a balanced arrangement. You're looking to create a pleasing rhythm of different heights and subtle textures along the shelf.

Decorating with plants or greenery is a perfect finishing touch which will bring styled shelves to life. 'We like to play with different heights and textures,' says interior designer, Sean Symington. 'Here we've used lots of different ferns at different heights. We also like grouping vessels together - we look for French confit pots and vintage stoneware as they bring texture.'

2. Create custom-shelving for collections

If you have cherished ceramics and dinnerware it can be a shame to hide them in cupboards when you could have them out on display. Having custom-built shelving made is an effective way to display collectibles as the joinery can be tailored to fit around the things you want to showcase. Here interior design firm Toledo Geller commissioned bespoke shelving to house a client's tableware collection.

‘The tea cups and plates were passed down for generations. Our client loves using her vintage pieces for everyday life and didn’t want them tucked away like most people. We took the opportunity to showcase them in a custom-built dresser in her new colorful dining room where they are now a showpiece,’ say Jessica Geller and Virginia Toledo, co-founders of Toledo Geller.

Painting your cabinetry in a bold color, or in a color that contrasts with your pieces is an effective way to collections and ceramics really stand out. Interior designer Sean Symington loves to incorporate vintage pieces and collectibles in his projects. In this kitchen design he incorporated a slimline bespoke plate rack in soft pink to showcase a collection of bold green cabbageware ceramics.

3. Display collectibles on adjustable shelving

Rearranging displays every now and then helps keep rooms feeling fresh, but when you have fixed shelving your options can be limited. Adjustable shelving that can be altered depending on what you want to display makes a clever and practical way to display collectibles, as demonstrated in this project by interior designer, Olivia Outred.

‘In this family house we designed a fitted shelving piece, with shelves that can be slotted in and out, and heights that can be changed, to house our client’s own collection of smaller antiques and accessories. We placed pieces of art amongst them and small lamps; it celebrated all the pieces and was a place to keep beautiful things safe and in your eyeline,’ explains Olivia Outred.

4. Create a gallery wall

Displaying a cluster of collectibles as part of a gallery wall makes a wonderful alternative to having one large artwork. It works well over a sofa or in a stairway and pieces can really pop set against a bold paint color.

'When displaying collectibles, think about creating a story on your wall. Combine plates with other objects like framed prints, decorative tiles, or vintage finds to add depth and interest,' advises Libs Lewis, founder of British home store Domestic Science. 'Plates aren’t just for the kitchen – used creatively, they can bring charm and character to any room in the house. Use a harmonious color palette to tie the collection together, like the blue and green tones here, and don't be afraid to mix patterns and textures. Finally, vary the heights and spacing of the pieces for a more organic, curated feel, and let your arrangement reflect your personality.'

When creating a gallery wall the key is to create a balanced composition with a mix of sizes, shapes and textures. Be sure to plan your arrangement on the floor before knocking in nails.

Interior designer Penny Morrison is a collector of ceramics and loves to display them on the wall. 'Plates can be very pretty - either in a bookcase or, either side of a mirror or even a whole wall of plates - either in a set or in similar styles or colors. A set of old French oyster plates are attractive - or a series of blue and white in various styles from serving platters to dinner plates,' says Penny.

'Similar plates work well in a pattern but a variety of sizes look better placed randomly. Try your layout on the floor and make a template before hanging. If you are displaying a collection on shelves place them randomly so it looks as though you have collected them organically over time rather than as ready-made collection.'

5. Display collectibles in a beautiful glazed cabinet

When it comes to displaying collectibles that you also use for dining then glazed cabinets are an obvious choice, as they allow you to showcase decorative glassware, tableware, ceramics, or vases without the need for constant dusting.

'Displaying your glassware and tableware in glass-front cabinetry, allows you to showcase the things you love, while keeping them protected and accessible. Alternatively, you can showcase your favorite collectibles on open kitchen shelving, arranging your collection by size, color, or style for a sophisticated yet decorative display,' advises Fred Horlock, design director at Neptune.

For a timeless look, you can't go wrong with a light oak design with simple sleek lines. Alternatively, antique designs would be perfect for a traditional scheme. Cabinets made from dark woods are easy to come by and affordable. 'We love brown furniture, it looks great against colorful walls,' says Sean Symington.

When displaying collectibles it's fun to think a little outside the box. Glass-fronted cabinets don't need to be wall-mounted or free-standing - you could also have them built into a kitchen island, too as demonstrated in this kitchen by Meg McSherry Interiors.

6. Display collections in the kitchen

There's no reason collections should be limited to living rooms – practical spaces like hallways, kitchens and utility rooms are wonderful places to surround yourself with things you love.

'We often spend so much time in the kitchen; why not display some of your most treasured items there?' says Venetia Rudebeck, co-founder and partner, at Studio Vero. 'When creating interiors for our clients, we want our design and curation to reflect their personality, heritage and travels and feel that within every room is the opportunity to tell a story and evoke a memory.'

The kitchen trend for replacing wall cabinets with open shelving is still going strong. Not only does it create a more spacious feel in a kitchen, the open kitchen shelving makes a wonderful place to display artwork.

When is comes to styling kitchen shelves ‘Do not have all the items on a longer shelf the same height,’ advises interior designer, Julia Dempster. ‘Not only should you contrast materials, but height too. I would recommend using a series of elements as they add more impact. If you need to add height and cannot find the height of vessel or vase you need, add books piled to gain height and create a mini pedestal below the item. I have also like using a cake stand as a pedestal to gain height.'

7. Incorporate shelf lighting

Having good lighting is essential for showcasing collections well. If you're considering bespoke joinery think about having LED lighting recessed into the shelves to so that your cherished possessions can shine during the evening.

'There are several ways to make open shelving displays look more expensive and luxurious. I always recommend built-in joinery, as it offers a tailored, premium feel,' says Katerina Tchevytchalova, director and interior designer at K'Arte Design. 'Styling the shelves with a mix of textures and finishes - such as metal accents or ceramics – can elevate the look without overspending. Incorporating built-in LED lighting on the shelves enhances the ambiance and draws attention to displayed items. Finally, sticking to natural and muted color palettes ensures a cohesive and curated appearance that seamlessly integrates with the overall space and allows the items on your display to sing.'

8. Showcase collectibles in a hallway

Displaying collectibles in connecting spaces like hallways and entryways is a wonderful way to make use of wall space that can often be overlooked. Lining shelves with cherished pieces will create fun talking points with guests and instantly brings a sense of personality.

‘In designing this staircase, we recognized the potential of the space beneath the window and sought to make the most of it. As a result, we created this quaint bookcase that greets you upon arrival in the entry. It's home to all of the vintage goodies we've found in town- filled to the brim with petite antique books, baskets and just a blend of old and new things that I love,’ explains Meg McSherry, founder of Meg McSherry Interiors. 'Our intention was to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels both eclectic, inherited and inviting.'

9. Make use of alcoves

Awkward spaces like alcoves are ideal for displaying collectibles and making use of what can be dead space. Having bespoke shelving fitted is the most effective way to create shelving for display as it can be tailored around the architecture. Here interior designer, Christian Bense, opted for natural wood alcove shelving which beautifully complements the organic quality of the ceramics.

'I think it's really important to display collectibles throughout a home – you shouldn't designate them to just one room like a living room but think about spaces like entrance halls too. For one entrance we combined shoe storage with open shelves for a client's ceramic collection. It provided a practical solution for an entrance hall but also softened the space by having items on display and becoming more artwork focused,' explains Christian Bense.

10. Arrange items by color

For an easy way to bring cohesion to collections try grouping items by tone and palette. Here interior designer Julia Dempster chose items bound by warm neutral tones and created interest using height and texture. Creating displays in a unified palette helps you appreciate form and structure and keeps spaces feeling calm.

'I like to limit the color selection to three as it will create a very busy shelf,' explains Julia. 'I prefer to use contrasting textures, for example, glass next to a textured vase or a wooden vessel to get contrast. The contrast of textures of for example reflective glass against a raffia bottle or a rough pottery vase makes the items stand out.

Concealed recessed lighting in shelves can throw illumination on the beautifully curated items, one of my favorite things to do as it adds an extra dimension to the interior.

'Even everyday items like books and vases can double as decor if you carefully consider the pieces you choose. By keeping everything in the same complementary shades, you can create a really cohesive look that's balanced,' says Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs.

In this guest bedroom by Salvesen Graham books arranged by color help bring order and calm.

Displaying your collections can add so much depth and character and personality to your home. They should be out on display, it's just a case of styling them right so they don't turn into clutter.

I spend a lot of time in my kitchen throughout the year, but never more than at Christmas. In past years, it's the one room I haven't decorated to avoid the space feeling cluttered. But after seeing so many stylish ideas on Instagram and TikTok this year, I'm finally giving my kitchen the festive spruce up it deserves.

While the obvious kitchen Christmas decor focuses on the island, it's the less-expected ideas that have caught my eye this year. And they're all about decorating your kitchen cabinets – perfect for adding holiday cheer without impeding functionality.

I've narrowed my selection down to three of the best kitchen cabinet Christmas decor ideas I've seen and want to try. And if you're interested, I've rounded them up with all the supplies you need to try them at home.

3 kitchen cabinet Christmas decor ideas I'm trying this year

Once you've found the style of kitchen cabinet Christmas decor that works for you and your kitchen, decorating each year will become so much easier. And for me, these are the three worthy of trying!

1. Kitchen cabinet bows

I'm not usually a big bow person, but when it comes to holiday decor, they seem to add a chic, elegant finish to just about everything. Plus, it's a difficult task to find any inspiration that doesn't feature them in some way!

The bow Christmas decor trend has taken over this year, and they're the perfect addition to your kitchen cabinets. Across TikTok and Instagram, people have been tying ribbons around their cabinet doors, giving them the look of a perfectly wrapped present topped with a bow.

This is one of my favorites – it not only looks beautiful, but it doesn't impact the functionality of your space. I've seen a lot of people opting for traditional red ribbons (particularly burgundy), but you could really use any color that works in your kitchen color ideas.

2. Dried orange wreath along or above the cabinets

The kitchen is the perfect place to introduce dried fruit decor – especially this year's revived trend for trend orange slices. Threaded along a simple evergreen garland, it adds a sense of nostalgia to a kitchen.

I love the idea of draping it across the edge of upper cabinets – bonus points if they sit above or around a cooker. Unfortunately, this won't work in my kitchen, but I will be hanging it along the cabinetry above my breakfast bar which isn't used super regularly.

This is a great option if you love a DIY Christmas decor. You can easily dry your orange slices at home, thread them along a string, and tie them to a garland. If you need a guide you can follow our step-by-step guide on how to dry orange slices.

3. Mini wreaths on kitchen cabinet doors

This year, I've seen so many unexpected places to hang Christmas wreaths. From the backs of chairs to windows and mirrors, it's fun to play around with less obvious decorating ideas.

And in the kitchen, I love the idea of hanging mini wreaths on the front of cabinet doors. Light and easy to hang, they bring in a touch of holiday decor with minimal effort. Make sure you choose a small wreath so it's not too heavy or oversized – your cabinets still need to be useable!

There are a few different takes that I've seen. Some people hang the wreaths of hidden hooks on the front of the cabinet door to give a floating effect, while others hang them from a ribbon secured inside the door, like in the video above.

Whether you hang charming mini wreaths, embrace the bow, or lean into the room's function with a dried orange garland, these kitchen cabinet Christmas decor ideas will add a touch of joy and festivity to your scheme.

I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with my TV. Sure, I spend most evenings sitting in front of it but I don't love having it as part of my room scheme, you know?

So while I'm in the middle of renovating a family room slash sunroom at the back of my house, I've been trying to come up with some unique and aesthetically pleasing ways to elevate, conceal, and decorate around my TV.

The obvious answer you might think is to create a media wall. But unfortunately, they give me the ick. So I've asked the experts to help me debate some clever media wall alternatives to assist me in my TV wall ideas search – with the aim that it also helps you too, if you suffer from the same media-wall-hating affliction. Here's what I've uncovered.

Media Wall Alternatives That Saved Me From Getting The Ick

Of course, media rooms, walls, and units have their merits. Especially if your home is big enough to have a room dedicated to entertainment, they create an enormous amount of storage and work to make the most of your TV, consoles, and gadgets.

But I want my space to feel warm and inviting, much like this living room above designed by The Misfit House – not like I’ve stepped into a showroom.

I think there are two main pain points for me. They feel just too modern for my Victorian-era home, with overly glossy finishes and bulky shelves. And they also very prominently display and celebrate the TV, which when it is switched off, just feels like a big black box that dominates the space instead of complementing it.

The goal is to design with intention, so the TV feels integrated rather than an afterthought. So, when I finally reached the point of my slow renovating journey that I could start thinking about my own TV setup, I turned to the experts to ask them: 'How do I stylishly hide my TV?'

Designer Kathy Kuo suggests if you don't want the TV to be the centerpiece of a space, simply don't put it in there. 'In my own home, we have a small 'bonus' room that is designated as our TV room,' Kathy explains. 'There's a super-comfy oversized sofa, a media cabinet, and a TV, and that's about it.'

'This makes for a cozy space to curl up for a show or movie while my living room remains sophisticated and a space for conversation and personal connection.'

Alternatively, a framed TV, like the one in the living room above designed by Carley Summers can give your television a slightly more elevated appearance that works particularly well when hung on a chimney breast or above a mantel.

Marie Flanigan, suggests a clever, custom approach that thinks totally outside the box.

'Disguising a TV is all about seamlessly blending function with beauty,' says Marie. 'Consider using a specially designed two-way mirror [see above] that can be placed in front of the TV, transforming it into a reflective surface when not in use,' she explains.

'Then, surround the area with thoughtful decor, such as artwork, built-in shelving, or a gallery wall, to shift the focus away from the screen,' she continues.

One of the simplest yet most elegant (and potentially expensive) ways I've found to improve the look of a TV is by incorporating it into custom cabinetry.

'Alternatively, choose a media cabinet with sliding panels or doors that can conceal the TV entirely when it’s not in use,' continues Marie. 'These solutions allow your living room to remain both stylish and versatile, with the technology hidden but still easily accessible.'

Alice Gaskell of Alice Grace Interiors has created many different media cabinets and hidden TVs in her home, including this faux chimney breast living room TV idea with bi-fold doors [seen above] that opens up to reveal her television.

In the video, above, Alice shows how she has created a secret door in her shelving unit to conceal a TV thanks to a very handy television bracket that can be pulled out, swiveled, and put away again so you can always get the perfect angle.

Personally, I think this is genius because it not only hides your TV but also gives you the opportunity to introduce a design statement into your room with custom shelving. I love the alternative placement too, adding the bookcase design around a doorway as opposed to a flat wall.

Cabinetry also offers the benefit of additional storage. You can use the surrounding shelves for books, boxes, trinkets, picture frames, or media components like consoles to keep everything organized and design-led.

Finally, designer Benji Lewis, who created this savvy system above, tells me: 'I have a huge aversion to seeing a telly when I go into someone’s reception room, even more so if it’s a huge focal point.'

'TVs are so thin nowadays that they can easily be concealed within built-in cabinetry that you can tuck into the return of a chimney breast,' like the above. 'You need to comfortably be able to watch it while you’re seated, so there are clever brackets available that you can pivot and angle to bring your telly to a face-on position even if it’s concealed in a cabinet that you’re not directly facing,' Benji advises.

One of the best tips that I found when searching Pinterest for inspo was to paint the surrounding area – be that a wall, cabinet, or shelving system – in a darker color so that the TV doesn't seem quite so stand-out. Benji is also a fan of this approach.

'If you really must have your telly on view then paint the wall it’s on (or ideally, color drench your whole room) black or finish your wall in contemporary sleek dark walnut so that the TV doesn’t appear as a rectangular void on your wall.'

Your TV should work with your room, not against it. There are countless ways to make your screen feel less intrusive and more integrated into your decor.

If you are also looking to step away from the traditional media wall, these ideas are certainly giving me some food for thought. So, if media walls give you the ick like they do me, the good news is that there are so many creative and stylish solutions to try.

Personally I'm reaching for my notepad to sketch out some clever custom shelving ideas with secret hidden compartments. Because there's nothing more fun than a secret door.

When we think of minimalism, we think of everything being hidden away to give the illusion of having next to no clutter – so they must have some seriously smart storage, right?

It turns out that devout minimalists will often use minimal storage to really encourage living without excess, and it certainly works to get rid of clutter and create a more streamlined life.

We talked to some professional home organizers who revealed the five types of storage you will (surprisingly) never find in an organized minimalist home, and what they use instead to stop clutter before it starts.

5 types of storage you never find in a minimalist’s home

How you plan your storage ideas will play a huge part in encouraging minimalism at home. The general gist of it is the more storage you have available, the more likely you are to fill it with ‘stuff’.

Audra George, professional organizer, owner, and CEO of Pretty Neat: An Organizational Solution explains, ‘People that live in a minimal way tend to avoid clutter and unnecessary accumulation of items in their space. They want to keep things as simple and functional as possible.’

Here’s what minimalists avoid:

1. Hidden storage

The last thing minimalists want to do is conceal clutter in plain sight. While most of us would rejoice at hidden storage ideas, minimalists have no place for it in their homes.

Audra George, professional organizer, explains, ‘Under-bed storage, things stored behind doors, or in attic spaces are a no-no for true minimalists. They only keep what they need and don't overcrowd the space. This stop minimalists having items they forget they have.’

Similarly, extreme minimalists will avoid opaque storage baskets, says Brenda Scott, professional home organizer and owner of Tidy My Space. ‘Avoid storage bins that are not clear. Not being able to see what's in a tote or bin can lead to overbuying or duplicate purchasing. Opt for clear bins that are washable and sturdy.’

This is certainly one way to be more ruthless when decluttering.

2. ‘Transition’ storage

Minimalists are usually masters of the ‘one touch’ rule, mainly because they avoid any storage solutions that could allow them to put items down and forget about them, or keeping items 'just in case'.

Marine André, home organizer and founder at En route to Joy explains, ‘The ultimate objective is to steer clear of storage solutions that will allow you to place an item down as a 'transition'. Instead, you want to actively find a home for each category of items you own, from scarves to credit cards.

'This means you reduce the cognitive overload: each time you need to make a decision, you're asking your brain to ponder and reach a conclusion – this is not helping when you get home at the end of a long day.’

Veronica Hanson, minimalist coach and owner of Nomad Veronica adds, ‘Hanging on to items just in case is not a habit for minimalists. Therefore the storage boxes and junk drawers that exist in typical homes are just non-existent. It would not be rare to find empty drawers if they are built into the home or shelves left bare.’

3. Off-site storage

A popular storage lesson from small-space living is utilizing rented external storage for lesser-used items – but it is not for minimalists. Audra George, a professional organizer says, ‘Minimalists keep what they have room for and do not typically store belongings in other places.’

This also means not storing items with friends and family.

4. Bulky storage solutions

While there are certainly ways to maximize storage in every room and make use of deep cabinets and drawers, minimalists don't bother.

Audra George, professional organizer points out that ‘big shelving, over-sized cabinets, or large chests or bins are of no use to minimalists. Bulky pieces can take up space and make the room feel smaller with less usable space all while making it more difficult to find your items.’

5. Storage Furniture

While storage furniture is typically one of the things every room should have to stay organized (it is one of the storage products professional organizers can’t live without, after all), it is another storage category minimalists tend to avoid.

Veronica Hanson, minimalist coach explains, ‘Minimalists tend to avoid furniture intended for storage. You won't find hutches, sideboards, TV stands with drawers, bookcases, or curios in a minimalist home. People tend to expand to fill spaces if they exist. A minimalist is more likely to feel comfortable with that empty corner or underutilized wall.

‘Instead, they simply have fewer kitchen items, a wall-mounted TV, audio books or Kindle, and fewer items requiring a flat space to display.’

What they use instead

So, with all the major contenders ruled out, what minimalist-approved storage solutions are left for your home?

Marine André, home organizer reveals that true minimalists like to keep things out in the open. She says, ‘Open shelving encourages you to be selective about what you keep and display. Wall-mounted solutions and furniture with minimal, clean lines also help create a sense of space and intentionality, you're going from a passive receptacle to maintaining a mindful, clutter-free environment

‘For smaller spaces, wire mesh baskets [available at Walmart] also make it impossible to hide excess or unused items, which helps you regularly assess your belongings, discard or keep them with confidence.’

The real secret is minimalists have honed in on the best decluttering methods and live intentionally with far less. The less you have, the less you need to store, and the less storage you need. Everything from the Project 333 challenge to find a capsule wardrobe to the one-in, one-out decluttering rule comes into play to help maintain their spaces from day to day. They don’t have to worry about being stressed by the visual clutter of open storage because they have so little to display.

If diving in at the deep end and ripping out all of your home storage is not quite your idea of fun, consider organizing a home for quiet luxury instead. This helps to reduce visual clutter and make a home look more inviting without having to sacrifice half your belongings.

There’s nothing more jarring than two kitchen colors that don’t work together. Try as you might, you can’t ignore clashing colors, and no matter what else is going on in the room they will always be the focus. Yet it can be so limiting to only use one color in a kitchen, not to mention bland, so nailing the right color combinations is key. And a tried and tested way to bring multiple colors into your kitchen? The cabinets.

But figuring out the perfect kitchen cabinet color combinations is no easy feat. Thankfully that’s where design experts come in handy, providing up-to-date advice and hot tips. From bold and brilliant, to cosy and tranquil, we’ve got your kitchen cabinet combos covered.

The color combinations that always work on kitchen cabinets

Adding color into your kitchen is easier said than done. Using timeless color combinations on your kitchen cabinetry is like the ultimate cheat code, unlocking your way to a stylish kitchen with ease. Don’t spend hours agonizing over color charts when design experts have already done the hard work for you.

1. Black and white

It’s a classic for a reason, right? Black and white kitchen cabinets colors pair off perfectly with each other for a sleek, contemporary finish. Black on the bottom cabinetry lends gravitas and depth to the kitchen, whilst white wall cabinetry helps to lift the eye upwards, creating a vast sense of space.

'Don’t be afraid to go dark on your cabinetry, especially when paired with a good mid-neutral,' says Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball. 'Dark kitchens are striking yet timeless and are especially good at giving presence to a small room, even more so if your cabinets are the lower units as this will provide ‘structure’ to your room. Think something elegant like our blackest blue Railings.'

For a more refined take on monochrome, look to smokey greys or blue-blacks paired with off-whites such as eggshell and ivory. Finish off the look with plenty of texture and rustic elements to soften the contrast.

2. Dark green and light green

The only thing better than a green kitchen is a green kitchen with multiple shades of green. The tonal difference adds dimension to your cabinets, bringing them to life before your eyes. You can have fun with the verdant shades here, whether it’s forest green on sage, khaki on pistachio, or moss on mint.

'For a vibrant, contemporary, tonal scheme, combine complementary green shades ‘Harley Green’ and ‘Tea with Florence’ to create a subtle contrast,' advises Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene.

Green is known for being the easiest color on the eyes, creating less strain and fatigue in a space that’s infamous for both things. If you’ve been squinting at cookbooks and feeling tired around dinner time, then a double dose of the stuff could leave you invigorated and creative.

3. White and navy

White and navy pair for a classic kitchen cabinet combination that’s coastal without being cutesy, classic without being boring. These two shades bring a crisp, refined style to your interiors, creating a look that’ll last decades.

'In this kitchen, we did a classic white with a warm wood along with a beautiful deep blue for the island. It feels cohesive, classic and fresh,' explains Allison Ruda, founder of Allison Ruda Interior Design. 'This is a great way to have a white kitchen without it feeling sterile or boring. The wood cabinets on the lower add so much warmth and charm and the beautiful blue cabinetry within the island adds some character and grounding.'

4. Blue-gray and gray

Blue-gray and gray kitchen cabinets are a match made in heaven. The pairing is subtle and sophisticated and proves that a cool color scheme can still feel welcoming.

The combination adds dimension to your kitchen, creating shadows and depth in unexpected places. The two gray shades offer a tonal look that's organic and grounded, bringing dimensionality to each row of cabinetry.

Margaret Donaldson, interior designer and founder of MDI Luxury Design, uses Benjamin Moore's Sterling 1591 on her perimeter cabinets and Adagio 1593 on the island. 'Sterling is a light, crisp gray which is bright and fresh, while Adagio is a richer blue-gray which adds depth and interest as an accent color,' she says. 'This is a cool-toned palette with a nice balance of light for the perimeter and depth for the island.'

5. Green and blue

Blue and green are a bit of an unexpected color combo as they are analogous colors and in the past we've shied away from pairing colors that are too similar together. But trends are shifting and analogous schemes are on the rise and blues and greens are the most calming and livable of them all. This combo can work with many different kitchen styles too, as designer Danielle Novy says, 'Saturated greens and teals are pretty versatile colors for kitchen cabinets.'

The result will leave your kitchen energized with electric jolts of color. Look for blue shades such as azure, cobalt, and cerulean; the more depth, the better. Similarly for verdant shades, anything in a magnificent emerald or bottle green shade will deliver the enriched, uplifting cabinetry that you’re after.

'Deep greens and navy will perfectly contrast against cool marble surfaces. Consider a higher finish on cabinetry, like semi-gloss or high-gloss, to bring reflection and dimension to slightly darker space,' suggests Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore.

Combining kitchen cabinets can be tricky but ultimately makes for a more fulfilling, enriched kitchen space. From classic arrangements to bold compositions, there’s a color pairing to suit every space and style.

We love decor, and we love storage solutions, so when an idea comes along that combines both, we're incredibly pleased. All the better when that inspiration comes from Dolly Parton.

The iconic singer shared a picture of her Thanksgiving dinner table with her sister in her gorgeous farmhouse dining room. Though her red and white china looks beautiful on her table, where the dishes really shine is on the artful cabinet behind the sisters. Though china cabinets have been a staple of dining room decor for centuries, Dolly's is personalized in two distinct ways. First, it is upcycled with a gorgeous hand-painted floral design that mirrors the design on her plates. Second, it features open-concept storage, showing her plates off for all to see.

The hand-painted nature of Parton's cabinet is a huge interior design trend for the coming year. Eco-friendly paint company Thorndown found that the search term ‘upcycled furniture’ has soared this season, leaping from 29 index points to 100 in just a week. Caroline Thornborough, Design Director stated: 'As we head into another winter, worries about the cost of living are at the fore. That, combined with a rising interest in sustainability, drives people to get more creative and give upcycling a go.' Parton's gorgeous design elevates her space and makes it much more unique.

Shop the look

The open-concept design of the dining room storage is also an emerging trend. From the home of Anne Hathaway to Courteney Cox to Eva Mendes, it's a look that we've spotted in some of the most high-profile eating spaces in the world. Megan Slack, Head of Celebrity Style at Homes & Gardens states: 'As we have moved away from minimalism and towards more personalized interiors, open shelving has become an increasingly popular look. Not only does the trend allow you to bring your unique design style to any space, but it's easy to switch out when you grow bored of the style.'

To replicate Parton's design style, we recommend starting by purchasing a beautiful dinnerware set that sparks joy every time you see it. Then, arrange the dishes at varying heights and angles across your open shelves, as seen in the icon's dining room. As for the china cabinet, try purchasing something vintage or pre-owned to give it that extra unique feel. Personalize in whatever way you see fit.

It's time that we started thinking of decor and storage in tandem, and Parton's upcycled China cabient is the perfect place to start.

Designing or updating a kitchen can be tricky stuff. By the time you’ve gone through the laborious thinking about cabinetry, benchtops, backsplashes, and appliances, there’s always something that’s slipped through the cracks.

With so much focus on the cabinet colors, the wall colors can often be an after thought. It's probably why so many of us opt for neutral shades, it's an easy, fail-safe choice that doesn't take much thought. But the walls of the kitchen take up just as much visual space as the cabinet, sometimes more, so it's time we starting putting more consideration into the shades we choose.

These expert kitchen wall color ideas will inspire and invigorate your space, providing a picture-perfect foundation for the rest of your kitchen design. You can go forth with confidence knowing that all these kitchen colors are timeless and versatile.

6 color ideas to transform your kitchen walls

A blank canvas no longer, your kitchen walls can set the scene for the rest of your space. Whether you go with smoldering dark tones or calming neutrals, the rest of your kitchen will thank you for it. These are the shades designers suggest trying...

1. Burgundy

Burgundy kitchens are super on trend right now and is a shade du jour for good reason. The it-girl color is undeniably gorgeous, reminiscent of rich lipsticks, juicy grapes, and red wine nights. An intentional reference, considering that the shade was originally inspired by wine from the Burgundy region of France. What better culinary region to channel in your kitchen?

'Incorporating burgundy into the kitchen can create a striking visual impact,' says Bo Hellbery, CMO at String Furniture. 'These rich, deep hues also enhance the overall aesthetic, making the space feel both modern and timeless.'

There’s a dark academia feel to this deep red stain, with tantalizing hints of purple, which warms up a kitchen with added opulence. But it can equally be a much lighter look if you layer with warm neutrals and crisp whites.

2. Gray-green

Many might shun the gray spectrum for fear of the shade being too cold for your cozy space. But mixing cooler shades with warmer tones such as green can be the best of both worlds, resulting in the kitchen wall color of your dreams. A gray-green kitchen has soothing benefits that are unmatched, bringing calm energy to a home.

'Kitchens are often thought of as the ‘heart of the home’ so work best with wall colors that have a warm undertone, especially where there is less natural light,' says Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'A gray-green such as Paris Rain is a great choice, the green element of this hue will lift the overall effect and add much-needed warmth.'

3. Cream

Cream is a delightful kitchen wall color, that's totally timeless. A demure, serene shade; it mingles between fan-favorites butter yellow and off-white to perfection. Even better if there’s the softest hint of pink in the mix.

'Decorating with cream softens and soothes your kitchen, transforming it from a place of weekday frenzy to a weekend paradise,' says Emily Moorman, Homes & Gardens' Paint and Color Editor. 'It’s like one big inhale and exhale. Not to mention, it truly goes with all and any cabinetry style or color.'

Cream wall paint can help to tone down existing bold tones or add depth to paler hues. It’s coziness in a paint can.

4. Earthy Terracotta

The kitchen can all too easily become a sterile space; terracotta paint is a quickfire way of adding warmth and charm to your walls. Most importantly, it pairs beautifully with a range of other shades, remaining versatile but distinctive in its own right. 'Deep burgundy and terracotta shades enhance the rustic warmth of a wooden kitchen look,' suggests Helen Shaw.

You could match the look with vivid blue tiles for a Yves Saint Laurent look à la Morocco, or play with warm browns and sandy neutrals for a soft, tonal effect. Pair with some patterned Spanish-style rustic floor tiles and you’ve got yourself an eternally stylish kitchen that gently hums with color.

Terracotta and clay hues are such cozy shades, it’s no wonder they even were used in the earliest cave paintings. So, if you’re on the lookout for a timeless color, look no further than terracotta for the ultimate throwback, circa fifty thousand years or so. Now that’s what we call longevity.

5. Turquoise

Turquoise is undeniably a bold shade and often the best way to use a bold shade is to really commit.

'Kitchens are a wonderful space for embracing the color drenching trend, don’t feel limited by painting just your kitchen walls, incorporate the cabinets, woodwork, skirting, and ceiling to deliver an uplifting, enveloping space,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene.

'This sophisticated drenching technique will add to the overall energy of a kitchen, providing a cohesive and intriguing backdrop to pops of color such as a bright turquoise,' Ruth notes. If matching cabinetry doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, then look to keeping it simple and minimal overhead with open shelves instead of traditional cabinetry. This will give your strong color more room to breathe and won’t overwhelm the space.

6. Navy

Navy blue wall paint is a timeless choice for a kitchen. The hue delivers a burst of color without playing too much into ever-changing color trends – a navy blue kitchen is no avocado green bathroom, rest assured.

'Navy paint lends an element of sophistication to your walls, whilst remaining down-to-earth in execution,' says Emily. 'It’s perfect either as a feature wall or for an all round color. You can never have too much or too little of the shade.'

Gold hardware, marble countertops, and neutral accents all complement navy blue in a kitchen for a warm, traditional look that won’t go out of fashion.

Don’t leave your kitchen wall color choices to the last minute. Instead, choose your favorite shade and build the rest of your color scheme accordingly. Whether you go light and bright, or contemporary colorful, your kitchen walls can have a huge impact on your space.

Tambour paneling has been making a slow and steady rise in recent months, and we are starting to see more of it than its more traditional counterparts. Sleek, tactile, and contemporary, this slatted approach to paneling is a simple way to instantly elevate and add texture to the blandest of spaces – and so many designers are turning to this trend.

It's also a look that has the potential to DIY, and social media is filled with beautiful examples of how a room has totally been transformed with slats of wood and little else. But where are the best places to use this paneling trend? And what styles do they suit best? We asked designers who love the look for all their advice, plus pulled together some of our favorite spaces that really highlight how beautiful and versatile this interior design trend can be.

What is Tambour Paneling?

Tambour paneling is a wall treatment made from wooden slats (we say slats because that's the easiest way to describe them, but they can be rounded or curved) that are carefully connected to create a continuous, flexible surface.

Unlike traditional flat wall paneling, tambour offers a distinctive three-dimensional look, thanks to its fluted woodcuts that allow each slat to move independently.

It typically comes in two varieties: bead tambour, with its rounded, classic fluted design, and slat tambour, which features flat-faced planks.

In contrast to rigid paneling options like shiplap paneling, which relies on static tongue-and-groove connections, tambour offers a more flexible approach that adapts beautifully to a variety of architectural styles and can even work its way around a curve.

1. Apply to curved walls for a striking design feature.

If you want to make a statement in a room blessed with curves or architectural pillars, tambour paneling is the perfect choice. Its flexible design, which is arguably its most captivating feature, makes it an incredibly achievable and striking way to transform those tricky, curved spaces that are often difficult to customize.

When paint just doesn’t provide the texture or dimension you’re after, tambour is the ideal solution. Pernille Lyk from Københavns Møbelsnedkeri explains, ‘The practical aspect of easily concealing a workspace, combined with the aesthetic appeal of unbroken slat sequences and the playful motion of cabinets that bend around corners, makes tambour an exciting material to work with.’

Designed to flex and conform to rounded walls, cabinetry, and columns, tambour creates smooth, uninterrupted swathes of texture and delivers a polished, professional finish that is surprisingly easy to achieve at home without the need for a master craftsman (or the cost that comes with one!)

2. Opt for darker woods to achieve a refined retro inspired look

A feature wall is an ideal way to breathe life into a room. When used from floor to ceiling, it becomes a true showstopper, drawing attention and creating a focal point that offsets furniture in a way that paint simply can’t.

Not only does it add texture, depth, and warmth to a room, but it's also remarkably easy to install. The trickiest part is ensuring you’ve measured the number of panels you need, and after that, it's a straightforward process of gluing and nailing the panels into place. With minimal effort and a little planning, you can achieve a major design impact with this DIY-friendly project.

One of the most appealing attributes of tambour paneling lies in its endless customization options, including a wide range of color choices. For those looking to inject a touch of 1970s chic into their space, these walnut wood fluted panels from Wood Veneer Hub are the perfect starting point. Walnut’s rich timeless shade beautifully complements the darker, moodier textures that define 20th-century retro-style interiors.

3. Use in bathrooms as an alternative to traditional finishes

Fluted tiles can be found in plentiful supply and many pieces of built-in and standalone bathroom furniture feature tambour details.

However, tambour works beautifully as a wall feature independently, and it offers a refreshing alternative to the typical tile and paint options often found in a bathroom scheme. Used in the right way and in the right amounts, it gives off a serene, spa-like atmosphere, reminiscent of a sauna.

As Interior Designer, Pascale De Fouchier reflected on the space she designed, ‘Here, the goal was to create a spa-like ambiance, but also to make the room feel more spacious with higher ceilings, which was achieved thanks to the vertical lines. It brings texture and warmth in a flowing yet seamless way, creating a sense of calm and continuity. The lighter choice of wood complements the existing cabinetry and gently contrasts with the soft-toned countertops and floors.'

4. Create a headboard feature

There's an emerging trend of tambour paneling being used as a headboard. Its appeal in the bedroom is its relatively simple ability to create a big statement. You could use tambour paneling to create a framed headboard or to cover an entire wall for a more immersive feel.

The style's versatility allows it to be customized to fit your bedroom design scheme, with an expansive range of options for size, finish, making it a rather popular choice for the DIY inclined.

Whilst installing these panels horizontally is the most popular configuration, the possibilities are endless with this material and a vertical headboard could be just as impactful if you needed to create height in a room.

As interior designer Monica Tostes explains, ‘One aspect of tambour paneling that I find particularly appealing is its soft, warm appearance and the ease with which it can be adapted to different design schemes and wall shapes. Furthermore, depending on whether it is installed vertically or horizontally, tambour paneling can help create visual illusions that alter the perceived length or height of the room.'

5. Enhance the look of built-in cabinets

If a feature wall is too overwhelming for your space but you still want to explore the tambour trend, using it to add a little interest to furniture is an excellent way to introduce it in smaller doses.

Tambour has long been a staple in furniture design, all the way back to the 1700s in fact, and you can see it in many historical designs as well in modern pieces with Mid-century designs being highly sought after. But incorporating tambour into your own pieces can be a lovely way to bring the style into your home if a more bespoke solution is what you’re after.

It’s also incredibly effective when used on built-in cabinetry, really elevating what could be a purely functional feature into a stunning design element. As Oliver Haslegrave from Child Studios notes, ‘When used in cabinetry, for example, it offers a refined, understated detail that makes storage more playful and engaging. In this project, our custom tambour paneling was used to create a sense of flow and continuity, highlighting the relationship between traditional craftsmanship and modern form.’

Tambour paneling is the perfect way to elevate any blank wall or make a built in more interesting and textured. While this take on paneling is often seen in more modern spaces, it's really versatile and can work in many spaces and with many styles from uber-modern to Mid-century to classically traditional rooms.

Not only do kitchen cabinets hide all our storage sins, they are the focal point of our kitchens. They should be just as stylish and creative as they are practical. So if you are getting a bit tired of seeing the same old kitchen cabinet styles on repeat, why not think outside the box and look to more unique and unexpected options?

And unexpected doesn't have to mean 'trendy', these designer-approved looks are all long-lived and can be as timeless as the kitchen styles you see time and time again. So if you are looking to do something slightly more original with your kitchen design in 2025, we asked designers which are the best looks to consider.

How to make your kitchen more unique with unexpected cabinetry styles

The easiest way to make your kitchen look dated is to have the same kitchen as everyone else. When the kitchen trend moves on, the crowds will follow, and you’ll be stuck with a kitchen that didn't quite reflect your style in the first place.

An unexpected kitchen cabinet style can help you switch things up and get out of the familiarity funk. The design experts have weighed in and decided on the top enviable styles for you and your home.

1. Paint your cabinetry both inside and out

Everyone knows that a fresh coat of paint on old cabinets can be game-changing. Switch it up by turning your paintbrush to the inside of your cabinetry too, whether that’s adding a bold hue to the door or color-drenching the entire interior.

'We love adding touches to a kitchen design which really enhances the uniqueness of a design,' says Jayne Everett, creative director at Naked Kitchens. 'Pops of color for the cabinetry interior are always a great and lovely surprise when you open up the larder.' It’s sure to inspire a double-take moment from onlookers looking to grab a mug. Take it as a chance to experiment with bold, vibrant colors or wallpaper patterns that might otherwise overshadow your overall kitchen aesthetic

Arguably it’s a shame to hide such artistry behind closed doors, so perhaps go ahead and remove those doors entirely. Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company, says ‘Painting a selection of cabinet backboards in an elegant pastel can be a beautiful way to introduce color, without overwhelming the space.’

2. Invest in unique vintage cabinetry

If you’re looking for that unique, unexpected element to add to your kitchen, chances are that you need to look for it in a unique, unexpected place. Hence why a flea market, vintage store, or online auction are often prime places to start your hunt for one-of-a-kind cabinetry.

'Look to buying vintage or unusual pieces rather than high street shopping. It is putting things in your kitchen that may be better suited to a living room or your grandma's home,' says Helen Parker. 'Mix up old with new and always try to source authentic and well-made pieces.' Vintage pieces in kitchens exude easy charm and character no matter the age of your space.

You could repurpose a charming antique door or window shutter as a cabinet door, a tried and true approach that always adds historical charm to your home. Give these pieces a professional clean and, if in doubt, keep them away from any real culinary action – an ‘80s filing cabinet is perfect for storing spices, less so for food prep.

3. Add a pop of color with stained glass

'I love the idea of glass-front cabinets as a way to add an additional styling opportunity in a kitchen,' says Kathy Kuo, founder and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home. To take the look to the next dimension, incorporate stained or colored glass for that all-important talking point.

Stained glass is ideal for a unique take on glass cabinetry, whether repurposed from vintage finds or DIYed yourself with an at-home kit (and you know that it’s timeless thanks to churches and ancient buildings testing the trend for centuries). Better yet, use the unexpected red theory to swap out a plain glass front for a red one.

4. Reflect your personality with mirrored cabinetry

Mirrored backsplashes has been a popular option for kitchen lovers for some time now, but cabinetry is just catching on to the latest style sensation. A flush mirrored cabinetry above your head can evoke a real sense of spaciousness. Not to mention, it looks luxe and ultra-modern without having to splash out on pricier materials.

If you can’t bear parting with your crown molding on cabinets, consider popping out your glass panels for mirrored ones instead. We love an antique mirror finish to add rustic charm whilst helpfully disguising cooking spills and splatters.

5. Be bold with hardware

Kitchen hardware is famously the cherry on top of any delicious cabinet. But why not make it the whole dessert? There’s a wide array of handles, latches, hinges to brighten up any ordinary cabinet. From antique brass pulls to floral knobs, don’t be afraid to experiment with pattern and rich texture.

As Merlin Wright, design director at Plain English Design explains, 'Uniqueness can be achieved by using bold color perhaps in a gloss finish and combining this with some wonderful ironmongery.'

Hardware can be great for adding cohesion within a kitchen, such as pulling in colors from a beloved Dutch oven or coffee machine. For instance, lime green might be a bit of an ask for a kitchen cabinet color, in the world of hardware, it can be a lower-commitment way to bring in something unexpected.

6. Fall in love with reeded glass

If your space is looking a touch two-dimensional, chances are that it’s crying out for texture. Reeded glass, also known as fluted glass or ribbed glass, offers this in abundance, giving a new take on glass-front cabinetry.

Richard Davenport, managing director at Davonport, says that 'Reeded glass adds a touch of art deco glamour to any room. It’s not a dominating look, or one that will easily date, but it gives rooms a nod to the 30s and the elegance that this period is synonymous with.'

Yet despite its historical roots, reeded glass can look at home with any style or age of home. It feels contemporary even today, even so far that smoky, reeded glass goes a long way to modernize more traditional cabinetry. 'Simple in style but impressive in impact, it’s a key feature for creating cabinetry that looks different to what’s considered standard,' adds Richard.

7. Go Dutch with a Dutch Larder

For a truly unique kitchen cabinet, you might have to look across the continent for a slice of Flemish flair. Introducing the Dutch Larder, where practicality meets historical authenticity and design.

'As a piece of furniture, the Dutch Larder brings theatricality to a room with its arched and ornately paneled doors and grand proportion,' says Merlin Wright. 'While not always necessarily historically appropriate, the addition of a grand cupboard set within a relatively simple and low-key space can bring wonderful drama and interest. Unexpected in its sense of use also, opening such large-scale doors gives a sense of joy and wonder.'

So what if it doesn’t match with the rest of your kitchen? That’s even more Dutch chic, a mismatched look is perfect for creating a really unique and characterful kitchen. As designer Bethany Adams explains, 'A combination of disparate elements can be surprisingly cohesive – even in a small space – as long as they are grounded by traditional cabinetry.'

8. Surprise with unexpected placement

A perfectly normal-looking kitchen cabinet can become unique simply by appearing in an unexpected spot. Think beyond the traditional placements to embrace the joy of serendipitous cabinets; here, there, and everywhere.

'Achieve a freestanding effect by positioning the cupboards out and into the centre of the space, rather than following the external walls. Sometimes it’s good to break the kitchen layout rules,' says Merlin Wright.

Go diagonal or semicircular in your kitchen island approach. Leave sudden spacing between your top cabinetry. Pop a single cabinet on an otherwise empty wall to make it a focal point. Of course, when breaking the 'rules' you do have to consider practicality too, but once you realize you don't just have to stick to rows against walls with your kitchen cabinetry you can get far more creativity and often get more from your space.

9. Opt for floating shelves instead

Sometimes the best way to be unexpected with cabinetry is to ditch it altogether. Okay maybe not all of it, we all need somewhere to store the avalanche of pots and pans. But by investing in smart lower cabinetry storage, you can forego the top in favor of kitchen shelving.

'Floating shelves don't take up a lot of physical – and therefore visual – space, making them ideal for compact or dark kitchens. Swapping even a small run of cabinets for open shelving can make a room feel larger and brighter. It allows for plenty of storage and creates an opportunity to display your favorite dishes, without overwhelming the space with heavy cabinetry,' says Bo Hellberg, CMO at String Furniture.

It’s also a chance to add all those gorgeous, stylish touches to a kitchen that’s both indulgent and deeply necessary. A flower vase, candle holders, all those miscellaneous decor objects that always find their way into our shopping basket on an occurring basis. Designer Kathy Kuo says you can use 'design elements like stacks of cookbooks and decorative objects to create fun vignettes in a way that also feels practical.'

If you want to be unexpected with unique cabinetry, you need to think outside of the box. Quite literally! Being unexpected with kitchen cabinetry is all about taking a chance with color, material, shape, and style to deliver a truly original, breathtaking result.

I have an awkward corner cabinet in my kitchen which just happens to be my largest storage space. That’s why my pots and pans live in there, but the lids are a mess.

I’ve tried a vertical rack, stacking lids with their pots, even turning them upside down, but storing them has always been a nightmare, especially as I have chronic pain and bending or crouching down at length to find what I need is not great for my body. Then I tried a set of Joseph Joseph adhesive pot lid holder for doors, (available cheaper on Amazon today), and the tsunami of cookware that usually tumbles out when I open the door has finally come to an end.

It’s helped me make use of the vertical storage space inside the cabinet door and simultaneously stopped me injuring myself just to get a lid I need. It’s the perfect kitchen storage idea ahead of busy hosting duties this Christmas holidays that will see this cabinet in constant use.

Joseph Joseph adhesive pot lid holder door organizer really works

Setup and functionality

Installation took less than five minutes and was easy. I made sure to leave them stuck on for 24 hours before loading my pan lids, as I’d read online beforehand that shoppers who didn’t allow the instructed time found the holders fell off and were not sticky enough to reapply a second time around.

I allowed the adequate time and they are rock solid now, and I’ve been using them for a week. To be honest, I can’t believe I didn’t do this sooner. It’s such a simple solution for the biggest bug bear I had in my kitchen.

I have a number of painful chronic health conditions, including hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, and my joints dislocate at the slightest provocation. That’s why my pan cabinet had become a 'no-go' zone for me, and I had to call in my husband to get me what I needed every time I was well enough to cook.

Now, what I need is right there when I open the cabinet. It’s made the space not only tidier, but more accessible too. It's really helped me organize my cabinets to improve functionality in my small kitchen.

What to shop

There are lots of great storage solutions on offer to help streamline your cabinet spaces, but hurry while stocks last, as some items are running low as Cyber Monday steams ahead off the back of Black Friday sales.

As an aside, figuring out the best spot to attach my Joseph Joseph pan lid holders forced me to organize the kitchen cabinet to improve traffic flow, so that was a nice bonus, and if I’m honest, long overdue!

Next, delve into our best pan storage ideas to bring extra functionality and ease in this vital kitchen space ahead of the Christmas hosting season.

We all dream of having a beautiful, organized, and tidy pantry – but achieving it can be a struggle.

From overflowing shelves to mismatched storage solutions, pantries can often end up looking more chaotic than coordinated. Not only does this make finding specific spices and ingredients harder, but it also seemingly gets worse instead of better over time, as nothing has a proper place when it comes to putting things away.

So, why not some pantry organization ideas from those who have achieved the (seemingly) impossible? According to professional organizers, these are the things people with organized pantries always do, and what they buy to help them keep it that way.

7 things people with organized kitchen pantries always do

1. Declutter regularly

First things first, the key to any pantry organizing tricks is decluttering, says John Barrett, founder of DishFacts.com, a culinary resource for home cooks and professionals, which is also the number one Jeremiah Brent pantry organization rule.

John says, 'Remove expired items and consolidate duplicates, like merging half-full containers of flour.' This will help you keep your shelves streamlined, and prevent overwhelm.

If you're not sure how to declutter a pantry, start, as Barrett suggests, by removing anything that is old or expired and putting it directly into a strong trash bag, like the Hefty Strong Large Trash Bags available at Amazon.

Then take stock of what is left – is there anything you've been saving for a special occasion but never yet used, or any items you don't like? Donate those to a better home, and plan a time to use up anything else, which is a great opportunity to test out new recipes and find a new favorite.

2. Choose airtight containers over glass jars

Glass jars might look gorgeous as part of your pantry ideas, but they're often heavy and easily broken warns Tina Priestly, professional home organizer and founder of Ready, Set, Refresh.

'Instead, use Vtopmart Airtight Containers available at Amazon, which are lightweight and shatterproof,' she says. 'They're perfect for decanting food goods, and storing items like cereal, flour, or snacks, without the worry of breaking.'

They also look just as good, and as organized, but are a more practical, long-term solution.

3. Organize with dovetail drawer boxes

Organizing drawers can often feel a tricky task, but Andrew White, general manager at Kitchen Wise recommends using dovetail drawer boxes, such as the Bamboo Office Supplies Organizer Box available at Amazon, which also work well to make the most out of shelving space, too.

He says, 'Reaching into deep cabinets doesn’t have to feel like an Olympic feat. For those of us who prefer to keep both feet on the ground, dovetail drawer boxes are a perfect solution. These sturdy, custom-fit drawers maximize space while keeping everything easily within reach.'

4. Make the most of baskets

People with properly organized pantries always know how to use storage baskets properly.

Ryan Eisland, professional organizer at Home Sort, says, 'From woven to hide the items inside, to wire that look modern and fresh, we love baskets. They are sturdy enough to hold a lot of items, and look great, too.'

There are plenty of pantry storage baskets to choose from, so there's something for every space. Go for matching sets if you prefer a streamlined look, or why not mix and match for a customized solution

5. Keep everything accessible with Lazy Susans

One of the best things people with organzied pantries invest in is a lazy susan. These simple organizers are one of the kitchen organizers that professionals always buy., helping to keep everything in sight

Kitchen expert White says, 'For those tricky corners, elevated Lazy Susans (such as the LAMU 4 Pack Lazy Susan Organizer Turntable for Cabinet available at Amazon) are a game changer. They rotate smoothly, ensuring that nothing is left forgotten in the back.'

Even Khloé Kardashian's organized pantry features them, and if they're good enough for the queen of organization, they're certainly good enough for us!

6. Perfect their spice rack storage

As professional organizer Priestly points out, 'Spice racks often run out of room quickly and can be hard to organize.'

Therefore, people with organized kitchen pantries always nail organizing spices, by opting for something suitable for their space, and the way they use them.

For example, Leah Mari, professional organizer at Leah Folds, says, 'For spices, we see a lot of modern options on social media, but my favorite is The Counter Top Rack available at Evermill (which one reviewer described as 'six star worthy'). They also offer an in-drawer option.' There are also plenty of affordable options available, like the bestselling Kamenstein 16-Jar Chrome Wire Revolving Filled Spice Rack available at Walmart, which comes readily stocked with spices for just over $20.

With a number of clever ways to use spice racks for organization around the home, if you ever do decide to switch out your storage, you can put them to use elsewhere.

7. Invest in custom shelving

Undeniably, if you're looking for the perfect solution for your space, custom is the way to go. While custom kitchen shelving ideas are an expensive investment, nothing will work better, says kitchen expert White.

'When it comes to closets and pantries, the real hero is custom shelving,' he advises. 'We’ve all wrestled with wire shelving that doesn’t quite cut it. Swapping it out for custom options transforms not just the look but the function of your storage, creating a space that works as hard as you do.'

Much like stock vs custom kitchen cabinets, these are designed to fit your space perfectly, boosting storage space tailored exactly to your specific kitchen, so it's certainly worthwhile to consider the splurge.

Next, learn about these small pantry mistakes which may wind up making your organization ideas a chore to maintain.

One of the largest appliances in your space, you might be wondering how to hide a kitchen fridge. Stood loud and proud in your kitchen, it can quickly become an eyesore, perhaps even throw your design altogether.

You can't get rid of your fridge altogether – it's an essential that a kitchen simply can't function without. However, there are ways to hide your fridge so it becomes a seamless feature in your kitchen ideas.

And who better to ask for advice than the designers who have seen it all? Here, experts share their favorite way to hide a kitchen fridge, and there's a clear winner with how it's done.

What's the best way to hide a kitchen fridge?

Hiding a kitchen fridge isn't the easiest task. It's a large appliance that takes up a substantial amount of space, and it still needs to be easily accessible when cooking. So, what's the best way to hide it without creating a dysfunctional kitchen layout?

'The best way to hide a kitchen fridge is by ordering a panel-ready model. Then the cabinet maker builds the doors to create a seamless look with the surrounding cabinetry,' says interior designer Tama Bell.

'The beauty is that the refrigerator can be hidden and there is not a visual contrast that will pull the eye to look at a big, stainless steel box,' she adds, creating a more seamless kitchen design.

However, if you want something that is more bespoke for your kitchen, custom kitchen cabinets hiding your fridge will give you more flexibility in your design. 'My favorite way to disguise a fridge is to integrate it seamlessly into the cabinetry using custom paneling,' says Guillaume Coutheillas, founder of frenchCALIFORNIA.

'By matching the fridge panels to the surrounding cabinetry, it becomes virtually invisible and creates a clean, cohesive look. For a more modern approach, I also love using reflective or matte-finish panels that blend into the kitchen's design palette without drawing attention.'

Although this approach might sound better suited to contemporary spaces, it works wonders in traditional kitchens too, as long as you choose the right design style.

'A hidden refrigerator is a real showstopper. When enclosed by bespoke cabinetry, the appliance blends in beautifully with the rest of the kitchen, resulting in a more cohesive look. This is especially beneficial for more traditional spaces where a sleek, stainless-steel refrigerator might look out of place,' says Tom Howley, creative design director at Tom Howley Kitchens.

But a fridge hidden within the cabinetry isn't the best option for every space. In these cases, there are some great alternatives to consider that offer the same aesthetic benefits without requiring bespoke cabinetry.

'Another creative solution is incorporating the fridge behind bi-fold or sliding doors, so it appears as part of a pantry or storage wall,' says Guillaume. Or, if you have space inside a larger pantry, slotting your fridge in it will not only hide it away, but it makes sense to have it in the main food area of your kitchen.

In a similar vein, if you have a back or dirty kitchen, it's the perfect place to hide your fridge. 'A back kitchen is a larger, more functional space that can accommodate food prep, storage, and sometimes even appliances like a second oven or refrigerator,' explains interior designer Becky Shea.

Hiding a kitchen fridge is easier than you might think, it's simply a case of finding the right method for you. In most spaces, hiding a fridge behind cabinetry will be the best solution – and the one favored by designers.

So, if you were wondering how to hide a kitchen fridge, these design ideas courtesy of experts are tried-and-tested methods that work in any space. It's all about creating a cohesive, refined space, so choose a hidden spot that works best for your kitchen and the way you use it.

We moved into this house two years ago, and the biggest kitchen pain has been our messy pots and pan cabinet. Stacking them in a tricky corner cabinet usually means having to unload half of its contents mid-cook.

I put up with this annoying status quo until I saw a photo online of a peg board organizer for congested kitchen cabinets and I was inspired.

Enter my latest organizational hero, the Umbra 'Peggy' peg board organizer, from Amazon

Using the Umbra peg board organizer at home

Peg board organizers aren’t something I had considered using in my house before, worrying that they wouldn't be as sturdy or as practical as they needed to be. However, the Pinterest-perfect picture I spotted online when looking for kitchen cabinet storage ideas made it look like one of the most aesthetic organizing tricks – I simply had to give it a try.

The Umbra Peggy board organizer was my first pick as it is fully customizable as I have awkward kitchen storage and a lot of pans. It can also be used in both drawers and cabinets, meaning I was more confident that I would find some use for it in my home, even if it didn't work out quite right for my pans (spoiler alert – it did!).

Assembling the Peggy peg board organizer

Putting the peg board together was straightforward, but it did take a bit of trial and error to find out exactly where I wanted each of the pegs to go.

After cleaning my kitchen cabinets, I slid the organizer base into place and started to place my pans on top before popping a peg on either side of the board to hold it in place. The pegs slot in and twist to lock in securely so they don’t rattle around or fall out when moving items around.

Additional U-shaped fittings slide onto the tops of the pegs to give a higher barrier for larger items that might tip over, which were a godsend for stopping my taller pans from leaning in an unstable way.

Setup was simple, but I spent a lot of time taking the pegs out and repositioning the pans until I found a stacking order that worked perfectly for me and kept most of my pans in place.

The benefits of the Peggy peg board organizer

As far as organizing a kitchen goes, the Peggy organizer is my favorite addition this year.

The customizable system easily deep saucepans and thin frying pans, making it easier to remove pans when needed without everything clattering around loudly. This is by far one of my favorite improvements to the kitchen, as I am easily over-stimulated by loud sounds.

Using a peg board such as this Peggy Kitchen Organizer from Amazon is a great low-effort kitchen organizing technique for busy or small spaces.

The other thing I love about this peg board kitchen storage idea is that my pan storage is no longer reliant on my cookware being stacked on top of one another.

While stacking stainless steel pans is generally fine, stacking anything non-stick on top of one another can damage the non-stick coating, shortening the lifespan of your pans. It also risks the coating becoming scratched and contaminating your food.

In the past, I have tried to remedy this situation by using cork trivets, from Amazon, in each of my pans to create a barrier, but this easy to use and budget-friendly peg organizer means I have one less step to worry about when putting my dishes away.

My verdict

The Umbra Peggy organizer has been a real godsend for me and my kitchen – I don’t really know how I coped with the mess and noise of that chaotic kitchen cabinet before getting it.

I only got one peg board organizer as a trial run to see if I liked it, so I still have a few baking trays and my large wok pan that are stashed in the far corners of the cabinet, not to mention my container drawer is an absolute mess. Now I understand why pegboards are a storage product professional organizers can’t live without, I am more than ready to invest in at least two more to help sort these spaces, too, to make organizing kitchen drawers a breeze and protect and store baking dishes.

What to shop

Pegboards are not limited to organizing pans. They are also great for organizing plates in a kitchen, or taming unruly pan lids and food storage containers. They really are some of the most versatile storage ideas for any home.

My kitchen cabinets each serve a vital storage purpose, especially because we’re always in danger of having more items than we have space to keep, which is why nesting items together to make use of vertical space is vital.

But one thing I struggled with was lifting up those tall piles to grab something from the lowest layer. I have chronic pain and found it painful to lift multiple plates and bowls every time I needed something.

That’s until I found a nifty two-tiered corner shelf riser on Amazon and it became my favorite kitchen cabinet storage idea.

This corner shelf riser solved my storage woes

When you’re living in a tiny or compact home, or simply have a lot of stuff to organize and keep tidy, space-saving ways to use vertical storage is a top-tier idea.

In my kitchen cabinets, I fitted extra shelves to decrease dead vertical space and give me more surface area to store items. However where my plates and bowls were concerned, I needed something more specific to solve the inaccessible stacking issue.

That was when I added this cheap and cheerful two-tier shelf riser from Amazon, separating the nesting piles from each other, and it was a game changer. It means I can now still make use of all my vertical kitchen cabinet space whilst also having easy access to the bottom nest of dinnerware.

I also recently swapped out my heavier ceramic dinner service with beautiful, dishwasher safe melamine ones, and it’s been transformative for my pain and accessibly needs. It's also easier for my young daughter to manage.

Before using the shelf riser, I stored nests of bowls and various sized plates to make use of the vertical cabinet space. However, as I have chronic pain and weak, very-bendy wrists due to a genetic connective tissue disorder, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, heavy ceramic stacks were problematic.

It meant in order for me to get a dinner plate – the largest of my nested tower and at the bottom – I had to lift a stack of heavy pasta bowls and side plates first. It hurt my wrists every time and there were a number of dinnerware breakages as a result of my wrists giving way mid lifting.

Now, the shelf riser has fixed that and makes the best use of my vertical storage space.

What to shop

There are plenty of kitchen storage solutions I employ in my cabinets to make best use of the space I have. Here are three of my favorites for space-saving and increasing functionality of my vital cabinet spaces.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Next, learn what things tidy people always have in their kitchens.

For those of us with small kitchens, storage solutions are a major point of interest. Whether it's minimal counter space or a lack of shelving, it is important to strategize to avoid a build-up of clutter.

Lainey Wilson has the right idea with her vertical storage cabinets, which make use of dead space and nearly reach the ceiling. And, while we're sure her Nashville home is far from compact, it still delivers lessons in how to make use of 'dead' space – a teaching that translates to homes of every size.

In a video shared to her Instagram page, we can see that her sleek, white cabinets appear both below her countertops as well as above, maximizing all available storage space in the room. While many of us may leave this area empty, the singer's cabinets remind us that almost all wall space can serve as storage – and it's a look that designers love.

Shop our vertical storage edit

According to designers, opting for vertical storage in a small space like a kitchen is not only a wise decision but one that will never go out of style.

'The kitchen is a room where maximizing on every square inch of space available is crucial in creating a really practical, functional and beautiful design,' says Samantha Santini, interior designer and founder of Collection Noir.

'Opting for vertical kitchen storage, particularly tall cabinets and wall-hung cabinets that extend to the ceiling, provides the most efficient use of space and allows you to take full advantage of the vertical space. Instead of leaving the upper portion of the walls unused or cluttered with kitchen paraphernalia and decorative items that will gather dust, designing your cabinets to go flush to the ceiling will create more organized storage space and help to hide away those items that would otherwise look cluttered. It’s something that is especially beneficial in kitchens where space is at a premium, giving you a lot more room to store your cookware, pantry items, and less frequently used appliances.'

Additionally, Santini says that vertical cabinets look visually pleasing, creating continuity between the walls and the ceiling. In Wilson's kitchen, the white cabinet hue contrasts the deep gray ceiling tone, creating a juxtaposition that's equally as aesthetic. However, as the designer explains, you can also leave your cabinets the same color for a streamlined effect.

'Beyond the practical and functional benefits, tall cabinets and those that go to the ceiling can help to create a cleaner and streamlined aesthetic,' Santini explains. 'You eliminate the visual gap between standard cabinets and the ceiling - which can often make a kitchen look unfinished or disjointed. The continuous lines of full-height cabinets add to a more cohesive and sophisticated appearance, and in modern, open-plan spaces, allow the kitchen to become part of the overall design (these are spaces where clients want the kitchen to look less like a kitchen, and more like beautifully designed furniture). It helps to minimize distractions, removes any visible dead space, and can look very sophisticated and elegant whether you go for a modern, minimalist kitchen design or something more traditional.

She continues, 'Ultimately, full-height cabinets accentuate the ceiling height and will make the room feel bigger, more open and luxurious. It’s a design feature that you see in high-end homes and is the epitome of luxury and grandeur. With the right choice of materials, finishes, and hardware, this look can really make a beautiful statement in any kitchen - especially if you opt for stone-fronted cabinet doors. This really allows the beauty and elegance of the stone to be a hero piece.'

Creating a beautiful kitchen depends on mixing the right colors and materials tastefully and cohesively. And when it comes to wood schemes, there a a few colors to avoid pairing with oak kitchen cabinets for a stylish design.

Wood kitchen cabinet ideas have been falling back into favor recently, offering warmth and enduring appeal. This natural material aids a timeless scheme – but styling is so important if you want your kitchen to exude tasteful design rather than an outdated space.

Here, we turn to the experts to find out which colors you should avoid pairing with oak kitchen cabinets at all costs, and the hues that are better matched with this natural material.

5 colors to avoid pairing with oak kitchen cabinets

While there are no rules, these expert suggestions on the colors to avoid pairing with oak kitchen cabinets will help you create a more attractive scheme. With suggestions for warm and cool-toned oak cabinets, there's guidance for every space here.

1. Blue and gray tones

When you're choosing a paint color to pair with your oak kitchen cabinets, undertones are so important. 'Oak kitchen cabinets tend to have a warmer undertone of yellow or orange,' says Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore.

'If you want to tone down those undertones, it may seem counterintuitive, but you’ll want to use similar colors in the space. That doesn’t mean you have to use yellow and orange, but warmer neutrals, beiges, and tans tend to work best and not fight with the undertones of the oak cabinets,' she explains.

Because of these warmer undertones, she suggests staying away from cool blues and grays, as the contrast with the warmer wood not only makes the wood look more orange, but it creates a disconnect that throws of the entire kitchen.

2. Shades of green

Just as blue hues clash with oak kitchen cabinets, cool green tones have the same effect. 'If you bring in cooler greens, it will cause more contrast with the oak cabinets and make the yellow or orange undertones more apparent,' says Arianna.

While it's entirely dependent on the style of kitchen you want to create and personal taste, there are a few alternative colors Arianna says always look beautiful when paired with oak kitchen cabinets.

'I always recommend warmer neutrals or off-whites for the walls when paired with oak kitchen cabinets. This creates a timeless, versatile look. Some of my favorites to consider are White Dove OC-17, Pristine OC-75, and Manchester Tan HC-81. These colors have just a hint of warmth which will help create a cohesive color flow with the oak cabinets.'

3. Bright, citrus hues

When you're choosing which colors to pair with your oak cabinets, any stain that's been applied to the wood will have an effect on the shades to avoid and those that feel cohesive.

'The stain of your oak cabinetry plays a significant role in determining the most complementary colors. For a cool-hued stain, like the one we recently selected for our client’s custom oak cabinetry, soft neutrals work beautifully,' says Virginia Toledo, lead designer at Toledo Geller.

In instances where you've gone cooler on the cabinets, there are some warmer hues Virginia recommends avoiding. 'Pairing bright, citrusy colors like tangy oranges with this stain can be more challenging, as they may clash with the cooler undertones.'

4. Purple, especially violet

If you've got current kitchen trends on your radar, you may have noticed purple emerging in designs. However, it's a color to avoid pairing with oak kitchen cabinets, for the same reasons as blue and green tones, according to Arianna.

You're also more likely to create a kitchen scheme that feels dated with purple, as some hues are heavily associated with trends of bygone eras. While there may be certain shades that work, it's best to avoid them unless you have a color expert at hand.

As an alternative, burgundy can look striking when paired with the right tone of oak cabinets. Its red undertone gives it a warmer appeal that purples, and hits one of 2025's biggest color trends.

5. Yellow

When choosing colors to pair with oak kitchen cabinets, it's important to consider how the colors will work together – will they complement, or will they bring out the less appealing undertones?

You'll want to avoid any colors that bring out the yellow and orange in the oak if your cabinets lean more warm. 'Yellow will make the oak look more yellow than it already is,' says Brieanna Cunningham, of C&C Partners.

While it's a popular color if you want to create a rustic or farmhouse kitchen with a bit of vibrancy, the result will be disappointing. Instead, embrace warm neutrals, or if color is a non-negotiable, try a very soft, warm-toned green, such as olive or sage.

While there are some colors to avoid pairing with oak kitchen cabinets, there are plenty still left to choose from. Whether you embrace warm neutrals or choose a soft, complimentary color, take this expert advice on board when selecting the right shades for your oak kitchen.

Wood schemes are back in favor, but how can you make oak kitchen cabinets look modern? They're so heavily associated with outdated trends of bygone eras, so it takes a careful approach to bring this organic material up to date.

As we endeavor to create more timeless, lived-in spaces, it's no surprise that oak cabinets are being more considered in kitchen design. And, contrary to design myths, wood kitchen cabinet ideas are more versatile than you might think.

Whether your space is traditional or contemporary, we've turned to experts to find out how to make oak kitchen cabinets look modern, so your wood kitchen feels up-to-date and on-trend in 2025.

How to make oak kitchen cabinets look modern

Wood kitchens have been reemerging in trends this year – and getting this style right requires a careful selection of materials and designs. Contrast and cohesion are key, and with these expert tips, you can make oak kitchen cabinets look modern in no time.

1. Add a contemporary touch with cool-toned hardware

It's often said that hardware is the jewelry of the kitchen. And when it comes to oak kitchen cabinets, the hardware finish you choose is key to ensuring your scheme feels on-trend and modern.

Alexander Shepel, a luxury interior designer and founder of Atelier Helen, says: 'Focus on updating your cabinetry with hardware with a contemporary edge, such as brushed brass or silver. These finishes provide a striking contrast to oak’s natural warmth and can modernize the appearance instantly.'

Cool-toned metals have been a big kitchen trend this year, and it's set to endure for 2025. To bring in more of the finish, bring your large appliances into the mix, too. 'Pair oak cabinetry with large stainless-steel appliances and chrome hardware for a sleek look. This creates a warm and inviting yet contemporary atmosphere,' recommends Tom Howley, creative design director at Tom Howley Kitchens.

2. Choose a modern countertop material

Kitchen cabinets and countertops are the biggest pairing in a kitchen. They sit on top of one another, so make sure to choose materials that complement each other beautifully and feel in keeping with the design style you want to achieve.

'I’m a big fan of dark countertops paired with natural woods like oak or walnut and metallic accents like brass, copper, or steel taps and handles. Pairing a dark surface with light wooden cabinetry and flooring will help to keep the space feeling open and neutral,' says Mor Krisher, head of design at Caesarstone.

The versatility of oak kitchen cabinets means they can work with so many different countertop materials and colors – in a way they act as a neutral. So, if dark kitchen countertops don't feel quite right for your space and style, plenty of alternatives can work just as well.

'Oak cabinets pair beautifully with opulent countertops that have bold veining, such as Calacatta marble or quartz,' adds Alexander. It's also key to consider the aesthetic of your kitchen when choosing a material to work with oak – especially if you're creating a more industrial or contemporary design.

'For a more industrial look consider dark granite, soapstone, or concrete countertops, especially those with visible movement or veins, to add visual interest. These countertops compliment oak’s rich, organic feel and add a level of luxury,' Alexander suggests.

3. Consider your color scheme

Whichever kitchen cabinet material you are using, color is so important. Oak cabinets are natural and organic, meaning you can take a few directions with your color palette.

For minimalists, farmhouse fans, and anyone who prefers light, airy kitchens, neutral colors work an absolute treat alongside oak cabinets – as long as you choose the right hues.

'Neutrals and rich, earthy colors often work best with oak, enhancing its natural warmth without overpowering it. Soft tones like beige or taupe create a warm, inviting backdrop, while deeper shades like navy blue or forest green add depth and contrast for a more dramatic, modern look,' says Alexander.

However, if you love the ongoing color trend for moody tones (a perfect palette for kitchens), darker, more dramatic hues can create a completely different atmosphere when paired with oak.

'Dark green is a perennially sophisticated shade that complements a dark Tudor oak. Try pairing deep green cabinets with an oak island, herringbone flooring, and shiny brass hardware. Fresh white worktops and a matching slab splashback will help keep the space open and airy,' suggests Tom.

4. Opt for a timeless cabinet style

As with many cabinet designs, choosing the right style will ensure your kitchen feels timeless and endures trends. Oak kitchen cabinets in the wrong style feel instantly outdated, so opt for a design you'll never tire of.

'Keeping the cabinet profiles simple with shaker-style or slab doors is another effective approach [to make them look more modern], as it allows the cabinets’ natural grain to be the focal point while staying current with a minimalist aesthetic,' says Alexander.

The cabinet design you choose will depend entirely on the interior design style of your space. For more traditional or transitional schemes, shaker-style cabinets are a tried-and-tested winner, but for more contemporary or Scandi-inspired kitchens, slab doors offer the simplicity synonymous with these more pared-back aesthetics.

5. Avoid mixing oak cabinets with other woods

When you're designing a scheme around oak kitchen cabinets, it's important to be aware of the materials and finishes to avoid if you want your space to feel more modern, as well as those that pair seamlessly.

'It’s best to avoid incorporating other types of wood into the kitchen design, as mixing wood tones can feel busy and detract from the beauty and natural warmth and veining of oak, resulting in a less cohesive design,' says Alexander.

Your cabinets take up a substantial amount of your kitchen, so adding more wood can feel overwhelming and outdated. Instead, allow the beauty of the oak to shine by complimenting it with contrasting materials, like sleek stones and on-trend color choices.

Oak kitchen cabinets are making a strong comeback – making them look modern is all about the materials and you pair them with and ensuring you introduce oak in a timeless style.

Kitchens are the heart and soul of the home and are one of the busiest, most hardworking rooms. More than just spaces to prep food, today modern kitchens are multifunctional spaces used for socializing, entertaining and often working.

They’re places where we spend so much time, so it's important that every aspect is carefully considered and that the space is designed around your individual needs and lifestyle. Big or small they’re also a big investment – designing and buying a kitchen is likely to be one of the most costly purchases you’ll make when updating a home, so it’s important to choose wisely.

Here we've gathered an array of our favorite British kitchen companies we think you should know about (even if you aren't living on this side of the pond a lot still work over in the U.S.), all of which combine an appreciation of high-quality traditional joinery with innovative design and modern functionality. Whether you’re planning a new kitchen or are just looking for some inspiration for designing a timeless space, these British kitchen companies have lots of beautiful kitchens to inspire.

1. Plain English

Founded in 1992, Plain English specialize in high-quality bespoke kitchens that celebrate heritage and timeless elegance. With a strong appreciation for authentic English cabinetry design and the hard-working, under-the-stairs joinery of great English homes, Plain English kitchens look perfectly at home in grandly spacious historic houses, from country estates to townhouses, yet their versatile designs also fit wonderfully in contemporary builds and compact spaces.

'The inspirations are the unsurpassed elegance of Georgian architecture and furniture, the simple domesticity, and a very English fascination with nature, with the weather, and the seasons drifting across the landscape. Our aesthetic references the values of the past and gently evolves to embrace the modern ways we live now,’ explains Katie Fontana, creative director at Plain English.

‘Plain English hand crafts cabinetry for every room in the home, but what remains unaltered is the personal passion, commitment, and fine detailing at the heart of this company. It is important to us that the inside of the cupboards be as beautiful as the outside.’

Plain English has U.S showrooms in New York and Los Angeles too and they have started working on projects across the whole of North America.

2. deVOL

If you like handcrafted kitchens with charm and personality you’ll love deVOL. Founded in 1989 by two friends in Leicestershire, the team at deVOL prides itself on making practical, stylish kitchens made to last. The company offers a range of signature kitchen designs including its Real Shaker range, bespoke Classic English kitchen, the simple and rustic Sebastian Cox design and the retro Haberdasher's kitchen, all of which are handcrafted in their Leicestershire workshop just a few miles down the road from their main showroom and headquarters, Cotes Mill.

It also offers an Heirloom range of heritage-inspired freestanding kitchen furniture and accessories such as plate racks and butler’s pantries which can be combined with their fitted ranges – perfect for lovers of the vintage kitchen look. The finishing touches are catered for too, with handmade ceramic tiles, hardware, and homewares available, offering everything you need to create your perfect interior. The brand has gone from strength to strength over the last 10 years and now has showrooms in Leicestershire, London, Bath and New York (so a great British kitchen brand to consider if you are shopping in the States).

3. Roundhouse

Channeling a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic, Roundhouse is a British brand renowned for its innovative bespoke kitchen designs and original finishes. Founded in North London by two architects, Roundhouse kitchens combine pared-back style influenced by modern architecture with beautiful high-quality materials, resulting in functional spaces with understated luxury.

For the ultimate made-to-measure kitchen go for the Design Collection service which offers bespoke sizing, materials, and finish. Alternatively, The Studio Collection offers standard sizes and designs which can be customized along with a range of finishes, textures, and colors.

What sets Roundhouse apart is its specialist metal finishes used to make striking metal wrap effects. Choose from metallic patinated or burnished – alongside the option for real metal sheets.

‘We believe in designing spaces that truly reflect individual lifestyles. Combining timeless craftsmanship with innovative design, our kitchens are not just functional, but perfectly tailored to our clients’ needs. Every piece embodies our dedication to detail and commitment to enduring quality, elevating everyday living with style that stands the test of time,’ says Craig Matson, managing director at Roundhouse.

4. Sustainable Kitchens

Founded in 2008, the Bristol-based Sustainable Kitchens company creates beautiful kitchens designed to have minimal impact on the environment at every stage, from design, materials and manufacture through to fitting and waste management. ‘Our mission is to inspire a sustainable lifestyle to enable people to live more sustainably by providing ethical and honest products that last a lifetime,’ says founder, Sam Shaw.

A certified carbon-neutral business, recognized by the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), the company is committed to reducing the consumption of energy, water and raw materials. All kitchens are handcrafted in its workshop in Bristol with styles ranging from classic Shaker designs to minimalist kitchen designs with flat panel natural oak veneers or colorful laminate doors - perfect for capturing the sleek Japandi or retro kitchen look.

Wherever possible Sustainable kitchens aim to use responsibly sourced timber from certified suppliers, including the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) along with recycled and locally-sourced materials. They also have a tree dedication scheme which ensures the planting and maintenance of trees with each kitchen supplied and its showroom and production facilities draw 100 percent of their electricity from renewable resources.

5. Martin Moore

Martin Moore is renowned for its classic, luxury kitchens with elegant, architectural designs that have graced grand Georgian townhouses to Victorian rectories. Based in Yorkshire, the company was founded in 1975 after Martin and Barbara Moore designed and made a bespoke kitchen for their own Victorian family home. Today the company offers eight cabinetry ranges from its classic English shaker-style cabinetry to its ‘New Deco’ cabinetry inspired by 1930s design, all of which are handcrafted at their Yorkshire workshop and hand painted in situ.

While they are known for their traditional and luxurious aesthetic, the company continues to evolve and has recently launched a Legacy Collection to mark its 50th anniversary which pairs beautiful oak doors with striking Olivo Verde granite worktops and bespoke bronze handles.

'From the very start we had a simple focus: to dedicate ourselves to producing only the finest luxury kitchens. It is this expertise alongside our excellent service and the relationships we foster that makes our company dramatically different, and enables us to offer a lifetime guarantee on all our furniture,' says Martin Moore's creative director, Richard Moore.

6. Neptune

Neptune has been crafting kitchens from its Wiltshire workshop for over 20 years and prides itself on its robust cabinetry made using traditional techniques and solid timber frames. Available are three core collections: the Suffolk, which has sleek lines inspired by traditional Shaker designs; the Henley, with its mix of natural oak and painted timber cabinets and the Chichester with Georgian-inspired joinery. Each design can be customized for a unique look with a choice of over 50 paint colors, extensive kitchen hardware ranges, and a selection of work surface options.

'Solid timber is the quintessential material for kitchen cabinetry and combines form with function. At Neptune, we believe in creating kitchens that are not only visually captivating but also built to stand the test of time, and solid oak delivers on this promise. Our Suffolk, Chichester and Henley kitchens are all crafted with sustainably sourced timber. It's natural warmth and rich grain patterns bring an organic feel to any kitchen, making each piece unique and personal,' says Fred Horlock, design director at Neptune.

British kitchen brands are all about quality and craftsmanship, and no matter what the style, whether it's a classic Shaker, or something more sleek and minimalist, the designs always feel classic. There's loads of inspiration to take from these companies (have a scroll through their Instagram pages for some beautiful projects), and good news if you are in the United States, and after this classic English vibe, both deVOL and Plain English have recently launched U.S showrooms.

When thinking about color trends, it's unlikely that white (or off-white) will come to mind. This hue, like many neutrals, has the ability to transcend 'fleeting' design movements and is rightly labeled an enduring classic. With all that said, however, forecasters have labeled off-white fronts as one of the leading kitchen cabinet color trends for 2025 – and nobody makes a case for it quite like Shawn Mendes.

In his kitchen, the singer's off-white cabinets tap into a hue that, design experts say, is in high (and growing) demand – but their tall, vertical shape (stretching right to the ceiling) will be equally popular as we look to the year ahead. The combination of the on-trend color and shape makes them the perfect inspiration point for those looking for a timeless choice that still feels in tune with what's fashionable.

'In terms of color palettes, there has been an increased demand for off-white kitchen cabinets again. Popular due to their timeless appeal, they offer a perfect blend of versatility, elegance, and warmth, with their neutral tones complementing both contemporary and more traditional homes,' comments Jessica Inglis, the brand manager at Second Nature.

Kitchen cabinet colors aside, Inglis explains that the vertical nature of Mendes' storage is equally as sought-after. Increasingly, I've noticed celebrities (including Matthew and Camila McConaughey and Jessica Chastain) opt for ceiling-high cupboards that utilize every inch of space, even if their kitchens aren't compact. The same goes for Mendes's cabinets, which reach the top of his room.

'Maximising a kitchen’s storage potential is another theme that is continuing into 2025. No longer satisfied with their current storage options, homeowners are choosing to install floor-to-ceiling cupboards, which is a highly efficient design solution that maximizes every inch of vertical space,' Inglis comments.

'This design allows for the organization of kitchen essentials, with everyday items being easily accessible at lower levels and less-used items, such as baking tins and formal dinnerware, being stored higher up. Floor-to-ceiling storage will also enhance the overall aesthetic of a kitchen by creating a cohesive appearance which feels more open and less cluttered.'

Off-white cabinets, in all their timelessness and versatility, are almost impossible to get wrong (especially when following Mendes' lead and investing in those that reach the ceiling). However, there is a risk that they can feel somewhat vanilla. This is where styling is key. We can take the lead from the singer's space, interrupt the minimal cabinets with patterned tiles (as seen in his backsplash), and introduce texture through darker wooden flooring.

'This hue also works very well with a wide range of countertops, splashbacks, and flooring styles, as well as some bolder accents. Replacing kitchen cabinets is also a simple and efficient way to update a kitchen without needing to fully renovate a whole space,' Inglis adds.

Tapping into the white kitchen beyond our cabinets is simple. I love these timeless picks that perfect the trend without taking too much room in even the smallest of kitchens.

No matter the size of your kitchen, it's likely that you'll always look for ways to maximize storage. Take Eva Longoria, for example. We'd hazard a guess that the actress's home isn't notably compact, yet her cabinets teach us storage lessons that translate to the smallest of kitchens.

In her neutral wooden kitchen, Longoria exhibits the most strategic storage solution of all: vertical cabinets – seen stretching up to her ceiling. Vertical storage is often (understandably) associated with small kitchens, but often, they're incorporated in custom-designed spaces (of all sizes) where every inch is used strategically. It's unsurprising, then, that experts count vertical storage among the most intelligent kitchen trends shaping how we decorate for 2025.

'As we look to next year, the need for tailored storage solutions will only increase, continuing to serve individual needs and lifestyles centered around the home,' begins Matt Phillips, the head of operations at Rotpunkt.

'I predict vertical storage solutions that maximize footprint will continue to rise as they help to utilize space more effectively by creating new planning options for the modern kitchen living space.'

Vertical storage makes utilizes of 'dead' space that might otherwise go unused – however, as Phillips explains, the trend also celebrates craftsmanship – most specifically regarding door design.

'Vertical style is now infiltrating the door itself, with highly structured door fronts that are designed with deep vertical grooves placing new emphasis on the furniture itself while, at the same time, helping modern kitchen interiors to move away from the standard slab door and accentuate full height cabinets,' he comments.

Molly Chandler, a designer at Willis & Stone, agrees. As Longoria demonstrates, she recommends choosing vertical storage in the form of tall cabinets or shelves that reach right up to the ceiling – making use of room that we never realized we had before. Further to this, she suggests maximizing storage further with clever racks or hooks [such as these from Amazon] behind our kitchen cabinet doors.

'You may also want to consider pull-out pantry shelves or racks between cabinets or next to appliances to maximize storage for spices and other pantry items,' she adds.

Making the most of our kitchen storage begins with the cabinets, but it's not possible without the right accessories. As Chandler explains, wall hooks are a versatile choice, but we also love these essentials, available below.

'In smaller kitchens, it's advisable to design tall or wall cabinetry to reach maximum height, as this not only optimizes vertical storage space but also creates the illusion of taller ceilings, contributing to a greater sense of spaciousness,' Chandler adds. This trend can benefit every kitchen, and if it's good enough for Longoria, it's good enough for us.

If you haven't yet considered introducing vintage kitchen hardware into your scheme, this is your sign to do so. It adds so much character to a kitchen and promises a unique feature that makes your design stand out.

While decorating with vintage isn't a new concept, it's often overlooked in the more practical rooms, particularly when it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware ideas. But this small yet impactful addition can transform the overall look of your design.

If you're ready to start introducing vintage kitchen hardware to your scheme, here's everything you need to know according to experts, and their tips on the best way to introduce these preloved pieces in a tasteful way.

What's the appeal of vintage kitchen hardware?

This year's kitchen trends have championed eclectic, lived-in schemes, and vintage kitchen hardware gives that sense of style without compromising on the functionality of the space.

'Vintage kitchen hardware can provide a sense of cozy nostalgia to a room that otherwise features all the conveniences and up-to-the-minute technologies desired by home cooks in the 21st century,' says Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director at 1stDibs.

'Much like vintage jewelry paired with a contemporary dress or an antique object included in a room scheme composed of mostly new and custom pieces, vintage hardware provides your kitchen with gravitas and warmth.'

Like in every room of a home, it's those unexpected finishing touches that give the scheme personality and interest – a vintage door handle is far more impactful than a sleek, modern one that matches your cabinets.

How to choose vintage kitchen hardware

Sourcing vintage kitchen hardware isn't quite as simple as shopping for new pieces. It's rare to find sets with enough knobs or handles to furnish your entire cabinetry, so you may need to consider an alternative approach.

'Expect that it may be hard to find a complete set of cabinet pulls. That being said, your vintage hardware finds may need to complement newly made hardware, so ensure you feel good about how the different hardware interact,' says Anthony.

'Don’t be afraid to mix it up! If your heart is set on all vintage, you might not find enough pieces for your entire kitchen, in which case, go for something different on the island or the wall cabinets,' adds Rebekah Zaveloff, co-founder and creative director at Imparfait Design Studio.

The interior design style of your kitchen will also come into play when you're choosing your vintage kitchen hardware. Try to have an idea of either the finish, style, or even era of hardware you gravitate towards to narrow down your search.

'It can impact the color and texture scheme significantly depending on the hardware design and materials. For example, the 1950s artisan malachite pulls set in patinated brass, are sure to infuse depth and visual intrigue,' says Anthony.

'The joy of vintage kitchen hardware is that it has a reassuring kind of heritage feel about it. For cabinetry I particularly like those aged brass Georgian drop handles because they’re timelessly lovely; ceramic handles with a brass trim also look great,' adds interior designer Benji Lewis.

But, above all, choose vintage kitchen hardware that you love, cherish, and will enjoy looking at in your space. After all, your kitchen should reflect the people living in it, not just what is proving most popular, and vintage pieces are the perfect solution.

Whether you introduce a mix of old and new or an eclectic selection of collected pieces, vintage kitchen hardware is a fool-proof way to add charm and character to your scheme. And if you want to add more than just hardware, find out how to bring vintage pieces into a kitchen in our dedicated feature.

Dark kitchen cabinets have been trending since early 2023, and it's easy to see why. Painting cabinetry in these pigmented shades gives the kitchen a sense of drama and boldness. However, it's important to balance these trendy shades with elevated, classic design details to ground them.

F1 Driver Lewis Hamilton's forest green kitchen is a masterclass in how to make forest green cabinets look luxurious.

Hamilton's space features dark green kitchen cabinets only along the bottom of the room. On the top, white marble streaked with reddish gray veins stretches up towards elevated upper cabinets. His brassy-colored cabinet pulls, oven, and extractor hood reflect the red tones in the marble, bringing a pinkish light into the space that contrasts the gorgeous forest green cabinets.

Though the kitchen cabinet color is an interior design trend, Hamilton's expert styling makes it fit effortlessly into the quiet luxury or 'old money' design style. This type of design should look effortlessly opulent and timeless. It's about high-end finishes that don't feel like it's trying too hard. Natural materials like marble and brass are staples of the style and are expertly used in this space.

Megan Slack, the head of Celebrity Style at Homes & Gardens, states: 'In the celebrity homes we look at, there has been an increased emphasis on timelessness over the past few years. While celebs are interested in the latest interior design trends and how to incorporate them into their homes, they're simultaneously keen to ensure their features prolong long after the trend cycle has moved on.'

She continues, 'Lewis Hamilton's kitchen layout is a great example of taking one trendy element, like forest green paint, and grounding it amongst timeless details. I think a huge part of why this color looks so elevated in the driver's space is that he has chosen to use it only on the lower cabinets. Not only does this choice allow the marble on the backsplash to shine on its own, but it also offsets the depth of the color. When juxtaposed with the bright white of the upper half of the kitchen, the forest green cabinets look all the more dramatic and bold, but in an understated way.'

Shop the Forest Green Kitchen Edit

Even if you don't repaint your cabinets, you can bring the drama of forest green to your space with kitchen styling. Here are a few of our favorite pieces in the bold, stylish shade.

To style forest green in your own kitchen, focus on balance. Instead of going all dark, be sure to incorporate lots of light elements. White countertops, lightwash wood floors, or lots of reflective glass on the upper cabinets are all great examples.

To make the kitchen cabinet trend last forever, we recommend incorporating lots of natural, earthy elements. Wood, marble, and natural metals bring uniqueness and warmth to the dark and moody shade. Would you try it?

Given the amount of products that are stored in the bathroom, from body wash and cosmetics to tweezers and tools – it's no wonder that they often become disorganized and messy.

Here, our Homes & Gardens editors reveal the quick and successful organizing tools and products they love using in their bathrooms at home, and why. With these items, our expert editors have created a serene sanctuary that's perfect for relaxing in a long bath, or simply getting ready in the morning.

So, for some brilliant bathroom storage ideas that can be used in any home, read on to spruce up your space with ease.

4 quick and successful organizing tools our editors love using in their bathroom

1. Shower caddies

As one of the things organized people have in their bathrooms, Homes & Gardens home tech editor Dan Fauzi uses a shower caddy to avoid any bathroom organizing mistakes, which are an affordable addition that can completely transform your bathroom.

'I swear by these YASONIC 5-Pack Corner Shower Caddy shower shelves available at Amazon to keep everything neatly organized,' they say. 'I live in a shared house, so being able to keep everything separate and off the ground makes all the difference,' away from common types of household mold that often grow in the dampness of a shower.

'Plus, this set from YASONIC is rust-proof and requires no drilling! Perfect for renters,' they add.

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden, also found adhesive bathroom shelves were the perfect organizational solution for her tiny en suite.

2. Revolving organizers

Revolving organizers are often used for organizing spices, and Homes & Gardens ecommerce content director Lindsey Davis loves them for her bathroom, too.

She says, 'Using them in my under sink vanity means nothing is out of reach, and there is still room in the dead space in the corners for taller items and spares.' As they spin, they're perfect to organize a bathroom with too much stuff, as they keep all products accessible.

We recommend the Oizeir Lazy Susan Turntable available at Amazon, which rotate 360-degrees, and are made of clear acrylic to easily see everything you have at a glance.

3. Free-standing shelving

'I have next to no storage in my bathroom, and no options to install wall storage, a vanity, or shelves,' says Homes & Gardens content editor and renter, Chiana Dickson. Because of this, Dickson's solution is to use a small, freestanding shelving unit next to her sink, to organize her bathroom with no storage.

'An open shelf might seem like a clutter magnet, but having everything on display forces me to keep everything need and tidy, and regularly review what I am using to minimize mess,' to make decluttering makeup and skincare a breeze.

'A small unit helps to keep everything I need beside the sink to organize my morning routine and make getting ready for the day simpler,' she adds.

These come in a variety of sizes to fit any bathroom space, so are great to organize a modern bathroom or to compliment more vintage bathroom ideas.

4. Under sink cabinets

As the head of Solved here at Homes & Gardens, Punteha van Terheyden is an expert at finding storage solutions for any space. While adding under sink cabinets is more of an expensive addition to your bathroom, they offer a powerful, permanent solution to any storage struggles.

'In my small ensuite bathroom, there isn't too much room for storage,' says van Terheyden. 'I bought an under sink cabinet and it has transformed the space. It has two shelves and makes use of dead space I wasn't doing anything with before.'

When it comes to organizing under the sink, van Terheyden houses all her cleaning supplies and extra shampoos on the bottom shelf, while the top shelf has two fabric boxes (such as the Mainstays Collapsible Fabric Cube Storage Bin available at Walmart) from her old freestanding bathroom drawers. 'My husband has his items in one, and I have mine in the other, meaning there is no clutter over spill,' she explains, so they're great to organize a family bathroom.

'I live in the UK and bought the Lilypad Elsie Under Sink Unit from Dunelm, which is narrow enough to fit the space, and I love the fluted doors and it's matte sage green color. In the USA, there is a great fluted-front item that looks similar available on Amazon (shown below in black).'

There are mistakes to avoid when organizing a bathroom cabinet, such as failing to categorize items and keeping expired products, so keep these in mind when sorting yours.

All prices correct at time of writing.

If you're someone who hates tidying, Breegan Jane's bathroom organization hacks detail three ways to cut clutter and sort your space without stress.

No matter the size of a kitchen, extra storage space is always welcome, and often this involves utilizing areas that might otherwise go unused. For example, while we're almost sure that space isn't at a premium in the actress's home, Reese Witherspoon's tall kitchen cabinets are designed to perfectly utilize areas we'd label as "dead" space.

Her white cabinets (the top half featuring a glass front) stretch up to her kitchen ceiling, ensuring that every inch of available space is practical – and her technique is replicable in the most compact of kitchens.

'In modern kitchen design, maximizing space while maintaining a visually appealing environment is essential. One of the most effective ways to achieve this balance is through vertical storage, allowing you to capitalize on the height of a kitchen and create ample storage without compromising on floor space,' comments Charlie Smallbone, the founder of Ledbury Studio.

Naturally, this kitchen storage technique is the most beneficial in small kitchens, where 'every inch of floor space matters.' However, as Witherspoon's space suggests, there is no downside to going upwards – because every room can benefit from feeling clutter-free, functional, and more organized. Practicality aside, however, Smallbone adds that there is an aesthetic value to following suit.

According to the designer, vertical cabinets (which extend all the way to the ceiling) 'draw the eye upward to create the illusion of a taller, more spacious kitchen' – potent in small kitchens where we might want to create a sense of openness and airiness.

'Another reason to extend storage to the ceiling is to eliminate the awkward gap often found above standard kitchen cabinets. This unused space not only collects dust but can also become a cluttered and hard-to-maintain display area for decor items,' Smallbone says.

'By opting for bespoke tall cabinets, you close this gap completely, significantly reducing dust build-up and minimizing the need for frequent cleaning and upkeep, all while maintaining a sleek, streamlined look.'

Tom Howley, the creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company, agrees.

'Maximising vertical space with tall kitchen cabinets not only enhances storage but also creates a seamless, sophisticated look,' he adds.

'Cabinets that reach the ceiling eliminate wasted space and give the kitchen a cleaner, more streamlined appearance. Beyond functionality, tall cabinets draw the eye upwards, adding a sense of height and grandeur to the room, making the entire kitchen feel more spacious and luxurious.'

Beyond Witherspoon's cabinets, we can tap into her kitchen with these inspired buys below. The tractor seat bar stool is particularly reminiscent of the ones we've spotted in her space.

Of all storage systems, open shelving is among the most debated. While some love this feature for its personal qualities, others argue it can feel cluttered and hard to maintain. Whatever your stance, however, it's hard to disagree that Hayley Atwell's kitchen cabinet makes a strong case for open shelving – and it could be enough to convince anyone to give the look a try.

In her eclectic turquoise-tiled kitchen, the actress exhibits a white wooden cabinet with open shelves filled with cookware, jars, and decorative candlesticks. Above all, the cabinet serves as a form of kitchen storage, but her filled shelves feel both ornamental and personal as she brings some of her favorite pieces to the forefront of her room.

While we're almost certain that Atwell, like us, has some more cookware and utensils behind closed doors, her choice to celebrate many of her accessories reminds us that our kitchens should be a balance of personality and practicality, as experts explain.

'Open shelving can double up as both decoration and storage if you fill them with ornate jars, beautiful crockery, and your best kitchenware while putting your less aesthetically pleasing items in closed cupboards,' comments Magnet’s head of design, Jen Nash.

Since open shelves mean everything is on display, we do need to put more thought into their contents – and how to make them as decorative yet functional as possible. One way to do so is by decanting our goods into cleaner containers.

'To make your kitchen shelves look sleek and stylish, you can streamline the contents of your cupboards by decanting products into glass canisters or containers. This is a great way to reduce the amount of packaging you're storing, especially for things like cereals, which usually come in bulky boxes,' Nash says.

Kitchen designer Tom Howley seconds her suggestion. He believes that open shelving can create the illusion of a bigger kitchen, explaining that ‘open shelving encourages a tidy space because items are on show.’

‘It’s a great opportunity to display treasured pottery or copperware instead of hiding them away behind closed doors. Arrange glass jars containing dried goods or exotic spices in size order on an open shelf for a practically stylish pinch of color,' he says.

'Open shelving helps light flow through and can make a kitchen look bigger. It’s a great kitchen storage alternative if space is at a premium as shelves make smaller spaces feel less cramped.’

To get started, we've handpicked some of our favorite decanting essentials below.

Alongside decanted goods, we can decorate our shelves with candles and cookware (as Atwell demonstrates) and even add an indoor plant, according to Nash. 'To add some more color to your shelves, make sure to add a few plants for greenery and texture,' she says. As long as our cabinets feel curated, it's hard to go wrong.

One of my favorite interior design trends of the past few years is the move toward the use of biophilic design. Rich woods, intricate stonework, and brushed metal have a certain allure and depth that synthetic materials can't duplicate. Beyond their beauty, I love the sense of calm that washes over you when stepping into a well-designed, naturally inspired space. Hilary Swank's kitchen is the perfect example of this (and as a celebrity-style editor, I've seen many spaces that could have competed).

The esteemed designer Mark Zeff created the actress's rustic modern Colorado home to blend seamlessly with its mountainside surroundings. Her kitchen is one of the best examples of how Zeff artfully blends nature with design. Swank's space features wooden cabinets and a stone backsplash. The slightly grayer hardwood floor forms a stylish contrast and the black barstools and island brings in a modern edge. Brushed, matte white ceilings create textural intrigue. Chrome appliances and rounded light fixtures add a touch of metallic flair.

Even just looking at the space gives me a sense of tranquility. Interestingly, though the biophilic interior design trend revolves around design, this principle also has deep roots in science. Dr. Sham Singh, holistic psychiatrist at WINIT Clinic, tells Homes & Gardens: 'Living in a house incorporating biophilic design elements can positively improve one's mental and physical health. Biophilic design reduces cortisol levels associated with stress and may result in improved emotional regulation.'

He continues: 'Introducing natural materials indoors enhances cognitive functions, concentration, and even creative thinking among those who work or study at home. In practice, I have witnessed clients sleep better, feel less anxious, and experience a healthier lifestyle simply by making their environment more connected with nature.' The wood, veined stone, and sandy-looking roof help create the relaxing feeling of still being amongst the mountains while inside Swank's home.

Despite my love for nature, I don't necessarily want my interiors to look like the forest. To me, that are too rustic can feel unrefined or kitschy. The organic modern feel of Hilary Swank's home provides the perfect answer to balancing nature with luxury. Despite the organic materials, all of the lines in the space are modern. From the straight, angularity of the island to the globe-like figure of the light fixtures, Zeff has incorporated a mix of shapes that scream 2024. This contrast helps to bring equilibrium and relaxation to the room.

Shop The Wood Kitchen Edit

To bring a similar look into your home, the easiest place to start is with wooden kitchen cabinets. First, this look is timeless. No matter the year, you can change the stain and hardware to fit in with current trends or match with new countertops or floors. Second, the style is endlessly versatile. Whether you prefer a Scandinavian Kitchen, a traditional kitchen, or a modern kitchen, wooden cabinets can be designed to fit into the style. Finally, real wood is much more durable than many synthetic cabinet materials. It's a win on the fronts of both style and function.

Hilary Swank's calming kitchen feels like a breath of fresh air. Though the artfully balanced style of the space is difficult to achieve, it's definitely worth the curation.

Joaquin Phoenix may be enjoying a vibrant schedule ahead of Joker: Folie à Deux's release, but back home, things are just as lively. The actor's kitchen cabinets, painted in a bright red hue, are among the daring decorating decisions we've seen this year – but despite its reputation, he's managed to use the color tastefully.

It's certainly no secret that red is arguably the hardest color to decorate with, especially when it's a tone as bright as the one in Phoenix's space. The secret to his success? Moderation.

The red kitchen cabinets may steal all attention, but Phoenix has ensured they're not overwhelming, thanks to his use of neutral wall tiles that offer the perfect balance. Instead of opting for statement marble or a deeper tile hue, the actor keeps his backsplash unintrusive yet classic – allowing the red cabinets to take center stage. This strategic balance allows him to enjoy the color's benefits without feeling overpowered, and it is something we can all replicate if we want to enjoy red in the same way.

'Red is an extremely energizing hue associated with ardor, vitality, and exhilaration. It can create a vivacious environment in the kitchen, infusing the space with energy and enthusiasm,' comments Murat Yashar, a certified kitchen expert from House of Worktops. 'Red's vivacious nature can be energizing, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a dynamic and lively atmosphere while cooking and entertaining.'

The bold aesthetic qualities of red are evident, but as Yashar comments, following Phoenix's lead could also influence our appetite.

'It is known that the color red stimulates the appetite and induces sensations of hunger. Red elements, such as red kitchen cabinets or accent pieces, can help create an inviting and appetizing kitchen ambiance. This can be especially beneficial for those who appreciate cooking and wish to improve the overall dining experience,' he explains.

On the subject of accent pieces, Melissa Klink, creative director at Harvey Jones, adds that incorporating red in smaller ways is an even more accsessible way to experiment with the hue in our kitchens. It's no surprise, then, that an increasing number of people are doing so in their spaces.

'Clients are showing their true colors and creating spaces in their homes that amplify their personality. With this, we’re seeing bolder, braver color choices that ooze warmth and playfulness,' she says.

'Tones like deep blush and red are replacing cooler tones, creating spaces that emanate a more cozy vibe while seamlessly blending comfort and style. The unexpected red theory also applies in the kitchen: try painting the inside of a pantry or breakfast dresser, updating a light fitting, or adding a red picture frame.'

Tapping into the look is simple. Begin with these handpicked red accessories, designed to work in every kitchen, whatever the base color.

The bathroom has the least amount of furniture of any room in the home. So, making an impact with the main pieces is key to a stylish design – and bathroom cabinet trends are a great place to find inspiration.

This year's bathroom trends have certainly captured the essence of eclecticism, but if you're looking to add luxury and enduring appeal to your scheme, you'll be pleased to hear it's all about elevated yet timeless style when it comes to cabinetry.

If you're not sure of the best design to choose, we've turned to interior designers to find out this year's biggest bathroom cabinet trends – and there's something for every scheme.

5 bathroom cabinet trends for 2025

Don't fall into the trap of boring bathroom ideas – your cabinets are the perfect place to put your stamp on your scheme, whether you prefer simple sophistication or more playful designs.

1. Chrome hardware

Cooler metals have become all the more favorable in interior design trends this year, and the bathroom is no exception. While warmer tones like brass and gold have reigned supreme, it seems the likes of chrome and nickel are an alternative way to add timeless appeal.

'Silver-toned hardware like chrome and polished nickel have been appearing in more and more bathroom designs. Brass and gold tones have had their moment for quite some time. There’s always an urge for something new, and right now, the silver tones are it. Chrome and polished nickel are classics and have appeared throughout history, so it is no surprise to see them again,' says Cassie Scaldaferri, founder at Cass Design Co.

If you're concerned that cool-tone hardware will make your scheme feel cold, there are plenty of ways to give your space balance. 'Adding in wood tones or woven textures can help warm up silver hardware. Use a woven tray to house a vase and a candle to add some character to a vanity top. Balancing out cool tones with warmer textures softens the space and helps it not to feel cold or sterile,' she adds.

2. Slatted wood designs

This year's bathroom trends are seeing a wood revival, and the cabinetry is a great place to introduce it. The natural finish adds a calming, tranquil element to the space – plus it works beautifully in plenty of interior design styles.

'We’re seeing bathroom cabinets becoming more luxurious and sophisticated, resembling beautiful pieces of furniture. Using slatted wood textures to add a little pizzazz is simple and gaining popularity. I mean, why not,' says Andrew Franz, AIA and founder at Andrew Franz Architect.

'The bathroom is a great opportunity for a design statement and a place to add personality, particularly in smaller spaces. For our Washington Square Park Pied-à-Terre, a modern custom vanity in white oak scalloped wood with bronze pulls is paired with more classic terrazzo and penny tiles.'

3. Unfitted cabinetry

If you have an interest in interiors, you're probably aware of the rising popularity of freestanding kitchens. Adding a more characterful design, it's favorable in traditional and eclectic styles. So it might not be much of a surprise that this same trend is filtering into the bathroom.

'Many clients are willing to be playful with bathroom cabinets. While creating adequate storage is always a top priority, having some fun with color and materials is more and more common. We are often designing furniture-inspired pieces that read lighter and less bulk than traditional cabinetry,' says Barrett Cooke, principal at Arterberry Cooke Architecture.

'It's nice to distinguish bathrooms from kitchens in their cabinetry. Leaving space to the adjoining walls, adding feet, or floating the vanity all aid in giving the illusion of more space. We use natural materials often in bathrooms to break up the hard tile surfaces. The warmth of wood is a perfect counterbalance,' she adds.

4. Curved profiles

Curves have been big news in interiors recently – organic-shaped mirrors, curved sofas, and arched doorways, just to name a few. And now, we're seeing this trend introduced to bathrooms, too.

'I'm noticing a trend towards more modern curves in the bathroom, especially in vanities. Trends in cabinetry typically lag behind those in furnishings, and we've been seeing soft wood tones, beige marble tops, reeding and fluting, and rounded ages for several seasons now in consoles, coffee tables, and media cabinets,' says interior designer Bethany Adams.

'It's only natural that the next stop for the subtle, organic looks is your bathroom. I've just finished up a similar bathroom where I paired a custom oak vanity with cream-colored waterproof tadelakt plaster walls in the shower and a huge light blue concrete soaking tub from Concretti. Tumbled limestone flooring from Cle tile added to the modern spa effect,' she explains.

5. Statement stone cabinet counters

Slatted wood isn't the only way to add luxe appeal to your bathroom cabinets – adding a thick, statement stone countertop adds an elevated feel that gives a truly luxurious look.

In this bathroom, wooden cabinets have been topped with a marble countertop featuring strong veining. The benefit of this approach is that you can choose timeless materials and finishes while creating the look you desire.

If it's a sense of luxury you're trying to achieve, the cabinet you pair with the countertop is really important. Here, wood has been chosen, but a warm neutral hue or deep, moody tones would look just as sophisticated.

Whether you embrace the wood revival or simply want to add a luxurious finish to your space, these bathroom cabinet trends have a surprisingly enduring appeal. and, if you're searching for the perfect bathroom furniture piece, look no further than our edit of the best places to buy bathroom vanities.

Kitchens of course have to be very practical spaces. They have to be multifunctional, workable, and hygienic – all qualities that aren't often associated with softness and warmth. However, as kitchen trends shift and we are looking to create kitchens that feel like cozier, more lived-in spaces, there is a simple answer to balancing a practical working space with a more inviting, characterful one – texture.

And add texture wherever possible was the main focus of this kitchen project by Marie Flanigan, which also happens to be her own home. Here, she talks us through why texture is so key in kitchen design and the different ways she brought it into this space.

'When designing my kitchen, I wanted to create a space rich with texture, where soft and hard finishes worked together to achieve a perfect balance of elegance and warmth,' begins Marie. 'Texture, in many ways, became the defining element that made the kitchen feel tactile and inviting – a space that’s not just functional but thoughtfully layered with detail.'

'The foundation of the kitchen is the bespoke Paloma limestone floors. Chosen for their natural, worn texture, these floors immediately bring character and a sense of grounding to the room. The French Quarter finish adds a subtle roughness that gives the space a historical feel, providing depth and richness. This textured stone grounds the kitchen, lending a sense of permanence and durability – key qualities for a room that serves as the hub of our family’s daily life.'

'Complementing the textured kitchen floors are the Michelangelo Arebescado Dolomite countertops. This polished stone, with its soft veining, introduces a more refined texture. Though the surface is smooth to the touch, the natural movement within the veining adds visual depth, creating a beautiful contrast with the rougher stone beneath. Together, the limestone floors and dolomite countertops create a harmonious dialogue between rough and smooth finishes, each playing off the other to balance texture throughout the space.'

'The kitchen cabinetry is another key textural element. Made from stained white oak, the natural grain of the wood introduces a tactile quality that adds warmth and richness. The smooth, matte finish of the oak offers a visual softness that contrasts with the cool, polished stone of the countertops. At the same time, the cabinetry’s earthy tones complement the limestone floors, creating a continuous flow of natural materials throughout the space. The oak cabinetry bridges the gap between the harder elements, like stone, and softer, more organic materials, adding both visual and tactile warmth.'

'To further counterbalance the hard finishes, I brought in softer textures through the use of woven materials. The custom grassweave shades are one of my favorite additions, introducing an organic, earthy texture that softens the room’s overall look. Their slightly irregular weave adds a layer of imperfection, bringing a sense of ease and comfort to the space. The way the shades filter light also adds to the welcoming atmosphere, providing a soft glow that contrasts beautifully with the more structured lines of the cabinetry and countertops.'

'The Sherwin Williams Greek Villa paint on the walls serves as a calming, neutral backdrop, enhancing the layered textures throughout the kitchen without competing for attention. This creamy white creates a serene environment, allowing the natural wood tones and stone finishes to shine.'

'Natural elements were key in bringing texture to the space. The light fixtures, such my own Reese pendants and Rigby sconces, combine brass with natural oak, adding an extra layer of tactile interest. The oak in the sconces connects back to the cabinetry, while the brass adds a sleek, polished contrast that echoes the hardware and faucet choices.'

'Even the smallest details, like the light bronze cabinet pulls, were selected with texture in mind. Their handcrafted finish brings an artisanal feel to the room, adding character and depth to the cabinetry. Paired with the natural wood and soft kitchen lighting, these elements enrich the room’s overall textural narrative.'

'While aesthetics were a priority, practicality was never sacrificed. The limestone floors are durable and perfect for family life, while the smooth dolomite countertops offer elegance without compromising ease of maintenance. The woven shades, along with the warm oak cabinetry, make the kitchen feel cozy and inviting, creating a comfortable space for both quiet family meals and entertaining guests.'

'By thoughtfully layering textures through hard finishes like stone and wood, and softer elements like fabric and lighting, the kitchen becomes a space that feels both luxurious and lived-in. Every surface and detail work together to create a tactile experience that reflects the true heart of our home.'