Summer is the season of sizzling burgers, seared steaks, and caramelized onions – but all that cookout cooking often comes with a downside: lingering grease and food odors that can hang around your home long after dinner is done.

Instead of filling your kitchen with smoke, heat, and smells, you can move the action outside. IKEA's $75 portable induction cooktop lets you create an instant outdoor cooking station at a fraction of the cost of a full outdoor kitchen, keeping cooking mess and odors out of your home while giving you more space to socialize as you cook – no grill required.

Whether you're hosting friends or simply enjoying a quiet meal in the sunshine, it's a simple, affordable upgrade that makes summer cooking cooler, cleaner, and far more enjoyable.

Outdoor cooking often gets a reputation for being complicated. Even the best grills require regular maintenance, take time to heat up, and can limit what you cook. A portable induction burner, on the other hand, offers far more flexibility. You can fry, boil, sauté, or simmer almost anything outdoors, all while keeping excess heat and lingering cooking odors out of your kitchen. It's one of the simplest ways to make summer cooking cooler, cleaner, and far less stressful.

The IKEA TRILLREDA Portable Induction Hob is an excellent budget-friendly way to take the hottest, messiest cooking outdoors with minimal setup. Thanks to induction technology, it heats magnetic cookware directly, making it fast, precise, and highly energy efficient. All you need is a power outlet, a flat surface, and the best induction cookware to create an instant outdoor kitchen.

The hack is also endorsed by Homes & Gardens’ Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden. She shares, 'My parents always did this for our Iranian parties as we had to fry so much onion beforehand, and it was a game-changer. I do it myself now, too, as I am very sensitive to cooking smells.

'It makes a huge difference, especially when you’re cooking in bulk or in a small kitchen where the odors really linger.'

Shoppers are equally enthusiastic about the portable induction cooktop, praising its fast heating, ease of use, and convenience for everything from everyday meals to outdoor cooking. It's the perfect quick fix.

What Else to Shop

Preventing kitchen odors requires a layered approach. To help keep your space fresh while making summer cooking easier, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite accessories for neutralising kitchen odors, simplifying cleanup, and streamlining everyday meal prep.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Moving your cooking outside is also a great way to stay cool when hosting outside in summer, but we have several more tips to make al fresco less stuffy this season.

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There's a huge shift in the way we see and design our outdoor spaces. Instead of being separate from our homes, they are becoming an extension of indoor living spaces, and one of the coveted features is the outdoor kitchen. And as renovation costs continue to increase, modular designs are rising as the ultimate solution.

It's a new way to create a luxurious cooking space for hosting and socialising. While people are entertaining al fresco far more than ever before, outdoor kitchens are being used more frequently as a backyard living space for everyday activities and enjoyment.

And it's clear that built-in designs are no longer the most coveted look. 2026 is the year modular outdoor kitchens get the recognition they deserve, offering flexible luxury that evolves with you at a more affordable price point. And it turns out, designers are totally on board with this emerging approach.

The Appeal of Modular Outdoor Kitchens

Installing an outdoor kitchen is no small endeavour, especially if you choose a custom, built-in design. The costs are high, with the price of an outdoor kitchen ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, while the cost of installation can vary from $15,000 to $25,000, not to mention the disruption of groundworks and the ever-growing contractor timelines.

The truth is, few people want to commit to such an expense, nor do they want to wait that long for an outdoor kitchen. We crave instant gratification, and a modular outdoor kitchen is the closest design we can get to that. Plus, modular designs have become just as luxurious and high-end.

'The market has matured enormously,' says Adam Arya, co-founder of Arya Douge. 'A few years ago, the choice was fairly limited, whereas today there are incredibly sophisticated modular systems that can be tailored to the way you actually live and entertain.'

The rise in this outdoor kitchen idea also comes with the changing attitudes to our outdoor spaces and how we use them. Once reserved for the summer months, backyards are now becoming destinations year-round, so kitchen designs need to be flexible to serve a purpose through the seasons.

Perhaps the biggest draw, choosing a modular design gives homeowners the option to change their minds later, giving a luxurious addition to their home greater flexibility. You might want to extend the kitchen later down the line, or rethink the layout. By choosing a modular outdoor kitchen, it's easier to make those changes or upgrades without having to reinvest in a whole new outdoor kitchen.

'The beauty of a modular kitchen is that you don’t have to do everything at once – you can begin with what you need and build your dream outdoor kitchen one piece at a time. A little planning can go a long way. Considering how you want to use your outdoor kitchen, whether for cooking, entertaining, or both, can help guide you to the perfect solution,' adds Karen Haas, IKEA US Home Furnishings Business Leader, Workspaces & Outdoor.

How Ensure a Modular Outdoor Kitchen Looks Elevated

Because so much time is spent here, modular outdoor kitchen designs have had to evolve from basic, function-first aesthetics to feel more in-keeping with the styles and materials we would embrace inside our homes. They feel more reminiscent of a freestanding kitchen, a style proving enduringly popular indoors. But it's also the materials and finishes that make a difference to how luxurious it feels.

Think powder-coated cabinetry that looks sleek but remains durable, paneled wood doors that add a rustic, natural feel, and even beautiful stone outdoor kitchen countertops, sometimes finished in a waterfall design. There's also more creativity when it comes to cooking appliances, with many designers opting for pizza ovens over a traditional grill.

'As with any interior, the materials make all the difference. Natural stone and beautifully detailed joinery help elevate a modular kitchen beyond something purely functional. The most successful schemes feel as though they belong to the architecture and landscape, rather than appearing as a standalone piece of garden equipment,' says Claire Sá, Co-Founder of De Rosee Sa.

Think of it as creating a hospitality-inspired backyard, the sort of landscape and luxury you find at your favorite hotels. The kitchen should feel as beautiful and considered as the plants in your borders, or the outdoor living room you've created beside it. A modular outdoor kitchen gives you added flexibility to create something that perfectly fits your space, but can be altered as your landscaping changes.

Don't stop at the practical details. Introduce beautiful hardware or a faucet with a more elegant silhouette. Think about the ambiance – charming lamps on the countertops, or even integrated lighting that adds a soft glow as the evening grows darker. It's the small details that take a modular outdoor kitchen to the next level.

How to Maximize Function With a Modular Outdoor Kitchen

Function still has to be a key consideration – something designers say won't negatively affect the elevated style of your modular kitchen. 'True functionality is achieved with practical, well-planned elements,' says Mark Latchford, Director of Landscaping at HollandGreen.

'These include durable, weather-resistant work surfaces, integrated refrigeration and storage, and a sink for convenience, all arranged in a logical workflow to make cooking outdoors effortless and enjoyable,' he explains, adding that you need to make key layout considerations, including whether you wish to face guests as you cook, have the sink hidden from view, and if you want to include bar seating as well as a more formal dining set up.

Outdoor kitchens are the hub of cooking, so really think about the materials you are choosing, both aesthetically and in terms of durability. 'For outdoor cooking, materials need to be durable and easy to clean,' says Karen.

'Stainless steel is a great choice for countertops and cooking areas as it’s hygienic and resistant to rust. Powder-coated or galvanized steel also helps create sturdy, weather-ready frames, while pre-treated acacia wood adds warmth and a natural look while protecting against weather, stains, and wear.'

If you desire the flexibility of an outdoor kitchen island that can be moved when you require more floor space, a portable design fits in beautifully with a modular scheme – it also allows you to move the island between outdoor living spaces if you need it to double as an outdoor bar or poolside snack station. It's these subtle versatilities that make modular designs so appealing.

Make sure you consider storage, too. A modular outdoor kitchen feels most successful with a mix of styles, including closed cabinetry to keep ingredients protected, as well as some open shelving for easy access to cooking essentials.

'The best modular outdoor kitchens combine practical materials with small yet smart details, including hooks for utensils, adjustable shelves, closed storage, and enough workspace to prepare, cook, and serve without having to run back inside,' Karen adds.

Don't forget to think about the bigger picture, though, like how your modular outdoor kitchen fits within the wider landscape of your backyard. Location is really important, both in terms of its location and the kitchen's architecture. Just because you are going modular with the design doesn't mean you shouldn't factor in a shade cover.

'One of the biggest mistakes people make is placing a kitchen in full afternoon sun. Whether it's a pergola, canopy, or carefully positioned planting, creating a shaded preparation area while allowing the dining space to enjoy the evening light transforms how comfortable-and how frequently-the space is used,' suggests Adam.

Shop Modular Outdoor Kitchens and Accessories

A modular outdoor kitchen is all about flexibility of design and instant gratification. Every backyard is different, so the kitchen you install should reflect that, allowing you to make changes as you need them.

'The appeal isn't simply that the kitchen is modular; it's that it allows outdoor living to be designed with the same level of thought as the interior of the home,' says Adam. 'The kitchen becomes one element within a much larger outdoor room.'

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In an old home, especially one of listed status, the obvious approach is to design a kitchen that feels traditional and full of old charm – something that feels like it has always been there. But authenticity in character properties comes in many forms, especially in a kitchen that wouldn't have originally existed.

When the team at Studio 9 Design was entrusted with this kitchen redesign, they decided to take an alternative approach. Respecting the architecture and history was a priority, but so was creating a family kitchen fit for modern-day life. To balance both, they chose to rework classic details in a way that felt a bit more contemporary.

Using a thoughtful color palette, mixed storage styles, and an emphasis on sociable design features, this once dated kitchen is now the true heart of the home, balancing high-function with timeless style.

Imbue Warmth With Earth Tones

It's easy to lean into neutrals when endeavoring to create a kitchen that feels light and uplifting, but switching to softer earth tones is a great way to add a sense of warmth. And in this kitchen, muted green and natural wood tones offered the perfect balance.

'The palette was driven by the wider interior scheme and a desire to create warmth without relying on stark whites,' says Bahar Nejad and Alice Adamczewski, Founders of Studio 9 Design, who collaborated with kitchen makers at Alistair Fleming Design on the project.

'The soft green introduces a sense of tranquility and connection to the surrounding landscape, while the natural timber brings depth and texture. Paired with warm off white and beige tones, the result feels layered, inviting and timeless, a palette that is gentle, understated and easy to live with.'

Scale Up an Island For Storage and Seating Space

There might be standardized sizes for kitchen islands, but one of the biggest mistakes people make is ignoring scale. The island should feel proportionate to the kitchen's size while catering to your everyday requirements – and in this kitchen, an enlarged island was key to the room's success.

'Scale was a key consideration. The room is generously proportioned, and a smaller island would have felt visually lost within the space. The island needed to hold its own architecturally while also serving the practical needs of a family of four. Incorporating seating transformed it into a social hub, encouraging conversation and connection while cooking,' they recall.

'Positioning the sink centrally makes the kitchen feel more sociable and intuitive to use, while integrated storage ensures everyday essentials remain close at hand. We also wanted the island to feel more like a beautifully crafted piece of furniture than a standard kitchen unit, which is why we introduced furniture-style drawers to the front elevation, adding character, craftsmanship, and valuable storage.'

Mix Backsplash Materials For Visual Interest

A kitchen backsplash is one of those defining features that helps to dictate whether a kitchen leans more traditional or contemporary. And because this project required a careful balance of the two, a mixed material backsplash was chosen, with the lower half a marble slab, and the upper half a more classic paneled approach.

'Carrara marble felt like the natural choice for the backsplash. It is timeless, beautifully tactile, and develops character with age, which aligns perfectly with the ethos of the project. Above the marble, we introduced paneling to bring warmth, texture, and another layer of visual richness,' explains Bahar and Alice.

'The success of the composition lies in its continuity; the same paneling is carried through into the glazed cabinetry, creating a seamless dialogue between the interior and exterior of the joinery. These subtle repetitions are what give the kitchen its sense of longevity and quiet sophistication.'

Blend Different Storage Styles For Function and Character

One of the most effective details in this kitchen is the mix of storage styles, with closed cabinetry, glazed doors, and open shelving all implemented throughout the space. Not only does this create custom space for different kitchen items to live, either hidden or on display, but it also creates a more visually interesting design.

'Closed cabinetry conceals the more functional elements of daily life, while glazed cabinets provide an opportunity to display beautiful glassware, ceramics, and collected pieces. The contrast creates a sense of balance, ensuring the kitchen feels both highly functional and personal. It’s often these curated displays that bring character to a space and make it feel truly lived in,' they note.

'The hidden pantry was designed to absorb much of the visual noise that naturally accumulates in a hardworking kitchen. Housing small appliances, food storage, and everyday essentials behind full-height cabinetry allows the main kitchen to remain calm, uncluttered, and architectural in appearance.'

Carve Out Space For a Dedicated Dining Nook

Increasingly, homeowners are seeking dedicated dining spaces in their kitchens beyond the island, and in this family space, a nook with a spacious banquette ensured there was plenty of space for the whole family to gather, while also providing some extra storage.

'We wanted the dining experience to feel intimate and relaxed. In a room of this scale, placing a dining table in the centre would have interrupted the openness of the space. By creating a banquette, we were able to establish a more inviting and sociable corner while allowing the rest of the room to breathe,' Bahar and Alice recall, noting the materials were chosen to introduce 'softness, texture, and comfort' in keeping with the rest of the scheme.

'The storage beneath the banquette was designed in response to how the family lives. Our clients wanted a practical place to tuck away blankets, outdoor cushions, and everyday items that can quickly create visual clutter. Integrating storage into the seating allowed us to maximise every inch of available space without compromising comfort. The proportions were carefully determined by the seating height and joinery detailing, ensuring the solution felt both practical and beautifully resolved.'

Quick Tips

• Consider earth tones in place of standard neutrals for a warmer scheme
• Choose your island size based on proportion rather than standardized design rules
• Make your backsplash work harder to create a focal point
• Vary your storage styles for a more curated kitchen
• Make space for a seating area that enhances sociability

This kitchen proves you don't have to lean into expected features and styles just because your home has history. By blending classic design elements with modern sensibility, the space has been transformed into a kitchen expertly tailored to family life.

'Interestingly, the success of the kitchen lies in the fact that no single element demands attention. It was never about creating a statement piece. Instead, the focus was on achieving the right balance of proportion, craftsmanship, materiality, and light,' Bahar and Alice conclude.

'Every decision was made to support how the space feels rather than to create a visual spectacle. The result is a kitchen that feels elegant, welcoming, and timeless, quietly luxurious without ever becoming showy or pretentious.'

At Homes & Gardens, we believe a kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks. That’s the philosophy behind Dream Kitchens, our new series exploring the world’s most inspiring cook spaces. From clever layouts to the 'it' materials of 2026, we’re uncovering the design lessons tucked inside every home. Join us for an intimate look at the spaces that define modern living – and find the blueprints for your next big project.

As kitchen trends continue to move away from rigid, wall-to-wall cabinetry, a more relaxed and characterful approach is taking centre stage. Designers are increasingly embracing freestanding kitchen furniture – from antique dressers and shelving units to farmhouse tables and standalone pantries – to create spaces that feel collected rather than constructed.

Unlike fitted cabinetry, freestanding pieces bring flexibility, personality, and a sense of history. They blur the boundaries between kitchen and living spaces, helping rooms feel warmer, more individual, and far less utilitarian. Whether you're renovating a period property or looking to soften a contemporary scheme, these kitchens offer a compelling case for taking a more furniture-led approach to kitchen design.

1. A Pantry Cupboard with Antique Presence

The resurgence of the pantry cupboard is perhaps the clearest sign that kitchens are moving away from fitted cabinetry. In deVOL's Heirloom Collection, the freestanding pantry becomes both a practical kitchen storage solution and a decorative focal point, introducing the charm of antique furniture without sacrificing functionality.

'The very essence of deVOL is traditional freestanding furniture,' says Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL. 'We have recently launched our Heirloom range of furniture, which offers the simplest form of historical cupboards and accessories.'

Unlike a built-in larder, a freestanding pantry sits comfortably within the room, helping the kitchen feel less engineered and more evolved. It also offers flexibility that fitted cabinetry cannot. As Helen notes, vintage-style pantry cupboards are one of the easiest ways to introduce furniture into a kitchen, whether sourced from an antique fair or chosen as a purpose-made piece such as The Butler’s Pantry found in the Heirloom Collection.

2. Open Shelving Extends an Island

When New York-based designer Sarah Lederman planned the layout of this Upper West Side apartment, she deliberately resisted the temptation to extend the island with more cabinetry. Instead, she introduced a freestanding shelving unit by British furniture maker Alfred Newall, creating a softer transition between kitchen and living space.

'What I find compelling about freestanding pieces in kitchens is that they help blur the boundary between the kitchen and the rest of the home,' says Sarah. The piece provides a home for cookbooks, ceramics, and everyday objects while bringing a more decorative, furniture-centric quality to the room. The result feels far more layered than a bank of cabinetry ever could.

'These moments of character, quirk, and informality are often what make a kitchen feel inviting and personal,' Sarah adds. 'The result feels less engineered and more collected over time.'

3. An Antique Sideboard Replaces Upper Cabinets

Rather than relying on fitted storage throughout, Nicky Mudie, founder and director of Violet & George, used an antique oak sideboard to introduce warmth, texture, and a sense of history into this kitchen scheme. ‘We wanted this kitchen to feel like a room first and a kitchen second,’ says Nicky. ‘The danger with fitted kitchens is that they can sometimes feel a bit too perfect and uniform.’

The substantial antique piece acts as a storage cabinet, serving station, and decorative focal point all at once. More importantly, it gives the room an individuality that is difficult to achieve with new cabinetry alone. ‘The antique oak sideboard brings personality and a sense of history that you simply can't buy off the shelf,’ Nicky explains. ‘We used lots of different timbers, finishes and antiques to make the space feel more individual.’

For anyone hesitant about abandoning fitted cabinetry entirely, incorporating a single antique furniture piece is an accessible place to start.

4. Plate Racks Double as Wall Décor

Freestanding furniture doesn't have to sit on the floor to make an impact. In this kitchen, a traditional plate rack turns an otherwise blank stretch of wall into a charming display of everyday ceramics while providing practical storage.

Once a staple of Georgian and Victorian kitchens, plate racks are enjoying a quiet revival as homeowners look for alternatives to enclosed wall cabinets. Their open design keeps kitchens feeling lighter and less bulky, while allowing favourite ceramics to become part of the room's decoration.

Helen notes that ‘smart old wall cupboards, open shelves and plate racks are popular extras that work well integrated into an existing fitted kitchen.’ The beauty of a plate rack lies in its simplicity. Whether used to display a collection of everyday white crockery or inherited china, it introduces a layered, collected warmth without requiring a full redesign.

5. A Dairy Table Adds Valuable Prep Space

If there's one freestanding piece capable of changing the feel of an entire kitchen, it's a substantial worktable. A large dairy table takes the place of a conventional kitchen island, providing generous prep space while keeping sightlines open and the room feeling less dominated by cabinetry.

Inspired by traditional farmhouse tables, these designs often feature generous drawers for extra storage, and the open base creates a lighter visual footprint than a solid island, while still offering the practical surface area needed for everyday cooking, baking, and entertaining. ‘Having everything matching in a room is not imaginative,’ Helen adds, ‘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.’

Unlike a fixed island, a freestanding table encourages a more relaxed way of living. It can serve as a preparation space, dining spot, workspace, and gathering point throughout the day, helping the kitchen feel less like a workstation and more like the heart of the home.

6. This Custom Hutch Introduces Depth

In this 1920s Tudor Revival kitchen, Los Angeles-based designer Beatriz Rose introduced a custom hutch by Plain English to create a pause between more conventional cabinetry and the adjacent breakfast nook. Its stepped shelving, marble work surface, and slatted lower shelf make it feel more like an individual furniture piece than a seamless run of storage.

‘This approach works particularly well in historic homes because it respects the architectural character of the house,’ says Beatriz. ‘Rather than filling every wall with built-in cabinetry, freestanding pieces create moments of visual relief that allow the architecture to breathe and the eye to rest.’

The detail that really sets the piece apart is the variation in depth. ‘We intentionally designed the upper shelving with stepped depths to create a sense of scale, shadow, and whimsy,’ Beatriz adds. ‘These subtle variations help the piece feel crafted and collected rather than manufactured.’

7. An Open-Base Island Avoids Visual Bulk

For this kitchen, Beatriz designed a freestanding island, handcrafted by Brawley Made, that offers the practicality of a built-in without the same visual weight. Its open base is especially useful in an older home, where the island needed to sit in the center of the room without making the space feel cramped.

‘Freestanding kitchen islands offer many of the benefits of traditional built-ins while bringing a lighter, more relaxed character to the room,’ notes Beatriz. ‘This furniture-inspired island draws inspiration from traditional Vermont worktables and farmhouse furniture.’

The detailing reinforces that worktable feel. ‘Tapered legs, a deep overhang, an open storage shelf, and a scalloped apron give the piece the character of furniture rather than cabinetry,’ she continues. ‘Unlike a solid block of millwork, the open base creates visual breathing room while providing practical storage for baskets, cookware, and everyday items.’

Shop Freestanding Kitchen Furniture

Ultimately, the appeal of freestanding kitchen furniture lies in its flexibility. Beyond providing valuable storage and worktop space, these pieces can be moved, added to and lived with over time, allowing a kitchen to evolve naturally and feel more personal in the process.

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This year, trends point to kitchens that feel lived-in and personalized, and with this shift comes new, charming ways to merge function and aesthetics. And one of the chicest design features I'm seeing right now is hanging baskets.

It's a kitchen storage idea that frees up countertop space, removing the illusion of clutter and making your space feel more functional. But hanging storage baskets are also a beautiful design detail that makes your walls work harder.

We're not talking any old baskets here. They need to be hardwearing and designed to sit comfortably on your kitchen walls – and these Hanging Teardrop Baskets from Amazon nail the look.

Kitchen storage is no longer considered just a functional detail in your kitchen design. Especially in small kitchens, storage solutions need to be as pretty as they are practical, which is why trends like these hanging baskets are becoming so sought after.

Your kitchen walls are often underutilized, both in terms of storage and decor. So adding hanging storage baskets ticks both boxes. They add much-needed space to keep produce from the store or farmers' market without cluttering your existing surfaces.

But they also can look far more elegant than a shelf or a large wooden unit ever could. Baskets have texture, warmth, and softer silhouettes that feel more homey and rustic. They add charm to your cooking space without feeling gratuitous or misplaced. But the style of kitchen basket you introduce is key to the success of the design.

The classic kitchen basket is usually oval or rectangular with a large handle along the top, made to be carried, almost like a shopping basket. And while they are charming in their own right, there is a more practical option for your kitchen storage. For hanging kitchen wall baskets to look effortless and hold plenty of produce, they need to be designed to sit flush to the wall, with a sturdy handle or loop at the top for ultra-secure hanging.

They need to do more than act as decor – they need to function, too. In this yellow and white kitchen (pictured below), two baskets are hung vertically on the wall, places to that they are at just the right height that the produce stored in them can be easily accessed.

They add a rustic detail to the space, and while the room's proportions may be small, they fit perfectly and add just the right amount of whimsy. But they also work because they sit flush to the wall and are well secured, thanks to the sturdy handle on the back of the baskets.

And this set of 3 from Amazon is the perfect style to recreate the look. The teardrop shape ensures there is plenty of storage space so you can easily take what you need without everything falling out. It also creates a natural place for the hanging loop to sit at the top.

But what really stands out about this design is the material. Made from jute, a natural material beloved for its durable qualities, it has a country kitchen aesthetic that adds warmth and texture to your scheme.

They're also visually striking when hung on the wall. Each basket in the set is a different size, so you can create a dynamic display to suit the size and layout of your kitchen. They're a great solution if you want to free up countertop space, replacing large fruit bowls or vegetable boxes that take up valuable surface space.

The best part? They currently have a 20% discount for Amazon Prime Day, so there's never been a better time to make the switch.

So, whether you fill them with potatoes and onions, use them for dried flower displays to bring life to your cooking space, or replace your countertop fruit bowl with these charming pieces, this is your sign to upgrade your kitchen with these hanging wall baskets.

Shop More Rustic Kitchen Storage Baskets

Kitchen storage doesn't have to be boring, and these hanging wall baskets prove just how stylish it can be. These designs prove a useful storage idea for kitchens without a pantry, but there's no reason you can't integrate them into an existing pantry design, too.

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The vacation you’ve been looking forward to is finally just around the corner, and the last thing you want while you’re away is to be worrying about your home appliances. We’ve all had that moment – pulling out of the driveway only to wonder if the oven is definitely off, or if something has been left running in the bathroom.

Leaving appliances switched on is a common source of anxiety, but what many people don’t realise is that there are several household items you don’t need to leave plugged in at all while you’re on holiday. In fact, there are key items you should always unplug before leaving the house, whether they’re on or off, to reduce risk and unnecessary energy use.

Beyond peace of mind, taking a few minutes to switch things off properly can also help improve your home's EPC rating by reducing standby energy consumption over time.

To help bring some reassurance before you travel, we spoke to electricians and appliance experts about what should always be switched off and unplugged before a trip away. Here’s what they recommend.

1. Wi-Fi-Connected Devices And Hubs

Devices like Wi-Fi routers, game consoles, and smart home systems don’t need to stay plugged in while you’re away. While the risk of hazard is low, they can still quietly add to your energy bill over time.

‘I would consider unplugging Wi-Fi-enabled devices if I’m going on holiday, or at the very least switching off or disabling their connectivity features,’ says Bill Gilbert, Technical Writer and Resident Appliance Expert at iFixit.

Most appliances draw less than a watt in standby mode, but over the course of a longer vacation, even these small amounts of phantom energy use can add up. If you'd rather not unplug everything individually, the Amazon Smart Plug is an easy alternative. Compatible with Alexa, it lets you remotely switch devices off or create schedules so they automatically power down while you're away, helping reduce standby energy use with minimal effort.

If you're managing multiple devices, the Amazon Basics Smart Plug Power Strip makes it easy to control and schedule several appliances at once, helping reduce standby energy use while you're away.

2. Battery Chargers

It may be tempting to leave chargers plugged in, but experts caution against it – particularly when lithium-ion batteries are involved.

‘I would avoid leaving lithium-ion devices charging unattended for extended periods or while away from home, as thermal runaway – although rare – can occur if a fault develops during charging,’ says Thomas Opsomer, iFixit’s Repair Policy Lead.

Instead, fully charge devices before you leave and unplug chargers at the socket, or arrange for someone to periodically check anything that requires charging while you’re away.

3. Countertop Appliances And Non-Essentials

Coffee machines, toasters, hair tools, and other countertop appliances don’t need to remain plugged in while you’re away. Even when the risk is low, unplugging them removes any residual uncertainty. If you prefer a more seamless setup, a smart option like the Cync Smart Indoor Plug from Amazon can also help you switch devices off remotely before you leave.

‘Voltage spikes or power surges can still damage connected appliances, even if they’re switched off at the unit, before a breaker has time to respond,’ says Paul Karandos, Luxury Appliance Specialist at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center. ‘While many modern appliances include internal safeguards and automatic shut-off features, best practice is still to disconnect them at the socket when not in use for extended periods.’

It’s also a simple way to remove that lingering 'did I switch everything off?' feeling before you leave the house.

4. Heat-Producing Appliances And Electronics

Anything that generates heat – or remains warm on standby – should be unplugged before you go. Devices that feel even slightly warm when left connected are still drawing power, which can add unnecessary load and, over long periods, increase wear on internal components.

Fans, purifiers, lamps, consoles, large computers, and tumble dryers all fall into this category, and switching them off at the socket is a simple way to reduce risk and eliminate standby energy use while you’re away.

5. Older Or Well-Used Appliances

Older appliances naturally come with more wear and tear, which can increase risk over time. In homes that haven’t been recently rewired or updated to current electrical standards, there can also be a higher likelihood of electrical issues developing, particularly when systems are under load or left unattended for long periods. The same applies to older appliances, which may not have the same safety features as newer models.

For extended trips, a more comprehensive approach – such as switching off breakers to non-essential areas of the home where appropriate – can further reduce risk while also cutting down unnecessary energy use.

Shop Smart Plugs and Timers

Before you head off, take a final walk through your home to ensure everything is properly switched off and unplugged. Even small steps – like removing standby devices from sockets – can make a big difference to peace of mind. And remember: half-inserted plugs are a risk not worth taking.

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No room requires quite as much storage planning and consideration as the kitchen. From the furniture you introduce to how you organize your cabinets and drawers, your cooking space is only as functional as your storage solutions.

And for most people, Amazon is the go-to place to order all the essentials you need to make your kitchen storage ideas work harder. But how can you distinguish between the products that are actually worth bringing into your cooking space, and those that are a waste of time (and money)?

The answer is quite simple: let us do the hard work for you. Here, we've found the best kitchen storage available on Amazon that balances functionality with elevated design. With these buys, your kitchen will be the most stylishly organized room in your home.

Amazon Kitchen Storage Furniture

It's not easy to add more built-in cabinetry without undertaking a full renovation, so looking to freestanding kitchen furniture is an easier, and often more stylish, way to maximize your kitchen storage. And these Amazon buys are both high-quality and well-priced.

Amazon Kitchen Drawer and Cabinet Storage and Organizers

Even if you have available drawer or cabinet space, you can always make them work harder with handy inserts and organizers that maximize every inch of space without compromising on accessibility. Amazon is a great place to source these types of items that help organize your cabinets, whether it's plate holders, shelf risers, or tiered organizers.

Amazon Kitchen Countertop Storage

Realistically, we all have a few items that need to be stored on the kitchen countertops, but alone they can read as clutter. These Amazon storage buys are about organizing and storing them properly, so they feel intentional rather than like they've just been left abandoned.

Amazon Kitchen Storage Baskets and Containers

Whether it's your main kitchen or a well-organized pantry, no space is truly complete without a few boxes, storage baskets, and containers to organize and elevate everyday essentials, and Amazon has plenty of timeless designs to add to your space.

Whether your kitchen is small and compact or spacious with a separate pantry, these smart storage buys are key to ensuring your cooking space remains expertly organized. For more ideas, check out our edit of the best IKEA kitchen storage buys.

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We're finally leaving the era of the clean aesthetic, where everything in the kitchen was white, light, and pristine. And as a result, 'dirty' colors are becoming all the more coveted as the antidote to clinical palettes.

It seems a strange way to describe kitchen colors, but these richer, deeper, muddier tones give the term 'dirty' a new, more appealing definition. It's about embracing a kitchen scheme that has depth and personality, rather than the stark, slightly lifeless designs made popular in years past.

And designers say it's one of the most exciting 2026 kitchen color trends they've seen in a while. Here's why these earth-adjacent, muted tones are an enduring choice, and how to get them right in cooking spaces of every style and size.

The Appeal of 'Dirty' Kitchen Colors

Mossy greens, muddy browns, and deep terracotta hues: dirty kitchen colors are taking over from the bright whites and chalky grays that once dominated trends. Clean aesthetics and extreme minimalist kitchens are no longer the desired look, with more lived-in, colorful kitchens taking their place.

In many ways, the rise of dirty kitchen colors acts as an anti-trend, with people choosing to decorate their cooking spaces (and the rest of their homes) in a way that sparks joy and feels unique, rather than following the status quo.

'The appeal comes from a desire for warmth and depth that stark white or overly saturated colors sometimes lack. These muted, earthy tones feel grounded, cozy, and incredibly sophisticated. They move away from fleeting trends and lean into a timeless, collected aesthetic. They feel authentic and less sterile than some modern finishes,' says Nicole Forina of Forina Design & Co.

It's a palette that works beautifully in almost any room of the home, but they feel most at home in a kitchen, where these rich colors add softness and subtle character without overwhelming the room.

'There's a warmth and ease to these muddied, earthy tones that feels particularly well-suited to a kitchen. Unlike brighter or purer colors, 'dirty' shades tend to be far more forgiving and less precious in a hardworking family space,' says Carina Raymond, Founder of Studio Raymond.

'They bring depth and character without demanding attention, creating an atmosphere that feels inviting, relaxed, and lived-in. As kitchens increasingly become the heart of the home, these richer colors feel grounded and timeless, which is why they continue to resonate beyond passing trends.'

As well as being a striking aesthetic choice, this color palette is favored in kitchens because of its more functional qualities. 'From a practical standpoint, they also tend to disguise minor wear, fingerprints, crumbs, and everyday imperfections better than brighter or starker finishes,' Nicole adds.

5 Spaces That Prove Just How Sophisticated 'Dirty' Kitchen Colors Can Be

While the term 'dirty' might not conjure images of such a style, this palette has proven to be a truly sophisticated choice. But its success relies on how you introduce these colors, and the finishes you pair them with. Here are three spaces that showcase just howe elevated these kitchen colors can be.

1. Embrace the Rich Tones of Muddy Brown Cabinets

In this Spanish Revival home, the small kitchen has been transformed, not only by a striking marble but by deep brown kitchen cabinets. It not only adds a timeless feel, but it also adds depth to the design that feels far more characterful than neutrals.

'The kitchen cabinets in my home were replaced right before I moved in. They were in perfect condition, so although they aren't exactly what I would have chosen, I decided to paint them instead of replacing them. I chose Van Buren Brown by Benjamin Moore,' says Drew Michael Scott, founder of Lone Fox Home.

But the undertone is an important detail to get right. 'The brown in my kitchen leans a bit purple, which pulls in the purples from my marble. A brown that leaned a bit green probably would have looked fine, but it wouldn't have felt quite as cohesive. Lay out all your samples (wood, paint, tile, etc.) and see if any of them stand out. If they aren't jiving, it might be their undertones,' he explains.

'I find that focusing on texture also really helps. If everything is the same texture, it will feel flat and unexciting. A satin sheen on the cabinets mixed with honed marble and polished hardware will feel much more curated and expensive.'

2. Add Warmth to Earth Green With a Wooden Island

Certain shades of green fit into the emerging kitchen color palette perfectly. In this design, a mid-tone green that reads slightly muddy becomes the perfect shade to accompany the natural wood tones of the kitchen island.

'This client wanted to honor the warmth of their existing golden oak wood tones rather than fight them, and a muddy green was the perfect answer. A true, saturated green would have clashed with the orange undertones in the wood, but this earthy, greyed-out olive finds a middle ground,' says Anna Franklin, Principal of Stone House Collective.

'It pulls from both the warm and cool ends of the spectrum at once. The result is a kitchen that feels cohesive rather than overly curated, as if everything arrived at this color story naturally. The brass hardware and white stone countertops give it just enough polish to keep it from feeling heavy.'

3. Soften Deep Reds With Soft Pink Hues

Perhaps unexpected, but deep reds also fall into the dirty kitchen color category, especially those with green undertones that give a more earthy feel. It's a color that can feel quite moody, so for a more sophisticated look, the right color pairings are key.

In this kitchen, deep red cabinetry has been softened by a very soft pink hue on the walls, applied in a texture finish to prevent the space from feeling flat. Paired with the wooden accents, the scheme feels utterly timeless, yet still rich in tonality.

4. Elevate Dirty Colors With Classic Cabinet Profiles

In this kitchen, the cabinets have been drenched in a gray-toned blue shade, which feels a little murkier and a bit softer than a brighter hue. To ensure the scheme still feels warm, a rich, dark wood island has been introduced, while classic shaker doors create a more sophisticated finish.

'Dirty colors are appealing because kitchens naturally need to work hard, and they create a beautiful backdrop and give you a lot of freedom for gorgeous natural stone countertops in all sorts of colors,' says Sadie Beachy, Principal and Creative Designer of S.Flynn Design + Build.

'Be intentional with the cabinet fronts, drawers, and door fronts. Inset cabinet fronts and intentional details would be our suggestion, like a shaker with a bead. We love to start with the countertop and pull one of those earthy colors out of it.'

5. Embrace Dirty Neutrals For a Brighter Scheme

There's a misconception that dirty kitchen colors have to be dark, but that isn't always the case. Lighter tones, such as clay, mushroom, and putty, all have a slightly muddier undertone that instantly feels softer and more nuanced than stark neutrals.

'Kitchen design is often as much about materiality as it is colour, and these earthy, softened shades work beautifully because they pair so effortlessly with natural materials. Whether it's handmade zellige tiles, terracotta surfaces, warm timber cabinetry or beautifully veined marble, 'dirty' colors provide a sophisticated backdrop that allows those materials to shine,' says Carina.

In this design, marble with clay tones through the veining became the starting point for the color palette, with cabinets painted a soft clay hue that emphasises the natural stone while adding a softer, muddier finish.

'They also have an inherent connection to nature, which helps bring a sense of calm and authenticity into the space,' she adds. 'Rather than creating stark contrast, they encourage a more layered and harmonious scheme, which is particularly effective in kitchens where you want the room to feel welcoming and cohesive.'

This color palette points back to the shift we are seeing across the board in kitchen design – spaces that feel warm, timeless, and more unique than ever before. The 'dirty' colors do just that, all various tones of earthy shades that simply never date, making it easier than ever to choose the right kitchen color scheme.

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Kitchen utensils can be tricky to store. They're large and often quite awkward in form, so they quickly fill drawers and create a cluttered look. Needless to say, you need smarter solutions to give these essentials a proper home in your cooking space.

While most kitchen storage ideas revolve around larger items like food, pots, and serveware, creating a dedicated place for your utensils that feels both organized and stylish will instantly transform even the smallest spaces.

And, honestly? Your options are more versatile than you might think. From drawer organizers to keep them out of sight and out of mind, to decorative crocks and elegant wall-mounted solutions that allow your kitchenware to double as decor, there are plenty of utensil storage options to suit any kitchen.

To help you organize your kitchen quickly and easily, we've found the chicest storage finds that will not only add function to your cooking space but also a more decorative detail, too.

Getting your kitchen storage right not only makes your space more organized, but it also helps to create a more visually appealing scheme, too. Once you've got your utensil storage sorted, continue with the rest of your space with these IKEA kitchen storage buys.

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When looking back on the kitchen trends of the last decade, few details have spread through luxury interiors as quickly as fluted cabinetry. With the rise of fluting in boutique hospitality spaces and the increasing adoption of custom joinery in home kitchens, these popular vertical grooves have become one of the most requested finishes.

Fluted kitchen details have made a habit of appearing across islands, pantry doors, breakfast bars, and full kitchen runs. Homeowners have loved how this kitchen trend can add texture without color, introduce shadow and dimension and create visual interest in minimalist spaces. Moreover, fluted cabinets have been seen as a shortcut to a kitchen that feels bespoke and elevated.

However, as the trend becomes rather ubiquitous, questions are emerging about whether this detail has run its course. The downsides of this design are now coming to the fore as homeowners navigate the practical challenges, the issue of visual clutter, and the risk of the design potentially dating a kitchen.

To dive deeper into this topic, we quizzed designers on either side of the debate, asking: In 2026, is fluted cabinetry still a smart design investment, or has the trend finally peaked?

Why Fluted Cabinetry Became So Popular

The rise in fluted cabinetry over the last decade has been caused by a convergence of factors. While the trend might have started out feeling fresh, it is a kitchen cabinet idea that dates back to ancient times.

'Fluting didn't begin on a cabinet door; it began on a column. The Greeks understood that vertical grooves catch light in a way that makes a surface feel alive rather than flat,' Lindsay Lucas, of Lindsay Laine Home, explains. In ancient Greek architecture, it is common to see shallow, concave vertical grooves carved into the shafts of columns. Used throughout the Renaissance, the Art Deco period, and in the mid-20th century, this perennial favorite is nothing new.

However, in recent times, it has gained appeal once again. Arriving during the era of warm minimalism, where Pinterest boards were defined by Japandi references, it was a way to add architectural texture without the use of bold colors or statement hardware.

'Fluted cabinetry took off because it struck a balance between classic and contemporary design. It introduces texture and visual interest while still feeling approachable to a broad audience. It was also relatively easy to achieve across a range of budgets, which only accelerated its popularity,' Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors, shares.

With homeowners looking more to high-end hotels and designer kitchens for inspiration, fluting became a quick way to create a luxury look for less. Meanwhile, as more of us turned to bespoke joinery in our homes, fluting became the go-to way to elevate otherwise simple cabinetry.

Meanwhile, its versatility across a wide range of surfaces only increased its popularity further. While kitchen cabinets might have been the first port of call, fluted details have been used on kitchen islands, pantry fronts, appliance garages, range hoods, coffee stations and more. The sky really has been the limit, and both homeowners and designers have run with it.

Why Some Designers Think the Trend Has Reached Its Peak

For some designers, this ubiquity paired with the practical and design challenges has meant they have grown tired of using this dated kitchen trend.

It’s Become Too Ubiquitous

It’s natural that once a detail appears in every kitchen renovation, designers begin looking elsewhere. 'Fluted cabinetry began as a sophisticated architectural detail that added texture and craftsmanship to a space. The problem is that it quickly became a design shortcut,' Mark Schubert, founder of M2 Design Lab explains.

Now, Mark believes we've reached the point of saturation, similar to what happened with other design details such as chevron tiles and shiplap. 'Once every cabinet manufacturer and furniture company adopted it, the detail lost much of what made it special. When a detail becomes the default rather than a deliberate design decision, it starts to feel dated much faster,' Mark continues.

Of course, in our social media age, these trends are spreading quicker than ever. 'What started as a thoughtful architectural detail has been applied to virtually everything, from cabinetry and islands to vanities, furniture, tile, stone, and decorative accessories. At a certain point, overexposure diminishes its impact, and I believe we have reached that stage,' Hillary notes.

It Can Date a Kitchen

Tanya Smith-Shiflett of Tanya Smith-Shiflett Design highlights how the trend for fluted kitchen cabinets reached peak saturation roughly three years ago. 'I think it will always strongly reference this particular moment in design. Very much the early-to-mid 2020s,' Tanya shares.

'My biggest concern is that people began using fluting as a trend application rather than as an intentional architectural detail. When design elements become overly trend-driven, they tend to lose longevity quickly,' she adds.

Hillary echoes the point that it isn’t the fluting itself but the adoption of trends. 'The more heavily a kitchen relies on a single trend, the more likely it is to feel representative of a particular era rather than timeless,' Hillary says.

It Often Creates Visual Clutter

When using fluted cabinetry across an entire kitchen, you run the risk of creating too much visual clutter. 'Texture is most effective when it creates contrast. When every surface is fluted, the detail loses its impact and can begin to feel visually overwhelming,' Hillary notes.

This can cause particular issues in small kitchens. 'When every cabinet surface is fluted, the eye has nowhere to rest. In smaller kitchens, the repetition can make the room feel visually compressed,' Mark says. Meanwhile, at the opposite end of the spectrum, it can also be problematic. 'In open-concept homes, full-height fluting can become a dominant feature that competes with surrounding living spaces,' Mark adds. Furthermore, he cautions against layering with bold stone, statement lighting, busy backsplashes, or other highly decorative elements.

It's Practically Challenging

From a practical standpoint, there is no getting away from the fact that fluted surfaces require significantly more maintenance than flat-panel cabinetry. 'Kitchens naturally collect grease, dust, and cooking residue and every groove creates another surface that needs to be cleaned,' Mark points out. What looks beautiful in a professional photograph can become surprisingly labor-intensive in everyday use. 'Clients are often attracted to the visual effect but don't always consider the long-term upkeep,' Mark adds.

Beyond the issues with maintenance, there are also practical limitations to consider long-term. 'Fluted cabinetry is much harder to refinish, repaint, or adapt over time compared to simpler door styles. If a homeowner wants to evolve the look of their kitchen years down the line, fluted surfaces can become restrictive because the detailing itself is so visually specific,' Tanya advises.

The Case for Keeping Fluted Cabinetry

On the flipside, some designers think that fluted cabinetry has staying power when used correctly thanks to its historical roots and texture-giving qualities.

It’s Rooted In History

Rebecca Hughes, founder and creative director at Rebecca Hughes Interiors, believes fluted cabinetry can transcend fleeting trends thanks to its long history within architecture and design. 'Fluting has architectural roots that date back centuries, from the columns of Ancient Greece to traditional millwork in heritage homes. That enduring history gives it a sense of permanence rather than novelty,' Rebecca says.

Lindsay agrees with this sentiment, arguing that a detail such as fluting was never really a trend to begin with. 'Fluted details have been part of the design vocabulary for centuries. It simply found its way back into the kitchen. What we're seeing now isn't a moment, it’s a recognition. Designers and homeowners alike are gravitating toward details that feel considered and crafted, and fluting delivers exactly that.'

It Creates Texture

Fluted cabinetry’s star skill is its ability to create texture in a way that flat cabinetry cannot.

In kitchens, which can have a habit of feeling rather sterile, this becomes particularly important. 'Kitchens are full of hard, reflective surfaces, like stone, metal, and glass. Fluting introduces something the eye can actually move across. The alternating ridges and channels create a rhythm of light and shadow that reads as warmth and depth without adding visual clutter,' Lindsay says.

Meanwhile, for those shy of the maximalist approach, adding fluted details is an excellent middle ground. 'It introduces texture into a kitchen without relying on bold colors or busy patterns,' Rebecca shares. 'It's a tactile detail that elevates even the simplest neutral palette. The subtle vertical grooves catch light and shadow throughout the day, creating depth and movement that make the space feel more layered and sophisticated.'

It's the Perfect Accent

For many homeowners, the sweet spot with fluted cabinetry is using it as an accent as opposed to completing a whole kitchen in the design. 'Incorporating it into a single feature – such as an island, pantry, or drinks cabinet creates a happy medium,' Rebecca shares.

'Applying fluting to one element gives detail to a room without overwhelming the space. It creates a moment of interest that makes the rest of the kitchen feel more intentional by contrast. The fluted piece anchors the room and everything else can be quieter because of it. That balance is what separates a kitchen that photographs well from one that actually lives well,' Lindsay confirms.

After all, application is everything when it comes to fluted elements. 'When a detail is treated as an accent rather than a statement, it transcends the trend cycle entirely. It becomes part of the room's character rather than a footnote to a particular era,' Lindsay states.

What Are Designers Choosing Instead?

For those designers that are tired of fluted cabinetry, other alternative styles are growing in appeal. 'For 2026, I see the design conversation moving toward a quieter, more sophisticated form of luxury. Rather than relying on overt decorative gestures, the focus is shifting to craftsmanship, materiality and warmth,' Hillary predicts.

For her, this means a move towards kitchens that feel collected, enduring and deeply personal. This plays out via softly stained woods, rich natural materials, mixed matte finishes, integrated detailing, and cabinetry that feels connected to the architecture of the home rather than designed around a singular trend.

Similarly, Tanya is embracing a timeless approach and gravitating towards cleaner, simpler cabinetry profiles with subtle detailing rather than overt texture. 'Flat-panel cabinetry with a delicate beaded edge or a very thin shaker profile feels much more enduring. Those styles still offer depth and craftsmanship, but in a quieter, more architectural way that won’t dominate the room or immediately tie the kitchen to a particular trend cycle,' she shares.

Meanwhile, Mark is focusing on materiality. 'Rather than relying on applied texture, I prefer creating depth through wood grain, natural stone, integrated hardware and layered finishes,' he says.

As with all design conundrums, there isn’t one simple answer. After all, there is no one design detail that will always work, neither one that must be avoided at all costs. When it comes to fluted cabinets, it is clear that application and intention is key when including this detail in a kitchen or beyond.

Thanks to the design’s architectural integrity and natural texture, fluted cabinets are not a trend that will ever completely disappear. However, as a result of its ubiquity in recent years, it's important not to rely too much on it as a design choice. Instead, as is often the case, small doses are the best approach. Especially when used alongside other fresher-feeling materials and minimalist approaches.

'For those who love fluting, my advice is not to eliminate it entirely. Used thoughtfully, it can still be incredibly effective. A single fluted island detail, pantry door, or furniture piece can add richness and dimension. An entire kitchen wrapped in fluting, however, can quickly become the design equivalent of wearing every accessory at once,' Hillary concludes.

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A beautifully designed kitchen isn't defined solely by its finishes or fixtures. Color choices play an equally important role, influencing everything from the mood of a space to how luxurious it appears.

As kitchen color trends continue to move away from one-size-fits-all neutrals, designers are embracing shades with greater depth and personality. The result is a new generation of kitchen color ideas that feel more bespoke, more characterful, and ultimately more expensive.

Whether it's a buttery yellow inspired by historic homes, a deep blue rooted in the landscape, or a rich red that adds instant gravitas, these are the colors designers are using to help kitchens look more expensive in 2026.

1. Rich Burgundy Red

Decorating with burgundy has long been used in traditional country kitchens, bringing warmth, depth, and a sense of permanence to hardworking spaces – such as in this Leicestershire kitchen in a converted mill in the UK.

Burgundy kitchen ideas are making a confident return – a perfect example shade is deVOL's Refectory Red, a heritage-inspired paint that instantly gives cabinetry a grander presence. Rich and enveloping without feeling overwhelming, it has the ability to make even simple furniture feel more refined and substantial. The color works particularly well alongside authentic materials such as black granite, slate, aged brass, and dark timber, creating the layered, luxurious look often associated with historic English interiors.

For a more subtle nod to the burgundy trend, we've just spotted Staub's Beautiful Burgundy 7-Qt Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven, on a limited-time deal at Williams-Sonoma. The classic Dutch Oven design is perfect for keeping on display on the hob or shelf, helping to bring color and character to the space.

2. Butter Yellow

Yellow may not be the first color that comes to mind when designing an expensive-looking kitchen, but the latest iterations prove otherwise. Designers are embracing soft, butter-yellow kitchens that bring warmth, personality, and an effortless sense of optimism to a space.

In a coastal kitchen in Edinburgh, Scotland, designer Ailsa MacConnell of Studio Mac used Farrow & Ball's Hay to bring warmth to the space without sacrificing its relaxed, understated feel. With its dusty character and subtle green undertones, the color responds beautifully to the cooler quality of northern light, creating a scheme that feels sunlit even on overcast days. ‘We wanted the kitchen to feel as though it was filled with sunshine, even on a gray Edinburgh day,’ Ailsa explains. ‘Hay has a beautiful buttery quality to it, and its subtle yellow undertones brought exactly the warmth and sense of joy we were looking for without feeling too sweet or overpowering.’

Unlike stronger yellows, which often demand attention, Hay has a quieter presence. It softens the room, complements natural materials, and gives the kitchen a warmth that white kitchen cabinet ideas often struggle to achieve.

Whether you're inspired to repaint your kitchen in a joyful yellow shade or start small with a stand-out yellow appliance like the iconic Butter KitchenAid Stand Mixer (now discounted at QVC), there is no denying the truly uplifting and unique feel of a butter yellow color scheme.

3. Nuanced Navy Blue

Navy has long been a kitchen staple, but in 2026, designers are gravitating toward more complex interpretations of the classic shade. Rather than crisp, traditional navies, today's most sophisticated blue kitchen ideas have a chalkier, weathered quality that feels more relaxed and connected to the landscape.

For this kitchen, designer Sarah Lederman chose Farrow & Ball's Stiffkey Blue, a shade inspired by the salt marshes of the Norfolk coast in the UK. ‘I tend to gravitate toward colors that feel as though they've existed for centuries rather than colors that feel tied to trends,’ says Sarah. Against warm wood floors and painted beams, the color feels rooted in its surroundings. Sometimes reading as navy and at other times appearing almost charcoal, it offers a softer, more contemporary alternative to traditional dark blue cabinetry.

The upholstered barstools beautifully complement the blue paint finish in this kitchen design, with the wood frame adding a perfect dose of warmth and contrast to the scheme (you can achieve a similar look with these upholstered stools from George Oliver at Wayfair)

4. Midnight Blue

In this countryside project, dark blue cabinetry was chosen to bring depth and comfort to a naturally darker room with low ceilings. Rather than fighting the lack of natural light, the design embraces it, creating a cocooning atmosphere that feels calm and welcoming throughout the day.

‘We went bold with darker colors to create a confident statement in a dark room,’ says Nicky Mudie, founder and director of Violet & George. ‘The dark blue worked well against warm oak and patinated copper worktops, aged brass and rich brown glazed tiles.’

Copper pots are definitely having a moment in current kitchen trends. Not only are they excellent for cooking, but they work wonderfully as a decorative element (as seen in the kitchen above), helping to achieve a luxurious contrast in color and material – and we've just spotted a saving on the Gotham Steel Hammered 15 Pc Ceramic Cookware Set Nonstick at Walmart.

Far from making a space feel smaller, deep blue can have the opposite effect when paired with the right materials. It blurs hard edges, softens the room’s architecture, and creates the kind of enveloping atmosphere that makes people want to linger.

5. Clotted Creams

While richer colors may be dominating kitchen trends, designers agree that a beautifully judged cream remains one of the most refined choices of all. The key to this neutral kitchen idea is to choose a shade with warmth and depth rather than the cooler, flatter neutrals that have defined kitchens in recent years.

Today's heritage creams feel inspired by natural materials and traditional interiors, allowing craftsmanship, texture, and architectural details to come to the fore – such as this Edwardian home in London clad in cream subway tiles. Helen notes these warmer neutrals are becoming increasingly popular. ‘At deVOL, we are installing cupboards in rich but pale creams; we think of it as a clotted cream,’ she says. ‘These gentler, more earthy natural colours sit perfectly with wooden or honed Carrara marble worktops to give a warm, light and airy feel to a room.’

The chic ruffle shade (you can buy a similar ruffle shade on Etsy) in this space also helps to bring elegant depth and movement to the neutral scheme, and highlights just how important your chosen finishes and accessories can be in helping to bring a neutral room to life.

As kitchen ideas continue to evolve, color is becoming one of the most effective ways to create a space that feels elevated and enduring. The shades designers are gravitating toward for 2026 interior design trends aren't necessarily louder or bolder; they're simply more nuanced, drawing inspiration from heritage interiors, natural landscapes, and time-honored materials.

Whether you opt for something cocooning or more classic, the key is choosing a color that feels connected to the architecture and atmosphere of your home. When used thoughtfully, the right shade can make a kitchen feel instantly more expensive.

Once a desired luxury, outdoor kitchens have quickly evolved into a must-have design feature to elevate both your backyard and summer soirees. But the success of an outdoor cooking space depends on a well-planned design.

Designing an outdoor kitchen often revolves around materials, layout, and the type of cooking apparatus you will include – all important details. But so often, an outdoor kitchen sink is overlooked, despite its long-standing importance in any cooking space.

You're then left without a crucial station, used for cleaning, cooking, and hygiene. And, let's be honest, there's nothing fun about constantly running in and out of your house all evening. If you need any more convincing, here's why experts say it's an outdoor kitchen feature you should never overlook.

Why You Should Add an Outdoor Kitchen Sink

It's not something you have to think about when cooking indoors. You probably don't even realise how often you use your sink – it's just instinctual. But as soon as you start using an outdoor kitchen without a water supply, it suddenly becomes clear just how important this feature is.

'People tend to underestimate how often they need water when cooking outside. It is only once the outdoor kitchen is being used properly, with food being prepared and drinks being served, that the absence of a sink becomes frustrating,' says Michael Sammon, Design Director at Wodar.

And while your indoor sink probably isn't that far away, it's the inconvenience of having to keep flitting between zones, rather than one organized outdoor cooking space that caters to all of your needs. If you're going to invest in an outdoor kitchen, you might as well ensure it's as functional as possible.

'An outdoor sink transforms a simple cooking area into a truly functional kitchen,' agrees Mark Latchford, Director of Landscape Design at HollandGreen. 'It closes the loop between preparation, cooking, and clearing up, making the experience of entertaining outdoors entirely effortless. It’s less about a single feature and more about creating a space that works intuitively with the way you want to live.'

He continues: 'Often, the focus is on the grill or pizza oven, while the practicalities of preparation and clearing are overlooked. The regret comes when people realise that without a sink, they’re constantly breaking the flow of the experience, heading back indoors for every little task. A well-designed outdoor kitchen should feel like a room in its own right, not a satellite of the main house.'

An outdoor kitchen sink isn't an easy (or particularly cost-effective) feature to add in later down the line, so ensuring to include it in your initial plans is key for a well-functioning and seamlessly finished design.

'Water supply, waste, drainage, and the countertop cut-out all need to be thought through before the kitchen is installed, especially if you want the sink to sit neatly within the surface and feel part of the overall design. Retrofitting those details can be disruptive and expensive, which is why it is one of the features people often wish they had included from the outset,' Michael explains.

How To Choose the Right Outdoor Kitchen Sink

When designing an outdoor kitchen with a sink, it should fit beautifully within the rest of the space, rather than sit awkwardly at the end of the countertops. Try to deploy a similar layout as you would indoors, thinking about how you use the space and what makes the most functional sense.

Aside from your outdoor kitchen layout, the style of sink you introduce is also something to think about. 'The key is to integrate it, not just install it. The choice of materials is key to creating a considered, holistic design that will last for many years. At our Longridge House project, for instance, we integrated a countertop sink which complemented the stone work surfaces to create a sophisticated, contemporary entertaining space,' Mark explains.

'[In another project] we set a stainless steel sink into the countertop, with a cover to extend the worktop surface when not in use. In both cases, by treating the sink and its surrounding materials as an integral part of the composition, it becomes a thoughtful detail rather than a purely functional afterthought,' he adds.

You also need to choose the right materials, both for it to function well as a sink and to withstand the outside conditions. 'From a design point of view, an undermount sink can give a cleaner finish, while practical, weather-ready materials and finishes such as stainless steel or brushed brass help it sit comfortably within the wider scheme,' Michael says.

'A deeper bowl is particularly useful outdoors, where you are often dealing with larger trays, barbecue tools, and fresh produce from the garden. A workstation-style approach is especially useful, as accessories such as a chopping board, colander, or draining mat allow the sink area to become part of the preparation zone.'

And just like indoors, your hardware matters, too. 'The faucet should also be considered, specified for outdoor use, but with an elegance that complements the overall design. Much like an internal kitchen, the sink location is often placed away from islands or seating areas, so dirty plates aren’t directly in view,' Mark advises.

Practical Considerations

There are a few extra things to think about when designing an outdoor kitchen with a sink, most importantly, water and waste management. 'The key considerations are where the water will come from, where the waste will go, whether hot water is needed, and how the pipework will be protected in colder weather,' says Michael.

'Adding services like water and waste can increase the complexity and cost of the preexisting garden as pipe work will need to be installed discreetly, so it’s vital to factor this into the budget from day one,' Mark adds.

There are a few options here, depending on budget. If you just require a water supply for rinsing utensils and cookware, there are some designs you can simply link to your hosepipe, like IKEA's modular kitchen designs. However, if you want something more multi-functional, proper plumbing is your best option.

This will inevitably affect the best place to locate your outdoor kitchen. Nearer to the main house is preferable, as that is where the existing water supply and waste will be, and therefore makes connecting new lines easier and less disruptive.

And finally, really think about the materials you use and how they will wear over time. For Michael, function always comes first in the case of an outdoor kitchen sink. 'Material choice is just as important, as an outdoor sink needs to be hardwearing, easy to clean and resistant to staining and corrosion,' he explains.

'When properly thought through from the outset, it makes the whole kitchen feel easier to use, more self-sufficient and better suited to how we are now using our outside space to entertain.'

An outdoor kitchen sink adds function to your cooking space, allowing you to utilize one zone rather than constantly running between your backyard and the house. An outdoor kitchen is an investment, so you want to get it right the first time, and a sink should be at the top of your design list.

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When a heatwave hits, most of us focus on staying cool and looking after ourselves – wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, and keeping our homes comfortable. But soaring temperatures can also take a toll on the appliances we rely on every day.

From working harder than usual to generating excess heat and consuming more energy, some household appliances can become less efficient during periods of extreme heat. In some cases, leaving them plugged in unnecessarily can contribute to overheating, extra wear and tear, and increased energy use.

The good news is that a few simple adjustments can help. In fact, some of the same appliances experts recommend unplugging during a heatwave also feature on the list of items you should always unplug before leaving the house, and before going on vacation, helping to reduce energy waste, minimize potential safety risks, and even support efforts to improve your home's EPC rating by cutting unnecessary electricity consumption.

We asked electricians and appliance experts which appliances are worth unplugging during a heatwave, and why doing so could help keep your home cooler, lower energy bills, and protect your appliances for the long term.

1. Small Non-Essential Appliances

It’s easy to overlook just how many small appliances are plugged in around the home at any given time. From phone chargers and gaming consoles to electric toothbrush chargers and beauty tools, many of these devices continue drawing power even when they’re not actively being used.

'During a heatwave, unplugging anything non-essential can be a surprisingly effective way to reduce unnecessary energy consumption,' says Amanda Nelson, Co-Owner of Young Cardinal Electric. 'Not only does this help limit excess heat generated indoors, but it also reduces demand on local power grids, which are often under increased pressure as households ramp up air conditioning and cooling systems.'

Experts recommend unplugging items such as chargers, personal electronics, gaming consoles, essential oil diffusers, and small beauty appliances when they’re not in use. As a bonus, cutting so-called 'phantom' energy use can also trim your electricity bill and support efforts to improve your home's EPC rating over time.

The advice mirrors guidance around the items you should always unplug before leaving the house: if you don't need it, don't leave it plugged in. During a heatwave, this simple habit can help keep energy use in check while taking a little pressure off both your home and the wider grid.

2. Countertop Appliances

While it’s not practical – or even possible – to unplug larger appliances such as refrigerators or ovens during a heatwave, smaller countertop appliances are a different story. Kettles, toasters, coffee makers, blenders, and air fryers are all easy to unplug when they’re not in use and can be left disconnected until you need them again.

As well as drawing small amounts of standby power, these appliances can be more vulnerable to power fluctuations during periods of high electricity demand. Unplugging them helps reduce unnecessary energy use and removes the risk of appliances being damaged by unexpected power surges.

By contrast, larger appliances are often protected by dedicated circuits and built-in safety measures, meaning they generally don't need to be unplugged during hot weather. Instead, focus on the small appliances you use intermittently. It’s a quick, low-effort habit that can reduce energy waste, help improve your home's EPC rating over time, and is another smart addition to the list of items you should always unplug before leaving the house.

3. Air Conditioning Units And Fans

It may seem counterintuitive to include air conditioners and fans on this list during a heatwave, but there's no need to switch them off if you're actively using them. Instead, pay attention to how hard they're working. Cooling appliances often run almost continuously during extreme heat, which can put extra strain on older models or units with worn components.

‘In the extreme conditions experienced during heatwaves, appliances can be more susceptible to overheating, especially if they are older or have worn components. Unplugging them reduces the risk of overheating, which can lead to malfunctions, damage to the appliance, or even fire hazards,’ says Bill Gilbert, Technical Writer and Resident Appliance Expert at iFixit.

There can also be wider energy implications during periods of prolonged heat. ‘I could imagine unplugging a window-mount air conditioner if there was potential to stress the local power grid,’ says Bill Gilbert, Technical Writer and Resident Appliance Expert at iFixit. ‘California has a "Flex Alert" system where residents are asked to voluntarily reduce electricity use during times of exceptionally high demand, such as heatwaves, to help prevent strain on the grid and reduce the risk of blackouts.’

The key is to use cooling appliances intentionally. If a fan or portable air conditioner isn't needed, switch it off and unplug it rather than letting it run continuously. After all, the goal is to keep a home cool in a heatwave as efficiently as possible, and running appliances unnecessarily only creates extra heat and energy demand.

Setting cooling appliances on a timer can help prevent wasted electricity while ensuring your home stays comfortable when temperatures soar. For a simple, budget-friendly option, the top-rated BN-LINK 24-Hour Mechanical Outlet Timer lets you schedule exactly when fans and portable air conditioners switch on and off. If you prefer smart home controls, the GHome Smart Plug works with Alexa and Google Home from Amazon, allowing you to manage appliances remotely and set customised schedules from your phone.

4. Computers And Home Office Equipment

With so many people now working from home, home office equipment can be an overlooked source of extra heat during a heatwave. Desktop computers, monitors, printers, and docking stations all generate warmth while they're running, and that heat can quickly build up in smaller rooms, making an already warm space feel even more uncomfortable.

Unlike many household appliances that are used only briefly, office equipment often runs continuously for hours at a time. Desktop computers, in particular, rely on internal fans to cool their components, meaning they're constantly pushing warm air back into the room. Add multiple monitors and charging devices into the mix, and your workspace can start to feel noticeably warmer.

When you've finished for the day, it's worth shutting down and unplugging equipment that doesn't need to stay on. Printers, speakers, extra monitors, and chargers are especially easy to disconnect, helping to reduce standby power and prevent unnecessary heat from lingering in your workspace.

If you're trying to keep a home cool in a heatwave, every small source of excess heat matters. Turning off and unplugging home office equipment overnight won't replace air conditioning, but it can help create a more comfortable environment while lowering energy use and giving your devices a break after a long day of use.

5. Appliances That Generate Extra Heat

During a heatwave, it's worth paying attention to the appliances that create unnecessary heat indoors. Table lamps, decorative lighting, and other small electrical items may not seem like obvious culprits, but many bulbs give off heat while they're switched on, subtly warming up a room throughout the day.

If possible, make the most of natural daylight and keep lamps switched off until the evening. It's a small change, but one that can help reduce heat build-up and lower electricity use at the same time.

A heatwave is also a good reminder to check the light bulbs you're using around your home. Older incandescent bulbs generate significantly more heat than modern LED alternatives, which run cooler and consume far less energy.

In my bedroom, I use the Philips Hue Smart 75W A19 LED Bulb, which I purchased on Amazon. I can control the lights directly from my smartphone, and they ended up being one of my favorite purchases from last year's Amazon Prime Day.

Shop Timers and Smart Plugs

Ultimately, keeping your home comfortable during extreme heat often comes down to reducing unnecessary electrical demand wherever you can. Limiting the use of heat-generating appliances and lighting is a simple step that can help keep rooms cooler, cut energy consumption, and ease the strain on both your appliances and the wider power grid.

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I never knew my daily protein shake was suffering from Crowded Blender Syndrome. Normally, I’d pack ingredients all the way to the top, then wonder why it was struggling to blend.

After three weeks of testing the nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender, I discovered the problem was never my ingredients. The real issue was capacity. Ingredients need space to move freely if you want truly smooth smoothies, batters, and sauces. The XL design quickly proved its worth, delivering consistently thorough blends with minimal effort. Its intuitive controls make it remarkably easy to use straight out of the box, quickly earning a permanent spot on my countertop.

Here’s what to expect if you are ready to 'size up' on your best blender and are sick of too many options that don’t make much sense on the control panel.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

Unboxing the product is straightforward and simple. A large box contains the two main parts of the blender and a lid, multiple directions and paper materials, and some plastic and cardboard wrapping. It’s simple to remove the blender, give it a rinse in the sink and get blending.

One of the benefits of this blender is that little to no knowledge is required to get started. It might take a minute to understand which direction the large container and lid need to go to align and click in properly, but then you can get started.

My first impression was one of relief. There were just a few settings to choose from, unlike some options that feel like the equivalent of learning an entire new computer system just to make a shake. Instead, this just has two options for presets like “smoothie” and “pulse,” or you can just choose from low, medium, or high functions. Easy and quick.

Performance

To test this blender, I followed a thorough process that included multiple cooking tests to see how it did with different consistencies and types of foods and drinks.

I made a smoothie, a milkshake, pancake batter, and an icee/slushie. Each process taught me something different about what the blender can and can’t do, and which processes it is best for.

I also tested ease of use before and after the blending process, such as how easy it is to take it apart and wash it, get food out from around the blades, get the lid on and off, and move the entire appliance around the kitchen in spite of the suction cups on the bottom, determined to keep it in one place.

Overall, the blender performed somewhat well across the tests, though it would be nice to have easier features for pouring or scraping food from the bottom to prevent spills, stronger settings, and better ice handling.

1. Pancake Batter

In the first test, I made pancake batter for my favorite recipe, which includes cottage cheese, oats, eggs, and a sweetener like sugar, honey, agave, or whatever you prefer. I was immediately thrilled that I didn’t have to make it in two batches, like I normally have to do with a smaller blender. Instead, I dumped an entire container of cottage cheese in and still wasn’t even close to halfway to capacity. I added multiple cups of oats and the eggs, and still had plenty of room.

I blended this on the medium setting, and the final result was so much smoother than normal, even with steel-cut oats, which can end up not super smooth and a little too gritty in pancakes. I was happy to see the batter run out into the container like a thick liquid, without needing to be scraped out at all except for around the bottom a bit.

This proved the blender does well with higher quantities of food, not just because it has the capacity, but because it seems to blend better when there’s a heavier load to work with.

2. The Ice Test

On the contrary, I helped my child make an icee or slushie with a pile of 10-ish ice cubes and lemonade. The blender immediately struggled to crush the ice and made very loud sounds. The decibel meter read over 90 at one point, and averaged out around 85 when I was using the high setting. This wasn’t a pleasant experience compared to other blenders and food processors that have handled ice much better. The blender did much better when there were just a few ice cubes, such as in a smoothie, versus trying to handle a more significant amount of ice.

In the ice test, we ended up giving up and settling for large chunks of unblended ice. If you frequently use a blender to crush or blend ice, I’d recommend the Ninja Food Power Blender Ultimate System.

3. Smoothies & Milkshakes

I also used the blender to make a milkshake and a smoothie. While both turned out well, thicker mixtures were a little tricky to remove from around the blades. After testing several settings, including the Pulse and Smoothie functions, I found myself relying almost exclusively on the Medium and High speeds, which delivered better results. Rather than pulsing to redistribute ingredients, I often found a quick shake of the pitcher worked more effectively.

Like most blenders, it needs to come to a complete stop before the container can be removed, but thankfully, this only took a few seconds, making the overall blending process smooth and convenient.

Cleaning and Maintenance

This product comes apart into three pieces, not including the motor, for cleaning. I put all of these items: the lid, the middle and removable part of the lid, and the container into the dishwasher without issue. On a typical cycle, the dishwasher thoroughly cleans the container well, possibly even better than smaller blenders because there’s more room for water and soap to get up into the container and move around, removing old food particles.

Some people might struggle to fit the large container into a dishwasher given its size, so keep in mind it might have to be tilted. The suction cups are strong and effective, but not so strong that you can’t easily move it for storage. But overall, it is not a difficult product to clean or store.

How The nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender Compares

This product is larger, slightly less powerful, and much easier to use than other competitors. If you happen to be using a blender frequently with kids around (mine love to make their own milkshakes), this is an excellent option as it’s quite steady, simple, and self-explanatory. For others who want more extensive settings, competitors might be better options. To fully determine how to shop for the best product for you, check out our chef’s guide to blenders, food processors, and juicers.

On the nutribullet website, 118 reviewers have resulted in an overall rating of 4.8. One of the reviewers also noticed the product’s kid-friendly aspects, writing, “I love this blender! It is so easy to use and quickly blends up whatever I am serving. It is perfect for my kids smoothies and blending things like homemade apple sauce.” Another said it “blends smoothies like a dream,” and some reviewers had an easier experience than I did with ice.

On Amazon, ratings average 4.3 of 5, from 85 reviewers. According to a summary of Amazon’s reviews, people found the following helpful and complained most often about the noise level:

Powerful motor (1400W) that handles tough ingredients like greens, seeds, ice, and nuts

XL 72oz pitchergreat for batch blending and family-sized portions

Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup

Automatic smoothie setting for one-touch convenience

BPA-free plastic pitcher

Should You Buy The nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender?

The nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender is an easy recommendation for most households. It’s reliable and efficient, with a durable design that feels built to withstand years of regular use.

While it has a few drawbacks, its generous capacity makes it difficult to beat for anyone regularly blending large batches of smoothies, soups, or pancake batter.

It is particularly well suited to larger families, meal preppers, and home cooks who prefer to batch-cook. Those who appreciate a simple, no-fuss appliance with intuitive controls will also find plenty to like.

However, if someone is sensitive to noise or uses the product primarily for ice blending, they should avoid this product.

What Else to Shop

To help you make the most of your home blender, we have rounded up six of the best accessories, from noise-dampening pads to leftover storage.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

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Personality-led designs are dominating kitchens this year, and one clear shift we're seeing is the return to color. But it's not predictable palettes that are emerging most prominently – it's unexpected pairings that are proving the most sought-after.

Your kitchen color ideas dictate the look and feel of your scheme, and choosing an unconventional duo can take your design from basic to playfully stylish. But how can you ensure you choose colors that actually work?

Fear not – interior designers have a few unexpected kitchen color pairings they say are not only totally stylish, but they're about to be the most coveted for 2026 and beyond. From pops of red to muted hues, these are the combinations worth considering.

8 Unexpected Kitchen Color Duos to Consider This Year

Choosing your kitchen color scheme can be an arduous task, especially with so many shade variations to consider, and then thinking about complementary tones on top of that. But these designer-approved kitchen color pairings make the job easier while giving you some more unique suggestions.

1. Brown and Blue

In a bid to create a more unique scheme with moody color palettes, one emerging pairing that's proving unexpectedly complementary is rich, chocolatey browns with brighter shades of blue.

'We’re moving away from kitchens that rely on one dominant color or overly safe neutral schemes. In projects like Highgate, we’ve paired deep chocolate tones with teal and jewel-like accents to create something much richer and more layered,' says interior designer Laura Stephens.

'The contrast feels unexpected, but it’s what gives the kitchen its depth – it stops the space feeling flat and instead makes it feel more like a room you want to spend time in, not just a functional backdrop.'

2. Deep Red and Golden Yellow

There's no denying the enduring appeal of a burgundy kitchen, but if you want to bring an unexpected twist on this classic look, designers say golden shades of yellow are the perfect companion for a more playful look. It's a color that still brings brightness and warmth, but without the predictability.

'I have a feeling we’re on the verge of a burgundy-and-gold mustard moment. It’s fascinating how the colors of our childhood continue to resurface, only this time with a more refined and sophisticated perspective. A deep burgundy lacquered kitchen paired with gold-mustard walls or wallcoverings and anchored by a striking quartzite feels instantly sexy and artful,' says Joe Waroquier of Joe Waroquier Home.

'For a fresh twist, the mustard could move overhead as a lacquered ceiling, balanced by warm burgundy cabinetry below. These rich, warm hues bring personality, depth, and a touch of nostalgia, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them making a statement in kitchens, cocktail rooms, and butler’s pantries in the near future.'

3. Butter Yellow and Walnut

Butter yellow kitchens are proving enduringly popular, but there's often a temptation to stick to whites and creams alongside these soft hues. However, designers say that richer, darker tones of brown are a great way to create contrast within your scheme.

'Butter yellow and walnut brown is one unexpected pairing likely to gain momentum in 2026. After years of stark white kitchens and cool gray palettes, homeowners are craving spaces that feel softer and more welcoming. Butter yellow brings a sense of lightness while walnut adds richness and depth. The combination brings personality into the kitchen without relying on the bold color combinations that are already starting to feel tired,' says interior designer Lauren Saab.

'One of the easiest ways to use this pairing is with walnut cabinetry and butter yellow walls. Another option is a walnut island paired with butter yellow perimeter cabinets. The key is keeping the yellow soft and creamy rather than bright. When both tones have a muted quality, the combination feels comfortable, sophisticated, and easy to enjoy for years.'

4. Merlot and Oak

Can't decide between a merlot kitchen and a wooden kitchen? Pairing two dark colors might conjure images of a dingy scheme, but when done well, these two shades are the recipe for a deliciously moody and immersive design.

'We’ve been seeing a lot more merlot and aubergine tones showing up in kitchens lately, often in unexpected applications like tiled range hoods or statement millwork. At the same time, mid-tone and lighter oak finishes are making a comeback,' Heather French, Founder of French & French Interiors, notes.

'The contrast between the richness of those deep wine hues and the warmth of natural oak feels incredibly fresh and grounded. They bring both color and texture to a space, so I wouldn't be surprised if we start seeing these two trends paired together in 2026 and beyond,' she explains.

'One approach is to use a merlot or aubergine for lower cabinetry and then go for the lighter or mid-tone oak as your upper cabinetry color. The warmth of the wood helps soften the depth of the color, creating a palette that feels balanced rather than overpowering.'

5. Pale Yellow and Light Blue

Softer, muted hues feel just as relevant right now as deep, moody ones, and as far as kitchen color pairs go, soft yellow and pale blue feel like the perfect balance of playful and classic. And in this design, it's accompanied by hints of red for a truly layered scheme.

'In a recent project, we embraced soft blue and terracotta, paired with buttery yellow accents throughout our client's kitchen and orangery. It's a playful combination that feels fresh and uplifting, creating a space full of personality while still drawing on classic heritage colors,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

'We like to use the softer tone as the foundation and introduce warmer colors through furniture, joinery, and decorative details. In this project, the blue cabinetry provided a calming backdrop, while the yellow added warmth and character.'

6. Deep Red and Airy Blue

Reds are proving a favored color, whether they are used alone or as part of a bold pairing. And if there's one pairing that really seems to be making waves, it's red and blue. There are several tones you can combine, but designers are focusing on the juxtaposition between rich reds and soft blues.

'We've explored a really subtle balance between burgundy red and softer blue tones, which on paper might feel like an unusual pairing for a kitchen, but in practice feels incredibly grounded and natural,' says Laura, explaining that the red brings richness while the blue softens and adds dimension.

'For 2026, I think we’ll see more of these quiet contrasts – color combinations that aren’t about matching, but about creating depth through carefully considered tension between warm and cool tones,' she adds. Here, light blue cabinetry pairs with a burgundy marble island for a striking look.

7. Pale Pink and Oxblood

The return of pink kitchens has proved that even the most unexpected hues can have a redemption, and it's being paired with some truly striking colors. Another hue that's enduringly popular, deep oxblood and muted pinks are a bold yet elegant way to add personality to your cooking space.

'One color pairing I think we'll see much more of in 2026 is pale pink with deep oxblood red. In our Chiswick project, we used very pale soft blush-pink on the cabinetry as a warm, almost neutral backdrop, then introduced a rich red island to create contrast and give the room a stronger sense of identity,' says Sophie Pringle, Interior Designer and Founder of Pringle & Pringle.

'The combination feels far more sophisticated than people often expect; the pink brings softness and light, while the oxblood red adds depth, warmth, and a touch of drama. As we move away from cooler, more clinical kitchen schemes, I think people are increasingly drawn to colors that feel layered, welcoming, and full of personality, and this pairing delivers exactly that.'

8. Greek Blue and Blackened Oak

A bold blue can be tricky to get right in a kitchen. Paired with white, it feels decidedly coastal, and with gray, it can feel outdated. But combined with blackened wood? That's an unexpected combination that feels truly luxurious.

'One of the color combinations I expect to see more of in 2026 is bold blue paired with blackened timber. In our Queens Park kitchen, we used a bold Greek blue across the joinery, contrasting it with black-stained oak, white quartz, tiled island, and brass accents,' says Sophie.

'The deeper timber tones add richness and contrast, preventing the blue from feeling overly coastal or decorative, while the pale stone keeps the scheme feeling fresh and balanced. People are becoming more confident with color, but they're also looking for longevity, and combining saturated blues with natural materials creates a look that feels both timeless and full of character.'

If these unexpected kitchen color pairings prove anything, it's that you don't have to follow the obvious schemes to create a kitchen that is both characterful and enduring. If you're unsure where to start, this year's kitchen cabinet color trends offer plenty of inspiration.

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Fried eggs should be one of the easiest things to cook. In a traditional non-stick pan, they usually are.

Switch to the best non-toxic cookware, however, and the learning curve can feel steep. Stainless steel, for instance, has a reputation for sticking, turning a simple fry-up into a frustrating clean-up job, and leaving delicate eggs in pieces before they reach the plate.

That is what makes the OXO Good Grips Silicone Flexible Turner, available at Amazon, such a kitchen hero. At $12, it is one of the most affordable upgrades you can make for your cookware. Here's why home cooks swear by it.

The smallest upgrades are often the most impactful in a kitchen. While a silicone spatula is hardly groundbreaking, the OXO Good Grips Silicone Flexible Turner is one of the best non-toxic kitchen utensils thanks to its exceptionally thin, flexible edge, which is designed specifically for delicate cooking tasks.

Many cheaper silicone tools or thicker plastic alternatives lack the fine, tapered edge needed to slide cleanly beneath food, often crushing or tearing it in the process. In contrast, the OXO pick slips beneath easily, preventing breaks and easily releasing food from tricky pans such as stainless steel and even cast iron, without scratching cookware surfaces.

Because it is made from silicone, it is safe to use on everything from ceramic non-stick to stainless steel, too, making it a versatile, non-toxic addition to any utensil crock to help care for every type of cookware.

Don't just take our word for it, either. With over 15,000 five-star reviews, shoppers are obsessed with how big a difference a $12 investment made to their cooking.

Verified shopper Brian W. Rossback, for instance, shared, 'I really like these spatulas! I don't care if you are using cast iron, ceramic-coated, Teflon-coated, or stainless-steel pans; this spatula is great.

'It is stiff enough to get under pretty much whatever you are cooking and flip it over, while being flexible enough to get into the edge of the pan. Things don't really stick to the silicone either, so it is really nice not just for flipping, but stirring and mixing in the pan as things cook. No more worries about scratching a surface, and no worries about cleanup afterward as it's non-porous.'

Fellow shopper Cooperator, agreed, dubbing it the 'best spatula, ever!'. They wrote, 'It flips eggs without breaking the yolk; it can chop up hamburger in the pan. It's sturdy but not too stiff. The size and shape make it perfect for cooking anything. It's not too fat, not too narrow. This spatula is right for any job.

'It makes a great gift for those who cook anything at all. It doesn't melt or warp; it holds up against time. I have yet to find another one that even compares to the quality and durability of this spatula.'

What Else to Shop

Securing a seamless cooking experience comes from building up a collection of trustworthy tools that you can rely on for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I have rounded up six of my top picks, and the essential organziers that complement them, to instantly upgrade your kitchen.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, brush up on the worst stainless steel cleaning mistakes that might be ruining your cooking experience.

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I am easily the least coordinated person I know, which is not always a winning combination in the kitchen. Glass and ceramic pieces are constantly at risk of being dropped, which is why plastic has lingered in my cabinets for so long.

Among the worst offenders are my old plastic mixing bowls, now scratched and stained from years of use. As part of my mission to create a non-toxic home, they are high on the list for replacement - and the KitchenAid Stainless Steel Nesting Bowls, available from Amazon, feel like the perfect upgrade.

Durable, versatile, and free from the concerns often associated with aging plastics, they offer a practical alternative that is particularly well suited to small kitchens. Better yet, they nest, taking up less space in my tiny kitchen. Here’s why I think they are worth the switch.

Stainless steel is one of the best options for non-toxic cookware. It is inert, meaning that it does not react with food, does not release fumes or leach harsh chemicals when heated, and is free from synthetic coatings.

While your mixing bowls are unlikely to go in the oven, plastic bowls can warp when heated over a pan for a bain-marie, or chip or scratch, especially if you are using an electric hand mixer, flaking microplastics into your meals.

Stainless steel bowls, such as the KitchenAid, on the other hand, eliminate these risks, staying pristine for longer without chipping or melting. Given they are non-reactive, they do not absorb flavors or odors, either, meaning they can be used just as easily for savory food prep as they are for sweet cake mixes − there's no more fear that my chocolate cake will come with a twinge of the weekend's barbecue marinade.

The KitchenAid bowls feature silicone bases that serve a dual purpose: Protecting the stainless steel from cosmetic scratches when nested together in kitchen storage and preventing the bowls from sliding or spinning while mixing by hand.

For someone as clumsy as me, that extra stability is surprisingly valuable. Whether I'm whisking cake batter or working through a thick dough, the bowls stay firmly in place, reducing the risk of slips, spills, and ingredients ending up anywhere but the mixing bowl. If I do drop one, I won't be worrying about cracks, either.

While I have yet to pick up the bowls for myself, I have spent the last few weeks reviewing the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer, which comes with a stainless steel bowl. It was incredibly sturdy, resisting scratches even against my metal ice cream scoop when portioning cookies. This gives me high hopes for this nesting set of three.

They are small details, but they make baking feel noticeably easier − and a lot less chaotic.

What Else to Shop

Your kitchen is one of the easiest and most impactful places to start when reducing potential toxin exposure in your home. To help you create a healthier cooking environment, I’ve rounded up some of my top picks, from non-toxic kitchen utensils and cookware, to safer drinkware and everyday swaps.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

With your new non-toxic pieces on the way, brush up on how to organize pots and pans to make ample room and avoid a fight through clutter every time you cook.

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Have you ever found yourself preparing or cooking dinner and suddenly thought about how useful it would be to have an additional station that can move around the kitchen with you? A space that offered useful storage for utensils and ingredients, and perhaps even a small bit of countertop space to prep on the go?

Whether your kitchen is spacious or compact, every high-functioning cooking space needs a storage trolley. Usually featuring castors at the base, drawers or shelving for extra kitchen storage, and a counter at the top, it adds storage and prep space wherever you need it in your kitchen.

And while they work in spaces of every size, nowhere do they work harder than in small kitchens, especially with no island. Not only are they a truly functional addition, but there are some truly stylish designs that will become a talking point in their own right. So whether you favor natural wood tones, stainless steel finishes, or something more colorful, these kitchen storage trolleys are the small but mighty feature your cooking space has been missing. Honestly, you'll wonder how you ever lived without one.

A kitchen storage trolley is similar to a portable butcher's block but even more convenient – it simply offers a bit more storage space beneath the counter. It's about adding function to your kitchen without spending a fortune, and with these designs starting from $38, it's an affordable, achievable, and renter-friendly solution.

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A quality coffee machine has become almost as essential to the modern kitchen as a stove or sink. For those of us with limited counter space, however, café-quality coffee often comes at the cost of valuable prep room.

With the new Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus, however, you can have the best of both worlds. Designed specifically for smaller kitchens, this compact all-in-one system delivers espresso, filter coffee, and silky café-style microfoam without dominating your countertop.

With barista assist, it removes all of the guesswork from your morning brew, too. As someone constantly fighting for precious counter real estate, I cannot wait to get my hands on what looks to be a worthy contender for the best espresso machines.

The best coffee makers have a reputation for being bulky. To reach the top spot, they often offer several functions, from multiple brew methods to built-in grinding and milk frothing − and the extra bells and whistles usually equate to more room.

The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Autofroth Espresso Machine, available at Amazon, delivers all of that without the added mass. Measuring just 10.08" L x 12.17" W x 13.43", it is 30% smaller than its predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Café Pro, which we reviewed and gave five stars last year.

Our expert reviewer Lydia Hayman completely fell in love with the original, saying it was the only machine she ever wanted in her kitchen. One of her only criticisms was that the machine was too big, making this launch possibly the thing to make it truly perfect. I will be sure to put it to the test to find out.

As with the original, the Mini is a highly automated machine, with Barista Assist Technology designed to remove the guesswork from making coffee at home. The system will automatically select the best grind and shot size to give you consistent results, no matter if you are a first-time bean drinker or a trained barista. With single and double-shot espresso baskets, three brew strengths, and three hot water settings, every drink can be tailored to your preferences.

And that's just the coffee. The Luxe Cafe Mini Plus also froths your milk, with a hands-free steam wand calibrated for both dairy and plant-based milks. It's shaping up to be one of the best ways to make espresso at home.

What Else to Shop

At just under $500, the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus is also one of the more accessible automatic espresso machines I've come across, offering an impressive range of features without venturing into premium coffee-shop territory.

To help you get the most from your new machine, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite coffee accessories, from storage and organisation essentials to brewing tools that can help take your at-home coffee station to the next level.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which coffee style is best for you? Check out our guide to espresso versus drip for the best morning brew.

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When I learned that the Aarke Coffee Press was made from 100% stainless steel, I knew that I had to put it to the test. With zero plastic, it is the chic way to make a morning brew.

After trialing it at home, I can safely say it did not disappoint. The simple design brews wonderful coffee, with no gritty grounds escaping the quality filter. Even at the premium price point, it is easily one of the best non-toxic coffee makers on the market today.

Here's how I got on with the Aarke Coffee Press, and why this stylish staple will now be a permanent fixture on my counter.

Product Specifications: Aarke Coffee Press

Design and First Impressions

Having reviewed the Aarke Coffee Grinder previously, I expected good things from the Coffee Press. I am glad to say that the high-quality stainless steel has carried over.

Everything about the Aarke Coffee Press (also available at Williams Sonoma) oozes premium quality. The handle feels fantastic in the hand; it is not overly heavy despite the double-walled vacuum stainless steel body, and the polished exterior looks like something you would find in an upmarket coffee shop.

It arrived simply packaged, with no plastic besides a small piece of tape holding the box closed. Inside, the press was nestled in sturdy recyclable cardboard, with a soft bag to protect it from scratches. The matching coffee scoop was wrapped in paper. It is accompanied by an easy-to-read manual that offers suggestions on dosing and grind size, and specific instructions for use with the Aarke Coffee grinder.

What I love the most about this press is that it is plastic-free, with no BPAs in any part of the lid, filter, or plunger. It is pure, durable, non-reactive stainless steel, making it perfectly non-toxic. With a quick rinse, it was ready to use straight out of the box. It could not be simpler.

Performance

The best French presses make making coffee at home simple. Add your coffee grounds, your water, brew, and plunge before serving.

Aarke advises preheating the carafe before using, so I did just that, adding some hot water to let the steel warm up before dumping, drying, and adding my coffee and water.

I used the engraved measurements on the interior of the carafe to brew a four-cup measure, using the 1:12 coffee-to-water ratio to brew just over a single serving. The coffee was steeped for five minutes with the lid turned so that the spout was blocked off to prevent the coffee from cooling down.

I need not have worried about this, however. When the five minutes were up, I touched the exterior of the carafe and found it completely cool. It was as if I had not used the press at all, and it was still fresh out of the box. I was incredibly impressed at just how efficient the double wall insulation was.

Inside, the coffee was still piping hot. The plunger was easy to press down, although I will note that the stainless steel filter does scrape slightly on the stainless steel walls. This creates a small sound, but it is hardly disturbing.

The poured coffee was perfect. The filter kept all the coffee grounds compact and out of the final brew. The coffee was rich and smooth, and according to my partner, who has used it regularly since it arrived, the taste only improved with subsequent use. Whether that is a result of us fine-tuning our method or the stainless steel seasoning with time, I am not sure. Regardless, it makes it a promising investment.

I wanted to further test Aarke's claim that the press can keep coffee warm for up to three hours. To do so, I filled the carafe up to the six-cup measurement and used a food thermometer from Amazon to take readings every hour for three hours.

I preheated the carafe as before and was pleasantly surprised to find that the claim was fairly accurate. After three hours, the water had dropped by 55°F, with the temperature after three hours a comfortable 156°F. We don't generally recommend steeping French press coffee for this long, as you risk over-extraction, but it is nice to know that you are not at risk of a cold brew if you steep a little longer than the suggested five minutes.

Throughout the process, the exterior of the press stayed perfectly cool to the touch. The insulation is next to none.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning a French press always comes with the mildly irritating task of scooping the compacted grounds from the base, but overall, the Aarke is easy to clean.

Because of the large capacity, I found it easiest to use a wooden mixing spoon to reach the base and fish out the coffee to put into my compost. Beyond that the carafe was easy to rinse out. The filter separates with a small screw bolt at the base, making it easy to rinse between the layers and remove any lingering coffee.

All of the parts are dishwasher safe, too, but hand washing is simple enough. Just avoid harsh abrasives to prevent cosmetic scratches. I will note that, being stainless steel, the polished exterior is very prone to water marks if left to air dry, so I suggest towel drying to maintain the shine.

Despite the 34 oz capacity, the press is easy to store in a cabinet or on a shelf and looks good enough to be left on display as part of your coffee station.

How the Aarke Coffee Press Compares

Having used cheap own-brand glass French presses before, the difference is as clear as night and day. You might not be able to watch your coffee brew with the Aarke Stainless Steel Coffee Press; however, the double-wall insulation and plastic-free construction make it a far more elevated brewing experience, without the fear of contaminants.

The top premium contender for the Aarke is the Espro P7 French Press, which has retained its position as the best stainless steel coffee maker for the last few years. Another 32 oz brewer, the Espro is around $5 cheaper on average (at the time of writing). The main difference is in the filter. The Aarke uses a very typical filter comprised of a stainless steel spiral plate, mesh filter, and a cross plate. The Espro uses a patented double wire mesh filter, which is made using BPA-free plastic. As it is BPA-free, it is non-toxic; however, for those who are very particular about 'plastic-free' brews, the Aarke takes the cake.

They both deliver delicious, rich, grit-free coffee with double-wall insulation that keeps coffee warm for hours. Which you choose will come down to your particulars about plastic, BPA-free or not.

Should You Buy the Aarke Coffee Press?

I would absolutely recommend the Aarke Coffee Press to anyone who enjoys French press-style coffee. It is simple to use with premium construction and materials that promise plastic-free brewing.

While the Aarke does come in at a more premium price point ($150 at the time of writing), the quality justifies the investment. The vacuum insulation promises hot coffee without the risk of burns, and the easy-to-hold handle and balanced carafe make for easy pouring. We have noticed a steady improvement in flavour with each use, too, which promises great things for dedicated users. I think it is worth the price, and will be a fantastic find should it drop into any sales.

What Else to Shop

To help you detoxify your coffee routine and create the perfect home café, I’ve curated a selection of my favourite accessories, from non-toxic brewing essentials to smart organization upgrades that make every cup feel a little more special.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

To help start your more mindful routine, consider selecting the best ethical coffee beans next.

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Old homes hold a certain allure, especially when they still have many of the original features. But renovating them requires a careful balance of retaining character and rethinking the whole space to function for a modern-day family, growing and evolving as the homeowners do.

Tucked away in the historic neighborhood of Queen Anne, Seattle, this Arts & Crafts home required that very approach in the small kitchen to reintroduce lost authenticity, while rethinking the layout so it felt more in tune with day-to-day life.

By enlarging the footprint to accommodate the clients' joy of hosting and cooking, taking inspiration from the original features elsewhere in the home, and infusing unique interpretations of historical design features, the kitchen is now a warm, characterful space that functions for every member of the family.

Pair Rich Wood With Light Neutrals For Seamless Flow Between Rooms

In a home where the kitchen connects to the dining and living spaces, a thread, whether it's through color or materials, needs to weave through each to create a sense of cohesion. And with the original features present in this home, rich wood tones and warm neutrals became the palette for the kitchen scheme.

'Once we removed the built-in storage wall that separated the kitchen from the dining room, it became clear that the new space needed to connect visually with the rest of the home. The dining room and front room still feature the original millwork and built-ins, so carrying those rich wood tones into the kitchen was essential for creating a sense of continuity,' says Laura Libby of Edition 82.

'At the same time, I wanted to strike a careful balance. The home has a naturally masculine character, but I didn't want the kitchen to feel heavy or dark. We selected handmade solid walnut upper cabinets with a flat-cut veneer that has beautiful movement, echoing the original tiger oak found throughout the house,' she explains.

'To keep the room feeling light and airy, we paired them with warm off-white painted lower cabinets. An all-wood kitchen would have felt too heavy, and with young children and a beloved family doodle in the mix, painted lowers offered the added benefit of being durable and easy to touch up over time.'

Soften the Kitchen With a Curved, Freestanding Island

An island anchors a kitchen, no matter its size. But when you're designing around more modest proportions, much like this project, it has to work harder, both functionally and aesthetically. And Laura employed a few thoughtful design features to achieve this.

'The kitchen island was one of the most important elements of the entire design and is completely custom. Inside, it features walnut interiors with adjustable peg storage for bowls and plates, as well as custom walnut silverware dividers in the top drawers. Every detail was thoughtfully planned around how the family lives and uses the space,' she explains.

Visually, she wanted it to read more as a piece of furniture than a built-in feature, both to add character and to nod back to the era of the home. 'By incorporating turned legs and an open base, the island feels lighter and more graceful. Being able to see underneath it creates a greater sense of openness and helps the room breathe,' she notes. Yet it's the curved silhouette that truly stands out.

'The curved shape softens the room and improves circulation, while the furniture-inspired detailing gives the island a sense of permanence, as though it could have been passed down through generations. It serves as the centerpiece of the kitchen, bringing together history, craftsmanship, and everyday practicality in a way that feels both timeless and welcoming.'

Embrace Glazed Cabinets For a Traditional Feel

Glazed kitchen cabinets have been re-emerging in designs lately, bringing traditional charm, breaking up long runs of hard surfaces, and allowing light to bounce more easily around the room. It was for these very reasons that Laura felt they would be a perfect addition to this kitchen.

'The kitchen cabinetry was designed to feel as though it had evolved with the home over time. For the perimeter cabinets, I drew inspiration from the Hoosier cabinets and built-in storage pieces that would have been common in a house of this age. I wanted the kitchen to feel historically grounded without becoming overly theme-driven or historically accurate,' she explains.

'The glass-front uppers were a very intentional design choice. Beyond their practical function, they help reflect and bounce natural light throughout the room, preventing the perimeter cabinetry from feeling too heavy. Because we were incorporating rich walnut tones and substantial millwork, the glass adds visual lightness and sparkle while allowing cherished pieces to be displayed rather than hidden away.'

Create Contrast With Dark Countertops

A beautiful white marble feels like the obvious choice if you want to create a kitchen that feels authentic in older architecture and create a softer look. But in a family kitchen, something a bit darker is often favored for reduced maintenance. So a matte black quartz was chosen to bring the visual appeal of soapstone, but with the durability you don't get with natural stone.

'The black countertops play two important roles in the design. First, they provide a historical nod to the hardworking, utilitarian surfaces that would have been common in a home of this era. They ground the space and help reinforce the sense that the kitchen could have always been there,' Laura explains.

'Second, they help maintain the balance of the room. With the warm off-white cabinetry, handcrafted finishes, and abundance of natural light, the kitchen could have easily tipped too soft or delicate. The black counters bring a sense of weight and contrast that keeps the space feeling tailored and substantial,' she adds.

'I've often joked that when I look at this kitchen, I don't see a Queen Anne lady – I see a Queen Anne gentleman. The black countertops are a big part of what gives the room that confident, timeless character.'

Continue a Backsplash Into Open Shelving

No one wants to fill the edges of their kitchen countertops with decor or essentials they like to have within easy reach, and open shelving offers a charming alternative. But instead of introducing them high on the walls, elongating a backsplash into an integrated shelf is not only useful, but also incredibly sophisticated.

'Open shelving has deep roots in kitchens from this home's era,' says Laura, referencing simple designs supported by wooden corbels, which she wanted to incorporate in a more elevated way. 'With so much beautiful wood already present throughout the home, introducing stone shelving helped maintain a more streamlined look.'

And marrying them with the stone kitchen backsplash, with brass brackets for elegance and additional support, felt like a natural move. 'Functionally, the shelves serve several purposes, such as providing a place to display personal touches, helping the kitchen to feel lived in, and reflective of the family that uses it,' she explains.

'They are also surprisingly practical. This family cooks and bakes frequently, and when the back counter is in full production mode, the shelves become valuable overflow space for ingredients, keeping the work surfaces clear without sacrificing accessibility.'

Use Floor Tiles to Add Warmth to a Neutral Kitchen

We often look to cabinetry and colors to infuse warmth into the room, but often, kitchen flooring is the most impactful choice. While wood may seem an obvious choice in an old home, Laura chose tiles with irregular tones to create a traditional feel without leaning too predictable.

'I wanted the flooring to bring warmth, character, and a sense of history to the space. We selected a tile with significant tonal variation, which gives the floor a richness and authenticity that feels appropriate for a home of this age,' she recalls, describing the process of choosing the right tile and grout color 'nerve-racking.'

'With this much variation in the tile, the grout color had an enormous impact on the final appearance,' she explains. 'We also chose to lay the tile in a traditional Versailles pattern. Historically inspired yet timeless, the pattern helps distribute tonal variation more evenly throughout the space while adding another layer of visual interest.'

Quick Tips

• Choose a palette that brings cohesion between rooms
• Make the island work harder, both visually and functionally
• Embrace contrast through your countertops for a more unique design
• Mix cabinet styles for a more dynamic and traditional feel
• Make a chic moment of your backsplash
• Focus on flooring to infuse warmth and character

This kitchen showcases a thoughtful balance of honoring heritage while creating a space that functions for a modern-day family. Details and materials nod to the architecture of the Arts & Crafts' roots, while adding a unique spin for a more elevated look and becoming 'a natural extension of the home's story.'

'Throughout the project, we looked for opportunities to celebrate craftsmanship and showcase the work of local artisans,' Laura concludes. 'The result is a kitchen that feels layered, authentic, and full of character – warm and inviting without sacrificing the historic soul of the home.'

At Homes & Gardens, we believe a kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks. That’s the philosophy behind Dream Kitchens, our new series exploring the world’s most inspiring cook spaces. From clever layouts to the 'it' materials of 2026, we’re uncovering the design lessons tucked inside every home. Join us for an intimate look at the spaces that define modern living – and find the blueprints for your next big project.

Outdoor kitchens are fast becoming the most coveted backyard feature, inviting people to gather and socialize throughout the warmer months. But what do the most on-trend spaces look like in 2026?

There are many ways to design an outdoor kitchen, whether you require something small yet stylish or you want to emulate your indoor kitchen outdoors. But no matter the size or style of your backyard, there are a few styles and features you may not have considered that are among this year's most coveted.

Whether you're starting from scratch or simply want to update your existing outdoor kitchen ideas, this year's trends are the perfect source of inspiration for a more personalized, lived-in space this summer. From elegant pergolas giving you a spot of shade to modular designs that offer flexibility and features that enhance sociability, these are the outdoor kitchen trends to have on your radar in 2026, and why designers can't stop recommending them.

1. Outdoor Kitchen Pergolas

The ability to use an outdoor kitchen is usually weather-dependent, but this year's trends are aiming to change that. Covered outdoor kitchens are on the rise, but in particular, it's pergolas that are pairing seamlessly with alfresco cooking spaces for a mix of pretty design and weather-proof function.

'One outdoor kitchen trend I expect to see even more of this summer is the integration of covered outdoor cooking and dining spaces, particularly outdoor kitchens paired with pergolas,' says Burcu Ercetin of Design & Curations.

'A pergola creates a natural connection between architecture and landscaping while making the space much more comfortable to use. It provides shade for cooking, makes outdoor dining more enjoyable, and helps define the outdoor kitchen as a true extension of the home rather than a standalone feature.'

The beauty of a pergola is that you can marry your outdoor kitchen with the planting throughout your space. Climbers are a beautiful addition, so your outdoor kitchen will not only feel connected to your home but also to your garden, too.

'I especially love when climbing plants like jasmine are incorporated into the structure to soften it and create a more immersive experience, and add a perfect fragrance touch to it,' Burcu adds.

2. More Color and Pattern

In the past, outdoor kitchens have felt more minimalist and almost industrial in style thanks to the materials that best withstand the outdoor climate. But 2026 is the year things get more colorful, textured, and considered, embracing an outdoor kitchen the same way you would an indoor space.

And for Fred Horlock, Design Director at Neptune, it's all about 'adopting a more Mediterranean lifestyle outdoors.' 'The garden is being treated more like an extension to the home, rather than somewhere to have an occasional BBQ,' he explains.

Instead of sticking to white hues and steel finishes, it's the year to embrace color and texture, almost like bringing your indoor kitchen outside. It brings a stronger sense of design, rather than being purely functional, like this charming green outdoor kitchen.

3. Outdoor Islands For a Truly Social Layout

The rise of sociable kitchens is filtering into our backyard spaces this year, with designers and homeowners alike actively seeking ways to make an outdoor kitchen feel more like a hub for hosting, rather than a simple run along a fence line.

The solution? Outdoor kitchen islands function as prep space and seating, so you can cook and serve guests while remaining part of the conversation. It creates a place for people to gather, rather than separating the kitchen from other outdoor living spaces.

In this outdoor kitchen designed by Andrea Goldman, the large island not only extends the usable surface space but also creates ample bar seating, making it a truly social layout.

4. Bold Tiles To Bring More Persoanality

In line with the trend to bring more pattern and color into your alfresco kitchen, outdoor tiles are set to be huge this year, blending style and function seamlessly. And it's a feature that brings a more characterful, lived-in look.

'Within outdoor kitchens, one of the biggest shifts is how much more attention is being paid to the surfaces. People are not just thinking about the barbecue or the countertop anymore; they are looking at tiles as a way to bring in color, pattern, and a bit of playfulness, so the space feels more like their own,' says Lesley Taylor, Interior Designer and Founder of Baked Tiles.

'I do not think there is one particular tile trend everyone needs to follow, because that is the whole point – it should feel personal. Some people might want something bold and decorative, while others may prefer a softer tile that links back to the patio or the planting. It's about taking a very practical area and giving it the same character you would give to a kitchen indoors.'

5. Shaker Cabinets Emerge Outside

More than ever, homeowners are craving an outdoor kitchen that is an extension of the home, rather than being a separate space for dining and hosting. As such, stylish, timeless designs like Shaker cabinetry are beginning to appear more frequently in outdoor kitchen designs, emulating schemes typically found indoors.

'Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with homeowners moving away from temporary, budget-friendly setups and instead investing in kitchens designed to stand the test of time. As we spend more time alfresco cooking, dining, and entertaining, outdoor kitchens have become top of the wish list for homeowners,' says Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr.

'One trend we’re seeing this summer is the rise of outdoor kitchens that mirror the design of the main home. Shaker-style cabinetry creates a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living. By treating the outdoor kitchen as an extension of the home rather than a standalone addition, homeowners can create a space they’re proud to entertain family and friends throughout the summer and beyond.'

6. Modular Designs For Flexibility

An outdoor kitchen is an investment, so allowing the ability for future customization is increasingly sought after, which is why more modular designs are topping trends this year.

'When it comes to outdoor entertaining, we see an expansion. There's a shift from casual grilling to fully functional outdoor kitchens, with the incorporation of outdoor living spaces,' says interior designer Sabah Mansoor.

'One trend in this area is the use of modular stations and cabinets. These modular pieces are proving popular because they allow for layout customization to meet needs and the use of upgraded materials. The result is a sleek, high-end look.'

7. A Step Towards Natural Materials

Similar to kitchen trends indoors, there's a growing momentum for natural materials outdoors, from wood to tumbled stone. More prominent in covered spaces, it's an outdoor kitchen trend that signals the shift away from materials purely chosen for durability, with a greater consideration for elevated design.

'The outdoor kitchen trend we are backing for summer is the kind that looks as though it has already hosted a long lunch, even if the first pizza has only just gone in the oven. People are moving away from outdoor kitchens that feel overly sleek and towards spaces with warmth, charm, and a bit of undone beauty,' says Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca' Pietra.

'Warm-toned limestone is wonderful for this because it does not try too hard. It has gentle variation, a softly tumbled finish, and that lovely always been here feeling that makes an outdoor kitchen feel more inviting. Over time, it deepens, softens, and gathers character, which is exactly what you want from a summer kitchen: something that feels like the beginning of a very good story.'

8. A Stronger Focus on Outdoor Appliances

In 2026, outdoor kitchens are evolving beyond a simple barbecue or grill setup, embracing appliances that create a more functional space. From pizza ovens to drinks fridges, designs are focusing on the features that make these spaces work harder.

'One outdoor kitchen trend I expect to be big this summer is the rise of multifunctional outdoor kitchens that go far beyond a traditional grill. Homeowners are increasingly creating complete outdoor cooking and entertaining spaces that include features such as pizza ovens, smokers, refrigerators, beverage stations, and comfortable seating areas,' says Jackie Armour, Founder of JMA Interior Design.

'A fully equipped outdoor kitchen allows families and guests to cook, dine, and socialize together in one area, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. They also help extend the home's living space. The growing availability of stylish, weather-resistant appliances has also made it easier for homeowners to invest in outdoor kitchens that are both practical and visually appealing.'

If you're planning on investing in an outdoor kitchen this year, take notes. This year's trends focus on personalized designs that go beyond utility, embracing bolder design features that feel like a true extension of your home.

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Stand mixers are kitchen workhorses. They need to be able to handle everything from the most delicate mixing to tough kneading without protest, which is why I was so excited to get my hands on the new super-powerful SMEG Forte Stand Mixer.

I put the 750-watt mixer to the test using my favorite tried-and-tested recipes, and it's safe to say that it is a fantastic addition to the SMEG retro-style lineup, delivering stellar baked results every time and easily vying for a spot on the best stand mixers list.

That said, there are a few tiny snags in using the Smeg Forte Stand Mixer that knocked just half a star off of my final verdict. Here's why I still think it can be worth the investment, and the small details to take into account.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer revives the same classic retro silhouette as the rest of the SMEG offerings, with a curvaceous outline that oozes style and pairs wonderfully with their existing toasters, kettles, and more. Much like the original SMEG 1950s Retro Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years ago, the Forte comes in seven classic SMEG colors, all with stainless steel bowls.

The mixer looks great straight out of the box. It arrived well packaged, in mostly recyclable packaging, using sturdy cardboard and a few fabric bags to prevent the plastic exterior and stainless steel bowl from being scratched. The individual accessories were tucked neatly inside, too.

As with any stand mixer, this thing is not light. Coming in at 21lbs, it is a little lighter than the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer I reviewed alongside it, but it is still not easy to lift from shelves if you wish to store it away. After a particularly tough arm day at the gym, my partner had to move it onto a slightly higher shelf for me when I needed some extra counter space. For general day-to-day use, however, it is so pretty that I suggest leaving it in place on your counter as part of your kitchen decor. Small appliance slide mats, from Amazon, can make it easier to move if required.

After unboxing and rinsing the attachments to remove any factory dust, it was as simple as plugging it in and starting to bake. There are 11 speed settings, an increase of one from the original design, that play into the new, more powerful motor. The SMEG Forte boasts a 750-watt motor, up from their previous 600 watts, and over double that of the new KitchenAid. The idea is that this will limit the risk of burnout, a common problem that plagues heavily used stand mixers. The mixer also promises a slow start, which steadily increases the speed up to the selected setting to avoid ingredients flying out of the bowl. I found this to be somewhat effective, but it was not as gentle as other mixers I have used in the past.

The Forte comes with four attachments as standard: A stainless steel wire whisk, an aluminum dough hook, a paddle beater, and a flex-edge beater. They also include a clear plastic splash guard with a pouring spout that sits neatly on top of the bowl.

Performance

To thoroughly test the stand mixer, I tested four of my favorite recipes that would assess the appliance's ability to tackle everything from thick doughs to delicate cream:

The Cake Test

Victoria sponge cake is a very simple recipe, but it is easy to get wrong. Overmix, and you risk a dense, chewy cake that is miles from the lightweight, melt-in-the-mouth result you're hoping for. For this reason, I usually hand-mix this batter for precision.

I started by creaming together the butter and sugar using the flex-edge beater attachment. It powered through the mix easily enough, slowly reducing it down to a light and fluffy paste; however, I did notice some sticking around the edge of the bowl. I think this is because the flex-edge silicone only lines one side of the beater, meaning the other is exposed aluminum. As a result, you only get half the scraping power. I had to stop before adding more ingredients to scrape the edges down.

I proceeded as usual, alternating between adding the flour and eggs so as to prevent the batter from splitting. I did this on a low speed to avoid overmixing the dough, especially when adding the final few measures of flour. This is the part when I usually turn to folding the mix with a spoon slowly to keep the air in. The SMEG was a little heavy-handed for this, even on the lowest speed, but it incorporated everything evenly nonetheless. Power is this mixer's forte,' if you'll pardon the pun, more so than precision.

I admittedly shared and ate the cake too quickly and forgot to take a photo, but it came out evenly with no clumps of flour and rose nicely. It wasn't as fluffy as mixing by hand, but it was still perfectly passable.

The Whipped Cream Test

Whipping cream requires high speeds, so I had a good feeling that the SMEG Forte would excel here.

Adding plain double cream to the bowl, I turned the whisk attachment onto a mid-high setting and let it work. The slow start stopped cream from flying up to the splash guard, which was nice to see, even if it was not the slowest build-up I have ever seen in a mixer. It was a little loud in the process, but nothing uncomfortable. It was as expected from a motor of that size.

It very quickly thickened the cream to a spreadable consistency, ready to be spread onto my cake.

The Bread Test

With its more powerful motor, I paid particular attention to the bread test, making my standard focaccia dough. It was a lot easier than mixing by hand and produced a wonderfully airy bread that sprang up when compressed.

The process of making the dough raised a few concerns, however, most notably in the movement of the mixer head. As with most stand mixers, the speed is limited when using the dough hook to prevent burning out the motor, but that was no issue for me. I did find an issue in fitting the dough hook, however. The metal didn't slot together neatly and felt like it was scraping or catching on insertions, needing a bit of force to get it into place and twist to secure. It made the whole appliance feel a little bit less premium.

That said, even on the slowest speed setting, on a high-hydration dough, the head 'bounced' as it mixed. SMEG claims its head movement is there to mimic the natural movement of hands kneading dough for consistent results; however, this is a 'feature' most stand mixers struggle with, which can loosen the head joint over time. I am not entirely convinced by it. Overall, however, I didn't experience any damage in my time testing, nor did the appliance rock or otherwise move on the counter as I worked.

The handled bowl made the dough easy to move around while the dough was proofing, and all in all, I was very impressed by the texture of my sweet cinnamon sugar focaccia.

The Cookie Test

The final test is cookies, used to assess the mixer with another dough type, and the ease of moving the bowl from the counter to the fridge. I used my base cookie recipe for this to make a chewy chocolate-chunk treat.

This mix is usually a nightmare to make by hand, giving me a shoulder ache by the end, so it was nice to take some of the effort out. As with every other recipe, the paddle attachments distributed ingredients nicely, combining them evenly without any lumps or clumps. It also folded the chunks of chocolate evenly, with no sign of rocking or struggling as it worked.

As I refrigerate my cookie dough overnight (at the very least), I removed the bowl, covered it with foil, and put it in the fridge. The bowl is rather squat in size, being wider than it is tall, which made this very easy to do without having to adjust the height of my shelving. It didn't feel heavy in my grip, either, even with the dough inside.

After baking, the cookies were perfectly chewy, with crisp edges that gave way to an almost Stroop-waffle-esque interior. It was another easy win.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer was easy. The removable components are dishwasher safe, with the exception of the wire whisk. I hand-washed all of the pieces and found that even sticky bread dough came away with ease after a small stint soaking to loosen the oils. I always use a soft dish sponge and non-toxic soap, such as the Attitude Dish Soap from Walmart.

The exterior of the appliance, being shiny plastic, can then be buffed down with a damp cloth and dried to remove splatters and fingerprints.

It was as I was washing the bowl after the cookies that I realised that I had damaged it. When portioning cookies, I have always used my metal ice cream scoop from Walmart. It helps me achieve nice, even balls of dough for evenly sized cookies. I had used the same tool to portion dough from my KitchenAid with no issue, and given that stainless steel is a metal utensil safe, I used it without a second thought in the SMEG. After washing, the deep scratches made themselves known.

I flicked back through the manual and couldn't find any warnings against using metal in the bowl, so I didn't put this down to user error. That said, it is important to note that this bowl is more delicate than it looks.

How The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer Compares

When trialling stand mixers, I tested the Smeg Forte alongside the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer. Both delivered great results on the same bakes, and I would be hard-pressed to tell them apart if I were blindfolded. That said, the process of using each machine varied, and put the KitchenAid half a star ahead.

Both machines come at a premium price so far as stand mixers are concerned; however, for $50 more, the Artisan Plus offers greater precision control, including a folding speed and a bowl light. Even with a more powerful motor, these were two features I missed severely when using the SMEG Forte.

The general consensus online seems to agree that the Forte, while a great option, may not live up to alternatives. Another professional review, for instance, experienced the bowl rocking under the force of the mixer. While I did not experience this myself, it suggests that it might not be quite sturdy enough to withstand its own amped-up motor.

Shopper reviews are more positive, with the bulk of the praise falling on the cult-favorite retro design. Many Amazon shoppers, for instance, love that it matches their existing SMEG investments. Giving it five stars, shopper M commented, 'I love to bake and was finding making bread and similar products tedious due to the amount of hand kneading. The initial shock and slight buyer's remorse due to the price were instantly gone upon my first use! This machine can handle all types of dough, cookies, squares, buns, etc. If you are looking for a stand mixer and want something sturdy that can get the job done, I highly recommend this product!'

Of the one-star reviews, of which there are very few, customers report a range of issues from cords arriving broken to the tilt head mechanism not holding, and even the appliance not always turning on. None of us appeared to have the same issues, which suggests to me that there may be some quality-control concerns with the odd few appliances. It is worth noting that the overall reception is very positive, however, and these mark only a small section of shoppers.

Should You Buy The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer?

All in all, if you value aesthetics and bake occasionally, I do recommend the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer. It ultimately performed well on all of our tests, delivering tasty baked goods, but it just fell a little short in comparison to others on the market in terms of operation. It wouldn't suit someone running a cake business from their home, but it is a fun-looking addition for the occasional home cook.

If you already have an existing stand mixer that performs well, I do not see a need to rush to upgrade, especially with a recommended retail price of $549.99 at the time of writing. I would wait for a sale to invest.

What Else to Shop

Looking to create a cohesive appliance suite or simply elevate your baking setup? I’ve rounded up my favourite SMEG appliances alongside a selection of baking essentials to help outfit your kitchen in style, without compromising on non-toxic materials or performance.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to make your baking setup more professional? We asked professional organizers for their best tips for storing bakeware to keep kitchens tidy.

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There’s a certain charm to kitchen buys that look like they belong in a high-end espresso bar but cost less than a takeaway coffee. ALDI’s Crofton moka pot–style coffee maker does exactly that. With its sleek silver finish and modern silhouette, it has a designer-look appeal that wouldn’t look out of place in a contemporary kitchen, especially one where every detail has been chosen with care and consideration.

For style-conscious coffee drinkers, ALDI has tapped into something people really want right now: everyday objects that feel considered, good-looking, and easy to live with. This isn’t just a coffee gadget sitting in the background. It’s the kind of piece that earns its place on the counter.

Even better, the Crofton moka pot lands in stores from 17 June, making it one of those ALDI Specialbuys likely to disappear quickly once coffee lovers spot it. As someone who already owns the Bialetti Moka Express – the original moka pot design, available on Amazon – I can completely see why more affordable, design-forward alternatives like this are finding a new audience.

Bring A Classic Coffee Ritual Home

At first glance, it has all the familiar moka pot details: the compact metal body, the simple stovetop setup, and that no-fuss feel people have loved for decades. But ALDI's version gives the classic design a more modern edge. The soft silver finish and clean lines make it look far more expensive than it is, and it fits effortlessly into contemporary kitchens without screaming for attention.

I once read a line in an Italian cookbook that stuck with me: ‘At the bar, we drink espresso. At home, we make moka.’ After travelling across Italy – from the Dolomites to Naples – I realised how true that is. In so many kitchens, a moka pot sits permanently on the stove, usually a well-used Bialetti, ready for the next coffee. It’s not treated like a gadget, just part of everyday life.

Over the years, that ritual has travelled far beyond Italy, too. Moka pots have become a staple in homes across Europe and the US, especially for people who want richer coffee without investing in a huge espresso machine.

Designer-Look Without The Designer Price Tag

What also stands out is how good this little brewer looks for the price. It has that understated, designer-look finish that feels far more expensive than it is – the kind of thing you’d expect to spot in a styled kitchen showroom, not during a weekly ALDI run.

And that matters more these days. Modern kitchens are more open and lived-in now, so appliances have become part of the overall look of the space rather than something tucked away in cupboards. This moka pot fits naturally into that shift. It’s simple, clean, and modern without trying too hard.

Of course, it’s not trying to rival a high-end espresso machine. There’s no automation or café-level precision here, and it does need a little hands-on attention when brewing and cleaning. But that’s part of the charm. It feels refreshingly low-tech in a world full of overly complicated appliances.

Part of the buzz around ALDI’s Crofton range comes down to the Specialbuy factor. These kitchen finds arrive in limited runs and rarely stay in stock for long, especially once they start gaining attention online. With stylish, affordable coffee tools like this in particularly high demand right now, I’d predict this moka pot will sell out quickly once it lands on shelves.

Shop Alternative Moka Pots

If you can’t get to an ALDI store – or you’re simply looking for a higher-end alternative – there are plenty of excellent moka pots available. Below are some of our favourites, including models we’ve personally tested and recommend.

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Taking on a historic home is a big responsibility, and restoring it to its original character is an even larger endeavor. And so often, the kitchen becomes the trickiest room to get right, simply because it would never have existed in the same way it does today.

When the team at Artichoke was brought in to revive the kitchen in a grand Victorian home, they were tasked with transforming a muddle of small rooms into a welcoming kitchen and pantry worthy of the grand proportions. All while reintroducing as much original charm as possible, so it felt as though the kitchen had always been there.

With a thoughtful blend of materials, a playful mix of colors, and a unique approach to storage, this once awkward corner of the house is now the true centerpiece of the home, a traditional kitchen perfectly poised for hosting, socializing, and serving as a space for the whole family.

Let Historic Architecture Lead the Design

When you're designing rooms in a historic property, you already have the striking architecture to lead the design, and in the case of this kitchen, the Victorian estate boasted a rich history that the owner was keen to restore and emphasize. And it started with the existing features and taking cues from Victorian design.

'The inspiration came directly from the house itself. We looked closely at the language of Victorian interiors – the tapered legs of our bespoke Cook's Table, paneled moldings, generous proportions, and rich paint finishes – and interpreted them in a restrained way,' explains Anthony Earle, Artichoke’s Creative Director.

'The aim was to create a family kitchen that felt entirely at home within the architecture, embracing period character while discreetly accommodating modern conveniences. Every decision was made to ensure the room felt as though it had evolved naturally with the house,' he continues.

'Rather than creating a perfectly coordinated scheme, we designed a composition of individual elements that feel as though they have been accumulated over generations. Different materials, finishes, and pieces of furniture sit alongside one another, creating a layered and highly personalized interior.'

Create Contrast and Character With a Colorful, Freestanding Island

Neutral kitchen colors are popular for a reason – they're classic and allow the kitchen to evolve. But contrast is key, and in this design, the freestanding island benefited from a bolder color – a rich terracotta red that instantly adds warmth and interest to the space.

'The island was conceived as a Victorian cook's table rather than a contemporary kitchen island. By treating it as a freestanding piece of furniture, it introduces a sense of lightness and historic reference,' says Anthony, noting the warmth and personality it brings to the space while 'providing a beautiful contrast to the lighter walls and natural timber surfaces.'

Inspired by the home's Victorian architecture, they took a more traditional approach to painting the island. 'In hand finishing the Cook’s Table, we replicated the feel of many layers of oil-based paint accumulated over time. It becomes a cheerful focal point within the room whilst reinforcing the feeling that the kitchen has evolved over time.'

Reinstate the Range as the Heart of the Kitchen Through Thoughtful Design

For many, the island has become the heart of the kitchen, but traditionally, the range was the true hub of the space, bringing warmth and sustenance, usually set into a fireplace. And, in keeping with the home's history, Anthony was keen to ensure it was reinstated as the room's true focal point.

'Historically, the hearth was the heart of the home, and we wanted to restore that sense of importance. The symmetry of the composition anchors the room and gives the range a natural sense of belonging. Originally, the overmantel was to be painted stone so it would appear to have been there many years,' he explains.

'However, the client fell in love with the stone in its natural state, so we left it as it was. The limestone chimney piece adds a degree of historical gravitas, making it feel as though you have discovered the center of the house rather than a modern kitchen installation. It provides both visual order and a strong architectural presence.'

The blue range cooker complements the terracotta and green tones also present in the design, while a tiled kitchen backsplash adds a traditional design feature, and shelves create space for recipe books close at hand. The antique brass pot hanger and pot filler further enhance the aged look that adds so much charm to the space.

Make Storage Functional, Yet Elevated in Design

A traditional kitchen thrives with a more thoughtful approach to storage compared to the built-in approach of modern schemes. Filling this kitchen with rows of uniform cabinetry would have taken away the character and historic flair the clients wanted, so creating kitchen storage that didn't feel utilitarian was key, including an additional room.

'The pantry performs an important supporting role, allowing the main room to remain open and sociable. Within the kitchen, we incorporated deep drawers, utilized existing wall cavities next to the hearth, and designed storage that feels integrated into the architecture. This allows the room to function exceptionally well without becoming dominated by cabinetry or appliances,' Anthony explains.

The goal was to create a kitchen that felt original to the home, which meant finding unique solutions to hide modern amenities. 'By housing the refrigerator within a larder-style cabinet, which we set back into the wall, we were able to keep contemporary technology discreet. A large stainless steel appliance would have introduced an unnecessary visual interruption. Concealing it allows the architecture, materials, and craftsmanship to remain the focus.'

Double Up On Sinks

A family kitchen needs to be functional for more than one person at a time. In order for someone to be cooking or cleaning while others access the kitchen, a layout with two sinks was chosen here, with a small one on the island for easy access from the range, and a larger statement sink along the perimeter countertops to serve as the main basin.

'The kitchen is designed to work hard for a busy family, so two sinks simply make everyday life easier. The main solid soapstone sink, carved from a single block and also mirrored on the shelves, is dedicated to washing up and is incredibly hardwearing, while the secondary sink serves as a preparation area,' Anthony recalls.

'We designed a sacrificial frame around the sink, which can be replaced if the wood becomes damaged over time. There’s even a little hot tap on the side run for making drinks and cooking – everything has been considered. This separation allows multiple people to use the kitchen comfortably at the same time and supports the room's role as both a practical workspace and a social gathering place.'

Mix Materials For an Authentic, Dynamic Scheme

In the same way that contrasting colors bring interest to a kitchen, mixed materials have the same effect while allowing you to introduce new textures and tonality. But in this kitchen, it was an important addition to create a lived-in, characterful space that truly felt at home in the historic architecture.

'The guiding principle was to create the impression of a room that had evolved naturally over many decades. Victorian interiors were rarely composed of a single material palette. Instead, they were layered and assembled over time,' Anthony explains.

'We combined soapstone, oak, aged sycamore, painted timber, brass, and glazed cabinetry, selecting each material for its character, durability, and authenticity. What unites them is their quality and honesty. They belong to the same vernacular family, even though each has its own distinct personality,' he adds.

'The result is a room that feels collected rather than designed, with a depth and richness that rewards closer inspection.'

Quick Tips

• Lean on architecture to guide a room's design
• Add small doses of color to bring personality into the kitchen
• Make the range area work harder, both in function and design
• Elevate storage with unique designs
• Let the materials do the talking
• Don't be afraid to add additional essentials if it allows the kitchen to work harder

This kitchen is not only a lesson in how to get traditional design right in 2026, but it also shows how to mix different materials for a more dynamic design. Nothing about this space is boring or predictable, from the additional sink to the striking range area.

'The success of the room lies in the harmony of all its parts. The limestone chimney piece undoubtedly provides a powerful focal point, but it is balanced by countless smaller moments – the cheerful painted Cook's Table with its solid sycamore top, the soapstone sink with its curtain beneath, the glazed oak dresser displaying treasured collections, and the varied materials throughout,' Anthony explains.

'Together, they create a kitchen that feels entirely unique to its owner and entirely rooted in the house. The hope is that it will continue to evolve and be enjoyed for generations to come.'

At Homes & Gardens, we believe a kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks. That’s the philosophy behind Dream Kitchens, our new series exploring the world’s most inspiring cook spaces. From clever layouts to the 'it' materials of 2026, we’re uncovering the design lessons tucked inside every home. Join us for an intimate look at the spaces that define modern living – and find the blueprints for your next big project.

Gone are the days of non-toxic pans costing a small fortune. As we become more mindful of the materials in our kitchen, a growing number of affordable options are proving that creating a healthier kitchen does not have to break the bank.

IKEA is a great example. Their non-toxic cookware is some of the best (trust me, I've tried some of it). Their latest success? A $25 stainless steel sauté pan that handles mid-week meals with ease.

Simple, durable, and refreshingly affordable, it makes cooking cleaner without the eye-watering price tag. It's perfect, according to shoppers. Here's why

Stainless steel is a premium choice for non-toxic cooking. Completely inert, safe for use with metal tools, and suitable for both the oven and stovetop, it offers greater versatility than delicate ceramic coatings or heavy cast iron.

The drawback is that it isn’t naturally non-stick, which can feel intimidating for less confident home cooks. But there’s no need to worry – having once been wary of cooking with stainless steel myself, I can say the learning curve is surprisingly small, with the Leidenfrost effect helping to achieve even sears without sticking.

Heat the pan over low to medium heat for a few minutes, then sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. When it’s ready, the droplets will glide across the pan before evaporating. At that point, add your oil and cook as usual – it’s that simple.

Because the IKEA pan is so affordable, it’s an ideal place to start. You won’t be stressing about the investment while you get comfortable with the technique, leading to a more relaxed, confident approach to cooking.

The beauty of the sauté pan is how many tasks you can use it for. From simmering to frying, it can move from stove to oven and from oven to table seamlessly, without adding to the pile of dishes by the sink. It is dishwasher-safe too, so cleaning the kitchen after dinner is a breeze.

While I have not tested this exact pan myself, the hundreds of five-star reviews from verified shoppers speak for themselves.

Verified shopper Jannett shared in their five-star review, 'It is lighter than other brands of 3- or 5-clad stainless steel pans, and the best thing is it is 9”, not 10”. It does not take up much stove space when cooking. It heats up pretty fast as well. Great for cooking one-pot pasta. It is also very easy to clean.'

Cindy added, 'I love all 365 items; they're very durable. I've had the pots for 15 plus years, and they're still in great shape.'

It's a small investment in your long-term health and well-being. What's not to like?

What Else to Shop

As with many smaller IKEA essentials, you can pick them up in-store or unlock home delivery by spending over $35. If you’re anything like me, home ordering is the safer option – an IKEA trip usually ends with three boxes of things you never planned to buy.

To help you reach the threshold, I’ve rounded up six of the best IKEA cookware accessories to bulk out your basket.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

To help you separate fact from marketing fiction, I have created a guide to cookware labels and myths, so you can identify truly non-toxic cookware and choose the best cookware for your home.

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There is nothing that screams summer like firing up the grill – the smell, the family-style meals, the gathering of friends under the sun. It's a time-honoured tradition, but it is not free from stress.

Even the best grills can make outdoor cooking difficult, be it food sticking, getting the right temperature, or having to watch it like a hawk to prevent burning. That's why Ninja's Woodfire Pro Electric Grill, available at Amazon, is number one on my summer shopping list, offering safer, quicker grilling without the fuss.

It does it all, from grilling to air frying, taking the guesswork out of summer feasts, and with $100 off in the run-up to Father's Day weekend, it is one of the best gift options too.

There tends to be some apprehension around electric grills, specifically around the lack of traditional flavor. The Ninja Woodfire Pro, however, uses real wood-burning pellets to develop that signature smoky taste without the live flame.

We reviewed its predecessor, the Ninja Woodfire, and we were seriously surprised by its performance. Despite being electric, our reviewer, Alex Temblador, shared, 'There was a delicious smoky flavor to the fish and vegetables that wasn’t overwhelming. The char created by the grill grate was incredible, too.' If the hundreds of five-star Amazon reviews are anything to go by, it is safe to say that the Pro version continues this legacy.

The added Bluetooth functionality further takes the guesswork out of cooking. While traditional grills require you to stand to attention, the Woodfire Pro uses an app to keep tabs on the progress of your meal, allowing you to monitor temperatures and adjust settings from the comfort of your outdoor dining area, so you don't have to break from socializing with guests.

What really sets the Woodfire Grill apart from your standard picks is the versatility. Ninja never shies away from functionality, and the Woodfire Pro is no different. With grill, BBQ, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate settings, there are very few limits to what this single appliance can do. It could safely replace an entire outdoor kitchen, catering to almost any cuisine for any al fresco dinner.

It's proof that you do not need to overspend on grills to achieve superb results.

What Else to Shop

To help you get summer hosting off to the best start, I have curated the best barbecue essentials designed to complement your new Ninja Woodfie Pro, from non-stick saviours to stylish accessories.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking for something a little more permanent? Consider designing an outdoor kitchen for a year-round hosting setup bound to impress.

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We've reached that time of year when it becomes abundantly clear which trends have a long-lasting place in our kitchens and those that are already beginning to feel overdone and entirely predictable.

This year's kitchen trends forecast promised a great variety of design features and approaches, and while many have legs to become classics, others are already on the way out, feeling already dated and perhaps not as elevated as they once were perceived.

From endless fluting to colors that have lost their wow factor, these are the kitchen trends designers say already feel overdone and out of style for 2026, and the design features they say you should try in their place.

1. Fully Fluted Cabinetry – Use It As An Accent Instead

The fluted kitchen cabinet trend made major waves, and while the textural finish adds character and tactility to schemes, designers say it's already beginning to feel overdone and out of style in 2026.

'Fluted wood everything, from cabinet fronts to range hoods to islands. I understand the appeal, and I love the way fluted texture brings dimension and depth to a kitchen. But I don’t think fluting is quite as timeless as other traditional hand-carved wood details,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

'Beyond the appearance, it’s also worth noting that most fluted cabinetry is finished with wood veneer, which is generally less durable than solid wood. I recommend opting for solid wood cabinetry. It's more expensive upfront, but it's a material with genuine integrity, one that can actually be refinished and repaired over time.'

However, just because a kitchen filled with fluted cabinetry is falling out of favor, that doesn't mean fluting in its entirety is going with it. Introducing this textured detail in smaller, more intentional doses is a more elevated and timeless way to embrace the trend.

'The biggest problem with trends is that they start as something inspirational, but then a line gets crossed, and they become overdone. Fluting or reeding is a great example of that. Adding the material to spaces is a perfect way to achieve interest and texture, but it shouldn't be used everywhere,' says interior designer Allison Lind.

'I still love it as an accent, but instead of paneling every cabinet door with it, choose some select drawer fronts to accent or wrap a curved island edge to soften the room. We apply particular trends because we love something about them – applying them in moderation helps that feature feel special rather than overpowering.'

2. Over-Grouted Stone Backsplashes – Always Consider the Style of Home First

Large slab kitchen backsplash ideas have dominated trends recently, especially with heavy grout lines for a more authentic look. It still works beautifully in the right kitchen, but its overuse in properties that don't suit the style has made the trend feel less inspiring.

'While we love this European influence, if it does not fit the overall architecture, it can feel too forced. We love the continued use of natural materials, but keep this intentional design choice unified with the vibe of the home,' says Sadie Beachy, Principal & Creative Designer of S.Flynn Design + Build.

'For example, if the home has a brick exterior, use over-grouted brick for the backsplash. We are also still loving pulling the natural stone countertop up 18” as the backsplash and then adding the architecturally authentic material choice above,' she suggests as an alternative that feels more sympathetic to a home's bones.

'This keeps the kitchen design very cleanable but offers the ability to be very unique and personal for each home. Please don’t get us wrong. We are all for an over-grout moment, as long as it is elsewhere throughout the house, like the exterior or fireplace.'

3. Kitchens Filled With Smart Features – Embrace Analogue Living

So far, 2026 is proving to be the year of disconnection – not from people, but from technology. And kitchen trends have seen the strongest shift, with homeowners gravitating away from high-tech features towards a more analogue way of living. From appliances linked to phones to having a TV in your cooking space, these once-coveted features are now being left off the wish list entirely.

'Smart features seem to be everywhere these days, and kitchen appliance makers are certainly heeding this trend. Everything from smart refrigerators (that create your grocery list for you!) to ice makers to ovens to dishwashers is being marketed to homeowners as another way to make life easier and faster,' says Maggie Griesbeck of MNG Design.

'While the convenience factor may be appealing to some, I also see some of my clients pushing back on this available technology. Rather, they want a kitchen where they do not need their phone to turn on the coffee maker; they want to press a button. Older clients, especially, do not want to be reliant on technology; inevitably, something will go wrong, whether it is the technology itself or the user, and your dinner is still completely frozen!'

4. Oversized Kitchen Islands – Don't Choose Performance Over Practicality

At the start of the year, oversized kitchen islands were having a moment, but unless the scale of your space calls for a larger centerpiece to balance proportions, it's a trend that feels forced and can often impede the flow and function of your kitchen layout.

'Kitchens have been moving toward larger and larger islands, often becoming sculptural centerpieces with dramatic stone applications and exaggerated proportions. While they can be beautiful, many have started to feel more performative than practical,' says Vanessa Katzen, Founder and Principal of Vanessa Katzen Design.

'For years, bigger was considered better, but many homeowners are now questioning whether these spaces truly work for everyday life,' agrees interior designer Laura Stephens, who says that more compact but multi-functional designs are proving more beneficial in kitchens of varying sizes and styles.

'Instead, we're seeing a move towards more thoughtful layouts with smaller, more flexible pieces that encourage gathering and conversation. Kitchens are becoming softer and less formal, with furniture-inspired islands, worktables, and defined zones replacing the one-size-fits-all approach.'

5. Taj Mahal Countertops and Light Oak Kitchen Cabinets – Add More Character

Over the past year, wooden kitchens have established themselves as one of the most timeless choices you can make, but one specific pairing has become rather repetitive and leaves little room for unique design – light oak cabinetry with Taj Mahal countertops.

'These two things on their own are a great combination, but we need more. Let’s bring in some darker wood tones or painted cabinetry. We have seen just those two items paired together a lot, making a perfect starting point. Build off of that, add more character and intentional details,' says Sadie.

Dark wood kitchens are a perfect compromise for something a bit richer, or you can try colored stains that add personality while still showcasing the beautiful wood grain. Equally, you could swap out the countertop for a rich soapstone or an unexpected burgundy marble slab.

6. Kitchens Covered in One Trending Dark Color – Take a More Layered Approach

We love a trending kitchen color as much as anyone, but the application has to be right. Moody palettes are proving an enduring look, but not when the space is filled with one statement color that loses its lustre after a few months. And some of the deep, dark tones most coveted for 2026 are having that effect.

'I'm seeing fatigue around some of the more trend-driven kitchen colors that have dominated social media over the past couple of years, particularly very dark charcoal cabinetry and heavily saturated trend tones used throughout an entire scheme. They can look striking initially, but they're often quite difficult to live with long-term and can date surprisingly quickly,' says Laura.

'What feels far more relevant for 2026 is a softer, more layered approach to color. We're gravitating towards complex neutrals, natural timber finishes, and materials that bring warmth and texture rather than relying on a single statement color. Kitchens are becoming quieter and more sophisticated, with interest coming from craftsmanship, grain, stone, and patina rather than bold color alone.'

This doesn't mean that moody kitchen colors are out of trend. They still feel chic and elevated for a dark statement, but it's about how you introduce and layer them with other shades and materials, whether it's lighter colors, metallics, or creamy neutrals.

7. Oversized Range Hoods – Only Do It If It Actually Works for the Space

We can agree that a covered range hood always looks better than an exposed one. This is why the trend for oversized hood coverings became a huge look, transforming something functional into a stylish focal point. But for designers, the approach has become too big, both in size and popularity.

'We love a beautiful oversized hood, but if it doesn’t functionally work in a small kitchen or fit with the architecture of the home, this wouldn’t be our suggestion. For example, if there is no other plaster or European influence in the home, adding a hood with those elements would not be the correct choice,' Sadie explains.

In many kitchens, an oversized range hood can feel imposing and dominate the space, rather than blending seamlessly with the rest of your design. It goes back to understanding how to balance the proportions as well as introducing details that work with the existing architecture.

'Consider what the rest of the house is, having the scale and finish of the hood flow with other elements in the home. If the hood is oversized, it is already going to be visually dominant. Have it blend with the neighboring wall color, backsplash, or upper cabinets.'

8. Lacquered Paint Finishes – Choose Softer Textures

Kitchen paint finishes are critical to both style and function, which is why we often see the same finishes across designs. Lacquered paint rose in popularity recently as a more unique finish, mainly on kitchen cabinetry, but it's one that's starting to feel uninspiring.

'Highly lacquered, glossy kitchens are beginning to feel overdone. They were hugely popular for their sleek appearance, but now they can feel somewhat clinical and disconnected from the warmth people increasingly want in their homes,' says Sophie Pringle, Founder of Pringle & Pringle.

'The kitchens we're designing now place far greater emphasis on craftsmanship and materiality. Clients are drawn to timber, texture, visible joinery, and thoughtful detailing because these elements bring character and longevity. Rather than striving for perfection, people are embracing kitchens that feel layered, lived-in, and unique to them.'

9. Ultra-Minimalist Spaces – Add In Freestanding Furniture

Minimalist kitchens will always have their place, but that doesn't mean the approach to these pared-back spaces can't change. In fact, we are already beginning to see a shift away from the sleek, fully-integrated designs that prevailed at the beginning of the year.

'The trend that already feels overdone to me is the ultra-minimal kitchen where everything is concealed, perfectly streamlined, and devoid of personality. For a while, kitchens became increasingly anonymous – rows of handleless cabinetry, vast islands, and little to distinguish one scheme from the next,' says Laura.

'While the look is undeniably sleek, it can feel disconnected from how people actually want to live. We're seeing a shift towards kitchens that feel much more individual and decorative. Furniture-style cabinetry, freestanding pieces, color, pattern, and collected elements all help create spaces that feel like a natural extension of the home rather than a standalone functional zone,' she explains.

'The most exciting kitchens for 2026 are those with warmth, character, and a sense of the people who live there.'

10. Single Tone Neutral Kitchens – Inject Equally Timeless Richer Hues

Kitchen color trends have had a particular focus on neutrals this year, from soft earth-inspired hues to the new neutrals dominating designs. But one single shade across the whole kitchen, often used to create a calm, soft space, is already feeling outdated.

'The trend for kitchens drenched entirely in one fashionable neutral is beginning to feel overdone. Whether that's mushroom, putty, or the latest beige variation, these schemes can quickly become one-dimensional when there's no contrast or material variation,' says Sophie.

'We are moving towards kitchens with much greater character and depth. Rich blues and greens continue to endure because they have a timeless quality, particularly when paired with natural timber, stone, and antique elements. The emphasis is shifting away from trend colors and towards palettes that feel rooted in the architecture of the home.'

11. Coffee Machines as Display Pieces – Create a Space to Hide Appliances

One of the biggest kitchen trends for 2026 is the idea of creating a layout that caters to dedicated stations tailored to your lifestyle. But as everyone begins to create coffee nooks with the coffee machine and all the associated essentials on full display, the approach feels cluttered and lacks a unique style.

'The idea that every appliance, gadget, and coffee machine should be permanently on display is also beginning to feel dated. Over the last decade, kitchens became increasingly crowded with visible functionality, but many homeowners are now craving calmer, more organized spaces,' Sophie notes.

'Walk-in pantries, sculleries, and dedicated drinks stations are becoming increasingly desirable because they allow the practical elements of daily life to be concealed. The focus is shifting from kitchens as purely functional workspaces to kitchens as beautifully integrated living spaces.'

The key to making kitchen trends last more than a moment is to introduce them in small ways that add personality to but don't take over the whole design. Designing a timeless kitchen is all about balance, so take on board the alternatives experts have suggested here for a space with enduring appeal.

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Shopping for food storage is hardly glamorous. It is often the afterthought of the kitchen, relying on tired plastic pots that usually look a little worse for wear.

Now, however, Le Creuset is offering timeless stainless-steel food containers that look just as good as its best non-toxic cookware, combining the brand's signature style with a durable, non-toxic approach to food storage.

The stainless steel pots can be used for everything from on-the-go lunches to arranging a fridge.

As a health-conscious cook, I am always looking for food storage ideas that both help to reduce food waste and limit my exposure to plastics. Stainless steel is one of the best ways to do this as a non-reactive material that is more durable than glass. As a clumsy person, this is essential to me.

The Le Creuset On The GO Boxes are made from the same quality stainless steel as their best-selling pans, including the Essential Stainless Steel Pan I reviewed not long ago. The lightweight design means that the pots are simple to pack and take with you, and are much easier to move around your kitchen than heavier glass containers if you struggle with grip or finger dexterity.

Being metal, the containers are, of course, not microwave-safe, which may prove awkward for those who like to reheat their leftovers in the same container they stored them in. That said, the steel helps to keep the contents warm if added hot, especially if it is preheated in advance, adds one reviewer.

In their five-star review, they shared, 'As someone who avoids microwaves and plastic, this has been a perfect solution. I preheat it by filling it with hot water and sealing the lid while I heat my food separately. Then I dump the water, add my food, and seal it, and it keeps everything hot really well until lunchtime.'

They may be a simple swap, but when it comes to creating a non-toxic home, few kitchen upgrades offer the same combination of practicality, durability, and sleek design while delivering everyday peace of mind.

What Else to Shop

From non-toxic food storage to essential care tools that keep them performing at their best, I’ve curated six healthier kitchen swaps designed to reduce potential exposure and create a more mindful cooking environment.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking for something a little more fun for your summer food storage? Le Creuset has quietly relaunched its coveted summer fruit cocottes, perfect for summer hosting.

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When the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer first launched, I knew I had to get my hands on it, and having put it through its paces for the last few weeks, I can safely say it has not disappointed.

Having baked for the last 15 years, I understand how your tools can make or break your bake. A bad stand mixer can make the process more awkward than working by hand. Luckily, the Artisan Plus is not that, offering fantastic control and precision over everything from cakes to breads.

Here is how I got on reviewing the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer, and why I maintain, after my KitchenAid Artisan Plus first look, that it is arguably the best stand mixer money can buy.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer follows the same design as its best-selling predecessor, the KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years back. The signature tilt-head design has returned, but adding more colors to the mix, totalling 13 overall, with the new Sun Dried Tomato, Wild Blueberry, Iron Ore Bronze, and Oat colorways ensuring there is a style for every kitchen design.

The stand mixer looks great straight out of the box. It arrived well packaged in polystyrene to protect the main body of the unit (so not entirely recyclable), but all the components were tucked very neatly inside, so there was no risk of damage or scratches. The unit itself is rather heavy, both to lift and to move around on the counter. This is so that the unit does not rock or move even on the fastest mixing speeds; however, it might make it more difficult if you want to put it away in a cabinet after each use. That said, the design is so pretty, I suggest leaving it on the counter anyway. Small appliance slide mats, from Amazon, can make them easier to move if required.

From there, it is as simple as plugging in and starting to bake. I noted that there is an included cable tidy on the cord to help keep counters clear. It's a small detail, but appreciated in a small kitchen.

The Artisan Plus comes with four attachments as standard: A wire whisk, a dough hook, a standard paddle, and a double Flex Edge paddle, which came to be my favorite for mixing batters, but more on that later. Each accessory is crafted from solid stainless steel, with a good weight to them that makes them feel premium. The double Flex Edge has two silicone scrapers on either side, which scrape the edges of the bowl to ensure no batter is left unmixed. There is also a clear plastic splash guard that uses silicone 'feet' to clip onto the bowl. I love how sturdy this felt, and yes, the edge of the funnel is sturdy enough to crack eggs against.

A major upgrade from the previous classic design is the bowl handle. This was one of the few things we marked the original classic design down for missing. Also, stainless steel, the bowl is easy to handle and well-weighted, even with a heavy dough inside.

The stand-out new features on the Artisan Plus include the integrated bowl light, which activates whenever you put the head down and stays on when mixing. In my dark kitchen, it was a game-changer for being able to keep an eye on my mixes, casting a lovely yet practical soft glow over the contents of the bowl. It also added a cozier touch to the experience, which I appreciate.

Finally, the new speed settings, specifically the half-speed for folding, were fantastic. Anyone who bakes regularly knows how easy it is for a delicate batter to be ruined by the power of a stand mixer. However, the half-speed works slowly to avoid knocking air out of the mix. What's more, the speed dial can be used in two configurations. Turn the dial one way, and you can 'click' precisely between the marked speed settings. Turn the dial the other way, and you can glide seamlessly between each speed, effectively giving you full control and half-speeds between every markation. It is simply fantastic.

Performance

To thoroughly test the stand mixer, I tested four of my favorite recipes that would assess the appliance's ability to tackle everything from thick doughs to delicate cream:

The Cake Test

Not to blow my own trumpet, but I make a very good Victoria sponge cake. It is basic, but an undeniable classic. Done correctly, the sponge should be as light as air, and it is a mix I usually always hand-mix for precision.

Starting with creaming the butter and sugar together, I opted for the double Flex Edge beater to see how efficient it was at keeping the edges of the bowl clean. Admittedly, underestimating the power of the machine, I turned it on too high at first and sent a ring of butter around the top of the bowl. I removed the paddle, scraped the bowl down manually using its edge, replaced it, and tried again more slowly.

This was more successful. The paddle beat the mix until fluffy, keeping the bowl clean as it worked. From there, adding the vanilla and alternating adding the eggs and flour was simple. The clear cover with a spout helped direct ingredients in, but it was not needed to prevent splashes.

The fold speed came into its own when alternating the eggs and flour. This is the point where you are most likely to end up with a dense cake. Adding each slowly and folding it in maintains air, so you do not end up with a tough dough. I left the folding half-speed running as I added each, and found my batter to be lovely and light by the end.

After baking, the cake was fluffy and well-risen, with that airy texture I usually look for. I do think I overmixed it slightly, this being my first time using the stand mixer, but I put that down to user error, not being used to a mixer doing all the work for me, rather than me manually stopping and starting. All in all, I was very impressed.

The Whipped Cream Test

Whipped cream is a pain to make by hand. I did it once and never want to do it again.

I simply poured double cream into the base of the bowl, added the whisk attachment, and set it off on a high speed. I actually mixed it for too long, once again underappreciating the efficiency, but it was nothing that turning it down and adding some more fresh cream didn't fix. The resulting cream was lovely and thick, and perfect for spreading between the layers of my cake with fresh raspberry compote.

The lesson here is that the KitchenAid Artisan Plus is very efficient, taking only a minute or so to perfect whipped cream.

The Bread Test

Bread can be a make-or-break test for a stand mixer, but it is an essential test to pass if you want to avoid the labour of hand-kneading dough. I used a focaccia recipe to test the KitchenAid and found it to be a very straightforward experience.

As with most stand mixers, the speed is limited when using the dough hook, but I did not find that this limited my baking at all. The hook powered through the dough with ease, and the machine did not rock, nor did the head bounce up and down as some stand mixers are prone to. It remained sturdy throughout.

I will note that the top of the dough hook is large and flat, designed to stop the dough from climbing too far up and getting into the gears of the machine. This does mean you have to be smart when adding your ingredients so that they do not sit on top of this, however.

Making bread was also the only occasion when the splash guard failed me. I added a big spoonful of flour into the bowl while the hook was working too quickly, and it flew out of the gap at the back. It was a small mess, and I didn't do it again in any other tests, so I don't see this as a design flaw in any way.

The handled bowl made it easy to move the dough around as it was proofing, too.

The resulting focaccia dough passed the 'window pane' test with ease (evidencing good gluten development from proper kneading), rose perfectly, and created a delicious loaf that my friends demolished in one sitting.

The Cookie Test

My partner makes the best chocolate cookies (I'm not biased, I promise), so I roped him in to help with the cookie test. This dough usually makes our arms ache as we reach the final stages of mixing, so I was excited to finally have my favorite treat without the shoulder pain.

I used the standard paddle for this, once again mixing the melted butter and sugar, and then adding the eggs and flour. It breezed through with ease, with no clumping. Everything was mixed evenly, too, despite the lack of 'Flex Edges'. Once again, the machine showed no sign of struggle or rocking.

Adding in the chocolate, I put the half-fold speed setting to use again, and it dispersed the pieces very evenly without breaking them up too much. It was a softer, layered caramel chocolate, so this really impressed me.

We refrigerate our cookie dough for 24-72 hours before baking, and the stainless steel bowl was easy to remove, cover with foil, and slot onto our fridge shelf without having to alter the height of any of them.

After baking, the cookies were crisp at the edges and gooey in the middle. It is yet another win for the KitchenAid Artisan Plus.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer is a breeze. With all the main components made from stainless steel, they wipe clean with warm water, dish soap (I use a non-toxic soap such as Attitude Dish Soap from Walmart), and a soft sponge.

The only item that gave me some trouble was the double Flex Edge, as some food was stubborn and stuck in the small silicone crease. Soaking this in warm water helped remove it.

You can leave the parts to air dry; however, I found drying with a soft cotton dish towel to be the best way to avoid marks on the stainless steel bowl.

The main body of the unit can be wiped down with a barely damp cloth. This was easy, even with my matte-textured Oat colorway appliance. I then decided to leave it on my counter, as it looks so pretty, it would be a shame to store it in a cabinet.

How The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer Compares

The online reception has been just as positive as my own. Verified users on the KitchenAid store have given the appliance five stars, with many commenting on the power and precision.

One noted, 'I made cupcakes with the KitchenAid Artisan Plus, and I totally get why people love it. It looks gorgeous, but it also works really well in real, everyday baking. The bowl is spacious, the mixing is smooth, and the whole process feels effortless. It's one of those products that just makes your kitchen routine better.'

The lowest star review is a three-star review by a customer who had difficulty with the whisk attachment reaching the base of the bowl. I personally did have this issue, and I do not see it mentioned in other reviews, so it may be down to alignment. If this is the case, it is something that can be fixed with a KitchenAid dime trick.

I reviewed the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer alongside the new SMEG Forte Stand Mixer, and the KitchenAid just edged in front in my assessments. Testing using the same recipes, both mixers delivered fantastic, near-identical results. That said, the SMEG does not have a half-speed, bowl light, or precision slider between the speed settings. The SMEG also struggled more with the bread dough, with more head rocking.

The KitchenAid is $50 more expensive at the time of writing, so whether those small details make or break the savings will come down to personal preference.

I personally prefer the style of the KitchenAid, but that is entirely my own taste and opinion.

Should You Buy The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer?

All in all, I would absolutely recommend buying the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer if you ever bake at home and are in need of a new workhorse. Whether you are making cakes, breads, pizza doughs, or cookies, the mixer can handle any mix with ease and precision, making it one of the best investments for home cooks. If you already have an existing KitchenAid, you may not need to rush to upgrade, especially as the new model is $100 more expensive than the original Artisan Stand Mixer at the time of writing, but it is worth keeping on your radar should you need a replacement any time soon.

The five-quart bowl might not be big enough if you run a cake business from your kitchen and regularly make cakes above four tiers; however, for the home baker, serious or casual, it is a certified upgrade that I can barely fault. It looks great and performs spectacularly. I can't wish for much more.

While I did not try any myself, the Artisan Plus is compatible with a wide range of the KitchenAid accessories ecosystem, too, from meat grinders to food processors, making it a worthwhile investment if you love to cook anything from scratch.

I will, of course, continue to use the stand mixer in my home and update this review should I discover anything else of note.

What Else to Shop

One of the best things about KitchenAid is the vast ecosystem of accessories you can add to your appliance. These extend the functionality way beyond cakes and bread, turning your investment into a truly multi-functional workhorse. These are some of my favorite KitchenAid accessories.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to make your baking setup more professional? We asked professional organizers for their best tips for storing bakeware to keep kitchens tidy.

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Your countertops are one of the most pivotal features within your kitchen – and not to mention, one of the most expensive. From the material to the color, it's a feature that needs to truly stand the test of time.

So it goes without saying that our kitchen countertop ideas deserve some careful thought to ensure you choose a design that still feels in style 10 years from now. And knowing what feels dated and what's a timeless countertop trend is a great place to start.

Your kitchen countertops are not easily changed – it's a much larger endeavour than simply painting a new color on the walls or swapping out hardware. The key to a successful selection is choosing a material, color, and design that have enduring appeal, which means avoiding these 7 out-of-style choices.

1. All-Neutral Slabs With No Interest

For decades, trends were dominated by the clean aesthetic, and kitchens took the brunt of the trend. Sleek lines and light neutrals were favored for a more minimal look, but it's one that designers say is starting to feel a bit lacklustre.

'Neutrals, while always safe, have lost their appeal. We find people are enthusiastic about color and a more sculptural statement. The gloves are off, and they want something that inspires them,' says architect Andrew Franz, noting that quartzite is a great alternative for high performance and durability.

And these pared-back countertop colors are being replaced by something far more vibrant. 'Neutrals are being replaced by colorful marbles and more quartzites. Violets and reds are the front-runners, but greens, golds, and blues are there too.'

2. Taj Mahal Quartzite

As an antidote to the endless all-white schemes, warmer stone alternatives have flooded the market as a more tasteful alternative. And while it still has its place in designs, there's one countertop material that has fallen victim to overuse.

'I'm going to go out on a limb and say that Taj Mahal quartzite is out. I'm already discouraging clients from using it because it will time-stamp a kitchen. It rose to monumental popularity so quickly that it is already in the category of been there, done that,' says Leah Hook, founder and principal designer of Gray Oak Studio.

The alternative? Leah echoes Andrew's recommendation of more colorful materials, as well as more textured ones. 'Quartzite with color and interest is having a moment, as well as leathered natural stone. It's the reaction to all the clean, smooth, white spaces that lasted for so long. Designers (and homeowners alike) want more vibrant and textural spaces.'

3. Stark, Cool-Toned Countertops

Whites and grays were once the dominant choice for countertops, especially if you wanted to achieve a high-end look. But trends have shifted, and what was once the pinnacle of a luxury kitchen now just feels cold and uninspiring.

'Good countertops don’t really go out of style; loud ones do. The look that’s cooling off is the all-cool-grey, bright-white-quartz-everything palette that ran the 2010s, along with the high-drama veining where the grey “river” cuts across the slab,' says Michael Winn, Founder and Principal of WINN Design + Build.

'Stark white countertops are starting to feel overly clinical within the contemporary kitchen,' agrees Katie Parry Stone, Retail Expert at Cosentino. 'In practice, these surfaces can be incredibly unforgiving; marks, scratches, and general wear are far more visible over time, which can ultimately detract from the home's overall aesthetic.'

Instead, warmer tones with contrast and visual interest are infinitely more timeless and characterful, with a real focus on earthy tones this year. 'Softer, more natural palettes are taking their place, with warm neutrals, earthy tones, and muted stone-inspired colors becoming the preferred choice. These shades bring a sense of balance to the kitchen and sit more comfortably within the wider scheme, rather than dominating it.'

4. Laminate is Out

For most people, durability is the key consideration when choosing kitchen countertop colors and materials, and rightly so. But visual appeal also deserves consideration if you want your kitchen to still feel just as in style in a decade as it does today.

And laminate countertops just aren't doing the job. 'There is a clear move away from laminate surfaces. While they have been a practical option for many years, they tend to lack the depth and authenticity of mineral-based materials,' says Katie.

'As a printed surface, laminate does not have the same variation, tactility, or way of interacting with light, which can make it feel more two-dimensional.' Porcelain countertops are a better man-made option for a balance of durability and aesthetic design.

Alternatively, the natural stone route never disappoints. Interior designer Kate Hartman recommends 'marble, quartzite, soapstone, or any other natural stone' as a better choice than man-made materials for a blend of style and function.

5. Timber Overload

Wooden kitchens have proven to be one of the most timeless design choices, with oak cabinets rising to the top of trends. But a kitchen filled with only wooden countertops isn't quite as stylish right now.

'Timber applied as a full countertop surface is becoming less common in luxury kitchens, largely due to the maintenance and care required,' notes Isabella Pacelli, Junior Sales Designer at Roundhouse Design.

That doesn't mean you can't introduce wooden countertops, though, especially in country kitchens that call for a more rustic look. Instead, designers are recommending a mixed countertop material approach, pairing wood with a contrasting material.

'Instead, we are seeing timber used in conjunction with materials such as natural stone, through layering as seen in this project. Timber is a neutral and versatile material, making it very timeless and easy on the eye,' she explains.

6. Quartz Kitchen Countertops

Quartz countertops may have had their moment, but it's a material that designers are tired of seeing. It's not only overdone, but it lacks the character and unique appeal that homeowners are really craving from their kitchens this year.

'The bright white quartz countertops with dramatic gray veining and overly polished cool-toned surfaces are beginning to feel overdone and less authentic. Clients are moving away from highly manufactured looks and gravitating toward warmer, more natural materials with softer movement and texture,' says Corinne Ekle, Principal Interior Designer at C2 Design Co.

Natasia Smith and Sandy Baisley, co-founders of RE-FIND, agree, adding: 'Natural stone is the better option, and has always been a timeless choice. Granite, marble, soapstone, just to name a few. There was a shift from these, which came from fear of damaging countertops. A lived-in home is supposed to show just that-life! We feel a beautifully patinated stone adds warmth and character to a space.'

Instead of choosing a countertop material purely for performance purposes, in 2026, the choice is being made in cohesion with the rest of the design. 'We are seeing more layered kitchens with mixed materials that bring warmth, character, and a collected feel to the space,' adds Corinne, who also recommends natural stones with subtle veining and honed finishes.

7. Ultra-Glossy Countertop Materials

Different countertop materials are often suited to certain design aesthetics thanks to the look they create, with glossier countertops historically favored in more contemporary kitchens. But it's a finish designers are gravitating away from in 2026.

'One trend I'm seeing lose momentum is ultra-glossy countertop surfaces. While they were popular for their sleek, contemporary appearance, I find that they can feel a bit artificial and overly polished,' says interior designer Jessica Gersten.

'Design preferences are shifting toward spaces that feel more authentic, grounded, and connected to nature. We're seeing a move toward natural materials and matte finishes, such as quartzite, soapstone, and honed stone surfaces. Homeowners are gravitating toward organic textures and a more timeless, natural look,' she explains.

The key to designing a kitchen that feels effortless and timeless is to choose materials that adhere to that look. Avoiding outdated kitchen countertop trends is always a great place to start, as is looking to inspiring kitchen ideas that have the designer seal of approval.

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Choosing the right countertops for your kitchen goes beyond color. They are one of the most prominent surfaces in the room, which means every detail matters – especially if you want to create a more luxurious look.

In fact, several features can either elevate or completely cheapen the look of your entire space, even if they might seem like a minor detail of your kitchen countertop ideas. That's how impactful they are on your overall design.

And your countertops are not a feature you want to replace after a short time. To ensure you make the right choices the first time, these are the choices that interior designers say will either elevate your space or totally cheapen it.

Elevates: A Countertop Chosen in Harmony With Cabinetry

It doesn't matter how beautiful your kitchen cabinetry looks or how luxurious your countertop material is if the two don't feel like a harmonious pairing. Cohesion is key, and the right countertop is key.

'Consistency is key. When the tones, finishes, and materials are aligned, the kitchen feels more intentional and considered,' says Katie Parry Stone, Retail Expert at Cosentino.

'Choosing a surface that complements the cabinetry and overall palette, rather than competing with it, will always result in a more elevated finish.' This could mean choosing contrasting colors or materials that lean entirely classic as a pairing.

For example, wooden cabinets pair seamlessly with a marble countertop, while inky blue expertly complements copper surfaces, and deep soapstone contrasts nicely with lighter neutrals.

Cheapens: Poorly Places Seams

You could choose the most elevated stone available for your countertops, but it will still look cheap if you don't get the installation right. And the biggest mistake that cheapens the look? Seams that aren't thoughtfully joined.

'Poorly placed seams are on my naughty list. Not only do they cheapen the look of a space, but they are also a functional issue because they weaken over time and can lead to bacteria build-up, cracking, and widening. It's important to consider the maximum size of a slab and the natural break of a countertop to avoid seams altogether,' explains Leah Hook, Founder and Principal Designer of Gray Oak Studio.

And she's not the only one who highlights this faux pas. 'Bad seaming and corners that change direction,' agrees architect Andrew Franz. 'If you have an inside corner, best not to select a directional stone. Choose something that looks like it naturally flows around the corner.'

Elevates: Beautifully-Designed Edge Profiles

The smallest details are often the most impactful, and your countertops are no exception. A detail that instantly elevates your design is a well-considered countertop edge profile, whether it's a classic mitred edge or a more elegant ogee.

'Introducing detailed stone splashes and countertop edge profiles, like Dupont or ogee edges, are great ways to create visual impact using countertop materials,' says Jessica Flake, Senior Architect at Copper Sky Design + Remodel.

'We recently designed an island countertop to follow the profile of the island legs and added a Dupont edge profile. This move took a relatively simple quartz counter and made it memorable,' she explains.

Cheapens: Gray and Stark White Countertops

There are a few kitchen countertop colors and materials going out of style this year, and choosing them is a fast way to cheapen the look of your kitchen, with grays and stark whites topping the list.

'Gray and white can feel soulless and clinical; instead, one of the most popular design choices at the moment is bold, expressive stone with heavy veining and organic movement,' explains Isabella Pacelli, Junior Sales Designer at Roundhouse Design.

Choosing a more statement stone doesn't have to mean marble. In fact, there are plenty of options that give a luxe look with durability. 'Natural quartzite is becoming a popular choice, as it is more hardwearing than marble, and each slab is one of a kind,' she adds.

Elevates: Natural Stone

Talking of stone, nothing feels more elevated than natural materials, which is why designers always recommend it where possible. Each slab is different with unique details, making them a truly characterful addition.

'A natural stone countertop with understated movement instantly elevates a kitchen because it adds depth, authenticity, and timelessness. Details like mitered edges, full-height slab backsplashes, and integrated stone elements make the kitchen feel custom and intentional,' says Corinne Ekle, Principal Interior Designer at C2 Design.

'Soapstone and quartzite are distinctive natural stones that instantly create a sophisticated, high-end look. Marble is always a great choice, and has proven it can stand the test of time,' agrees Natasia Smith and Sandy Baisley, Co-Founders of RE-FIND.

Cheapens: Countertops That Offset the Balance of the Kitchen

Your kitchen will instantly feel cheap if you don't choose countertops that feel at home in the architecture. This is never more true than in historic properties, but it still applies to more modern kitchens, too.

'It often comes down to how well the worktop fits with the overall style of the home. Bolder patterns or stronger colours can work well in the right setting, but if they feel out of place within the wider scheme, they can disrupt the symmetry of the space and make the kitchen feel less resolved,' Katie explains.

It's about understanding the colors and materials that feel in keeping with the bones of the home, and the design it calls for. A moody Victorian kitchen benefits greatly from a bold, busy marble, but a more rustic abode would feel more elevated with wood or soapstone.

Elevates: A Well-Chosen Finish

We often talk about kitchen paint finishes and the impact they have on the overall look and feel of a room, but the same applies to countertop finishes. Your counters are visible from every angle and will inevitably see a lot of natural light, and the finish will be highlighted.

'Whether you choose a honed, leathered, or polished finish, each option brings its own unique style and beauty. Just as varying paint sheens can add dimension to a space, selecting the right stone finish can enhance the character and depth of your countertops,' says Natasia and Sandy.

For a while, glossy countertop finishes were the most sought-after, but as the way we approach kitchen design evolves, so has the look people want to create. And a more matte finish is key to a more authentic, lived-in look.

'Leathered or honed finishes are becoming more desired over a highly polished countertop. They feel more earthy and can aid biophilic designs where clients like an indoor-outdoor feel,' Isabella adds.

Whatever color or material you choose for your kitchen countertops, take note of these designers' dos and don'ts for a truly elevated scheme, rather than a cheap one. Make sure you avoid outdated kitchen countertop trends, too, and they will also impact the endurance of your space.

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To me, welcoming guests for a meal is all about whimsy – making my home and cooking feel that little bit more magical for the people I love. As it turns out, Le Creuset is on the same wavelength.

Expanding on their best non-toxic cookware range, the heritage brand has quietly launched three seriously cute fruit-shaped cocottes – a peach, a strawberry, and a blueberry – that make the perfect single-serving bowls for any summer table. In previous years, similar collections sold out fast.

These new pieces are already selling out across retailers, and knowing Le Creuset's history with retiring even the most popular pieces, you'll need to snap them up quickly if you want to perfect your playful warm-season setup.

This is hardly the first time the brand has launched a playful seasonal collection. Le Creuset's Fall 2025 collection saw the release of charming pumpkin-shaped mugs and cocottes, for instance, and in 2023, the brand launched the first iteration of the fruit pots, with the familiar strawberry and blueberry, alongside an apple and raspberry.

It is hardly surprising that the first launch sold out almost immediately, and I expect nothing less from the most recent, revamped drop, especially as they tap into one of this season's most fun trends – making a home more whimsical. We are seeing it everywhere, with gardeners creating whimsical yards for the summer, too.

The new designs look more polished, with perfectly graduated pastel coloring and improved lid and side handles to increase functionality without ruining the juicy-looking design. They're bigger, too, boasting a 16-ounce capacity over the original's 14-ounce, making them even better suited to personal crumbles, dips, and desserts.

I rarely recommend investing in themed kitchenware. I have a small kitchen, so I understand the hassle of storing seasonal pieces out of the way in the off-season. That said, your serveware doubles as both the best cookware and summer table decor ideas; it is hard to pass up.

Made from Le Creuset's signature stoneware, the pots are safe from -9°F to 500°F, meaning you can chill desserts such as tirimassu or cheesecake overnight to set, or bake single-sized crumbles and stews without adding more dishes to clean up after a dinner party.

When not in use, they're pieces I would happily leave on my counter to turn kitchenware into decor. We are fully in the era of having fun with our food again, and I, for one, am here for it.

What Else to Shop

Whether you're refreshing your summer table ahead of peak hosting season or searching for playful ways to elevate your tablescaping, I’ve rounded up some of the most charming fruit- and vegetable-inspired cookware and serveware to bring a touch of whimsy without sacrificing practicality.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which Le Creuset color to invest in? Discover the best Le Creuset Color for your birth month as a starting point.

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Finding enough cooking space to feed a crowd can be a challenge, especially in a compact kitchen such as mine.

That is why the HexClad Double Burner Griddle Pan has caught my attention as a potential summer hosting saviour. Designed to span two burners, it effectively doubles your cooking surface without the hassle of juggling or trying to fit multiple large pans next to each other. This gadget makes it easy to fry, sear, and sauté for a group. Better still, it works on induction and electric cooktops.

It is also completely non-stick, non-toxic cookware, and it is currently $30 off in the summer sale. For anyone looking to simplify summer hosting without sacrificing performance, this is a clever small-space solution.

While the best grills offer a practical solution to large-party cooking in summer, I don't want to have to be outside to cook. They can't tackle more delicate tasks such as brunch-time pancakes, either. While I could continue to struggle with several pans in my small kitchen, this approach equals more stress, more clutter, and more cleaning up.

The HexClad Hybrid Double Burner Griddle is the sleek alternative that instantly streamlines the setup. Made with HexClad's signature hybrid stainless steel-ceramic non-stick, it covers two burners to heat the whole plate evenly for a larger cooking surface without refitting my kitchen.

While I haven't used the griddle myself yet, I do have a 10" HexClad Frying Pan and a tiny Hybrid Milk Pot, and can testify to just how sonderful the non-stick truly is. Usually troublesome oil and butter pour like water from a duck's back, making clean up a breeze.

With tri-ply construction with an aluminum core for quicker, even heating, it’s safe to use on any home cooktop or stovetop, including induction, and is metal utensil-safe, dishwasher-friendly, and oven-safe up to 900°F. I can't think of a more versatile investment.

HexClad shoppers agree. Cheryl K gave the griddle five stars, having used it outdoors on their grill, sharing, 'I used it on top of our grill grate to make smash burgers on one side of the pan and assorted grilled veggies on the other. It was a great one-pan meal! I also used it to bake pizzas and stromboli. Can’t wait to try it on my stovetop!'

Kathleen T similarly added, 'Of all the HexClad I own (and I have almost all of the pieces), this one is my favorite. I use it so much that it lives permanently on my stovetop. I am a huge fan!'

What Else to Shop

From other investment-worthy HexClad cookware to essential summer cooking accessories, I have rounded up my top picks to outfit your kitchen ahead of the hosting season.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Your cookware is not your only thing to upgrade ahead of the warm weather. These must-have finds can help to prep your home for summer hosting, too.

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Just this week, the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus stand mixer landed on my doorstep for testing, and I can already tell that it is going to be the best baking upgrade my home has seen in over 15 years.

I have been baking for as long as I can remember, and started by helping my mom to mix everything lovingly by hand, nary a stand mixer in sight. The manual approach works, of course, but there is no denying that it slows you down a lot. It's certainly left me in a baking slump of late.

That's why I've been excited to start using the Artisan Plus, which is shaping up to be one of the best stand mixers on the market. It has retained all the best elements of its predecessor while ironing out the small, albeit annoying functional snags. The result? An appliance I am genuinely excited to see on my counter and use.

I am yet to finish testing and write up my full review of the KitchenAid Artisan Plus stand mixer, but having unboxed it and trialled a few of my go-to recipes, I am already confident in saying it is shaping up to be a five-star investment.

Visually, not much has changed from the KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years ago. It follows the same iconic silhouette with the domed tilt-head and stainless steel bowl. Now, however, that bowl comes with a very practical handle and a built-in bowl-light so you can keep a much closer eye on your mix.

Like the original KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer we also reviewed, this mixer has the all-important half-speed setting. It emulates hand mixing perfectly, allowing for more careful folds to avoid beating the air out of fluffy cake batters.

The new mixer has a more powerful motor, however, allowing it to also tackle thick, heavy-duty doughs with ease. You have the choice to click between each of the 11 speed settings or slide between them for absolute precision.

It is a small detail, but anyone who bakes regularly will know that that level of control can be the difference between the perfect bake and an overmixed mess.

While you'll never be heating your stand mixer, nor its accessories, I am always conscious of the materials used. Where possible, I like to avoid plastic and pick the best non-toxic kitchen appliances.

With the Artisan Plus, all attachments are made of solid stainless steel (including the double-flex-edge beater, which features food-grade silicone). They're weighty and exude quality. I hardly worry when I toss them in a drawer that they might come out misshapen.

Speaking of storing bakeware, stand mixers are infamously tricky to tuck away. They are heavy, for one, and while the Artisan Plus is reasonably compact for an appliance that can do much more than mix cakes, it is not easy to tuck into a cabinet in a small kitchen.

Luckily, it looks so good on the counter that I find it rather pleasing to keep on display. Like my Modern Heritage Le Creuset Dutch Oven, it screams 'I know what I am doing' in the kitchen, and I like that baking badge of honor.

Besides, with 14 color options, including the new Sun Dried Tomato, Oat (the color I chose), and Feather Pink, there is a shade for every kitchen color palette.

It is possibly going to be my top kitchen addition for 2026, but I will be sure to give the full report when it comes time to review.

What to Shop

One of my favourite things about KitchenAid stand mixers is their versatility. The extensive ecosystem of attachments allows a single machine to transform into an ice cream maker, the best juicer, a pasta roller, or a meat grinder in a matter of minutes.

It is one of the rare countertop appliances that genuinely earns its space on your counter, so to help you make the most of your new investment, I’ve rounded up six of the most popular add-ons.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to inject a fun pop of color into your kitchen this year? KitchenAid's 2026 color of the year, Spearmint, might be the very appliance for the job.

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No brand blends retro charm with modern performance quite like SMEG. Time and again, they prove that convenience does not have to come wrapped in minimalist, utilitarian styling.

The new SMEG Forte Stand Mixer, available from Williams Sonoma, is the latest example. Having finally got my hands on one, I can already say that it feels like a genuine contender to become one of the best stand mixers.

The beautifully crafted exterior has quickly become the focal point of my kitchen, a rare appliance that earns its place on the countertop without looking like clutter. Here’s why I’m so excited about it.

I will admit that despite baking for the better part of the last 15 years, I have always opted for the handheld option in the hand mixer vs stand mixer debate. Having a small kitchen means that a smaller tool is more convenient and does just about the same job, right?

I have used the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer once since it arrived, and I am in the midst of my review process, but I can say right off the bat that it is the countertop upgrade I did not know I was missing. When working through my first test (a classic Victoria sponge cake), it halved the time it took to make, and my arms didn't ache at the end of it.

Sitting neatly at the edge of my counter, it is surprisingly compact, and the stunning vintage design means it looks more like an art piece than a kitchen workhorse.

The Forte offers a higher-performance spec compared to the original SMEG retro stand mixer we reviewed. With a more powerful motor, the new release promises more mixing power, especially when it comes to mixing heavy doughs for bread. This is something I will be testing later on with my classic focaccia recipe.

Equally intriguing, however, is the new folding speed, designed to gently incorporate ingredients without knocking out air or overworking delicate batters. For keen bakers, that could be one of the most valuable additions, and it will likely be the feature that makes or breaks the mixer for me, as it will determine how well you can make the most of your stand mixer.

Another welcome improvement is the inclusion of a flex-edge beater as standard. In my view, this is one of the most useful stand mixer attachments available. The rubber-edged design continuously scrapes the sides of the bowl as it mixes, eliminating the pockets of flour and unmixed ingredients that often require manual intervention. It is a small detail that makes a noticeable difference to both consistency and convenience.

While I am yet to push it to the max, I am incredibly excited by what lies in store, especially if the early swathes of five-star reviews on Amazon are anything to go by, with customers loving the colors and, most importantly, dubbing the expensive appliance a smart KitchenAid alternative that's worth the spend.

What to Shop

If you're looking to elevate your baking setup, SMEG offers a range of coordinating retro-inspired appliances that bring both style and function to the kitchen.

To help you build the ultimate baking station, I’ve curated my favourite picks alongside a selection of non-toxic kitchen essentials designed to support every recipe.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

There has never been a better time to invest in SMEG appliances, with the new SMEG 2026 color of the year, Moonlight, dropping across their appliance range. It's the dreamy neutral that will fit into any kitchen.

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As the Sleep Editor here at Homes & Gardens, I'm lucky enough to enjoy a steady influx of new bedding to test for our buying guides. While this has filled my linen closet with a whole host of beautiful sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers, it's also left me, less fortunately, with a distinctly messy storage space.

That's why I'm picking up this four-pack of SpaceAid Bed Sheet Organizers, available at Amazon, to quickly and simply overhaul my sheet storage.

Proven to keep shoppers' best bed sheets neatly organized and accessible (and praised in over 3,000 five-star reviews), they're sturdy, durable, and effortlessly easy to use.

It's the common consensus that organizing a linen closet is one of the most awkward, tricky areas to tackle. In particular, it's fitted sheets that pose the biggest problem, and often end up bundled up, wrinkled, and stacked in towering piles, which is why I'm upgrading my storage with the SpaceAid Bed Sheet Organizers, available at Amazon.

Sturdy and durable, simply fold your bedding, zip the organizer around it, close the lid, and use the included labels to fix your frustrating tiny linen closet storage in an instant. Each organizer is large enough to hold one Queen or King sheet set, one duvet cover, and two pillowcases.

Then, each organizer can be placed side-by-side on a shelf in your linen closet, keeping every item easily accessible, identifiable, and neat.

What Shoppers Say

As Michelle details in her five-star review, the SpaceAid Bed Sheet Organizers, available at Amazon, are a 'game-changer' for linen closets.

She says, 'I love these SpaceAid Bed Sheet Organizers for my bedding! They keep my sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers neatly folded and organized – no more messy stacks tumbling over. The bands hold everything securely, and the labels make it easy to grab the right set quickly.

'They're sturdy, fold flat when not in use, and transformed my chaotic closet into something tidy and beautiful. Highly recommend!'

Another shopper, Erin, also similarly calls them a 'closet game-changer,' and adds, 'So good for organizing. No more bulky, messy sheet sets − everything stays neatly folded and easy to grab. Makes the closet look way cleaner and more put together. Simple idea but makes a huge difference.'

What to Shop

Interested in more small linen closet storage ideas? Shop from a selection of top-rated options below to keep this hardworking space neatly organized.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, I'm going to take inspiration from Martha Stewart's linen closet organization method, which involves cardboard rolls and lavender sachets and costs less than $9 to recreate at home.

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I have a fair amount of floor space in my kitchen-diner, but a limited amount of cabinets. This has left my newly built home in a storage deficit, and the clutter in my kitchen kept piling up, no matter how many times I decluttered.

After learning it would cost at least $25,000 to overhaul and add more kitchen cabinets to suit our needs, I looked for an affordable alternative. I ended up buying an ever-popular IKEA cube storage system, which starts from as little as $34 for a two-cube setup.

I opted for a spacious $129 12-cube KALLAX, and it’s been a game-changer for organizing my kitchen, leaving my cabinets streamlined, every rattan cube satisfyingly tidy, and my most-used cooking essentials easily accessible. I'm buying four more variations for use across my home.

What I particularly love about the unit is how easily you can personalize the storage potential to suit your room's exact needs.

My new unit immediately doubled the amount of practical storage space I have in the kitchen, allowed us to declutter heavily-used wall cabinets, and, crucially, made my brilliant non-toxic cookware more accessible for everyday cooking.

The IKEA KALLAX Has Been My Most Useful Kitchen Storage Addition

I have been working to create a non-toxic home, starting in the kitchen, and cleared out potentially hazardous non-stick pans that were scratched and replaced them with high-end Our Place cookware sets that are non-toxic but heavier than I'd like. I was struggling to get them out of the lower kitchen cabinets where we had previously kept our cookware.

Now they are at shoulder height, on top of my KALLAX, in the included organizers, seen above, and I no longer have to get my husband to get out what I need to use.

Additionally, the kitchen cabinet that had held our cookware previously now has oodles of space. Nothing is stacked vertically or nested inside each other, just to fit. Everything from our Caraway stainless steel mixing bowls and strainer storage sets to Souper Cubes I use weekly to save space in my freezer.

It Was So Easy to Put Together

My husband put the unit together in under an hour, and we opted for the IKEA KALLAX base frame to lift it off the ground a few inches. This not only provides extra hidden storage underneath for all those pesky kitchen items such as spare grocery bags and trays, but made the unit feel instantly elevated in style.

The baskets were also easy to put together, and we chipped away at those over the course of a week or two, as there were 14 to put together.

I added a non-toxic BPA-free shelf liner from Amazon to the top for scratch protection from our heavy metal cookware handles, and to make it easy to clean.

Keeping the KALLAX Organized

,To help our household keep the Kallax unit from descending into chaos, I allocated each cube for something in particular and labelled it as such. This helps us all maintain a simple organizing system moving forward.

It also means I no longer spend my days frustrated with mess on countertops that spilled over from jammed cabinets – or the lack of enough shelves to work with. It’s been truly transformative, and now my initial budget for a new kitchen will be put towards our dream forever home.

Investing in a little label maker, available at Walmart, was one of the best things I ever did for organizing my home as it's such a handy item for organization. Most of our rattan cube inserts from IKEA have their own marker to let everyone, including our cleaners, know where to find or put away what they need.

What Shoppers Say

I’m not the only one now to be obsessed with the IKEA bestseller, and planning on bringing four more to organize my small home, which is lacking in storage. IKEA shoppers have loved it for years, keeping it a constantly top-purchased product.

Shoppers have endless uses for theirs, including storing records, crafting items, adding storage across their home, keeping out-of-season clothes, exercise equipment, using it for decluttering home offices, playrooms, kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and more.

There is no end to the versatility. Rating it on average 4.6/5 stars, the KALLAX has had thousands of reviews from verified shoppers in the US and across the world.

Alexis recently wrote that it ‘holds the Multiverse,’ and added, ‘The storage unit is uncanny and amazing! I bought it to store my comic omnibus and collected editions and more. Between DC, Marvel, Image, Dark Horse, etc., this thing holds worlds upon worlds between them. The unit is strong and sturdy. Some of these omnibus books are quite heavy, and this unit appears to have no issues holding them. The look and feel exudes confidence and well-built quality. You've got a fine product here! ‘

Sandra reported that the ‘KALLAX versatility is limitless’ and I wholeheartedly agree. She says, ‘The unit is perfect storage for crafts and fabric. Quality is great and easy to put together. Love these shelves.’

Another, Juliana, reported that it’s the third 4x4 KALLAX she has purchased. ‘I purchased the first units 10 years ago to store and organize my heavy paper-based work materials. I bought a second one to store off-season clothes and exercise equipment. I had no problem assembling the Kallax units, and they have held up perfectly despite being heavily loaded.'

The endless five-star reviews go on like this, confirming its durability, usefulness, and how it fits so much in without taking over your space.

What to Shop

Catering your storage to your particular requirements at home is a smart way to help you maintain order moving forward. Here are some useful items I've used in my kitchen project and extra alternatives.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, delve into the most stylish storage ideas for your home.

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It is safe to say that every kitchen collection outgrows its storage at some point. Whether it is a surplus of pots and pans or food containers losing their lids, when space starts coming at a premium, it can become frustrating to find what you need, when you need it.

The instinct is often to invest in large-scale and complex systems to corral belongings. However, choosing one or two smart tidying essentials often has the best and quickest payoff when organizing your kitchen.

The IKEA VARIERA Pot Lid Organizer is a perfect example. It brings order to one of the most awkward categories of kitchen storage, keeping items neatly arranged and increasing accessibility. The result is a calmer, more functional kitchen that feels effortlessly organized day after day.

At first glance, the VARIERA is extraordinarily simple. It is an extendable stainless steel rack that fits practically any cabinet or deep drawer, keeping everything from delicate glass pan lids to unwieldy food container lids.

A large part of the problem with storing pot lids is how to do so and reduce visual mess in your kitchen. Even a handful of container lids scattered loosely at the bottom of a drawer can make your storage feel chaotic and the cooking experience a little less calm.

As you can rarely reduce how many items you need to store, requiring differing lids to match every pot, vertical stacking saves the day. By introducing a divided organizer to line lids up neatly, no matter their size, you keep them within easy reach and group them for a more considered kitchen.

In short, it creates visible order, making a kitchen feel more expensive, and all for only $7.

What Else to Shop

A tidy and clutter-free kitchen rarely comes down to a single storage solution. To streamline your space, I’ve rounded up the kitchen organizers our editors swear by, from clever cabinet upgrades to countertop essentials that make everyday cooking simpler.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

To help avoid any storage blunders, avoiding the things people with tidy kitchen cabinets never do will establish order and maintain it.

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When it comes to even heat distribution and flavorful sears, few pans rival cast iron. But with that performance comes upkeep, and it is hardly the most convenient cookware for everyday use.

For years, the fear of rust on my best cast iron cookware kept me away from this much-loved kitchen staple. Now, however, I’ve found the Lodge Rust Eraser, available from Amazon, which has made me far more confident about diving into cast iron cooking.

Designed to remove rust and help restore older pans to new again, this $9 tool is one of the simplest yet most effective additions to any home chef’s maintenance kit. Here’s how it works and why I wouldn’t use cast iron without it.

Understanding how to clean and care for every type of cookware can be overwhelming, leading many of us (myself included) to stick to one simple type that we can toss in a dishwasher and forget about. Cast iron is decidedly not that, requiring gentle washing, thorough drying, and regular seasoning to prevent rust and pitting.

The idea of rust scared me so much that I avoided the material altogether until I stumbled upon the Lodge Rust Eraser. This sturdy rubber block was designed to sand away rust and smooth out the surface of your pans, grill grates, and more. By stripping the pan down to bare metal, you can reseason it and use it as if it were brand new.

The shape of it allows precision removal, too, so you are not stripping away the general and protective built-up patina unnecessarily.

Given that it can be all too easy to miss a damp spot when cleaning cast iron or to make a mistake with seasoning as a beginner, the rust remover offers extra peace of mind that your investment won't be going to waste.

What Shoppers Say

With over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, it is the saving grace for many a cast-iron chef.

One verified shopper, Jinxie, shared, 'Minimal effort and rust is gone! For real. I was even able to save the multiple, inherited cast iron pans which had been languishing in bins, collecting dust, until this bad boy came into my life. I’m an even bigger fan now of actually using my insanely huge amount of cast iron now that I don’t need to worry about someone not drying them well enough.'

Another added, 'Quick and easy, like erasing pencil with a rubber eraser, or using a pumice stone on a swimming pool. My hobby is metalworking, and I have spent many hours de-rusting iron and steel over the years, using everything from phosphoric acid to power tools, and for a small job (like a pot or grill), this is just the ticket! So easy to use, just rub it on the metal!'

What Else to Shop

From cleaning a burnt pan to restoring a well-loved patina, I’ve rounded up six essential cast iron tools to help keep your cookware performing at its best for decades to come.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

To prevent prematurely damaging your cast iron seasoning, brush up on the heat ring mistake that can ruin your cookware.

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For most people, a large kitchen is at the very top of the wish list. But when you are faced with a huge footprint, especially in an open-plan room, creating a scheme that feels spacious while still retaining a sense of character can prove a difficult endeavor.

It was the exact starting point of this kitchen, located in a historic home with existing architecture that needed to be preserved and honored in the design. The solution? Thoughtful kitchen zoning that gave the room its own identity without feeling separated from the adjoining dining and living spaces.

Every detail has been carefully introduced or retained to give the room character and honor the home's history, while maximizing every inch of functionality. But perhaps the greatest success of this design is the way each element has been introduced to ensure the room feels lived in rather than vast. It's the blueprint for getting an open plan kitchen layout right in 2026.

Utilize Architecture to Create Dedicated Zones

In an open plan space, zoning becomes an important tool to differentiate between spaces and functions, especially where a kitchen is involved. And this design proves how effective architecture can be throughout the process.

'The customer came to the meeting with a clear idea of what they wanted. The existing structure had certain design cues, such as the dark-framed doors, and some industrial features,' explains Iain Chatburn, Senior Kitchen Designer at deVOL Kitchens.

Alongside the glazed dividers, a lower ceiling height creates a sense of separation from the adjoining dining space. It's a subtle detail, but one that instantly signals that you have entered a new zone.

Embrace Niches and Alcoves to Maximize Storage

So often, people fight the existing features in their kitchen, especially when alcoves and niches crop up in unconventional places. But this project makes a case for embracing them in your kitchen design, rather than removing them.

One of the best examples of this is the small pantry area. Built into the brick wall, this recessed niche sits far lower than standard cabinetry thanks to the old architecture of the property, but instead of concealing or altering it, Iain embraced the quirky proportions and transformed it into a tiny pantry space, complete with glass storage jars for a more aesthetic look.

Even small sections of bump-out walls have been retained, helping to add subtle zones and break up long expanses of walls. These are all details usually removed, but they add so much character to the room, telling a small part of the home's story.

Design an Island That Feels Decorative Yet Functional

A kitchen island is a functional addition to a kitchen, but also one that sets the tone for the overall design aesthetic. And while we generally see either fully built-in designs or a classic freestanding piece, this kitchen has taken a completely different approach to create something that's decorative without comprising function.

'Design inspiration came from our Haberdasher's range and projects such as the Stoke Newington Kitchen, which has a similar island. In the context of this kitchen, it feels like a shop counter or museum display case, surrounded by the customer's collections of vintage items and kitchenalia,' Iain explains.

To give the island the grandeur it deserves within the large kitchen, he went for an enlarged design. 'The size of an island should match the proportions of the space,' he explains. 'Having a more fitted 'solid' island in such an expansive space also provides a grounding structure to the room. The glazing is a smart choice, adding lightness without losing out on storage.'

Mix Cabinet Styles and Colors for Visual Interest

In a small kitchen, keeping to a uniform color helps to elongate the space and make it feel bigger. But in a larger footprint, breaking up the color and style of your cabinetry is key to creating visual interest and making it feel less expansive. And it's been done expertly here.

'One mark of success for this space is that you can't easily tell which furniture and accessories are new and which are old,' Iain recalls, referencing details like the mix of cabinet colors and the wall textures in play.

'Choosing several colors for different pieces of furniture helps zone the space, and gives a sense that the furniture has been pieced together over a longer period. This works beautifully for the eclectic aesthetic of this kitchen,' he adds.

'The same goes for the structure; a blend of existing painted brickwork and windows, and new details like the tongue and groove behind the cooker. This all gives extra texture and a greater sense of history. The customers were not shy to accessorize our cabinets, which is always great to see.'

Look to the Walls to Introduce Pretty Kitchenware Displays

As soon as you step into this kitchen, your eyes are drawn to the walls, not just because of the spectacular arched windows that frame the space, but because they have been just as carefully considered in the design. Housing beautiful decor and kitchenware in different ways, they introduce the character and style of the homeowners without feeling cluttered or gratuitous.

'Open storage can add a lot of character and warmth to a space. This can become even more important for larger spaces, which can otherwise feel too fitted, with monolithic furniture. The deVOL ethos is to put as much effort into styling kitchen spaces as you would a living room or bedroom, and open storage or hanging rails encourage this,' explains Iain.

The range hood is adorned with a row of decorative plates, a wooden rack mounted beside the window holds an array of kitchen towels, and a long brass rack on the ceiling holds an array of utensils, copper pans, and dried herbs, creating a decorative display that marks the entrance to the kitchen.

Quick Tips

• Use glazing and color to effectively zone a large kitchen
• Embrace quirky architecture to add character and unique style
• Don't be afraid to mix cabinet styles and colors
• Design an island that feels unique and considered
• Make sure to consider your walls and ceilings to maximize storage that doubles as decor

This kitchen is a lesson in zoning and embracing a design that goes against conventional design rules – in the best way. From the genius use of architectural features to the effective use of kitchen features to make them work harder. 'This project is a great example of many smaller areas that provide detail and interest wherever you look.'

At Homes & Gardens, we believe a kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks. That’s the philosophy behind Dream Kitchens, our new series exploring the world’s most inspiring cook spaces. From clever layouts to the 'it' materials of 2026, we’re uncovering the design lessons tucked inside every home. Join us for an intimate look at the spaces that define modern living – and find the blueprints for your next big project.

During a recent trip to Spain, where many compact residential homes were designed to sacrifice kitchen space for more outdoor cooking and living areas, I noticed one clever feature that instantly cleared clutter inside.

Instead of dish drying racks next to the sink, they were hidden in wall cabinets, allowing you to double up your drying and dish storage space and keeping the area around your sink clear.

The cabinet above many Spanish sinks I saw allowed space for water to drip into the basin below, but you can easily and quickly recreate this space-saving kitchen storage idea with IKEA’s KUNGSFORS $45 dish drainer, which comes with a drip tray and can be wall-mounted.

I visited Iran a lot as a child to see my family, and this vertical storage trick was also a common feature in apartments across Tehran and beyond. Keeping dish racks tucked into cabinets above sinks was a space-saving design feature that served multiple purposes, and I saw it this week in Spain too.

The benefits of this setup I’ve often spotted in hot and humid countries include:

• Instantly clears sinkside clutter.
• Opens up extra countertop space for food prep in small kitchens.
• No more manual drying of dishes is required.
• As you wash items, you’re also putting them away, reducing chores.
• Removing sink-side drainers allows space for washed pots and pans to dry.

Design Experts Agree It’s a Genius Dish Rack Replacement

Head of Interiors at Homes & Gardens, and our resident design expert, Hebe Hatton, explains the problems switching to this style of dish rack can solve.

She says, ‘You could invest in the chicest dish rack, which looks fine when empty, but as soon as you actually put it to use and stack it with dripping dishes, any potential design statement is gone.

‘It's clutter, and it's noticeable – right at countertop level, which can be a busy place at the best of times. If your kitchen design does allow for a dish rack to be taken up off the countertop, it can make a lot of difference, especially if you make it part of a shelving display with shelves above it that you can style with crockery and cookbooks.’

If you need to store wider items, the IKEA item’s separator spikes can flatten down, transforming it into a shelf, while the IKEA KUNGSFORS Suspension rail and shelf combination comes with a shelf for exactly this.

Hebe adds, ‘This IKEA product frees up space around the sink and is more subtle both when not in use and when filled with dishes.’

The fact it has a drip tray and can be moved into a hidden spot makes it extra useful in busy hosting periods.

How the IKEA Drainer Can Help You Replicate This Design Feature

As it can be placed sink-side, inside a cabinet (it has a drip tray) or mounted on the wall, it allows you to corral wet dishes in a multitude of ways to best suit your compact kitchen or busy sink area.

It’s made from non-toxic stainless steel, and the steel wire has a galvanized coating for longevity. The tray that catches the drips from your wet dishes is also made from stainless steel, making it easy to clean lowers the risk of mold, which makes keeping it hygienic all the easier. Simply wipe clean with a spot of dish soap and dry with a clean cloth.

Avoid any harsh chemicals or rough scourers that can impact the surface, however, or it might become scratched.

You can also pair it with the KUNGSFORS suspension rail for an alternative mounting route.

More to Shop

Sinkside clutter is an issue for many, even in bigger kitchens, as the items there are in permanent rotation and a constant cycle of wash–dry-use. Here are some clever sink-side solutions to keep yours as functional as possible without creating an eyesore.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Say goodbye to the traditional dish rack with a clever alternative.

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A kitchen relies on a smart layout to maximize flow and function, and your sink is one of the most important components to consider. It's not only a hardworking element in your design but also a highly visual one.

So even if you've found yourself scrolling through kitchen sink ideas for inspiration, you need to decide where it will be placed before making those final aesthetic decisions. After all, a beautifully designed sink area is useless if it doesn't function the way you need it to.

No one-size-fits-all – the best kitchen sink placement will depend entirely on how your kitchen is laid out and how you use it. Here's everything you need to know to ensure you locate your sink in the perfect place for both style and function.

Where to Place a Kitchen Sink

Many factors impact the best placement for your kitchen sink. Your kitchen layout, architecture, and how you live in and use your cooking space will all impact where your sink feels the most effective.

'When choosing kitchen sink placement, homeowners should think beyond plumbing and consider how the kitchen functions day to day. Natural light, views, traffic flow, and sightlines into adjacent living spaces all play an important role in determining the best location,' says interior designer Caroline Levenson.

Here are the four most common sink placements, the pros and cons, and how to know if your kitchen can accommodate them.

Beneath a Window

Beneath or in front of a window is perhaps the most popular location for a kitchen sink, offering natural light and pretty views as you complete sink-focused chores. And it's one that designers tend to favor – in the right space.

'A sink beneath a window is often the most timeless and desirable solution. It creates a pleasant focal point while working in the kitchen and tends to feel especially appropriate in traditional or historic homes,' Caroline explains.

'A sink beneath a window almost always feels right,' agrees Anthony Earl, Creative Director at Artichoke. 'It creates openness around the sink area. Without a window, there’s often pressure to add overhead cabinetry, which can leave the space feeling enclosed. A window gives you clear space in front of you and allows the sink to breathe architecturally.'

It's a kitchen sink placement that doesn't work in every kitchen, though. Windows that end much lower than countertop height can feel awkward when dissected by a sink, and forcing a kitchen sink too far away from other work zones can leave your layout feeling disjointed and dysfunctional.

'You do need to think carefully about sill height and how easily the window can be opened and reached over the tapware. We often replace the sill with a continuation of the worktop stone to create a seamless finish and a sense of permanence,' Anthony notes.

'Consider where the window is in relation to other key workstations, as you may not want these situated too far apart. If your window is situated in the corner of the room or too far from your main cooking area, I would advise finding a more central location,' suggests Fred Horlock, Design Director at Neptune.

'The common theory of the kitchen work triangle, while adapted over time, still holds true in that keeping your fridge, cooker, and sink within easy distance of one another will result in a more functional kitchen.'

Pros:

• The sink benefits from natural light and a pretty view
• Creates a more open, airy atmosphere
• Allows plumbing to be easily directed through an outside wall

Cons:

• Can lack function if the window is far from other working zones
• Not all windows end at the right level to meet the countertop
• Faucet options (and heights) can be limited

On a Kitchen Island

A kitchen island has gone from being a luxury feature to a must-have part of a design, and as such, it's become a high-functioning work zone. And to make cooking and cleaning easier, many people are drawn to the concept of a kitchen sink on an island.

'An island sink can work beautifully in open-concept homes where homeowners want to prep meals while staying connected to family or guests,' says Caroline. The biggest drawback here, however, is that any mess is in clear view. And for that reason, designers usually recommend having a smaller prep sink on the island and locating the main sink elsewhere.

'We tend to strongly distinguish between a prep sink and a washing-up sink on an island. A full washing-up sink can be difficult because there’s no natural containment for clutter – everything spreads across what is usually the kitchen’s central social and working surface,' Anthony explains.

'A prep sink is another matter entirely. For keen cooks, a secondary prep sink on an island works beautifully beside a chopping and preparation area. It creates an incredibly efficient workspace while keeping the main kitchen feeling calm and uncluttered.'

The option of a second sink really only works in a large kitchen with plenty of extra space available. However, in a smaller kitchen, the sink is best located on the perimeter cabinetry to avoid a cluttered eyesore.

Pros:

• Useful for food prep
• Creates a more social layout
• Functions well as a prep sink

Cons:

• Creates a messy focal point
• Requires extra plumbing
• Not small space friendly

Facing a Wall

In some homes, the only feasible placement for the kitchen sink is facing a wall. This is often the case in apartments, one-wall kitchens, and open-plan spaces where windows are prioritized in dining or living spaces.

It's also a better option if your kitchen window is located too far away from the cooker and fridge, and would therefore break a classic work triangle that allows the flow of your kitchen to function optimally.

There are a few pitfalls to this kitchen sink placement that you do need to be aware of. The obvious drawback is that you are staring at a wall as you use the sink, which can often feel quite claustrophobic.

Similarly, if you fill the walls with overhead cabinetry, the whole sink area can feel quite dark, overbearing, and uninviting. Try to keep the walls around the sink free from bulky storage to make it feel more open – a single open shelf with your favorite decor and kitchenware is a stylish compromise.

Pros:

• Allows the working triangle to be prioritized
• Maximizes space in windowless kitchens and apartments

Cons:

• Can feel claustrophobic
• Additional lighting solutions may be needed

In a Corner

You might not have considered a corner sink, but it's a really effective placement in a lot of kitchens, especially more compact rooms that benefit from space-saving layout solutions.

'Corner sinks are less common today, but they can be useful in compact kitchens or historic renovations where preserving windows or existing cabinetry is important. They require thoughtful planning to ensure there is adequate lighting, comfortable working room, and enough surrounding counter space to function well,' says Caroline.

'A corner sink can work well in smaller kitchens where you may not wish to disrupt the flow of countertop, making the most of some ‘dead space’ in the corner of your kitchen, which in turn, allows for more storage throughout your run of cabinets,' agrees Fred.

There are instances where a corner sink won't work, especially if the corner in question is too close to a cooker or full-length cabinetry that doesn't allow enough usable space for the sink to be really functional. In these instances, Anthony recommends a prep sink in the corner for easy access from the cooker and locating the main sink elsewhere with more room.

'For a main washing-up sink, it’s usually more about practicality and making the wider layout work successfully once the key elements, such as cookers and refrigeration, are positioned in their ideal places,' he adds.

Pros:

• Makes use of an underused corner
• Can be easily accessed from nearby cookers
• Maximizes a small space

Cons:

• Can lack enough usable surface space
• May limit the size of the sink you can install

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Sink Placement For Successful Zoning

Your kitchen sink has to work in harmony with the rest of your kitchen, both visually and functionally, so really consider zoning when choosing the right placement. For many people, this starts with the kitchen triangle, but needs to be a bit more flexible to factor in appliances and work stations beyond a fridge and cooker.

'When determining sink placement, it’s important to think about kitchen zoning. The sink should relate thoughtfully to the refrigerator, range, dishwasher, and prep surfaces to create an intuitive workflow. In larger kitchens, especially, we often think in terms of functional zones rather than relying solely on the traditional work triangle,' says Caroline.

The working triangle offers a great guide, but it should not be taken as gospel. Really think about how you use your kitchen, and how you move around when you're cooking. The kitchen sink should be placed in the location that makes the most sense for you, not standardized layout rules.

'The best kitchens are always designed around how people genuinely live. You need to think about whether the person cooking is also managing the washing up, whether someone can unload the dishwasher comfortably without getting in the cook’s way, and how naturally everything flows back into cupboards and drawers,' explains Anthony.

'We try to keep the main washing-up zone away from the primary route to the fridge so the kitchen feels less congested during everyday use. Increasingly, we design dedicated sculleries and secondary preparation spaces so the main kitchen can remain calm and social.'

Once you've thought about how these zones work and flow between each other, you can then decide whether your kitchen sink is best placed beneath a window, on the island, or tucked away in a quiet corner. It's tempting to take the most aesthetic approach, but function has to come first.

Plumbing and Technical Considerations

Another major consideration when it comes to your kitchen sink placement is plumbing. Moving waterlines, waste pipes, and general plumbing is an expensive endeavor, increasing the cost of your project anywhere from 20 to 50 percent.

This is one of the key considerations if you want to move your sink onto an island – all the plumbing will need to be rerouted to the center of the room. This will also impact where your dishwasher needs to be located, so consider your appliance layout when moving your sink.

The reason a kitchen sink is usually located at the perimeter of the room, and commonly beneath a window, is that it sits on an outside wall, offering easy access outside. If you move your sink away from an outside wall, you will need to consider how the plumbing will travel from the sink to the outside drainage.

These things are all relatively easy to rectify, but it is worth considering the amount of time it will add to your project, as well as the additional cost of tradespeople and materials.

FAQs

Where Should a Kitchen Sink Be Placed on a Countertop?

You need to ensure there is enough space around your sink for a few reasons. Firstly, you need to ensure your chosen sink will fit the depth of your kitchen countertops, so try to accommodate at least two inches of space at the front and back of your sink.

You also want to ensure you have sufficient space on either side of your kitchen sink. You don't want your sink to feel cramped and crowded (it will look like an afterthought), and you need to ensure there is space for draining washed dishes and food prep items. Without this space, your kitchen sink will lack the function you need.

Can You Put a Sink Anywhere in a Kitchen?

In theory, you can put a kitchen sink wherever you wish in a kitchen, but there are some guidelines designers recommend you follow to maximize function and flow and create a more inviting zone.

'Homeowners should pay close attention to clearances and circulation. Adequate landing space around the sink, room for dishwasher doors to open comfortably, and generous walkways throughout the kitchen all contribute to a kitchen that feels effortless and enjoyable to use,' Caroline explains.

There's a reason kitchen sinks are usually place of perimeter cabinetry or in front of a window – it creates the best zoning and makes the most sense when it comes to the required pipework.

Your kitchen sink is one of the most used features in your space, so ensuring it is located in the best place is key to enhancing functionality. Once you've found the perfect place for it, you can get started on designing your kitchen sink to perfectly suit the rest of your design.

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If you’ve ever forgotten a key ingredient in the fridge and fetched it mid-prepping your chicken or other meat for the grill, you’ve likely also cross-contaminated your appliance’s door handles in the process.

Professional cleaners warn that your fridge handles are one of the most easily forgotten areas for kitchen cleaning, but one of the most important to prevent avoidable illness, especially in the hotter summer months.

Here, experts explain why sanitizing this area is vital, and how to do so adequately without the need for harsh chemicals, so you can maintain the non-toxic home you have created.

Rosa Picosa, a Fabuloso® cleaning expert, explains, ‘We tend to use the fridge multiple times a day, and throughout the swirl of the day we can pick up germs unintentionally and then, we go to touch our face, food, and utensils without realizing our hands may not be as clean as we may think, which can potentially lead to spreading bacteria.'

This cross-contamination can be a key carrier for spreading germs in the kitchen, especially if you touch raw chicken or unclean produce and then proceed to open the fridge and other appliances. In one study on cross-contamination, it was reported that 'good hygiene practices in the kitchen are crucial to reducing the risk of foodborne diseases.'

To help prevent that spread from happening, Rosa adds, 'When cleaning the kitchen, I like to finish the area by wiping down the spots people touch all the time, like fridge doors, cabinet handles, and the faucet. These little details don’t take long, but they help the kitchen feel clean and keep germs from spreading too far out of our control.’

Why Fridge Handles Are Often Forgotten When Cleaning

Despite fridge handles being a high-traffic zone, they’re often forgotten, with professional cleaners identifying this area as a grimy spot they always notice in clients' homes.

Rosa adds, ‘I find people often stick to cleaning high-traffic, visible areas such as countertops, stovetops, and sinks. I always recommend spending no more than 10-15 minutes each day tackling one zone – I love to set a timer – wiping down counters and stovetops, spot-cleaning cabinet fronts, refreshing the sink area, or cleaning kitchen appliances such as the fridge.

‘The key is cleaning consistently to avoid the build-up of grime and sticky fingerprints before they turn into bigger cleaning jobs. These mini refreshes help the kitchen stay cleaner longer and make weekly deep cleans much easier.’

Keeping a regular and achievable cleaning schedule will also help, but washing your hands well when handling raw produce and before touching handles is the best preventative measure you can take.

How to Keep on Top of Fridge Hygiene in Busy Hosting Periods

Little and often works best, so that your kitchen’s hygiene remains an ongoing project. You don’t have to do it all at once; chip away at the tasks, zone by zone, regularly to ensure everything is tackled without your cleaning chores feeling overwhelming.

Rosa adds, ‘The main takeaway is that cleaning frequency is really about consistency, not perfection. My top tip for maintaining a frequent cleaning routine is to start small and be consistent.

‘Focus on managing daily cleaning tasks by doing a little bit each day, then conduct deeper cleans with what best fits your schedule – whether weekly, biweekly, or even monthly. For me, consistency helps ground me and determine what is essential.’

For easy upkeep of your fridge:

• Clean the handles when you wipe your countertops, so it becomes a habit-stacking task that's easy to keep the momentum going. Of course, if you have cross-contaminated the handles during meal prep, sanitize those immediately. Clorox wipes, available at Amazon, will eliminate all bacteria.
• Wipe down your fridge shelves as groceries run out and space clears, or just before loading your new haul of food.
• Clean the shelves inside your fridge's door once every week or two, especially if you store drinks and open jars here.
• Don't forget to tackle your fruit and vegetable drawers, as that forgotten-about tomato or lettuce will release liquid and become a hot spot for mold and bacteria, even in the chilled environment of your fridge. Using hot soapy water and a clean microfiber cloth, and drying the drawer fully will work just fine. You can also remove these and wash them by hand in the sink with a spot of dish soap, such as Dawn, from Walmart.
• Sanitize your water dispenser weekly to avoid 'pink mold', which is actually a common household bacterium that thrives in damp spaces.

The Realities of Sanitizing Without Harsh Chemicals

While harsher commercial cleaners work more quickly and efficiently, studies have confirmed the efficacy of natural cleaning products when used correctly and at the right concentrations.

A study in BMC Microbiology in 2020 found that vinegar at a minimum concentration of 10%, with 1.5% citric acid, kills many household germs, including strains of E. coli. Both vinegar and citric acid are available to buy at Walmart.

The exception to this natural cleaning rule, and where more astringent solutions may be needed, is if a member of your household is ill with a viral or bacterial infection that could spread.

In this case, make sure to use an adequate disinfectant such as Clorox wipes, available at Amazon, which eliminates 99.9% of germs.

What to Shop

Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting bring different levels of germ-busting, and it is possible to use gentler cleaners and natural ingredients with adequate effect if you leave them on for long enough.

Here are a few sanitizing essentials to help you achieve this without resorting to harsher chemicals while still cleaning well.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Fridge door handles are not the only place you might be forgetting to clean. There are vital spaces in the bedroom easily forgotten, which also require regular sanitation.

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There's no denying that the sink is one of the most important areas of your kitchen. It's the hub of food prep and cleaning, which is why it holds such an integral role in your overall layout decisions.

And while your kitchen sink may be a functional zone, there's no reason it can't be a pretty one, too. After all the effort that goes into perfectly placing it within a design (usually beneath a window), it seems only right to make it a beautiful nook, too.

There are plenty of ways to give your sink an elevated look without compromising practical design. From stylish kitchen storage ideas, like caddies that keep your dishwashing essentials in one place, to more aesthetically-led charming trays and luxurious dish racks, these 16 buys are the answer to a pretty kitchen sink.

Designing a kitchen sink goes beyond just function, and these perfectly pretty yet practical buys prove just how elevated this hard-working zone can be. For a chic look, match your accessories to your faucet, or opt for marble styles to tie in with your countertops.

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Small kitchens need to work harder in every capacity, but even more so when it comes to storage. Sometimes, the most impactful solutions are the most unexpected – and right now, the humble kitchen rack is proving more useful than ever.

Racks are an underrated kitchen storage idea, but they're one of those small features that can reintroduce so much space, and often create space you didn't realize was available to you.

It's about freeing up surface space without filling your small kitchen full of bulky furniture. And while kitchen racks may conjure images of those stainless steel structures typical of commercial spaces, there are plenty of designs that feel more at home in your personal space.

And how you style them is key. Functional kitchen racks are instantly softened by storage baskets and pretty storage jars, and even a rack skirt to hide the less aesthetic pieces in your kitchen.

If that sounds like a solution your scheme is crying out for, look no further. These are the clever small kitchen storage racks that will actually make a difference.

Most people can create space within the existing footprint of their kitchen – it's simply a case of introducing clever storage solutions that make every inch go further. For more inspiration, our guide to small kitchen storage ideas has plenty of designer advice.

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Each year, trends pick up on various colors, materials, and aesthetics that feel 'in' for the year. But while it's easy to swap styles and decor in other rooms, it doesn't feel quite so simple in a kitchen. Unless, of course, you choose the right design style to bring pared-back charm to your space.

Kitchen trends this year are highlighting one particular style that feels far from fleeting. Modern organic kitchens embrace ease and timelessness, with natural materials, warm white hues, and earthy pieces that feel far from fleeting. It's an aesthetic that adds warmth and character without overwhelming the room.

Think everyday essentials made from natural wood in organic forms, clean, warm-white storage vessels that elevate the everyday, and furniture that blends a refined palette with comfort and classic style. It embraces textures and flowing forms, rather than rigidity and uniformity. And these 16 pieces nail the look.

Decor and kitchenware are among the simplest yet most effective ways to infuse a new style into your kitchen, especially when organic modern style is the basis. Whether you bring in vases in organic forms, a sculptural fruit bowl, or replace plastic canisters for ceramic ones, these pieces are key to this revived look.

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I spend a surprising amount of time browsing IKEA. Partly because it's my job to keep up with the latest home launches, but also because it's one of the most reliable places to find affordable storage that genuinely makes life easier. In fact, most of my kitchen organization (and cabinetry) comes from IKEA. So when a new product catches my eye, it tends to be for a good reason – and the new HUNDHAJ spice rack is easily one of my favorite recent finds.

The HUNDHAJ is designed to keep spices, oils, and other cooking essentials together in one place. It might not sound like the most exciting purchase on paper, but if you've ever spent five minutes rummaging through a packed cabinet looking for your herbs and spices, or found yourself shuffling bottles of oil around the countertop just to make space to cook, you'll know how much of a difference good kitchen storage ideas can make.

What sets it apart, though, is its surprisingly cool design. Yes, really. Most spice racks are purely functional and not something you'd want to show off. The speckled green finish has a terrazzo-inspired look – a retro trend that's making a stylish comeback – and feels far more expensive than its $2.99 price tag suggests. The result is a practical organizer that doubles as a beautiful way of organizing a kitchen countertop.

A Modern Way to Store Spices

Spice storage ideas are one of the trickiest parts of kitchen organization. Jars have a habit of multiplying, disappearing into deep cupboards, or ending up scattered across every available surface. One of the simplest ways to improve your kitchen workflow is to keep the ingredients you reach for most often visible and within easy reach. Not only does that make cooking faster, but it also helps reduce countertop clutter by creating a dedicated home for everyday essentials.

Grouping spices, bottles, and seasonings together helps keep countertops and shelves feeling neater and more organized. It's particularly useful in small kitchens, where every inch of storage needs to work harder, and a streamlined setup can make the entire room feel more spacious.

That balance between practicality and style is something interior designer Irene Gunter, founder of Gunter & Co, believes is essential in any kitchen.

'If it's easy to find ingredients and equipment, cooking will be more enjoyable, while good storage can make the room feel less cluttered and more spacious. It is important to strike a balance between functionality and style,' she says.

The HUNDHAJ rack manages to do both. It keeps frequently used ingredients close at hand while also looking attractive enough to leave on display.

More Than Just a Spice Rack

What makes this organizer particularly clever is its versatility. It can be used in two different positions depending on your needs. With the raised edges facing upwards, it's perfect for securely storing spice jars, oils, and condiments. Flip it over, and it becomes more of a display shelf, making it easy to style kitchen essentials or decorative accessories.

There's also a thoughtful feature that many home cooks will appreciate: it doubles as a phone stand. If you've ever balanced your phone against a jar or propped it up against a cookbook while following a recipe, you'll know how useful that is. Being able to keep a recipe in view while you cook is one of those small details that makes everyday tasks feel much easier.

The rack is also designed to work with IKEA's CITRONHAJ containers, making it easy to create a coordinated storage setup if you're looking for a more streamlined, organized kitchen. The CITRONHAJ spice jars have already made their way into my shopping bag.

'The most successful kitchen storage solutions are the ones that make daily tasks easier while still looking good on display,' says Molly Malsom, Kitchen Editor at Homes & Gardens. 'This spice rack does exactly that. It keeps frequently used ingredients within easy reach, helps reduce countertop clutter, and has a design that feels much more expensive than its price tag suggests.'

There's another detail worth mentioning, too. The rack is made using waste material generated during IKEA's other production processes, with the lacquered finish highlighting the colorful speckled fragments left behind. It's a small touch, but one that gives the piece its distinctive appearance and makes it feel far more considered than your average countertop organizer.

It's hard to believe this chic little organizer costs just $2.99. Combining smart storage, thoughtful design, and surprising versatility, it's the kind of kitchen find that punches well above its price point. If you're searching for a better way to organize spices, particularly in a small kitchen, this is a simple upgrade with an outsized impact.

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