Rustic kitchens are all about warmth, charm, and personality, and a rustic style in the heart of the home, lets you have fun with decor by mixing textures, colors, and treasured heirlooms for a space that feels uniquely your own.

Whether you have a tiny kitchen or a big open plan, this look can work wonders. If you're tired of the clean lines and simplicity of modern kitchens, a rustic kitchen style fully leans into an organic, laid-back vibe where a bit of 'perfectly imperfect' is right at home. The beauty of the rustic kitchen is its well worn look, almost as though it’s been a work in progress over many years

Think weathered wood, flea market finds, rugged stone floors, and surfaces that tell a story. It’s a style where the quirks are celebrated, and everything gets better with age. So, if you love a kitchen with character, this one’s for you!

We've rounded up our 7 favorite rustic kitchen ideas and asked our experts to share their top tips and advice for designing a charming kitchen that feels just like the heart of the home.

1. Invest in a range cooker

Rustic kitchens and range cookers are made for each other. In fact I would argue that a rustic kitchen might look a little strange with anything more contemporary! With their nostalgic charm and good looks, range cookers effortlessly slip into the rustic vibe.

Vincent Larson, lead interior designer at Copper Smith gives us some handy tips when choosing the right range for your kitchen, ‘Opt for a cooker with a vintage or heritage look, perhaps with enamel finishes in classic colors like cream, sage, or deep burgundy. The cooker should feel substantial and timeless, something that looks like it’s been part of the kitchen for generations.'

And whilst they can effortlessly blend in, a well-placed range cooker can also take center stage as a stunning focal point, especially if your home is missing those classic architectural details.

Try carving out a spot for your range and frame it with textured colored tiles, such as these 'vintage leather' colored tiles from Fireclay, or a striking backsplash. A well-placed range cooker framed with a decorative element is what a fireplace and mantle is to a living room.

2. Make a display of pots and pans

Kitchens are made for living, and a rustic kitchen embraces this philosophy to the fullest. Its whole charm lies in celebrating the lived-in look. Bring your pots and pans out into the open with open shelving or a classic pot rack, which not only keeps your cookware right at your fingertips, but also transforms them into standout design elements.

Choose pieces that complement the rustic style, such as iron skillets, shiny copper pots, and vintage wooden utensils. When displayed with a little creativity, these everyday items bring tons of personality and visual flair to your kitchen as well as keeping your kitchen space organized.

A handy tip for those with a smaller kitchen, utilizing the ceiling space not only frees up cupboard space but you get a fully functioning design feature out of it as well. This rusty finished ceiling-mounted pot rack from Wayfair is a great place to start!

3. Try 'curtain skirts' rather than cupboard doors

With all that weathered wood, mismatched tiles, and vintage metals, a rustic kitchen can sometimes feel a bit rough around the edges. That’s where a kitchen skirt comes in. Adding one of these can instantly soften the space and bring a touch of personality.

They’re super easy to install and clean, plus they hide any clutter with style. In fact they can be a little more forgiving if you have over stuffed cupboards! Swap out the doors for a kitchen skirt on just a few units or one side, and watch how it breaks up the rigid look.

And the best bit? You can get really creative with fabrics, adding a pop of color and pattern without ever picking up a paintbrush.

If a poppier bit of color isn’t your style, Vincent suggests ’If you're going for cottage-like charm, choose natural fabrics like linen or cotton in earthy tones or simple patterns. These curtains can also introduce a bit of texture and movement, contrasting nicely with more solid materials like wood and metal.’

4. Lean into earthy colors

Bright colors aren’t the usual choice in a rustic kitchen, this style is all about embracing warmth, comfort, and vintage charm. With its love for natural, organic textures, the color scheme should follow suit.

Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL shares her go-to approach, ‘Lighter colors and not too much color are best for this look. Keep things natural, both in the materials you use and the accessories you include. Stick to a simple palette and avoid splashes of bright colors. Even if you want a moodier vibe, keep it soft and natural.’

Think soft off-whites on the walls such as Pale Oak by Benjamin Moore, paired with deep greens or rich browns for the cabinetry. That's a great place to start! Finish the look off by layering in some vintage wooden shelving, aged brass taps, and a few natural woven runners.

5. Opt for weathered metal finishes

Taps might not be the first thing you think of in kitchen design, but they play a huge role in both function and style. In a rustic kitchen, a standard chrome tap won’t cut it, and it’ll look oddly placed amongst all the other textures

Instead, opt for aged brass or copper taps. Not only do these finishes add a beautiful, warm touch, but they also develop a unique patina over time, which only adds to their charm. As they interact with their environment, they subtly change color, creating a dynamic, organic look that evolves with use.

And don’t forget about style! Choose traditional taps with a bit of height and intricate details, and keep an eye out for extra touches like porcelain handles on mixers.

6. Embrace unfinished textures

In a rustic kitchen, imperfections aren’t just acceptable, they’re part of the charm! What might seem like unfinished walls or a rough floor in a modern setting can become key elements of your kitchen’s character.

Instead of seeing these features as jobs that need fixing, embrace them as integral parts of the rustic look. A painted brick wall, a weathered wooden floor, or even slightly chipped tiles contribute to a lived-in atmosphere that defines the rustic style.

For older homes, particularly those with original architectural features like exposed wood beams, these elements are essentially doing half the decorating for you. Their imperfections blend seamlessly with the rustic aesthetic and every detail only adds to the overall charm.

7. Dress shelves with vintage crockery

If you’re a flea market addict or have an enviable treasure trove of vintage ceramics just waiting to be displayed, a rustic kitchen design is the place to do it. Invest in floating shelves and make a display out of all your beautiful crockery. While your usual dinner plates might still live behind closed doors, a rustic kitchen is all about breaking free from the minimalist mold.

Helen has some expert advice on adding in the finishing touches to your rustic kitchen space ‘Keep things light and bright, but add in small touches of vintage. I would focus on keeping each addition to the room well-considered and thoughtfully chosen. Space and light are very important and if you add touches of darker shades then balance them with brighter colors but not too contrasting, just a lighter shade to keep an overall feeling of calm.'

With few rules to follow, a lamp on the countertop won't look out of place, and displaying slightly mismatched pieces is encouraged. Consider hanging vintage plates or an old oil painting alongside a cherished heirloom teapot or a weathered wooden bowl. The finishing touches in a rustic kitchen are where you can truly make the space your own and really have some fun!

A rustic kitchen is more than just a design choice, it's an invitation to fill your home with warmth, charm, and a bit of personality.

Think of it as a celebration of all the little details that make a space feel truly lived-in. The gentle patina on those aged brass taps, open shelves packed with your favorite crockery, and vintage finds that add character in every corner.

It’s about embracing the imperfect and letting your space tell its own story.

A breakfast nook is the new must-have kitchen design feature that everyone is talking about! These cozy, inviting corners bring the perfect blend of comfort and style, giving you a special spot that feels connected to the heart of the home without being totally separate.

Whether you're looking to make the most of an unused corner, breathe new life into an awkward alcove, or turn a tiny room into a purposeful space, breakfast nooks are full of inspiration. There’s something irresistible about these little spots; they’re warm, welcoming, and just right for relaxed mornings.

Ready to bring some of that easy, morning magic into your kitchen? We’ve rounded up our favorite ideas with a little help from the experts to help you do just that

1. Incorporate clever storage solutions into your design

One of the greatest advantages of a breakfast nook is that it often comes with built-in benches, which not only provide a comfy spot to sit but also offer valuable storage solutions.

As CEO of Coates Design, Matthew Coates puts it, ‘Nooks are usually smaller, more intimate, and often situated close to the kitchen or in a cozy corner, making them ideal for informal, relaxed dining. Their charm comes from being a snug, approachable spot that feels like a retreat within your home.’

A well-designed breakfast nook can be both a charming feature and a highly functional space. Unlike a traditional dining setup, it serves as an eating area, a social hub, and a clever storage solution all in one.

Maximizing seating is crucial to making a breakfast nook comfortable and practical. Since these spaces are usually nestled into a corner, there often isn't room for bulky dining chairs. Banquette seating is the perfect alternative, adding plenty of seating while also offering hidden storage beneath the cushions.

As Matthew advises: ‘Comfort is key in a breakfast nook, so don't sacrifice practical elements like comfortable seating or easy-to-reach storage just for the sake of aesthetics.’

By blending comfort, functionality, and style, you can create a breakfast nook that's as practical as it is inviting.

2. Build into your existing kitchen design

While most breakfast nooks are typically tucked into corners or along the sides of a kitchen, sometimes the layout calls for a more creative approach. Placing a breakfast nook right in the middle of your kitchen can be a unique and surprisingly effective way to incorporate this feature.

Principal designer at Laure Nell Interiors, Laetitia Laurent shares her advice, ‘Avoid overcrowding the space. A breakfast nook should feel inviting, not cramped, so be mindful of scale when choosing furniture. Keeping things simple and streamlined will prevent the nook from feeling out of place.’

To help the nook blend seamlessly into your kitchen, it’s important to use the same finishes and materials, creating a cohesive look.

Amber Guyton, Interior Designer at Blessed Little Bungalow suggests, ‘Keep the color scheme uniform and use the kitchen's cabinetry, tile, wall color, etc, as the foundation of the scheme. Then select colors, fabrics, and items that will complement it so the spaces feel naturally aligned’

3. Zone your breakfast nook with bright pops of color

Zoning is a great way to create distinct areas within an open-plan space, so why not use a splash of color to make your breakfast nook feel warm and inviting?

This approach works wonderfully in a bright, vibrant kitchen, but it can also bring a dynamic twist to a contemporary, neutral kitchen. For instance, in a black-and-white kitchen, a pop of bold color in the nook can add just the right amount of ‘zing’.

Choose an accent color that ties in with something already in your kitchen such as a shade of green that matches your plants or accessories, and use it as the main color for your breakfast nook.

Keep the furniture simple to let the walls and upholstery stand out. Finish with a few culinary-inspired prints, and you’ll have a unique dining space that feels like an extension of your kitchen, while still offering the cozy feel of its own little nook.

4. Carve out a breakfast area in a small kitchen

Not every kitchen has room for a dedicated breakfast nook. If space is tight, consider a simple garden bistro table and chairs, such as this charming table available at Target. Light and compact, these sets can easily tuck into the smallest corners, and they come in a wide range of styles and colors to match any kitchen decor.

It's an affordable alternative to bespoke, built-in solutions, while still adding charm and functionality and without the commitment of built-in furniture and allows you to play with soft elements like rugs, cushions, and decor.

For truly compact kitchens, consider incorporating a small breakfast space into the overall design. As Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens, suggests, ‘Staggering the depth of your worktops is another good option as it allows you to create small, shallow areas for seating or slim cupboards. It's the perfect solution for a little breakfast bar, as galley kitchens rarely have enough width for a kitchen table.’

5. Bring Parisian café charm to your breakfast nook

With a few clever design ideas, you can create a cozy nook that feels just like your favorite bistro. A great breakfast nook solution that fits in perfectly with a rustic-style kitchen

Start with some key details, like a ‘café curtain’. This is simply put, a sheer fabric that lets in light while offering a bit of privacy, perfect for creating an intimate corner. These sweet lace curtains available at Target are a great place to start.

As Helen suggests, ‘Drape vintage lace in your window or simply add a touch of Parisian café culture to your home with our gloriously simple aged brass café curtain rails. It’s an easy, affordable way to add a little French flair to your space.'

Pair those curtains with vintage bistro chairs to complement the built-in seating typical of a breakfast nook, and look to simple muted wall colors. Keep the decor simple, unfussy, and a bit vintage.

Lead Designer at Awning, Elissa Hall recommends ‘Consider adding a small bistro table, mix-and-match chairs, and lighting, such as a single pendant light or wall sconces. The idea is to create a place where you can linger over coffee and feel a bit of that relaxed, social energy. I always recommend placing nooks near windows to maximize natural light, just like your favorite sunlit corner in a café.'

6. Make use of an awkward room or corridor

If you’ve got an awkward space between your kitchen and another room that’s too small for a living area but too wide to be just a hallway, why not turn it into a cozy breakfast nook?

Plus, because it’s so close to the kitchen, it’s super convenient for those rushed mornings when every second counts. And beyond just being useful, it’s a great opportunity to get creative with your design.

Think bold cushions, a unique table, or even some fun wall art to personalize it. Whilst this area may be just a touch separate from your kitchen, try emulating the same style to keep the look and feel cohesive.

To keep things nice and tidy, opt for built-in benches that fit seamlessly against the wall, paired with a few sleek chairs. It’s an easy way to make that small, in-between space work functionally while adding a charming new spot to your home.

7. Get creative with customization

Banquette-style seating and built-in benches are the heart of a breakfast nook, offering endless ways to customize the space to match your unique style. While you can buy ready-made options, many prefer a custom-built nook to their exact specifications.

You can paint the bench to blend with your kitchen, choose a bold color, add storage or shelving, and most fun of all, select unique upholstery.

From classic flat cushions to playful fabrics, upholstery is an easy way to refresh the look as your tastes evolve. The great thing about upholstery is that it can be relatively easy to change, allowing you to update your breakfast nook as your tastes evolve or even after a full kitchen refit.

As Laetitia Laurent, Principal Designer at Laure Nell Interiors tells us ‘Bold upholstery in a breakfast nook can serve as a statement piece that draws attention and adds personality to the space. Consider using patterns or vibrant colors that reflect the mood you want to create. Whether it’s energetic and playful or sophisticated and serene.’

So whether it’s bright patterns, bold colors, or custom storage solutions, a breakfast nook can be both a focal point and a flexible feature that adapts to your style.

A breakfast nook is more than just a charming addition to your kitchen It offers a cozy, informal setting for meals and conversations, making your kitchen a more inviting and dynamic space.

Whether you opt for built-in benches with clever storage or a compact bistro setup, a breakfast nook integrates seamlessly into any kitchen layout.

And it’s customizable nature allows you to express your personal style while adding practicality. Ultimately, a well-designed breakfast nook transforms your kitchen into a vibrant hub where comfort, convenience, and aesthetics come together beautifully.

I absolutely love vintage-inspired kitchens. They always look cozy and cute, which makes them perfect for cooking wholesome meals and having a relaxed time with friends and family.

Alicia Silverstone's kitchen is the perfect example of this, and I'm officially in love with it. Let's just say she isn't Clueless about interior design. I've asked the pros why her brass fixtures, wooden textures, and thoughtful details work so well, and how to get the look at home.

If you're looking for kitchen ideas that will invite people in and will stand the test of time, Alicia's space has plenty of lovely features to inspire you.

I’ve seen vintage nostalgia everywhere this year, which Alicia Silverstone’s kitchen perfectly embodies with its fixtures and accessories.

“As an interior designer, I appreciate Alicia Silverstone's kitchen for its simplicity and coziness,” says Kristin Hintlian, interior designer and co-owner of Bonsai Builders.

To achieve a style, Kristin recommends choosing timeless fixtures like a farmhouse sink and retro-inspired hardware or small appliances.

“Get yourself a faucet with some weight, something that feels like it’s lived through a few decades of real life,” adds Ruben Gutierrez, interior designer and founder of Errez Design. “Don’t baby it — let it age, let it wear. That’s where the character comes from. You don’t want shiny and new — you want something that gets better with time.”

The warmth added by this brass faucet is also complemented by the wooden kitchen decor dotted around throughout.

“Wooden cutting boards, bowls, and utensil holders are easy ways to bring natural warmth to a space without major renovations,” Kristin adds.

Other details like pendant lighting, potted indoor plants, and decorative objects help finish the look by keeping the space uncluttered while still feeling homey.

“I also love how these are contrasted with white and black kitchen ideas such as black countertops and white subway tile, which create a sleek yet inviting look,” says Kristin.

“A crisp, neutral color palette with touches of black provides contrast and makes the wooden elements pop,” she adds.

Ruben agrees, adding, “The white cabinets and dark countertops play off each other perfectly. The room breathes, lets the light pour in, and gives space for the real stars.”

Shop the look

With some key pieces and a cohesive style, it's possible to recreate Alicia’s inviting, vintage-inspired look on a budget.

“Focusing on a limited color palette, multi-purpose wooden accessories, and timeless fixtures are smart strategies for keeping costs down while achieving a high-end result,” Kristin finishes by saying.

Want to carry on swooning over celeb kitchens? I also love Olivia Rodrigo’s kitchen, which channels quiet luxury style wonderfully.

What can we say about brown kitchen cabinet ideas – well, quite a lot actually! It's not a color you may instantly consider, but, it's warm, cozy and stylish. 

Got a small kitchen? Then embrace a brown scheme – it can be 'brown' from the wood you choose for your cabinets, or a paint shade in say chocolate or mocha. The choice is wider than you think, and brown looks really great with other shades too.

From taupe to tan, fawn to chocolate, there are plenty of brown shades you can adopt to create this scheme. 

1. It's ideal for kitchens with low ceilings

Why? Because it draws the eye down to ground level and anchors it perfectly. Then you can add a lighter tone to your walls and finish with white in the ceiling.  

"Muddy greeny brown works really nicely with softer walls and creates a brighter interior than using dark colors on cupboards and walls," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

This charming kitchen has character due to the many layers – the dark brown cabinets, marble countertops, wooden floor and jute rug, it wall works together perfectly.

For a similar brown check out Benjamin Moore's Night Owl CC-662, a dark brown with green undertones. 

2. Use it on your kitchen island

You can use brown as much or as a little as you like, here, it's used sparingly on the exterior of the kitchen island. 

Its placement adds depth and interest to the scheme as it contrasts against the mid toned wood. 

Paint this part of your kitchen island with Little Greene's Scullery, it's a warm brown that will work wonderfully with a wooden cabinets. 

3. Team wood cabinets with chocolate walls

You can use wood to create your 'brown' kitchen cabinet color scheme – it comes in shades of the color in a natural way. 

We love how these rich cabinets are teamed with chocolate brown walls, and the shade of the wood is rather like a rich toffee shade, really warming and looks fabulous with the darker brown paint color. 

For three shades of brown that would work in this style of kitchen, have a look at the below. 

4. Opt for a grey brown

There are so many shades of brown you can choose from, from tan and coffee to the darker, moodier end of the scale like a gray brown. 

The darker you go the more you can create an interesting contrast within your scheme. Here, the cabinets are a gray brown and when teamed with marble countertops are a striking combination. To prevent this kind of scheme from appearing 'cool' choose a warm wood flooring. 

5. Consider fawn with white

Fawn is a great brown to consider, it's easy on the eye and goes fabulously well with white. 

"We’re seeing a big shift toward natural wood finishes for cabinetry. Rich walnuts and oaks add a nice layer of warmth that more homeowners are looking for. In our signature Soft Modern kitchens especially, the contrast of natural wood against more refined materials strikes a balance that feels contemporary and timeless," says Paul Kropp, co-founder at Bakes & Kropp.

It's contemporary and stylish and the brass hardware complements the fawn shade perfectly. If you wanted to paint your cabinets this color look at Benjamin Moore's Acorn 1125, a lovely mid brown with a hint of red. 

6. Team cacao with green

An eye-catching kitchen that features custom mahogany cabinets and windows combined with chunky marble countertops and green handmade tiles. 

The deep cacao shade created from the slatted wood cabinetry offers a rich feel that makes this kitchen feel warm and welcoming. The green tiles add an exciting dimension as they are varying shades.

Recreate this look with our three buys below. 

7. Use it on the upper cabinets

This contemporary kitchen has a nod to mid-century design with its dark wood wall cabinets. 

The deep brown shade of the finish takes your eye straight to the wall and it's highlighted by the pearlescent wall tiles that sit behind the open shelving and backsplash. 

Warm it up with a brass hanging rail and faucet. Team your wall cabinets with the same tiles, they're White Zellige from Otto Tiles & Design. 

8. Add some accents of blue and yellow

This really cool kitchen shows how you can team accent colors with brown cabinets – in this case cork. 

"The brown cabinets in Big Little Rock are crafted from natural cork, chosen for their sustainability and ability to connect the home to the breathtaking Icelandic landscape. The rich, earthy tones of the cork echo the resilience of Iceland’s birch trees, while harmonizing with the vibrant yellow island, which reflects the warmth of the midnight sun. Set against a serene blue backdrop reminiscent of Iceland’s waterfalls, the space feels both grounded in nature and refreshingly modern," says Erla Dögg Ingjaldsdóttir, co-founder of Minarc. 

Keep clutter free and let the kitchen design shine with this style of space, choose accessories in similar shades for cohesion. 

9. White is a great pairing

According to Helen Shaw, director of marketing (international) at Benjamin Moore, brown offers a calm and grounding feel. "Earthtones offer versatility and the ability to add warmth and heart into a room. Whilst pale brown tones offer a neutral finish with depth and tactility, saturated hues create a statement, lending warmth and depth to any space."

For a similar shade consider Benjamin Moore's Dash of Pepper 1554, it will have the same effect and will draw the eye down to the lovely earthy tone of the color. Helen adds, "Used on cabinetry or feature walls, rich shades are perfect for adding dramatic depth. An abundance of natural light will help reveal undertones of rich reds and warm yellows, so consider this when choosing accents."

Our brown kitchen cabinet ideas will show you how to use brown successfully on your cabinets, from barely their taupe to rich toffee, mocha and dark chocolate shades there's really something for everyone. 

When designing a kitchen, it can feel like there are over 100 different decisions that need to be made. One of the most important ones that often gets overlooked is lighting.

You may have your main lighting source nailed but have you thought about task lighting or how you’re going to create ambience in your kitchen?

Create a cozy atmosphere with these kitchen cabinet lighting ideas that have come directly from the experts.

1. Under cabinet LED strips 

One of the key things to consider when looking at your kitchen lighting is getting the balance right between stylish and functional. You want your lights to create a beautifully soft ambience but you also want them to be practical when it comes to seeing exactly what you’re doing.

Ayten Nadeau from i-TEN Designs says, "When it comes to cabinet lighting, under-cabinet LED strip lights are more than just an option—they’re a game-changer. Imagine your kitchen countertops bathed in a soft, warm glow, inviting you in whether you're preparing a gourmet meal or enjoying a late-night snack. I choose the hardwired versions because they offer unmatched energy efficiency and reliability without the hassle of frequent maintenance."

2. Get the tone right 

When it comes to any form of kitchen lighting, it’s crucial you get the tone spot on. You’ll want to avoid a cold and sterile feel in your kitchen, so don’t go for lighting that gives off a stark white glow. Instead, choose something warmer in tone.

"Here’s the insider tip: color temperature is crucial. It’s the key to transforming your kitchen from a sterile lab to a welcoming haven. I love using 2700K to 3000K range. Going any higher can create a harsh, clinical feel that makes even the most beautiful countertops look like they’re under a microscope," explains Ayten.

3. Layer cabinet lighting 

Cabinet lighting is a wonderful source of illumination in any kitchen design. However, it would be a mistake to not think about how this is going to work with other forms of lighting in your space - layering is key!

Hannah Goldberg from Hannah Charlotte Interiors explains that "Layering light is one of our favorite ways to create more intimate spaces - nothing feels colder than a space highlighted with only recessed ceiling lights. The best kitchen lighting scheme will include a range of different types of lighting allowing you to carry out everyday tasks while also creating the perfect ambiance for relaxing or entertaining."

"Create levels of light by adding a sconce over the sink, pendants over the island, and decorative lighting over a dining area."

4. Illuminated interior

Opening a kitchen cabinet in the evening can present you with a dark space where you can’t seem to find what you’re looking for. Eliminate this problem by illuminating the inside of your kitchen cabinets.

"Now, let’s talk about puck lights—the unsung heroes of cabinet illumination. Whether surface-mounted or recessed, these little powerhouses can elevate your space. I’m particularly fond of the recessed options for that added touch of drama when opening a cabinet to reveal your favorite art piece or cherished collectible, perfectly spotlighted like it’s the star of the show. Puck lights can transform your kitchen from a functional area into a stunning showcase of style and personality," says Ayten.

5. Don’t forget your countertops! 

It’s all well and good lighting your kitchen cabinets but what about your countertops? If you feel like your workspace is lacking light then you can always add stylish task lighting to solve this issue.

Sara Malek Barney, founder and principal designer at BANDD/Design says, "I also think adding small accent lighting, like task lamps to a kitchen countertop makes the overall vibe feel warmer and softer, lending itself to a cozier feel."

6. Pair cabinet lighting with under or over lighting 

Multiple sources of light are far better than just one or two. Be creative with your kitchen lighting and pair interior cabinet lights with either under or over-cabinet lighting.

"Kitchen cabinets are a great place to conceal functional lighting. I often recommend under cabinet LED lighting for even illumination of countertops and cove or crown molding lighting to softly illuminate ceilings," explains Sarah Barnard, founder of Sarah Barnard Design.

7. Glass cabinet lighting

You may not feel the need to add spotlights inside every one of your kitchen cabinets. Instead, choose to illuminate your glass fronted cabinets to add a soft warm glow that will beautifully light your entire kitchen.

Glass cabinets usually house the most aesthetically pleasing kitchen items as you know that they are going to be on show. Make a feature out of your glass kitchen cabinets by attaching a downlight on the inside.

8. Wall lights instead of cabinetry 

Smaller kitchens can be made to feel even smaller if you surround the entire space with wall cabinetry. Try and keep your kitchen feeling light and bright by keeping wall cabinetry to a minimum.

Instead, use the wall space to showcase extra lighting. Wall lights are extremely popular right now with kitchen designers as they act as a form of ambient lighting while still being attractive to look at, unlike traditional LED spotlights or strip lights.

Try and remember to carefully plan your kitchen lighting to reflect how you want to use the space. Illuminating your kitchen cabinets, whether it be through under cupboard lighting or interior spotlights can give your kitchen design interest and depth.

Rather than focusing on one main source of light, try and incorporate lots of different light sources for a cozy and inviting kitchen design.

Kitchens are one of the most functional spaces in any home. There’s no doubt that they have to be practical but it’s important that they feel cozy and homely, too.

How do you get the balance right between style and functionality? Before renovating your kitchen you should write a list of priorities and work out how you can achieve them whilst still achieving an aesthetically pleasing kitchen that feels warm and cozy.

The experts tell us how we can create a cozy kitchen that also fulfils all of our practical needs.

Expert-approved cozy kitchen ideas

Every room in your home should feel inviting and make you want to spend time in it. There's nothing better than coming home after a long day to a cozy home that feels like your safe space.

Keep reading to discover some of the best cozy kitchen ideas to inspire you.

1. Incorporate natural materials

Designing a kitchen is a stressful process but if you’re currently deciding what kind of kitchen you want to go for and you’ve got your heart set on a cozy space then incorporate natural materials.

Marie Flanigan, founder of Marie Flanigan Interiors says, "Incorporating natural materials like stained wood for cabinetry or shelving enhances the organic, lived-in feel. Layering in soft textiles, such as linen cafe curtains or woven wood shades, can add comfort and depth to your kitchen design."

Be mindful when you’re choosing your kitchen flooring. Natural stone and reclaimed wood are beautiful options if you want to create a rustic feel.

2. Warm tones

Don’t fancy taking on an entire kitchen renovation but want to rejuvenate your space? Consider painting your walls and cabinetry in contrasting warm colors for a welcomed update.

"Adding warm tones is crucial - we encourage clients to take the leap and use a bold, rich, warm color on the cabinets - but if that's too much of a commitment soaking the walls in a rich color will do the trick. Warm woods are an excellent way to up the cozy factor of a kitchen - either in the cabinets themselves or a walnut butcher block counter," explains Hannah Goldberg from Hannah Charlotte Interiors.

3. Add living room details

This may not feel like a natural addition but trust us when we say that adding classic living room details will transform your kitchen from a solely functional space into a warm and cozy one.

"Try adding living room details to your kitchen like placing an oil painting on the wall or adding non-dining room seating. We love placing a little sofa or set of lounge chairs in a kitchen to encourage socializing while cooking - which we all can’t stop ourselves from doing," suggests Kim Gordon, founder of Kim Gordon Designs.

Another affordable way of adding character to a kitchen is to fill it with plants. Place a potted plant on your countertop and attach a couple of hanging plants to your ceiling joists.

4. Think about fixtures

Whether you’re currently designing your kitchen from scratch or thinking of ways to switch things up, think carefully about your fixtures and fittings and whether or not they fit in with the cozy vibe you want to create.

"To design a cozy kitchen, always think through the finishes and how they will age within a space. Consider adding unlacquered brass plumbing fixtures or hardware that will develop a beautiful patina over time, adding warmth and character to the space," says Marie.

Match your choice of hardware and taps with other elements in your kitchen such as the brackets for your open shelving.

5. Soft textures

Break up the harsh lines of a kitchen by introducing an abundance of texture. This can be done in lots of different ways, including rugs, soft furnishings, and the latest kitchen trend, sink curtains.

"The soft texture provided by fabric creates an amazing contrast with the otherwise hard finishes of kitchens. Classic ways to incorporate fabrics into your kitchen are in window treatments like cafe curtains or a beautiful Roman shade; or a statement banquette upholstery. To add an extra layer of textiles consider adding a sink curtain," says Hannah.

6. Layer lighting

You may not have considered how much lighting affects the coziness of your kitchen. As soon as the evening rolls around, you’ll want your kitchen space to be lit beautifully. In order to do this, you should layer different light sources.

"Layering light is one of our favorite ways to create more intimate spaces - nothing feels colder than a space highlighted with only recessed ceiling lights," explains Hannah.

"The best kitchen lighting scheme will include a range of different types of lighting allowing you to carry out everyday tasks while also creating the perfect ambiance for relaxing or entertaining. Create levels of light by adding a sconce over the sink, pendants over the island, and decorative lighting over a dining area."

7. Be sure to declutter

A clean, clutter-free kitchen sets the foundation for coziness. Clear your countertops of non-essentials and keep only what you use on a daily basis.

"Visual appeal is equally important. Declutter your kitchen and use the freed-up space to add touches of warmth: a lush plant, a bouquet of fresh flowers, or seasonal décor. As the seasons change, a vase of autumn leaves or a small pine arrangement brings in a cozy, seasonal vibe," explains Ayten.

"The tactile experience can’t be overlooked. Enjoy the feel of a well-maintained countertop by keeping surfaces clean and smooth. Set the mood with soft, ambient music—gentle melodies can turn your kitchen into the most relaxing spot in your home."

8. Don’t forget about the accessories

"Lastly, evoke nostalgia with a charming display on your kitchen island or countertop. Arrange elegant glassware, a plate of homemade treats, and a few cherished dishes. Swap out bright sponges for sleek white ones, use a stylish soap dispenser, and make sure there are no dirty dishes or trash in sight," says Ayten.

You can’t underestimate the power of the finishing touches. The design of your kitchen is the foundation of your scheme but it’s the finer details that will create a cozy atmosphere.

Cozy kitchens are bang on trend. Taking inspiration from farmhouse, country-style kitchens, adding warmth and texture is key.

Start with the basics and declutter your kitchen to achieve a state of zen. Build upon this with your choice of lighting, accessories and decor for that ultimate cozy feel.

As the content editor at Real Homes, I'm always looking out for the latest trends. Some of them make perfect sense and some of them are very surprising. The fridgescaping trend falls into the latter of these categories, but I've been nonetheless fascinated by it.

I've seen it all over my TikTok and Instagram feeds, so I had to find out what it's about, the pros and cons, and top tips for trying it if you're that way inclined. I've spoken with fridgescaping influencer Lynzi Judish, as well as a kitchen expert, to get the lowdown.

For those searching for kitchen trends to bring into your cooking space, this is one of the quirkiest ones I've seen this year.

What is fridgescaping?

“Fridgescaping is the art of organizing and styling the inside of a refrigerator to be visually appealing,” says Janice Page, interior designer and owner of PKsurroundings.

“Think of it as interior design for your fridge, involving careful placement of items in aesthetically pleasing ways, using matching decor and even color coordination to create a sense of harmony,” she adds.

The pros of fridgescaping

For those who are creative and love bringing interior design trends into their homes in fun ways, fridgescaping could be worth trying.

“I particularly love tablescaping and fridgescaping is very similar to that,” says Lynzi Judish, fridgescaper and influencer at @lynziliving.

She continues, “I’ve also become very obsessed with produce after this ranging from growing it to cooking it, so displaying it in a beautiful way that encourages me to eat healthy has become a real fun aspect of the process.”

Lynzi adds that she’s had lots of other people comment that it helps them to eat healthy, as it stops them wasting produce and displays it in an enticing way.

“Others say it’s a way to romanticize your life and to breathe some new life into a piece of your home that’s usually pretty mundane,” she adds. Lynzi also loves the dopamine decor hit of opening the fridge and seeing food looking more aesthetically pleasing.

As well as this, she says it’s a great way to stay on top of cleaning your fridge. “It’s so easy to maintain keeping it tidy in this process,” she adds.

Plus, Lynzi says it’s a very thrift-friendly hobby, as you can find budget-friendly decor in secondhand furniture stores.

The cons of fridgescaping

One of the big cons is that some of the food that you display out in the open, rather than in containers, will ripen much quicker.

“Berries are probably at the top of that list, so you need to prioritize them and eat them quickly. It’s definitely more time-consuming than just throwing food in the refrigerator when you get home from the grocery store,” Lynzi says.

“Setting up and maintaining a fridgescaped refrigerator requires time and regular upkeep, which might not be practical for everyone,” Janice agrees.

As well as this, Lynzi says It might be a little bit inconvenient, depending on how you design the refrigerator, meaning you might have to shift things around to get to something else.

“I also think that someone who doesn’t actually eat all of their produce might have more food waste,” she adds.

Top tips for fridgescaping

Want to try this at home? These are Lynzi’s top tips for fridgescaping:

• Take it slow: “Start slowly by using items that you might use anyway. For example, most people will have their butter or eggs out in the refrigerator anyway, so a cute butter dish and egg crate are good starts.”
• Meal plan: “I recommend making a meal plan before shopping so you have a good grasp of what you have and don’t over-shop just to make your refrigerator look pretty.”
• Choose the right containers: “Not all containers that look like they could work for fridgescaping are right for food storage. Testing is important if you’re using old antique pieces. You don’t want to give yourself lead poisoning because you left asparagus in a vase for two weeks. Or, if you’re buying something online, it should say it in the manufacturing notes if it’s not food safe.”
• Carefully place items: “Things like apples are heavy ethylene producers and tend to make things ripen quicker and certain veggies are very sensitive to ethylene, so you wouldn’t want to store them next to each other.”
• Avoid cross-contamination: “You want to be careful about cross-contamination, like not leaving meat out in the open uncovered or making sure you clean up spills right away.”

Fridgescaping buys

If you decide to try fridgescaping, make sure you’re enjoying yourself while doing it, rather than doing it to jump on a trend.

“Just have fun with it — at the end of the day, it’s not that serious and if this doesn’t bring you joy, please don’t feel any pressure to do it. That defeats the purpose!” Lynzi finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scoping out more popular styles? The frazzled English woman trend is one of the most popular TikTok trends right now.

If you’re in the midst of designing your dream kitchen or are planning to renovate yours sometime in the future, you might want to bear Kylie Kelce’s kitchen design in mind as you do so.

The mom of three and wife of Jason Kelce took to her Instagram to showcase her thoughtfully designed kitchen in a recent Reel and it really highlighted the importance of being able to move around your space freely, while making the most of the area you have to work with.

In terms of kitchen layout ideas, Kylie’s gone for an island layout, making this the heart of the room, with it being ideally located to allow you to wash veggies, prep food, do dishes, and grab essentials from the refrigerator. But there’s also room for a separate dining area and breakfast bar seating.

According to Rossella Marzocchella, kitchen expert at Decor and Decor, “Kylie's kitchen flows well and makes the most of the space that they have at hand.” This is because it follows what is known as the golden or kitchen triangle layout.

This “triangle is based on keeping the cooker, sink, and refrigerator close together to optimize your time in the kitchen by allowing you to move between preparing your food, cooking, and cleaning efficiently,” Rossella explains.

Unlike some other celebrity homes, which only serve as design inspiration instead of us actually being able to imagine ourselves in them, the Kelce family’s looks like a typical busy family kitchen, which we love. It also has a timeless appearance to it thanks to its clean white cabinetry and marble countertops.

“Kylie’s kitchen has access points in two places, as well as the ability to be able to move around the rest of the kitchen without having to enter the main cook and food prep space, which is what you want for a busy kitchen with young children,” suggests Richard Davonport, Managing Director at Davonport. And we have to agree.

Get the look

Black kitchens are not for the faint-hearted but they don’t have to be as intimidating as you think. Are you currently trying to figure out the best kitchen cabinet color for your upcoming renovation and are tempted to go over to the dark side?

If this is you then we’ve got some of the best tips from the kitchen experts who tell us the most stylish ways to design and decorate a black kitchen.

Everything from the best color pairings to tile choices and fun paint techniques.

1. Contrasting interior

There’s no shying away from the fact that black kitchen cabinets will make a room feel darker than white kitchen cabinets would. However, they offer a great opportunity to be fun and playful with your design.

Tom Howley, creative design director at Tom Howley Kitchens says, "Dark and dramatic paint colors such as black have a way of adding ambiance and sophistication to a space. Dark shades can come across as intimidating, however, it’s the way you use them that changes the feel. Used on the main run of base and wall cabinetry, dark colors can look luxurious and courageous while still having a timeless appeal."

A contemporary way of adding interest to a black kitchen is to paint the interior of your kitchen cabinets. You can choose any bright pop of color that you like to add a fun surprise to your cabinetry. This is sure to make you smile every time you go to use your kitchen.

2. Pair with light colored tiles

Other than the cabinetry, your choice of wall coverings is probably the second most important design element you’re going to pick for your kitchen.

If your heart is set on black cabinets then you should consider choosing light tiles to adorn your walls with as this will create a welcomed contrast. "Black kitchen cabinets can feel surprisingly warm and cozy when paired with light tiles, warm woods, or brick details," says Sarah Barnard, founder of Sarah Barnard Design.

There are so many different tile designs to choose from, everything from mosaic to herringbone, make sure to pick a style that’s right for you and your kitchen.

3. Color drench in black

Not too scared to go dark and dramatic? Then you may want to think about color drenching your kitchen with black cabinetry and walls (and perhaps even the ceiling)!

"Cozy or chic, soft or bold, black is surprisingly versatile and can complement any style of kitchen from traditional to modern. Using black paint, whether just a touch or a whole room, can have a tremendous visual impact and create a focal point.  For an undeniable statement, apply this bold hue across all kitchen cabinetry and walls," suggests Helen Shaw, marketing director at Benjamin Moore.

This will create a dramatic and luxurious setting but also be warm and inviting for when you have friends and family over.

4. Pair black cabinets with chrome 

You may initially think that black only comes in one shade, however, like any other color, black can have different undertones. If your black kitchen cabinets have a blue undertone then they will make the room feel naturally cooler when it’s flooded with natural light.

"Blacks with blue undertones feel slightly cooler and work well with metallic finishes like chrome," explains Helen. Think about this when you're shopping for your kitchen tap and handles.

5. Green undertone for an outdoor feel

"Alternatively, black kitchen cabinets that boast a green undertone work well in spaces with lush kitchen gardens as the paint will pick up the cast from the light as it reflects off the trees and plants," Helen goes on to say.

Black kitchen cabinets with a green undertone look fabulous paired with brushed brass hardware. The warmth of the brass complements the green perfectly and will give your kitchen an elegant and luxurious feel.

6. Play with texture

A run of black kitchen cabinetry can sometimes look quite flat. Don’t let this be the case in your kitchen and opt for a fluted cupboard door design.

You don’t have to have this design on all of your cabinets but choose either a pantry cupboard or an island to have a fluted finish to make it into a real stand out feature of the room.

7. Choose copper worktops

Chances are that if you’re planning on a black kitchen then you’re not afraid of taking risks when it comes to decorating your home. Rather than opting for the standard laminate or quartz, choose a more unique option to complement your black cabinetry such as an aged copper work surface.

"Bold, daring, and elegant, but actually a very traditional choice for kitchen furniture, black is surprisingly gentle and soft and can give a very pared back and comfortable feel to a room. Add some aged copper worktops and you have instant understated glamor," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

8. Go for a black island

A black kitchen can run the risk of feeling dark and oppressive if it’s not right for the space. Avoid this from happening and go for a black kitchen island or feature instead.

"Black kitchen cabinets can also be an impactful design element when used sparingly, like for a kitchen island or range hood," explains Sarah. So, if you love the idea of black cabinetry but don’t want to fully commit, then use black as a statement feature rather than for the whole design.

9. Chalkboard walls instead of cabinetry

Another innovative way of incorporating black into your kitchen design is to keep your base cabinets black but adorn your walls with black chalkboard paint.

Black wall cabinetry can naturally feel quite heavy. Keep your walls feeling open and spacious by opting for open shelving instead and painting the walls with chalkboard paint. This not only feels cohesive with the rest of your black color scheme but you’ll be able to personalise your kitchen walls - how fun!

Black is a bold color and that can’t be underestimated. However, there are lots of different ways to incorporate it into your kitchen design using your cabinetry that isn’t too scary.

Use black as a basis for your design and use other key elements to contrast against it. Or, if you’re feeling brave, color drench your entire kitchen in black for a scheme that truly has the wow-factor.

Those of us who love to pack up our van or vehicle and go camping will know how tricky it can be to cook on the go. While we can’t get enough of toasting some s'mores over an open fire, making proper meals can be a bit more difficult, especially as you don’t always want to have to lug lots of camping equipment around with you.

But Jennifer Garner might have just shown us the perfect solution for our next camping trip. The same can also be said if you’re looking for some of the best small kitchen appliances that don’t take up a lot of space on your countertops.

We’re already big fans of what Jennifer calls her ‘Pretend Cooking Show’ on Instagram and for the latest episode of her fun and relaxed cooking segment, she brings it to us from a campsite. So, if you’ve got any upcoming camping trips planned, you’ll definitely want to tune in.

During the video, the actress and mom of three, takes her fans through the process of making some crispy hash browns, which look mouth-wateringly good. And she even shared the exact recipe with her almost 17 million followers. But it’s the two cooking appliances that she used that really caught our eye.

As she starts to prepare the dish, she uses KitchenAid’s Go Cordless Food Chopper to chop up her potatoes before adding some seasoning, cheese, and a good amount of butter, crisping them to perfection on the campsite’s grill. But you’ll also want something to drink with your morning meal, which is when she quickly swaps the removable battery pack from the Food Chopper to the KitchenAid Go Cordless Personal Blender, allowing her to quickly whip up a tasty smoothie to enjoy with her breakfast.

Essentially, one battery can power a number of different appliances, saving you from having to worry about finding somewhere to connect to a power outlet, which is why it’s such a genius solution for cooking outdoors.

Once you’ve bought one of the appliances with the battery included, you can buy any future KitchenAid Go devices without the battery to save you some cash in the long run. Or, if you’re anything like us, you can never have too many battery packs when you’re on-the-go.

Jen also admits that you can swap out the battery to even more devices, as and when you need to, from their Cordless Hand Mixer to their Cordless Kitchen Vacuum. How convenient is that?

Let’s just say, we definitely need to try it out on our next camping trip. And think how good it would be for prepping food on your kitchen island, without having to worry about trailing wires everywhere.

When I lived at college, I didn't always want to make the journey to the kitchen whenever I wanted to make tea or coffee. I also wanted to keep my good snacks away from my flatmates. So, I had a little fridge in my room, and always highly recommend that new students grab one.

I've been looking for ones that are powerful and will add to dorm room decor, and I think I've found a winner in the Frigidaire Portable Fridge from Amazon. I've delved into why it's a great pick, asked experts why mini fridges are useful, plus picked out alternatives. “Mini fridges are perfect for storing basics like drinks, snacks, and leftovers when a standard refrigerator isn't practical,” says Bob Berriz, design expert and owner of Berriz Design.

If you're looking for mini fridges that are perfect for dorms, this cute pick will brighten up your college room.

See the Frigidaire Portable Fridge

If you’re looking for chic and clever dorm room ideas, this mini fridge is a really smart choice. It has a retro design which is one of the biggest interior design trends this year, as well as being plenty powerful enough to chill 26-28 smaller items, thanks to its thermoelectric cooling system.

Over 11,000 Amazon shoppers have given it five star reviews because of its size and appearance, as well as how cold it keeps items. Shopper iFish bought it to keep cans of flavored water cold, but now also uses it to keep small containers of leftovers — perfect for midnight snacks.

As well as having it in your dorm, you can also take it on the go. Reviewer Been There is a fan of the two cords it comes with is so helpful to have 2 cords — one for the house outlet and an accessory cord for the car. They used it on their road trip and found it kept food cool throughout.

“The retro design adds a stylish touch to a room, and with a 4-liter capacity, this fridge can chill six 12 oz cans or store snacks and small food items,” explains Andy Shu, appliance expert and fixer at Zapfixers. “It's great for students who want easy access to cold drinks, quick snacks, or even to store some perishable items like fruits, yogurt, or sandwiches.”

Other factors to consider when buying a mini fridge

I love the look of this one, but if you want to look for alternatives to this dorm room decor, there are a few things worth considering. “For a single person, the Frigidaire model in the question would work great. I'd recommend a larger 3.2 cubic foot model if you’re sharing with your roommate,” says Bob.

He also says proper ventilation and maintenance are key for mini fridges, so it's worth making sure you can do this before buying one. “They generate a lot of heat in small areas, so allowing for airflow is important.”

It's also a good idea to defrost them regularly and clean the door seals to improve efficiency. “Wiping down the exterior and cleaning up spills right away will help the unit run better and last longer,” Bob explains.

More mini fridges

Choosing a mini fridge such as this one will make dorm living so much easier.

“Mini fridges are convenient, eco-friendly, and have flexible power options for use at home or on the go. Just remember to maintain them well for the best performance,” Andy finishes by saying.

If you want to scout out more useful college picks, my surprising dorm essentials are also worth checking out.

When it comes to style that's casual yet totally chic, Hailey Bieber always nails it every single time. She not only has brought this into her fashion aesthetic, but has incorporated it into her home.

I had a look back through her YouTube channel and stumbled on her kitchen tour which showcases her relaxed cooking space. I've asked interior designers why they love the look and how to copy it at home. “Hailey Bieber's kitchen is the epitome of California cool, with the warm marble countertops, brushed onyx hood, and organized chaos,” says Samantha Tosti, interior designer and co-owner of Tosti Design.

If you're looking for kitchen ideas that are as pretty as they are practical, Hailey (and Justin's!) place has plenty to inspire you.

This kitchen is a fine example of how to nail that celebrity ‘wow’ factor while folding in practical kitchen appliances and kitchen storage solutions.

“When you look at it, the first thing that jumps out is the marble splashback and countertop,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty. “It's got this clean, sleek look that instantly makes the space feel upscale.”

Rachel adds that the marble isn’t just for show. “It's tough and heat-resistant, making it perfect for a kitchen where things are always happening.”

This luxe-looking material that lines the kitchen island, countertop, and splashback is complemented by the more rustic-style storage jars and artwork. “The artwork and exposed spice rack add to the homey feel, while the funky custom details such as the integrated marble sink and raked counter edge elevate the design to add just a touch of Hollywood glamor,” explains Samantha.

If you like these jars as much as I do, the Dimbrah Spice Jars from Amazon are very similar and come with stylish labels.

In addition to this, she has gorgeous black appliances and cookware, such as her Vitamix and Hexclad pan. “They're sleek and modern, adding a bit of edge to the space,” says Rachel. “They don't just look good; they're also practical, as they show fewer smudges and dirt than stainless steel.”

If you want to steal Hailey’s vibe in your place — whether you’re looking for big or small kitchen ideas — it's about mixing that wow factor with everyday practicality.

“You don't need to go all out with marble everywhere; maybe just the countertops or an island,” says Rachel. “Swap in a few black appliances for that modern touch. And those labeled jars? They’re an easy upgrade that keeps things tidy and looks great.”

Shop the look

By focusing on elements that add both style and function, Hailey has created a kitchen that looks great and works everyday needs.

“The overall effect is that of a well loved kitchen that has the ability to dress up or dress down,” Sam finishes by saying.

Want to see home inspo from her? We also love Hailey Bieber’s office here at Real Homes, as it’s super chic and minimalist.

Renovating a kitchen is one of the biggest investments you’ll likely ever make, so you’ll want to get it right!

If you’re currently going back and forth on kitchen cabinet ideas and you’re not quite sure which direction to go in, then we’ve got some white kitchen inspiration that is sure to kickstart your design process.

We speak to the experts who tell us some of their favorite white kitchen cabinet ideas and why it’s both a stylish and functional choice for your kitchen.

1. Contrasting worktops

White kitchens are a timeless choice but how can you avoid them looking stark and uninspiring? When choosing your worktop, try not to opt for a white quartz or laminate, opt for a contrasting color instead.

Sarah Barnard, founder of Sarah Barnard Designs says, "White kitchen cabinets are a timeless solution in contemporary and traditional kitchens. Countertops in saturated tones, like green soapstone, make for a striking contrast against the bright white cabinetry."

There are lots of different contrasting worktop options that complements a white kitchen including solid oak, darker quartz, and granite.

2. Versatile fittings

White kitchen cabinetry is the perfect blank canvas to let other elements of your kitchen design sing. If you’re more of a minimalist, white cabinetry will be the ideal choice for you as you’ll be able to hone in on the finer details.

"White is the easiest of colors to work with and goes perfectly with light and dark worktops, brass or silver fittings, and traditional or contemporary settings. A firm favorite with everyone and sometimes there is nothing more beautiful than keeping it simple," explains Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

Depending on your style, you can opt for chrome, brass, copper, or black fixtures and fittings. For a more traditional look, brushed brass is a great choice, or for a contemporary kitchen, matte black works really well.

3. Create a clean aesthetic

White kitchen cabinets are ideal for creating a clean and seamless look. When choosing the specific design of your cabinetry, a traditional shaker-style kitchen with no extra detailing or beading is a popular choice for minimalists.

"Transcendent and timeless, white’s versatility is unrivaled and continues to be a popular choice in kitchens for people looking for a minimalistic and uncluttered look. Whites with red or yellow undertones will avoid the clinical feel of a pure brilliant white, while still creating a clean and understated look," says Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore.

4. Colorful accents  

White definitely doesn’t have to mean boring. The biggest concern when choosing white kitchen cabinets is running the risk of your kitchen looking to flat or sterile. This certainly doesn’t have to be the case as long as you decorate the rest of your kitchen in a fun and interesting way.

"Add visual spice to a white kitchen by painting elements such as the cooker hood or light fittings with contrasting and energizing shades. Defining these decorative features with zingy hues is quick, easy, and will instantly lift the space," suggests Helen.

5. Add depth 

You may be stuck for ideas on how to add visual interest to a white kitchen. The key is to focus on depth. But, how do you create it?

A great idea is to use a darker color to contrast against the white. "Opting for white cabinets provides a perfect opportunity to introduce more saturated colors to walls or accessories to add depth. Bold colors such as deep burgundy or terracotta will create a rustic warm design style, whereas deep greens or navy will provide a crisp contrast to the cool white cabinets, achieving a more contemporary feel," explains Helen.

6. Subtle detailing

If you’ve decided on white kitchen cabinets but are not sure what specific look to go for, then have you considered a simple cabinet design that feels modern and contemporary? You can easily style up plain white kitchen cabinets with your choice of handles and other details.

Mor Krisher, head of product design at Caesarstone states, "Natural yet sophisticated, lighter colors such as beiges, greys, and whites promise to bring a serene and calm feel to a kitchen. Utterly timeless, these hues can make a quiet statement on their own through subtle detailing."

Other ways you can add subtle detailing include your choice of flooring, backsplash, and decor.

7. Make a small kitchen feel bigger

Use all-white kitchen cabinets in a smaller kitchen space to make it appear bigger than it really is. The color white will naturally bounce light around the room and will keep it feeling bright.

"Timeless white kitchens are a big trend this year. We've seen a shift from the bustle of commuting to the office into a work-from-home lifestyle. Because of this extra time we spend in our homes we need them to feel that much roomier, lighter, and brighter. White kitchens do this perfectly, they offer a transformative aesthetic to any size room and perfectly master the art of illusion making smaller rooms feel bigger," says Tom Howley, founder and creative design director at Tom Howley.

8. Farmhouse kitchen

Design a white kitchen to give it a farmhouse vibe and feel. This more traditional type of design will stand the test of time. Pair white kitchen cabinets with an oak worktop and natural stone flooring for a match made in heaven.

If you already have a working kitchen that doesn’t need to be completely renovated, consider painting your current kitchen cabinets white for an uplifting refresh. Finish a white farmhouse-style kitchen with rustic accessories and decor.

There’s no doubt that white is one of the most popular choices when it comes to kitchen cabinetry. We totally understand why as it’s such a versatile shade and can be paired with lots of different contrasting elements.

Be mindful that you don’t want your white kitchen to feel stark and sterile, so planning your other components carefully such as your worktop and flooring is key.

If, like us, you can’t start your day without your morning coffee, Ninja has just released its very first barista-style coffee machine. And we could not be more excited.

Priced at $499.99, the Luxe Café Espresso Machine is Ninja’s first foray into the world of luxury espresso machines. And while it is more expensive than many of the best coffee machines, it’s actually rather competitively priced when you compare it to similar espresso machines, with some of them not having as many features as this one does.

Ninja Luxe Cafe espresso machine

So, if you’ve been weighing up an espresso machine vs a coffee maker, particularly if you’re a fan of both types of hot drink, you can make both with ease with this 3-in-1 device.

And if there’s one brand that we trust when it comes to their appliances it’s Ninja. From their brilliant range of air fryers, that we now frankly can’t live without, to the viral Ninja Creami and the impressive Detect Duo Power Blender Pro, they have quickly become some of the most used and relied upon appliances in our homes.

So, here’s everything you need to know about the brand new Ninja Luxe Café Espresso Machine…

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or are simply looking to save some money in the long run by making your coffee at home, instead of forking out hundreds of dollars each year at your local coffee shop, Ninja’s latest kitchen appliance is easy to follow, and use.

Not only does it take all the guesswork out of making espresso, it also has a rapid cold brew maker – perfect for the warmer weather – and it allows you to make drip coffee, with Ninja’s "Barista Assist Technology" guiding you through everything from the grind size to any brewing adjustments, to produce the perfect cup. In doing so, it basically takes all the guesswork out of making a cup for yourself or your family and friends.

Then there’s the built-in Dual Froth System which combines whisking and steaming to make four different preset milk options, including cold foam, steamed milk and thin and thick froths, with them all working with dairy and plant-based milks.

Depending on your day and if you’re heading into the office or relaxing on a chilled-out Sunday morning, it can make cold brew and drip coffee from a 6oz. cup through to an 18 oz. size.

Here are just a few of the settings:

Espresso – from double to quad shot

Drip coffee – classic, rich or over ice

Cold Brew – whether you prefer a cold-pressed espresso or a cold-brew coffee

You can even use it to make espresso martinis! Imagine how popular you’ll be at your next dinner party or girl’s night.

And for those of us who may be short on kitchen countertop space, the Ninja Luxe Café Espresso Machine essentially does the job of three different coffee makers in one, which not only saves you space but also stops you from having to buy three separate appliances, plus the costs that would come from doing so.

MORE ESPRESSO MACHINES TO TRY

I love bringing fall into my kitchen. Whether I'm baking apple pie, lighting sweet candles, or decorating with seasonal styles, I always have a good time in this room this season.

If you want to go for all the cozy vibes this season, I've got you covered with a range of useful tips from designers. “My favorite part of fall is the outdoors — the colorful leaves, crisp air, and golden sunlight,” explains Kim Morris, interior designer and founder of Kimberly Morris Interiors. “When I’m decorating for fall, I like to bring the beauty and vibe that is happening outside in as much as possible.”

For those looking for fall decor ideas that are perfect for cooking spaces, these easy tips and tricks are seriously stylish.

1. Decorate with outdoor foliage

While I am a fan of fall home decor buys, for those on a budget or looking to quickly bring the season, it’s worth knowing that some of the prettiest decorations are actually on your doorstep.

“After confirming my client is ok with it, I’ll just clip a small branch from one of their trees in the backyard when the leaves have turned color but aren’t yet crispy,” explains Kim.

“I’ll put it in a large glass vase on the kitchen counter or island, and it becomes such an impactful focal point,” she adds.

If your trees aren’t big enough to cut, Kim suggests grabbing some faux branches from a retailer like Afloral or Michaels. “They have an array of realistic faux options on sale now that you can reuse and repurpose without trimming your trees.”

2. Switch up materials

I’m a huge fan of switching out my fabrics between seasons to subtly change how a room feels — but I’m now going to be using Kim’s tip of switching harder materials, too.

“I love to switch out canisters, vases, and decor in the kitchen with warmer metals (like brass or copper), deeper-toned wood (like walnut), and neutral-toned kitchen towels,” explains Kim.

“I’ll display a client’s cutting board collection on the counter to add some natural wood tones, swap out salt and pepper shakers with beautiful brass ones, and drape cream and taupe colored towels over the oven and dishwasher handles to amp up the cozy factor,” she says.

None of these alone are expensive or complex, but when you do them all together, Kim says this will bring out the best parts of the season in an obvious but not kitschy way.

3. Incorporate fall colors

Whether you go down the route of classic oranges and burgundies or more subtle greens and browns (which are top fall trends for this year), color is a must for fall homes.

“Color plays a significant role in fall kitchen decor, and opting for a warm earth tone palette can instantly transform your space,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

“Shades of brown, terracotta, and deep orange can be incorporated through textiles like table runners or dish towels,” she says.

You can also consider displaying copper pots or utensils on open shelves or hanging them on racks for a functional and stylish look.

4. Go for pretty pumpkins

If there’s one thing that signifies fall to me, it’s pumpkins. I bring in cute fresh pumpkins from my local grocery store, and you can do this too.

“Bring in a combination of fresh or faux pumpkins and gourds in a variety of sizes and colors, such as white "Casper" pumpkins or mini "Fairytale" pumpkins,” explains Rachel.

“Wooden elements like cutting boards, cake stands, or trays can serve as bases for displaying these seasonal items, adding a rustic charm to your kitchen,” she adds.

You can also choose functional pumpkin decorations — Anthropologie’s fall collection this year is full of gorgeous gourds, from mugs to tablecloths.

5. Finish with seasonal vignettes

This tip is ideal for those working with small kitchens but still want to bring in fall decor.

“Creating seasonal vignettes using functional kitchen items is another effective way to decorate for fall,” Rachel says.

For example, a wooden tray can be used to hold apples, nuts, or seasonal candles, not only decorating the space but also keeping it practical.

“Chalkboards and fall-themed printables can be used to write seasonal messages or add a personal touch to these, and they can be easily updated as the season progresses,” she adds.

By focusing on a few well-placed items, you can effectively celebrate the season in your kitchen.

If you want to carry on embracing this cozy time of year, fall doorstep decor ideas are also super cute.

Black might not be your first choice for a kitchen countertop color, but actually it's very versatile and practical. It also works for both modern and classic kitchen styles and numerous cabinet schemes. 

There's plenty of material choice too, from granite to porcelain, marble to budget-busting peel-and-stick countertop adhesives. It might be you still love elements of your kitchen but fancy a small remodel – updating your countertop will transform the look and create a statement. 

We've sourced our top black kitchen countertop ideas that cover different types, using it with colored cabinets and how to balance them with what you have already.

1. Team with fresh white

There's something very refreshing about about a crisp monochromatic scheme – it's smart, eye-catching and clean looking.

We also really like the chunkiness of this black countertop, it ties in well with the black glazed cabinetry. The use of brass hardware across the space adds a warmth, together with the hardwood flooring. 

Walmart have a great looking Abyssaly Matte Black Peel and Self Adhesive Wallpaper for kitchen countertops which would be a great match for this kitchen. 

2. Let it take a back seat with a bold accent

Black kitchen countertops provide a strong visual background when the rest of this scheme is punchy, like this design.

The bright yellow floor is naturally the star of the show, but black and white cabinetry, black countertops and matching wallpaper all add a secondary design feature that's just as as bold. 

3. Team with pale blue cabinets

This lovely shade of blue looks fabulous with this engineered stone countertop, it softens the overall look so it's not too hard visually and the creamy walls behind soften it further. 

“Black worktops bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to the kitchen. They create a stunning contrast against lighter cabinetry and reflect a sleek, modern aesthetic. They also serve as a versatile backdrop, allowing other design elements, such as hardware, lighting, and decorative accents, to shine," advises Tom Howley, creative design director, Tom Howley. 

To copy this look, have a look at our key buys below. For a similar blue to match to your black countertop, try Lick's Blue 04 in eggshell, it's a perfect mid blue. 

4. Sandwich it in-between claret and blush

Choosing a black countertop needn't bring the rest of your scheme down, use it the middle of two similar colors and they will balance it perfectly. Here you can see how well granite works with a burgundy red and lighter, pinky backsplash tiles.

"Black granite was a staple in the nineties and it still has a certain understated luxury especially when honed, so we are delighted to see it in so many customer's quotes and kitchens," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

For a similar black granite have a look at MSI Surfaces' Black Pearl Granite, it's got a solid color tone with speckles of other colors in it. 

5. Use black as the accent color

We talk about accent colors often, that's because they're such a key element to making a scheme impactful. When you're using a black countertop it pays to use black elsewhere too. 

“Black worktops are very much on trend; think highly dramatic granites and quartz and striking veined marbles," says Richard Moore, creative director at Martin Moore.

Choose a finish that really catches the eye, Richard adds, "A glossy black worktop achieves a certain ‘wow factor’ and adds a touch of glamour to kitchens. Increasingly, we are seeing people match their worktop material to their splashback, achieving even greater impact.” 

Loving the teal shade that offsets these beautiful black countertops? Benjamin Moore's Beau Green 2045-20 is a really good match, and ideal for a contemporary scheme.

6. Combine materials

A black countertop in a rustic chalet style kitchen might not have been your first choice, but it's actually a great idea.

“Black is the eyeliner of any room. Just as any look can use some liner, every room can use some black. It accentuates focal points and it's versatile. For this kitchen, we refinished the original wood cabinetry with a contemporary black wash to provide a break in the warm cherry grain, which helps tie it into the striking cabinets," says Dan Mazzarini, owner and creative director, BHDM Design.

In this kitchen we love the stained black wood cabinets, marble countertops and the cherry wood scheme. It works so well mixing old and new elements together. 

To copy this look check out our buys below. 

7. It prevents a white kitchen from looking too cold

For this kitchen remodel the original black countertops were used again, Sarah Jefferys, principal and founder of Sarah Jefferys Architecture and Interiors explains:

“The kitchen and dining areas were designed with efficiency in mind, allowing for easy navigation and optimal use of the available space. The black counters were intentionally kept from the previous design to act as a base for the otherwise bright and cheery design throughout the rest of the apartment." 

This allows for the black and white kitchen to be like a blank canvas for the rest of the scheme – with pops of bright yellow as a bold accent. 

For a similar couch pillow check out Anthropologie's Sophie Faux Fur Pillow in Chartreuse for a cosy and bright addition to your kitchen's seating area. 

8. Opt for an all black look

How do you feel about an all black kitchen – black cabinetry, black countertops and backsplash? It's a bold look for sure, but one that's very contemporary and full of texture. 

We asked Mor Krisher, head of product design at Caesarstone explains, “Contrary to what people often think, black or dark kitchens aren’t always sombre or austere. Dark colors can be bold and dramatic or warm and cosseting. They have within them so many different nuances, tones and tactility that give them different character.

 They can be basic or sophisticated, daring or elegant, industrial or classic, traditional or modern. Starting a kitchen design with a black countertop can lead you down a very exciting route as you start to pair it with different door colors, appliances, and accessories and if you are already shying away from all white spaces, it’s a great way to go.”

Why not team your black countertop with a black sink? Walmart's Karran Top Mount 33 inch Large/Small Bowl in Black Quartz is a great value buy and very sleek looking. 

9. Consider a charcoal if black feels too harsh

If jet black feels too dark consider a lighter black like charcoal. It's still dark and cocooning, but not as harsh visually. 

You can also balance black with a bright contrasting color like sunshine yellow or orange. This bold and contemporary kitchen has black countertops teamed with bright yellow cabinetry and backsplash. The warm cherry wood floor adds further warmth making it a fabulously unique color scheme. 

10. For an urban space team with wood

This fabulous urban kitchen embraces the natural elements of wood combined with a stunning black countertop from Caesarstone called Black Tempal. “The black countertops in this modern kitchen were chosen for their ability to anchor the space with a sense of sophistication and contrast," says Erla Dögg Ingjaldsdóttir, co-founder of Minarc.

Erla wanted something that was eye-catching yet practical and hard wearing, she adds, "Their sleek, modern look complements the architectural lines of the design while also being incredibly practical for daily use. I love how they bring a touch of elegance and drama to the space, creating a bold statement that ties everything together." 

Team with black accessories to keep the color scheme simple yet very effective. 

Our black kitchen countertop ideas will give you plenty of fabulous inspiration to consider adding it to your cabinetry. Yes, it is bold, but also has a luxury quality to it and it works well with both black and other colored cabinets. 

Keep the rest of the scheme simple for modern look. 

A blue kitchen is firmly a modern classic. It's a fabulous option if you want a color that will last and won't date. It also goes with many countertop options like wood, marble, crisp white, or black.

This is why it's one of the most popular kitchen cabinet colors – it's so easy on the eye and incredibly versatile. Navy has been the most popular shade in recent years so we've sourced some great new blue kitchen cabinet ideas that cover other shades from a hint of blue to teal and everything in between.

Calming and relaxing, blue is a wonderful color to consider and rarely goes out of fashion, check out our blue kitchen cabinet ideas below and see which shade suits your space the best.

1. Choose a blue that looks great on walls too

A lively blue will add life to an existing space that's looking a little tired. This shade is Drawing Room Blue by Farrow & Ball and is a good clean shade of blue that looks striking when paired with white. 

"Blue kitchens are deeply popular and for good reason. They don’t seem to age in look, a tried and tested formula that just keeps on giving," says Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

If you love the shade of blue you've chosen, why not use it onto walls too? Patrick agrees, "Rather than blue cabinetry against a white wall backdrop, go for a bit of blue-on-blue saturation."

2. Dark and moody for drama

If pale and bright isn't for you, then consider a dark inky blue. Full of drama and depth, this shade is cocooning and cozy.

"Dark, special and almost daring, Pantry Blue is so popular people often think it is a kitchen range called The Pantry Blue Kitchen. It literally goes with anything and everything and is the easiest of the dark colors to go for as it is uncomplicated to style up for glam or style down for effortless simplicity," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens

Add balance with a wood countertop and texture with authentic stone floor tiles, both will add warmth too. 

3. A hint of blue sky

A hint of blue is just as beautiful as a deeper shade, this color has a slight gray undertone which means you could accessorize with that or blue.

“A key trend is for greys, off-whites, or light blue alongside a dark blue accent color. People often choose a darker blue for small touches, such as a feature island or a cupboard interior. The result is a kitchen that is calm and tranquil, but not lacking character," says Richard Moore, design director at Martin Moore. 

This color is perfect if you have a small kitchen, it will brighten it up whilst preventing it from feeling too cold. 

For three pale blue shades check out our paint color ideas below. 

4. The joy of navy

Perhaps the most popular blue when it comes to kitchen cabinets, navy is a great middle ground if you don't want pale or too dark. 

“Choosing a deep shade of blue for your kitchen cabinetry adds a bold yet refined statement to any kitchen. Mylands' Bond Street No. 219 is a deep, sophisticated navy that is perfect for achieving a modern, elegant look." says Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands. Add in a marble effect countertop and backsplash that has a blue veining and you'll have a scheme that's cohesive. 

For a similar sink try Amazon's SK201-23AC Orwell Copper Single Bowl Undermount Kitchen Sink, it will add a rustic feel to your navy blue kitchen.

5. Pick a gray blue

A blue gray is a lovely shade to consider, it's practical and easy to pair other colors with and it looks particularly great in a modern setting. 

Cream is a good option, softer than white and easier on the eye, warming shades look best as does blonde wood. 

For a similar blue check out Benjamin Moore's Violet Mist 1437, it's a good match to this lovely modern kitchen. 

6. Be bold with teal

Not too keen on a trad blue – preferring a brighter slightly greener hue instead? Then teal is for you, it's blue with a hint of green which makes it bright and fun and ideal for those who want a cheerful statement for their kitchen.

“Neutral color palettes in the kitchen will never disappear – but for those who want to add a stronger injection of color, deep navy, strong teals and vibrant sky blues remain very popular," suggests Tom Howley, creative design director, Tom Howley.

Make an impact by combining teal with the right combinations of materials, Tom adds, "We recommend pairing these colors with glossy white and veined worktops for a fresh, airy scheme.”

For three brighter more punchy blues have a look at our three top shades below. 

7. Perk up a scheme with cobalt blue

Cobalt blue is a wonderful shade to pick, especially for a small kitchen. It's brighter than navy and is surprisingly uplifting. It's not far off a Royal Blue and can work well with other colors – we love it here with a soft yellow. 

Team with tactile elements like a coir rug, rough hewn wooden countertop on an island and artisanal ceramics like pots, plates and vases. 

8. Consider a delicate blue

Blues can be punchy and bold, or delicate and soft, and this blue green shade is stunning in it's subtlety.

For a similar match consider Benjamin Moore's Palladian Blue HC-144, it's beautifully calming, and is an airy blue that can look greeny when sunlight pours in. It's really versatile too, consider navy as an accent for a bold look, or flip to a pink for a bit of ice cream shade fun.

9. A grounding gray blue

Amy Courtney, founder of Amy Courtney Design, knew she wanted a space that balanced neutrality with a pop of color and was instantly drawn to Benjamin Moore's Knoxville Gray. Described as an 'alluring blue-green with a heavy dose of gray' it's a good grounding blue shade to consider.

"This unique shade was exactly what I was looking for – a perfect blend of subtlety and bold drama. The result is a kitchen that feels modern, sophisticated, and inviting. This color provided the depth and richness that she wanted without feeling too boldly unconventional."

Add a further dimension by choosing pearlescent wall tiles, they add that shimmery feel that contrasts against a matt blue shade. 

Blue is one of the most versatile and easy to live with colors you could pick for your kitchen cabinets. Have a look and see where the light flows in, do you need a warm blue or a cooler blue? 

Whichever shade you pick it will work with white, marble and wood, and will give you kitchen scheme longevity. 

Are you looking to give your kitchen a high-end finish? A kitchen trim may be the answer, yet this important finishing touch element can sometimes go unnoticed.

Have you ever walked into a kitchen showroom with wanderlust? Or, you have been invited to view a friend's newly fitted dream kitchen and thought 'Wow'? It's probably down to the fact, that when planned and installed every effort was made to ensure all cabinetry was expertly finished with an edging that's known in the industry as kitchen trim or kitchen molding. 

Kitchen trims and moldings aren't the most glamorous of fixtures when researching kitchen ideas, but they are a vital element of every impressive kitchen.

The best kitchen trim ideas

If you are looking for ways to give your kitchen design plan a finishing touch that offers sophistication and character then a kitchen trim is the ideal option. 

"Kitchen trim, typically referred to as molding, includes a variety of decorative elements used to finish and enhance the appearance of kitchen cabinets, countertops, ceilings, and floors. It serves both practical and aesthetic purposes, adding depth, dimension, and a polished look to your kitchen," explains Alice Moszcznsyki, an Interior Designer at Planner 5D.

There are various varieties and styles of kitchen trim to choose from for every kitchen cabinet trend and they can be installed to the top, bottom and front of kitchen cabinets to create exquisite attention-to-detail that blends seamlessly into the kitchen scheme. 

Whether you decide on a single embellishment for subtle practicality or want to dress your kitchen decoratively from head to toe, our guide will explain what type of kitchen trim mouldings are available and what kitchen cabinet ideas they suit.

1. Crown moldings

One of the most common decorative details in kitchen design is to add molding trim that is mounted to the top of kitchen cabinets, like a crown, hence its name. 

"One of the most impactful uses of kitchen trim is on the crown molding, which sits atop your cabinetry and transitions the cabinets to the ceiling. Carefully selected crown molding can instantly add depth, dimension, and a touch of elegance to your kitchen," says Josh Qian, the COO and Co-Founder of Best Online Cabinets.

Historically decorative crown molding is more commonly used in period properties with traditional and shaker-style kitchens. 

"Classic crown moldings tend to be more decorative and create a timeless and traditional feel that looks expensive," adds Josh.

Contemporary kitchens with slab-style or flat-fronted doors do not really work with the addition of decorative and ornate crown molding. 

That being said, crown trim or molding that is less ambiguous can be successful in contemporary kitchens to create a seamless vibe that flows with the architecture.

Sometimes panels often referred to as risers run along the top of cabinets right up to the ceiling that creates a frame around cabinets. The results form a built-in sense of streamlined modernism. 

2. Cabinet trims

Cabinet trims are lengths of edging that can be added to the underneath of upper-cabinetry to give it a more custom and detailed finish.

"Adding a subtle trim detail can instantly elevate your kitchen's overall look and feel," explains Josh.

"From simple, clean-lined designs to more intricate, decorative patterns, it allows you to customize your cabinets to your personal taste."

Another area where kitchen cabinet trim can make a significant impact is on the face frames of your cabinets. From large shaker-style panels to narrow dado rail-style embellishments, the easy update creates transformative results. 

"Trim applied directly to cabinet doors and drawer fronts can transform plain surfaces into elegant panels, adding depth and texture," says Alice Moszcznsyki

"This can include raised panels, beadboard panels, or applied molding around the edges. I find these to be the most fun to play with and really change the look of your kitchen."

3. Skin panel trims

Skin panel trims are custom exterior panels installed on the outside of cabinet carcasses to create an attractive finish that either matches or contrasts with kitchen cabinet doors. 

Scribe moldings and fillers can then be used to then fill in any gaps. 

4. Base moldings

This type of molding is used to cover the bottom edge of cabinets, and it comes in a variety of styles and colors to choose from. Furniture base molding is a strip of wood that extends slightly beyond the cabinets themselves. So, will decoratively join base cabinets to the floor with a luxurious finish.

Base moldings look particularly impressive installed at the bottom of kitchen islands. The enhancement anchors the standalone wall unit effortlessly unites the feature with matching cupboards and units in the room.

"A range of base trim options, from solid wood to durable, moisture-resistant materials, ensures your kitchen's foundation looks as polished as the rest of the room," says Josh.

5. Toe-kick trims

Differing from Base moldings toe kick trims or kickboards are that strip of wood that runs along the bottom of your base cabinets, between the carcase frame and the floor. 

Unlike base moldings, toe kick trims recede slightly offering room for 'toes'. They can be a more simple and less expensive option to decorative base moldings. However, budget-friendly toe kicks still have an important job of protecting cabinets and stopping dust and debris from collecting under kitchen units. 

Selecting the perfect trim for your kitchen installation will ensure every detail is considered. Many kitchen trim and molding elements come as standard and can be discussed with your kitchen designer when planning and designing your dream kitchen. 

However, if you've just moved home and are looking to update an inherited kitchen or perhaps need tips to refresh a rental kitchen, then these kitchen trim ideas are transformative. 

FAQs

Hands up if you've watched Nara Smith's cooking videos. The TikTok influencer is know for her sultry voice, natural ingredients, and beautiful outfits. But, whenever I watch her videos, I'm always mesmerized by her chic cooking space.

I've asked interior designers why her classic color scheme, retro touches, and warm textures work so well in the space, as well as delving into how to style the look at home. “Nara Smith's kitchen is a perfect example of how different design elements can come together to create a stylish and functional space,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

Whether you're in love with Nara Smith's kitchen essentials or just adore elegant cooking spaces, our design pros have plenty of useful insights and insights.

For those looking for stylish and timeless kitchen ideas, Nara Smith’s space is a masterclass in minimalist design.

“Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a space that is both functional and visually serene,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

She says the sleek light gray cabinetry, which stops just shy of the ceiling, sets the tone for the room's understated elegance. “The kitchen cabinets, adorned with simple, small round brass knobs, also offer a subtle nod to luxury without detracting from the kitchen's overall minimalist vibe.”

These are both beautifully contrasted by the white countertops and marble splashback, which contribute to the airy and spacious feel of the space. “To recreate this look, homeowners can choose a marble slab with subtle veining that complements their cabinet color,” says Rachel. “If real marble is beyond the budget, marble-look tiles or even peel-and-stick options can achieve a similar effect.”

But what truly makes Nara's kitchen stand out are the carefully chosen accents that reflect her passion for cooking.

“The centerpiece of her kitchen and all her cooking videos is her collection of striking wooden cutting boards, each one a work of art in its own right,” says Nina. “These cutting boards not only serve as a functional tool for food prep but also add warmth and natural beauty to the space.” If you’re looking for fab and functional kitchen countertop decor, you can’t go wrong with a brilliant board.

As well as this, Nara also has a Smeg toaster in the background, which is one of the coolest retro toasters around. “This is a final, perfect touch, marrying retro charm with modern functionality,” Nina adds.

Shop the look

In Nara Smith’s kitchen, it’s clear that food is the heart and soul of the space.

“The minimalist design ensures that the focus remains on the culinary experience, creating an environment where the beauty of food preparation takes center stage,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scoping out more of the TikTok star’s interior picks? I also love Nara Smith’s plates which are chic and cute.

Perhaps not a color you might instantly consider for your kitchen cabinets, nonetheless, black is a good choice and we're going to show you how to use it below. 

It's eye-catching and dramatic for sure, but if you use it cleverly and team it with other elements it can look fabulous. Like all color schemes, balance is key – consider your countertops, wall color, flooring, and hardware too.

If you are about to refresh your kitchen or totally remodel, then our black kitchen cabinet ideas will inspire you to give this bold look a go. 

1. Team with white wall cabinets

A simple yet effective approach is to just keep the black on the lower cabinets and to use white on your countertops and upper cabinets. 

You can also break up the scheme with brass handles, and carry them through onto the top units too. We love the use of warm-toned marble as a backspace that ties in with the herringbone flooring. All these details help to soften the black cabinets so the overall look is bold yet balanced. 

For similar handles to use on your black cabinets have a look at Wayfair's Ethan finger pull in satin brass, they're a great match. 

2. Choose a black with plum undertones

If the thought of jet black is too much, then look for shades that have undertones of other colors, like Farrow & Ball's Paean Black. Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball explains:

"Whilst at first glance these colors seem to appear contradictory, from the charred aubergine tones of Paean Black on the cabinets to the smoky nuances of faded rose with Sulking Room Pink on walls and ceiling, they share red undertones which make them play together in a contemporary and fresh way."

As there are no wall cabinets, the darker shade is used on the base units only, Patrick adds, "Paean Black on the low units helps to ‘ground’ the kitchen, while taking Sulking Room Pink over the ceiling creates the perception of more height as there is no sharp contrast where the wall meets the ceiling!"

Where you use colors in a scheme like this is key, and where possible, always use the darker shade below, that goes for all schemes when a dramatic richer color is used.  

3. Break it up with a tiled backsplash

So a black kitchen cabinet scheme doesn't feel too heavy on the eye it pays to break it up with other colors and textures. 

This sleek kitchen has crisp white countertops which make it look very contemporary. The marble-tiled backsplash adds texture and interest to prevent the overall look from being too clinical. 

"The kitchen features Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black on natural white oak cabinetry, creating a sleek, modern look. The rich black finish provides a striking contrast against the diamond-shaped Calacatta Gold marble tile backsplash, enhancing the space's overall elegance," says Brittany Farinas, CEO and creative director, House of One.

To copy this smart kitchen we've sourced three key elements. 

4. Embrace black on both wall and floor cabinets

If you love the idea of using black on your cabinets use it on your wall units as well for an all-encompassing look. 

This dramatic kitchen has black marble-style countertops, but the overall look is still light which shows how black can be successfully used. The light pouring through the ceiling helps as do the white wall tiles. 

Add a marble-style countertop to your black cabinets by using Walmart's EasyLiner contact paper, it can be used for countertops, shelving, and drawers.

5. Give old cabinets a new look

If you fancy a spot of DIY then consider painting your old cabinets yourself. Paint and color expert, Annie Sloan CBE suggests using her iconic Chalk Paint, "The matte finish of Chalk Paint adds a touch of understated luxury, while its ease of application makes it accessible even for those new to DIY. Rather than splurging on a whole new kitchen, repainting cabinets is a quick and cost-effective alternative, and with a glamorous, richly pigmented and timeless color like Athenian Black you won’t have to compromise on style. 

It's also incredibly forgiving in a kitchen setting, Annie adds, 'The dark color can mask everyday wear and tear, making your cabinets not only beautiful but practical."

6. Use it on glazed cabinets only

We love this flipped idea of painting the top glazed cabinetry instead of the base cabinets. It creates a really stylish look, especially when teamed with black countertops. 

It's ideal if you want to try blackout but not go the whole hog, as the glazed aspect ensures the top half of the kitchen isn't too dense visually. 

"Black kitchen cabinets work because they create a bold, sophisticated look that anchors the space, providing a striking contrast with lighter elements like countertops and backsplashes. In this kitchen I mixed them with white oak and white cabinets to create drama but not overwhelm the space," explains Michelle Murphy, founder, Demi Ryan Interiors.

As with other colors, black paint colors do vary, we've had a look at three below – have a look and see which you'd pick for your cabinets. 

7. Make your island the focal point

Another great option is to paint your marble-topped kitchen island black and have that as your statement piece. Keeping the other cabinetry white or painted in a neutral-like gray will make the kitchen look full of contrast and interest. 

"Think late-night bars, speakeasies, and restaurants in New York City for the look," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. "Big grand kitchen cupboards and especially big islands painted black, and certainly a splash of softly rounded Carrara marble, which just isn’t ever going to go out of fashion."

Team this color combination with original floorboards and vintage bar stools for character. 

8. Add pattern to the mix

A dark charcoal is a good choice if a proper black feels too dark, and you can perfectly break up the scheme with lighter countertops and a blonde wood floor.

Introducing pattern will help balance a scheme like this too, check out Walmart's subway tile backsplash in marble gray it's great value and perfect if you're renting. 

9. Add warmth with wood

Introducing a different material like wood will help a predominantly black kitchen scheme feel warmer. And if you keep the pale wood in the middle of the scheme – on the island then your black cabinets can be a statement feature around the sides of the space. 

Use black accessories around the island to tie the look together, we love Amazon's Zesthouse stools in Natural Rattan. They have a mid-century modern look and velvet seats. 

10. Frame black cabinets with natural materials

This stunning black kitchen is sandwiched between two other natural materials – marble and stone flags. Both add a lovely lightness and texture to the scheme that visually counters the jet-black cabinetry and AGA.

A hanging rail with copper pans and utensils breaks up the white walls and adds a decorative aspect. Plants help too by adding a botanical touch. 

Choosing to invest in black kitchen cabinets is a bold statement, though not one to be afraid of as there's plenty of ways to create a balanced look. 

Consider using other materials like marble, wood, and tiling. You can also introduce other colors. Metallics work wonderfully with black especially brass and gold effect designs. 

Of all the rooms in our recently renovated cottage, the kitchen has to be my very favorite. However, there are also some issues that I wish I could go back and put right. 

They don’t stop me from loving the room, but they annoy me and when we take on our next renovation project (which hopefully won’t be in the too-distant future) I will definitely not be making the same mistakes again.

Here I give you the top five kitchen design mistakes we made so that you can avoid doing the same.

1. Fitting wooden countertops around the sink

The majority of the countertops in our kitchen are made from oak and we sourced these online rather than buying them from the same supplier we used for our kitchen cabinets as we found we could get a better deal this way.

They look lovely - warm, timeless, and just a little bit rustic. We oil them using Danish oil around twice a year to keep them in good condition and they are surprisingly resilient when it comes to withstanding the hot pans I regularly plonk on them when I shouldn’t. 

So far, so good. But (and there has to be a but) I really wish we hadn’t used them around the kitchen sink. Despite trying to be careful about splashing them with water, the area behind the sink inevitably gets wet on a daily basis and the wood here has been left discolored and even a little cracked. We recently sanded it right back (a bonus of timber) and re-oiled it but it still doesn’t look quite right.

For our breakfast bar we used a beautiful quartz composite marble countertop which is pretty much bullet-proof and this would have been a much better choice for the sink area. I am glad we went for composite stone as when it comes to how to clean marble countertops a little more care is required. 

These Silicone Trivet Mats from Amazon in turquoise would have helped protect our timber countertops.

2. Opting for a ceramic stove instead of induction

We completely gutted our cottage, stripping it right back to its bare bones. We kind of sprinted into this project as we were desperate to move out of our soulless rental and were seduced by the character and setting of the cottage. We didn’t really think ahead when it came to how we would afford the house renovation costs that we’d need to fund. As such, we were really keen (maybe too keen) to save money where we could. Sometimes this worked just great - for example, the bargain second-hand fire basket in our open fire - other times it didn’t.

We opted for an electric range stove, however, we chose a model with a ceramic stovetop, and oh how I regret that. Seriously, I sometimes feel like I’m living in the 1980s. 

We were used to gas cooking - so instant response. This thing takes forever to get to temperature and then stays hot for ages after being turned down or off. 

If we had spent just a little bit more, life would be so much easier when it comes to mealtimes. I'm thinking about getting one of these Portable Induction Cooktops from Amazon in the meantime. 

3. Not considering how much dirt the floor would show up

I spent a long time looking at country kitchen design ideas and wanted a bit of a modern rustic finish in the kitchen, so we mixed up new Shaker units and the smart marble breakfast bar with reclaimed items such as the worn old butcher's block. 

For the kitchen flooring, we opted for large format, rectangular riven slate tiles - and they do look lovely - when they’ve just been vacuumed and mopped. 

The problem starts when anyone steps foot in the kitchen. These things show up every single speck of dirt. Just outside the back door that leads into the kitchen, we have creamy-colored gravel which seems to transfer a fair bit of dust to shoes and then show up on our near-black tiles. We have a dog and a cat - their paw prints are regular features on our kitchen floor. Everything, from watermarks to flour seems to be more visible than ever on these particular tiles. 

We are pretty good at keeping on top of the cleaning, but even this is more of a chore than it needed to be - dirt gets lodged in the riven surface of the slate, and this surface tears most floor mops to pieces. 

If I had the choice again I’d opt for something like a beige or creamy-toned limestone or travertine to hide the dirt a bit. And I would go for a more honed finish to make sweeping and cleaning easier. 

The one thing that does get our floor clean is a steam mop and I love the Shark Professional Steam Pocket Mop from Lowes.

4. Failing to plan space for a bigger refrigerator

There is a space between the edge of our freestanding refrigerator/freezer and the stable door. And do you know why that annoys me? Because it meant there was more space for a bigger model of refrigerator. 

I regularly play refrigerator Jenga after coming back from doing a food shop because there just isn’t enough space for everything. Pots of yogurt regularly seem to fly out when I open the door, much to the delight of the dog who loves to help clean the pesky aforementioned floor. 

Every time I go to someone’s house who has a double-door refrigerator and freezer - and especially those with iced water dispensers on the outside - I feel jealous. 

As we plan on moving soon there seems little point in investing in a new one now - but I am wondering, how long does a refrigerator last? Hopefully, this one won’t last much longer and I can buy a new one. 

5. Choosing a noisy range hood

Our kitchen, like many other peoples’, seems to be the place where everyone wants to congregate - which I love. But there is a lot that goes on in a kitchen - cooking, chopping, washing, and so on. All of this alone creates quite a lot of noise so loud appliances are just not welcome - they only add to the feeling of chaos at busy times - particularly when guests want to chat while you try to look cool and collected while juggling a billion other things. 

When I turn our range hood on to prevent the kitchen from filling with steam or cooking odors, you would be forgiven for thinking that a jumbo jet was taking off just outside the window. 

I don’t know how many decibels it is - because I never thought to check. Clever me.

The moral of the story? Noise output of appliances matters - and it will usually be stated on the specifications. Checking this should be a number one priority for anyone researching how to design an open-plan kitchen.  

The COSMO COS-63175S Wall Mount Range Hood from Amazon has a noise level of just 45dB.

Inspired  to turn your own kitchen remodel ideas into a reality? Make sure you put in the research before getting started to ensure your end result is everything you hoped for.

Gray has certainly stood the test of time and it's easy to see why – there are many shades to choose from and it works in most rooms of the house. 

You can also team it with other colors, it works particularly well with white. This is what makes it so useful in a kitchen. 

Our kitchen ideas showcase different shades and how you can use them with other factors like dark and light countertops, accent shades, and how to make it work in a busy space. 

1. Team dark gray with black

For a statement look team your dark gray cabinets with black countertops – or match your cabinet color with Amazon's CRE8TIVE Concrete Dark Grey Wide Vinyl Countertop Peel and Stick. It creates a sleek and contemporary feel that suits an apartment. 

"Gray continues to be a popular kitchen cabinetry color choice. It’s a classic shade that creates a calm feeling and neutrals, such as gray, white, and cream, are timeless options that transcend fashion," says Richard Moore, creative director at Martin Moore.

For balance keep the walls white for a fabulous contrast scheme and and use open shelving to lighten the space up. Add brass hardware and a faucet as it stands out well against dark gray cabinets. 

2. Consider a blue gray

This charming blue-gray shows the breadth of this color and how many shades you have to choose from. 

It's a warming color that that looks great with marble and dark wood-like flooring, wall cabinets and seating. Consider using sky blue and indigo blue accents.

This shade is Farrow & Ball's De Nimes, a grounding blue that's earthy yet not as dark as some grays and is inspired by the gray-blue workwear that was made in the French city Nîmes. 

"Neutrals are incredibly versatile and have endless possibilities in decoration. Using a color such as School House White or Wimborne White on the walls and a bold color on the woodwork, such as De Nimes, makes for a new clean, and modern take on a neutral scheme. Try softening the space with accents of Pink Ground," says Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball. 

3. Opt for more than one shade

This elegant kitchen actually consists of four shades of gray – the cabinetry, the island, the walls, and the marble backsplash. When using more than one shade together make sure you test them before application to see how they work paired up. 

Choosing a darker gray for your island works really well as it grounds it and keeps it in one place, whilst the lighter shade is around the outside of the space on the cabinetry.

We've matched up three grays that we think would work on cabinets to recreate this beautiful kitchen. 

4. Mix plain with pattern

This lovely serene gray kitchen features a light shade that lightens up this small kitchen perfectly.

Lick's Iced Cube Silver 2121-50 is a good match to the cabinetry. To keep it interesting pattern has been added to the mix – the tiled backsplash (we love Target's InHome Catalan peel & stick backsplash tile paper and the rug – check out Walmart's Better Homes & Gardens runner rug, it's ideal for a kitchen as it's made from a durable polyester and rayon blend.

5. Team with blush

If you want to team gray with another shade then both colors need to have the same undertones so they work well together. Both these colors have warm undertones – the pretty pink is a charming shade lights up this small kitchen dining space. 

The gray has hints of brown in it which matches well to the pink. If you picked a cooler gray the result would feel chillier and might jar against the walls. Both these colors are by Little Greene, Mochi on the walls and tiles and Attic II painted on the cabinets. 

6. Choose barely there shades

A barely there gray acts as a perfect neutral where perhaps you don't want to use a white. It can add a touch of warmth to a large kitchen as Richard Moore explains, 

"A key trend is for grays and off-whites, perhaps with a subtle accent color, such as blue. Typically, people choose a stronger color for small touches, such as a cupboard interior or kitchen accessories, so that the space remains tranquil but with subtle pops of vibrancy." 

If you want to keep your gray cabinets the main feature you could contrast the look with a dark hardwood floor to add interest and depth. We've sourced our three light grays for you if you want to copy this sophisticated kitchen. 

7. Gunmetal gray looks great in farmhouse kitchens

This gunmetal gray has great depth and adds a modern touch to this farmhouse-style kitchen. The beams add a softness to the scheme whilst the black countertop and mix of metallics give it an edge. 

"Grey in a kitchen creates a calming air and can be a lovely backdrop for adding a splash of color, I love it with yellow, fresh, and a little retro. I also love it with terracotta, giving an industrial look and a soft and unexpected Mediterranean twist. Add some white stone worktops and suddenly it's classic and sharp, clean and crisp," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. 

To use a gray like this check out Benjamin Moore's Deep Creek 1477, it's a lovely shade that works well with terracotta and copper accessories. 

8. Or pick a classic mid gray

For those who don't want to go too pale, or too dark – how about sitting in the middle of the gray spectrum? 

This pretty gray is ideal and looks fabulous when teamed with marble countertops and Shaker-style cabinets. You can use both chrome and brass hardware with it too. 

We love this match with Lick's Grey 11, this versatile shade will look great in both large and small kitchens. 

9. Brown gray is great for modern spaces

For a truly warming feel and if you love a dramatic touch, then paint your kitchen cabinets in a brown gray. It will certainly ground the space and allows you to then use lighter colors on top.

Add a further layer of interest with a mid-toned wooden floor, and add artisan accessories for a tactile feel. 

Below we've sourced three brown grays for you to check out. 

10. Or choose nearly black

If you really want to push the gray boundaries then opt for a dark charcoal or nearly black. Dramatic yes, but if you don't quite want to opt for a black kitchen then this is your next best choice – and it looks glorious!

"We consider a really dark grey to be a versatile neutral that adds depth and sophistication without feeling as harsh or overwhelming as pure black can.  Grey doesn’t compete with other colors or patterns which allows for more versatile pairings making it an ideal partner for patterned wallpaper, allowing the paper's design to be the focal point in the room," says Jamie Watkins, co-founder, Divine Savages. 

According to Jamie, particularly dark grey can adapt to different styles, whether modern, traditional, or eclectic, and your wallpaper choice can reflect this, so consider using wallpaper or tiles to break up the scheme when your cabinets are charcoal gray as it will add balance. Check out Lick's Grey 07 Matt it's a lovely charcoal shade.

Our gray kitchen cabinet ideas will hopefully inspire you to use this forever versatile shade that we believe is not going away any time soon! Experiment with light and dark shades and create contrast by teaming your cabinets with other colors. 

The result will be an elegant and stylish kitchen that will look great for years. 

A regular disagreement in my household is how to time dishes. We sometimes put a plate on top of a bowl of cooked food while he waits for the other dishes to finish, but it can lead to soggy food.

Midea seems to have heard my concerns from afar, combining two separate cooking sections — an air fryer and a toaster oven — into one air appliance. I haven’t been this excited to try a new kitchen gadget in ages. I already knew that this was going to come in handy the first time I was craving both crispy chicken tenders and fries. 

And, while it has a few flaws in design and functionality, the innovation of having two entirely separate zones that cook at different temperatures, but can be programmed to sync, might outweigh any shortcomings. This is one of the best air fryers that is in the running to earn a permanent spot in my kitchen. 

What I Thought of the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

I was super excited to try this air fryer because there are so many times that I’m cooking two dishes, and I end up having to resort to the regular oven or eating one dish lukewarm because I had to wait to use the air fryer (one of the many dos and don'ts of using an air fryer). Having both an air fryer and a regular oven in one is a game changer, especially when I don’t want to turn on the oven because it’s summer or I just don’t feel like a lunchtime meal merits it. 

This air fryer oven is incredibly easy to use. The controls are easy and intuitive. It has ten preset cooking modes, including air frying, grilling, baking, broiling, roasting, reheating, toasting, dehydrating, bagel, and keeping warm. And it guides you through the process, beeping halfway through to remind you to turn your food. 

Add in the sync finish mode, which helps you time both the air fryer and oven to finish simultaneously, and you have a seriously genius appliance. Plus, I thought both sections both cooked well — and isn’t that the key?

But there are some negatives, including the fact the toasting tray is incredibly difficult to use. It’s tiny and shallow. It’s really only suited to toast, burgers, pizza — things that are flat. It doesn’t pull all the way out, and I had a hard time figuring out how to use it in a way that felt safe.

The size of the air fryer oven is also truly a drawback. I don’t prefer to keep an air fryer on the countertop, and it’s realistically too tall and heavy to move in and out of a cabinet. That size is what allows it to have both a 6-quart air frying basket and a 5-quart toaster oven, but is it worth it? Not if you have a small, or even regular-size kitchen. It’s just a much bigger air fryer than I’m used to. 

Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer Specifications

Unboxing the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

My first impression upon receiving the box from Midea was holy moly, this is heavy. I put off bringing it upstairs to our kitchen for nearly an entire day. But, of course, the weight makes sense given that this isn’t just an air fryer, but a toaster oven, too. 

This is a large machine. It’s nearly 16” tall, 15” deep, and 23 pounds. As I'm much more used to small air fryers, it was a bit of a surprise. It’s a major kitchen appliance. So taking it out of the box required a force of brute strength. But I got it out, and I got it set up — easily, I might add. There’s not a lot of setup involved.

Beyond the size, I also immediately noticed that this feels well made. I’ve tried air fryers in the past that I didn’t quite trust to heat up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. But this one has super solid construction. I’m not worried that it’s going to short-circuit or stop working on a whim. It’s here for the long haul. 

Using the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

This air fryer oven couldn't be easier to use. The control panel is intuitive, and you select upper or lower, plus the mode you want to use. You can adjust the temperature or time, then start. It's so clear you won't feel as if you're going to mix up the upper and lower. It's practically foolproof.

The control panel will also tell you when to turn, shake, or flip your food. As long as you stay nearby, it's not going to let you mess up your recipe. 

Also, there is an app, but, realistically, I’m not connecting my appliances to an app. It seems every appliance has an app, and it’s just too many to keep track of unless it’s something I truly use every day. If you do decide to download the app, it has pre-programmed recipes that can make your life easier as you navigate cooking different items.

My first test was a Trader Joe's meal, of course. I was coming out of a long day of deadlines and meetings, and I was desperate for a late lunch. I had the Indian veggie burgers and bird's nests, so the pressure was high to get these right.

I tossed the bird's nests in the air fryer basket and the veggie burger in the toaster oven. I didn't mess with the sync finish on this first round, but both came out perfectly. I had high expectations for the bird's nests, which they met with the perfect crisp, but I didn't know what to anticipate with the veggie burgers. I was pleasantly surprised when they cooked quickly and had the loveliest finish. They weren't soggy, undercooked, or burnt. They were actually perfect. A bit crispy, hot all the way through. 

For its shortcomings with design, the toaster oven DOES work.

Test Two: Chicken Nuggets and Fries

Fries are always my go-to test for an air fryer. This should be the one thing that all air fryers do well. And they felt like a good opportunity to try the sync finish, especially with chicken nuggets.

Sync finish promises that it'll hold one item — the one with a short cook time — until the other is finished. The fries would take longer in theory, so I put them in the air fryer basket and the chicken nuggets in the toaster oven. 

Sure enough, it worked. Both came out crispy and warm at the same time. There's no better comfort food meal than fries or chicken nuggets and, if I can do them both in an air fryer at the same time, I'm a happy camper.

How to Clean and Maintain the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

There are positives and negatives to appliances that do it all. The positive is the versatility. The negative is that there are more parts and pieces to clean. And the Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven is no exception. There are lots and lots of parts to wash — and nothing is dishwasher-safe.

You have to clean the upper basket, grill tray, crisper plate, drip tray, upper basket, and lower cavity after every use. Each should be cleaned with warm water, dish soap, and a sponge. And each one should be cleaned by hand. That’s a lot of time spent scrubbing versus when I usually clean an air fryer.

I think it’s important to note that I found it incredibly difficult to clean the toaster oven section. Given it’s so flat and small, you’re not really sure if you’re ending up with food crusted to the top and it’s difficult to clean that zone at all. I’m used to the open section of an air fryer that you wipe out with ease. This is new territory, and I’m not sure they’ve perfected the design to the point that it’s ideal for cleaning and maintenance. 

Should You Buy the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer?

While the Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven does have a few drawbacks in terms of the usability of the bottom drawer, the convenience of the two zones outweighs any negatives. The air fryer portion is a full 6-quart air fryer so, as long as you have the space for a larger air fryer, there’s no reason not to spring for this one. You’re gaining not giving up with this one. 

The major negative, however, is the price. At $249.99, it’s significantly more expensive than almost any other air fryer on the market, and that could be a reason not to buy for anyone on a budget.

Good to Know

Instructions
The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven comes with an instruction manual that gives step-by-step instructions (though the process is intuitive and clear!).

Warranty
The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven includes a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase

Where to Buy the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven is available to buy directly from Midea, via their Amazon storefront, or from retailers such as Walmart.

How We Test Air Fryers

The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven was sent to me by Midea, and I used it over a several-week period. Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing air fryers:

I'm often torn when it comes to kitchen appliances. On one hand, I want to keep them as simple as possible. On the other, I want them to do as much as possible. Those two goals are sometimes at odds, and I found that with the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer. 

This air fryer does it all. Seriously. Remember when air fryers were pitched as a way to reheat leftovers, make crispy fries, or bake a crescent roll dessert hack? Forget those days completely. This air fryer is basically a substitute for your oven.

But that comes with an interface that's not as simple as choosing between a few different frying modes presets. This is one of the best air fryers as it cooks quickly, cooks accurately, and can cook anything. 

Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer review

Wondering how this air fryer is different from an oven? It has three different cook modes: classic, chef, and probe. Each has a different purpose, and there are multiple options within each. 

There's a bit of a learning curve in navigating the light-up interface, but, once you learn the dos and don'ts of using an air fryer, you can set it and forget it.

Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer Specifications

What I Thought of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

My first impression of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer was definitely one of slight hesitation. Between the water tank and all the options on the screen, I was a little apprehensive. I'm used to small air fryers that are a little more straightforward. But, as I read through the guide, I realized that this air fryer was giving me options to make the process easier. And that water tank? That's the game changer between meat that's meh and moist. 

You can absolutely use this for all the air fryer standards. Toss in your Trader Joe's meals, your sweet potato fries, and your Brussels sprouts. But where it excels is cooking meat to perfection. I hate standing over an oven wondering when my chicken is going to be done. But, with this air fryer, it does it all for you. It basically sous-vides your meat to perfection. For someone who's never attempted that on my own, this air fryer is about to elevate my dinner party menus (TBD on whether I'll give away my secret).

Add in the app access in Chef mode, and this air fryer is seriously designed to make your life as easy as possible.

And did I mention the look and footprint? Relative to earlier air fryers, this takes up a small footprint in the kitchen. The sleek look and open window frying basket add to its appeal.

Setting Up the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

I've found that most air fryers are relatively easy to set up, and this was no exception. Take it out of the box, pop the tray into the basket, put the basket into the air fryer, and you're done. There's no true assembly needed, and the ergonomics of this machine are great — the elongated handle makes popping the basket in and out easy.

The water tank was one of the first things I noticed because that's unlike any other air fryer I've tried. It's a small tank, but the air fryer uses it to spray the food in Chef mode and keep it moist. 

Lastly, I played around with the control screen as soon as I turned it on to try to get a sense of what was available. You'll want to pull out the instruction guide here. With so many options, it's helpful to read about the possibilities and understand how to achieve the right type of cooking for each meal.

Using the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

There's something about the touch screen on here that just made the process of testing the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer so fun! Spinning the dial through options and deciding on the right mode for each meal I made felt like a throwback to an easy bake oven — maybe because this little guy can literally do everything?

It also made dishes that often feel like a hassle to make seem so much easier. Like the idea of pulling out a heavy cast iron skillet to make a steak seems unattainable on a Tuesday night, but throwing one in here? Done.

This air fryer also has the amazing versatility of being able to be both crisp and moist. They've changed the game in technology with the various modes and the water spray feature.

Here are two dishes I tried, and how the air fryer performed.

TEST ONE: FRENCH FRIES

My first air fryer challenge is almost always French fries. I want to make something easy so that I will know exactly whether it's done correctly or not. There's no room for interpretation here. I want them crispy. So I tried the Classic mode on air frying. 

First, I was surprised that it heated up almost instantaneously. I thought I'd have a few minutes to get some emails done but, bam, this was ready!

The fries were done in about ten minutes, which is faster than other air fryers I've tried. I'd seasoned them with oil and truffle salt, and they came out to perfection.

TEST TWO: CHICKEN THIGHS

Next, I tried chicken thighs because I wanted to get a sense of Chef mode and understand if this could really keep the meat moist and tender — especially given how perfectly crispy the fries turned out.

In Chef mode, it uses water atomization, convection heating, and a dual-sensing probe to get exactly the right level of done. I found the Chef mode is easier to navigate through the app (again, the touch screen is amazing but a lot at times), and it lets you check in to see where you are in the process.

Compared to how I normally cook chicken thighs — on the stovetop — this was a breeze. I didn't have to be present, hovering over a skillet. Instead, I knew they were being perfectly cooked right in this small yet powerful machine.

And how did they turn out? Perfect. That Chef mode knows what it's doing. They were slightly crispy on the outside but moist on the inside. I've tried a lot of air fryers, but this might be the one that earns a permanent spot in my kitchen.

Cleaning the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

The trays and basket for the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer are all dishwasher-safe, so cleaning this air fryer is easy peasy. I'll often hand wash these pieces but, realistically, it's better to put them in the dishwasher to get all of the grease off (though that might be a testament to my own cleaning skills — or lack thereof). A quick wipe of the interior with a microfiber cloth and a bit of water and dishwashing liquid.

Should you buy the Dreo ChefMaker Combi fryer?

If you are looking for an air fryer that's plug and play, allowing you time to focus on enjoying your family (or a cocktail!), then the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer could be your answer to low-stress evenings. You can make steak, pork chops, croquettes, or whatever you're craving with the touch of a button. There's no need to worry about closely watching your food — this machine does it all. And, while it's pricey, time is money, right?

Comparisons

If you like the idea of an air fryer with a clear window, but you're a little hesitant at the price tag of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer, there's no need to worry. The Gourmia 7-Quart Fry N'Fold Digital Air Fryer gives you several of the same features, multiple cooking and frying options, and it has a clear front window, but it comes in at a much lower price tag. You'll miss a few of the features, like the water tank, but at $79.99 retail, it could be worth it.

How We Test Air Fryers

Dreo sent me this air fryer, and I tested it with several different recipes including air frying, cooking, and reheating leftovers. This is the assessment process when testing air fryers:

Packaging: The Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer comes in a double box, which keeps it safe and sound during shipping. Each piece was wrapped to keep it scratch-free, and there was a guide and book included.

Operation: The experience of using the air fryer is considered, which includes how easy the guide is to follow, how easy the controls are to use, and how the air fryer actually performs. I tried various types of food that require a different end result to understand how each feature works.

Ease of use: An air fryer is only as useful as it is easy to use! I looked at the instructions, the simplicity of the operation, how easy the various trays and parts were to use, and how easily I could get food in and out of the air fryer.

Ease of cleaning: I'm only going to use an air fryer if I can clean it relatively easily! I looked at how easy the parts are to clean and whether they can be cleaned in a dishwasher.

The rise of kitchen floating shelves is due to its easy on the eye (and stylish) look, teamed with the practicality of open storage. 

Although we all love putting our tableware and kitchen paraphernalia away most of the time it's lovely to be able to display some favorite pieces too. You can still have wall cabinets or opt for a minimalist approach and just have floating shelves – the choice is yours. 

Below we showcase a selection of shelf ideas to give you ideas for your own space.

1. Mix it with traditional shelving

This beautifully crafted kitchen teams modern floating shelving above the sink with a more traditional style of open shelving on the right. Linked by accessories in wood and their artisan aesthetic, both designs work well together. 

"Breaking up your cabinets with shelving creates character, and dimension and adds design interest, softening the look and feel of your kitchen," says Keri Lainas, owner and principal designer, Keri Michelle Interiors.

For a similar floating shelf check out Amazon's Sorbus 2 Maple Wood Floating Shelves, and if you love the green cabinetry have a look at Benjamin Moore's Herb Garden 434, a warming green with yellow undertones. 

2. Mid century modern style

If you love a particular design era then don't worry, you can still have floating shelves, as you can see from this stunning mid-century modern-inspired kitchen. 

For a cohesive look try to make them an extension of your cabinetry for a seamless and stylish finish. Then accessorise with pieces that you love that are also relevant to the period you've picked. 

Wayfair's Carsin Irregular Reclaimed Elm Floating Shelf would work well in a space like this.

3. Opt for crisp white

Kitchen floating shelves can be so useful, not only are they practical but can be used for decorative purposes too.

"People who like their things on display or out rather than in cupboards are generally keen cooks or collectors," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. "I love a shelf above a sink or a cooker, or a corner bookshelf high up above a seating area full of cooking books."

We love the plants in this black-and-white kitchen, they add life and interest to this bold scheme and soften the edges. To copy this biophilic design have a look at our ideas below. 

4. Add a rail to your shelf

Give your floating shelf an extra touch with a brass rail to stop anything you might have placed there from slipping off – especially if they're propped up.

We love it when hardware ties a scheme together so choose a rail that matches your look. In this farmhouse-style kitchen brass is the chosen metallic and it looks fabulous with the mid-toned wood cabinetry.

Amazon's WOPITUES Floating Shelves come with a gold metal guardrail just for this reason and offer peace of mind that items won't slip off.

5. Jet black for a sleek look

For a small kitchen that needs invaluable storage consider floating shelving that's narrow in depth. It will ensure you can still store the essentials like tea, coffee, and most used cooking items, but without compromising on space. 

This black ENHET shelving from IKEA is a slight twist on the conventional floating shelves but has the same result. You can even add hooks so you and hang a tea towel or oven gloves from it if required. 

6. Choose marble for a luxe feel

There's nothing quite as luxurious as a marble in a kitchen, and if you're using it on countertops and as a backsplash then consider extending that to your floating shelves.

Brittany Farinas, founder and creative director, House of One explains, "Using marble shelves in a kitchen can be a stylish and practical choice. In this case, the Calcutta vintage marble used for the open shelving beautifully complements the base cabinetry, creating a cohesive and visually appealing design."

Open shelving is not for everyone, especially if you love a more maximalist approach, Brittany adds, "While some people may be hesitant about open shelving due to concerns about storage, it can actually encourage you to be more intentional about what you display and keep in your kitchen, leading to a cleaner, more curated look."

Copy House of One's beautiful light and airy kitchen with our buys below.

7. Put your accent color on your shelf

If you've chosen an accent color for your kitchen scheme then adding it to your floating shelves is a great idea. 

"Floating shelves in any kitchen are always a must for me if the space allows. They may be trendy but they also create dimension. Cabinets are beautiful but can be very heavy in a space. Floating shelves are functional for storing bowls and glassware and they're the perfect place to add decor like a vase, plant, or candle," says Keri Lainas, owner and principal designer at Keri Michelle Interiors.

We love these black Cloud Terre Set of 4 Arlo Bowls from Nordstrom, super stylish and perfect if your accent color is black.

8. Utilize your space

Wall space is not always easy to find especially in an older property that may have low ceilings. In these instances, custom-made floating shelving can be the answer. 

It will enable you to make the most of those spaces that a wall cabinet will never fit, but will still give you some fabulous open-plan shelving for your favorite finds. Another bonus about custom-built shelving is you can have them crafted extra deep. 

9. Add a rail underneath

Give yourself some extra kitchen storage by placing a hanging rail underneath your floating shelving.

"Cooks need to grab a pan or ladle quickly and efficiently so open shelves and hanging rails mean everything is easy to put away and easy to find and use quickly," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

For a similar look attach this look at our three top buys below. 

10. Go long and high

In this eclectic kitchen, the floating shelving has been placed high up with pretty patterned plates and yellow teacups and saucers to draw the eye up and across to the yellow wall unit. 

It acts as a decorative aspect in this scheme that's full of texture and layers of design features (we particularly love the plants and foliage in the vase). The wood shelving matches the cabinetry so there's cohesion even though there's plenty going on in this lovely space. 

For a similar yellow check out Lick's Yellow 01 – a creamy yellow that's not too bright, and for longer-length shelving have a scoot around vintage stores for reclaimed wood. 

Our kitchen floating shelves ideas will give you inspiration to try this practical storage solution out in your space. They're ideal for tricky widths as you can have them custom made, and if you wanted you could paint them to suit your scheme. Make them stand out against your chosen wall color or wallpaper, or, choose designs that blend in with your kitchen – white on white for example. 

I’m a firm believer that eating isn't just about taste, and that half of the eating is in the looking. In my opinion, well-presented food only goes so far if the plates aren’t pretty. 

I’ve had some of my favorite meals on European vacations — cacio e pepe as the sun sets over a Tuscan piazza, cheese and wine by the pool at a Provincial chateau, and incredible tapas overlooking the lights of Barcelona. And, whilst I can’t directly replicate the experience of dining on the European continent, I can certainly evoke memories with my dinnerware choices. 

Luckily, I’ve spotted tons of Italian decor for kitchens in homeware stores, which has inspired a whole host of al fresco dining ideas. My dinner party guests eat it up every time and, trust me, yours will too.

How to channel Eurosummer on your table

Whenever I’m looking for hosting essentials, I gravitate towards Eurosummer-style tableware, which, of course, includes the Amalficore aesthetic. 

When you think of dining in Europe, you’ll likely envision a table clad with a white linen tablecloth, olive wood serving accessories, and a neon-orange Aperol Spritz’ in the hand of every guest, a drink that has become synonymous with the Italian dining experience, and a striking tablescape staple in itself. 

I recommend combining the charm of a French rustic farmhouse, alongside coastal kitchen ideas, reminiscent of the cool, blue waters in Greece, and warm-toned Spanish design for your interiors. When shopping, keep an eye out for natural woods, bright colors, and coastal motifs, such as shell designs. This eclectic interior mix is what makes the Eurosummer aesthetic so perfect for your dinner table, as you can adapt it to your personal taste.

It’s not too complicated to combine the dining table aesthetics of these glorious European countries, you just have to know where to look. That’s where I come in.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Where to buy European dinnerware

Part of my job as a social editor for an interiors magazine, believe it or not, is shopping. Once a month, I head out to the mall to see which new pieces the big homeware stores have in stock and, this month, I could practically smell freshly baked croissants in the air; Eurosummer had arrived on the tables of Anthropologie, H&M Home, and Zara Home. From serving dishes to linen napkins, the European aesthetic had washed up on our shores, and it took all of my willpower not to buy everything I laid my eyes on.

Looking for more European inspiration? Travel further north to learn everything you need to know about Scandinavian interior design, or, alternatively, check out our outdoor decor ideas to spruce up your al-fresco dining experience; dining outside is just *so* continental. 

Look, I get it. You've stumbled across the perfect cute kitchen appliance, put it on your kitchen countertop, and then found that it looks a little out of place.

Don't stress though — I've got you covered with plenty of pro-approved advice that will help you style your colorful appliance in a way that will make it shine and that will make your cooking space look cohesive. Coordinating with existing decor and creating contrast are just a couple of their top tips.

Whether you're shopping for small kitchen appliances and want to ensure your place is ready for your latest pick or already have a pretty one you want to style properly, these tips will come in handy.

1. Go for contrasting colors

When styling a small kitchen appliance, it can be tempting to decorate your whole kitchen in the same color. But, this can actually look too matchy and will leave you with a space that lacks character.

“For example, choosing bold colors like red, blue, or yellow paired with white cabinetry creates contrast,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild.

He continues, “I recently used Smeg's retro fridge in red and their yellow kettle and toaster for a client to create a bold, striking look.”

This is also a brilliant tip for those searching for retro diner kitchen ideas, which are all about bright shades matched with playful accessories.

2. Pair with existing decor

I know how tempting it can be to pick the most Instagrammable kitchen appliance. But, if you want to make sure your new beauty looks brilliant, make sure that it matches what you already have. 

“When styling colorful kitchen appliances, it's essential to coordinate them with your existing décor to achieve a harmonious look,” says Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

“For instance, if your kitchen features neutral tones, vibrant appliances can add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Conversely, in a kitchen with bold colors, choosing appliances in complementary shades can create a balanced aesthetic,” he explains. 

3. Paint walls and cabinets

If you do have your heart set on a dreamy appliance and you’re a homeowner, painting is a fun way to ensure it matches your space.

“Choose a color scheme of two to three complementary colors and paint walls and cabinets, then select appliances and accents to match,” suggests Nick.

“For example, Robin's egg blue walls with lemon yellow cabinets and turquoise accents are fresh and fun,” he says. I love this idea and think it would work well in Amalficore-style kitchens.

From here, Nick says to keep the rest of the space minimal so the color takes center stage.

4. Pick renter-friendly accents

Renting and can’t use paint? There are lots of easy ways to ensure appliances look chic and cohesive in colorful kitchens.

“For renters, swap standard cabinet knobs for decorative ones in your chosen accent color,” Nick says.

He continues, “You can also use colorful linens, dinnerware, and glassware to tie it together.”

If you’re looking for beautiful glasses, I have the Zaza Lustered Glasses from Anthropologie, which work brilliantly as bar cart accessories.

5. Switch them up seasonally

For those who enjoy changing up their kitchen’s look and have a little more budget to play with, going for seasonal updates with appliances and accessories can be a fun way to keep things fresh. 

“Renters can swap out small appliances and accessories seasonally to reflect the colors and vibes of each season, using placemats, tablecloths, and dish towels that can be easily changed,” Tommy says.

You could also invest in a set of versatile, colorful appliances that can be rotated in and out of use.

“The Empire Red KitchenAid Stand Mixer from Amazon is perfect for adding a vibrant touch, especially during festive times,” he says. It's also great to have handy for whipping up Christmas bakes.

You can also switch around the types of appliances you have on display depending on the season. For example, the best ice cream makers are brilliant for warmer months, while panini presses work best during cooler ones.

With the right styling, colorful appliances, and a cohesive color scheme can transform a kitchen into a stylish, memorable space. 

“Focus on accent colors you love and the overall feel you want to achieve. Then choose high-quality materials and reputable brands to bring your vision to life,” Nick finishes by saying.

If you want to carry on elevating your cooking space, finding kitchen countertop decor will also be useful.

Colorful kitchen appliances we love

During the process of designing a new kitchen, or remodeling an existing one, there's a key question that always comes up – should kitchen floors match the walls? 

It does really depend on personal choice and whether you love cohesion or prefer a more characterful kitchen design. But there are some caveats in that matching floors and walls could be as simple as all white, or you could have matching floor and wall tiles. 

Below we look into the pros and cons of both and how to make them work for you. At the end of the day, choosing the best kitchen ideas is about personal choice and your individual style. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

Should kitchen floors match the walls? 

If you love things to match up then yes, because it will create cohesion and flow, especially in a small kitchen. 

Principal and founder of Crain & Ventolo, Robert Ventolo agrees "Matching kitchen floors and walls can create a cohesive look in modern, small, or open-plan kitchens."

However, the rest of your scheme needs to be right to make it work, Robert adds, "It can be impractical in high-traffic areas, eclectic designs, or where maintenance is a concern; I typically use contrasting elements and practical materials for functionality and visual interest."

If you love the floor tiles here then take a peek at Wayfair's Oxide Matte Metallic Wall and Floor Tiles, ideal for an all-encompassing look. 

How can I make matching kitchen floors and walls work?

For a restful look consider matching the walls and floors, this works well if your kitchen is small and needs brightening up. 

White walls and floors will lift a space and the flow between the two will create a clean and fresh look, "For a smart wraparound white look, whitewash your floorboards. This is easy to do and looks very effective. For a more subtle, natural result, opt for limed oak which can very work well in a modern or traditional country setting," agrees Chrissie Rucker, OBE and founder of The White Company. 

"All-encompassing color creates an atmosphere of calm where nothing is fighting for dominance. Limited color palettes make styling a room easier too, you can be much more selective, not necessarily keeping to that same color but being a little more restrained with your choices," advises Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens. 

Chrissie adds, "Always opt for warm whites rather than cold, bluey-white tones. Ivory, alabaster, chalk; there are countless soft whites on the market so get in some sample pots and try before you buy."

Choose a creamy white as Chrissie advises, we like Benjamin Moore's Floral White OC-29, it's an easy on-the-eye shade that's less harsh than brilliant white. 

How can I mix and match my floors and walls?

If matching floors and walls isn't for you then embrace the opposite – which is to have pattern and or color instead. 

This eclectic kitchen has successfully married the two together and it's cleverly done by ensuring the walls and floors both have similar elements. The aqua and white floor tiles work brilliantly with the blue and white wallpaper, the white links the two enough to make it work. 

“When it comes to kitchen floors and walls, a matchy-matchy look feels too contrived and outdated. Whilst keeping to a complimentary color or hue, I recommend mixing materials to create a space that has depth and character, we used our Anthropology Green tiles in this fabulous kitchen," says Damla Turgut, founder, Otto Tiles & Design US.

Unless you want a complete pattern clash it's a case of pairing the right tones according to Damla. "If your kitchen is part of an open plan layout then your floor will likely be led by the look and feel of the overall space, so your kitchen walls are a chance to add color, pattern, and texture. If your kitchen is a separate room, I think it’s a great opportunity to have fun with a patterned floor paired with a plain wall.”

For a similar wallpaper try Lick's Mindful 02 Wallpaper, the subtle blue wavy lines on a pale blush background will look great with the floor above. 

When to avoid using matching floors and walls

For maximalist lovers, matching your kitchen floors and walls is most likely not for you, instead, you need to embrace as much pattern as you like. Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages says:

"Our personal preference is for bold, colorful and what can sometimes be deemed unconnected patterns – a whimsical storytelling wallpaper with a geometric floor design for example. Something solid and bold on the floor grounds the more free pattern of a repeat design and it’s the variety of these patterns that create energy and visual interest."

Another key element for this bold look is to play with scale, Jamie adds, "We’re also big believers in mixing up scales, so if you have a small scale pattern on the walls, then it’s a good idea to choose a larger, plain design for the floor. It helps to keep a room scheme cohesive and means your wallpaper takes center stage without the distraction of a busy floor."

For a similar floor tile (that could also go on walls) look at Wayfair's Honeycomb Marble Mosaic Wall and Floor Tiles in Nero Marquina.

Kitchen floors can match the walls if that's the look you're after, and it can look great if you choose the right colors – you can opt for an all white or cream look for a country cottage or minimalist style for example. Or, if you prefer a maximalist look then following the mix and match principle for a beautiful eclectic look.

So you're thinking of creating a basement kitchen? The basement often becomes the forgotten corner of the home, filled with tools, spare car parts, or perhaps just an extra fridge or freezer. However, this overlooked space holds incredible potential! 

With a little creativity, you can transform this space into a brilliant basement kitchen, adding valuable liveable space to your home and enhancing your overall lifestyle. Imagine transforming your basement into a vibrant culinary hub.

Create a bespoke area for cooking, dining, and entertaining with these handy kitchen ideas for your basement.

1. Multifunctional space

The basement is generally considered the coolest part of the house, with naturally lower temperatures and reduced humidity levels. If you’re looking to convert yours into a fully functional kitchen, adding a wine storage unit, like this solid wood wine rack from Wayfair, would be a brilliant way to utilize the space’s unique properties. 

If your basement is spacious enough to accommodate a kitchen island, stools, or even a full dining area, you can transform it into a fabulous hosting space. Wine storage near the kitchen island can also create an accessible ‘wine station’, complete with a countertop, storage for glasses, and a wine refrigerator. 

2. Modern designs

Opening up the basement doesn't mean compromising on style or personality. For daring designers, thinking outside the box with custom-designed countertops and units can completely transform your space. Instead of viewing the basement as merely a functional addition, think of it as a whole new layer to showcase bold design choices. 

For example, the kitchen featured here includes unique geometric drawers that not only stand out but also cleverly maximize space. Another intriguing idea for design-conscious kitchen owners is adding stained glass accents. 

Architect and founder of Drafting Services, Brian Curren suggests, “Stained glass accents add a touch of artistry and color, make your basement kitchen stand out with unique visual interest. Try stained-glass panels in the center of cabinet doors or as a backsplash above the sink.”  

Embrace these creative elements to turn your basement into a stylish, standout space.

3. Family-friendly areas

Large open-plan kitchens are a hit with families, allowing everyone to be together while doing their own thing. Parents can prep food while keeping an eye on the kids playing or doing homework. Spacious breakfast bars and island units, like this portable kitchen island from Wayfair, are favorites because they’re perfect for cooking and socializing together. 

Jason Lamprey, owner of Square One Construction, tells us, "For a household with a growing family, a basement kitchen should focus on workflow and storage. A prep sink, double wall oven, pantry, and rollout shelving provide everything needed for efficient meal prep and cleanup." 

Incorporating a dining area into the open-plan design further enhances the space and extends its possibilities. Bring in a fresh modern color to the walls, patterns, or quirky design elements for a playful, creative vibe.  And if your basement kitchen opens directly into the garden, even better! 

4. Small spaces

Even the smallest of basements can be redesigned to become a functional and useful space. A few simple units and shelves can transform an underused area into something practical and efficient. 

Andy Roe CEO of Roe Paint suggests, "For small spaces, focus on essentials like adequate cabinetry, counter space, and good lighting. Add mini-fridges or drawer microwaves to save space." 

A small basement kitchen works best as a secondary space to complement your ground-floor kitchen or as a separate area for guests. For those who'd like to incorporate a dining element, a slimline breakfast bar or fold-out dining table, like this extendable table from Wayfair, could be just the answer. 

When working with a small space, consider elements such as slimline dishwashers, which eliminate the need for drying space, and clever thin pull-out units. Keep the paint colors airy and breezy to avoid making the space feel too confined.

5. DIY additions

Redefining an unused basement space can be a dream project for DIY enthusiasts. For those who enjoy getting hands-on with their design and adding a personal, handmade touch, wood kitchens are a fantastic option. 

Consider finishing the units with stained slats or wood slats in varying widths to showcase the natural grain and texture. This unique take on traditional kitchen design can be endlessly customized to fit your vision, much like this kitchen by Sebastian Cox for deVOL. 

Using wood allows DIY enthusiasts to custom-build kitchen islands and other features to perfectly suit their needs.

6. Seating for socializing

Converting a light-deprived basement can still turn out fantastic! Picture it as an open-plan cooking and socializing area, perfect for comfy seating and a widescreen TV without any glare from outside light sources. 

With an open layout, you can easily socialize with your guests while whipping up a feast. If your basement lacks natural light, consider making it an open-plan kitchen and social space by leaning into a moody design with muted grays and sleek blacks. Use plenty of under-cabinet lighting, like these rechargeable lights available on Amazon, and spotlights to brighten things up, creating a cozy and stylish space that’s perfect for entertaining! 

To really kit your space out, Moe Soloff, Kitchen Specialist at Fabuwood advises us to, "Include a snack bar with a mini-fridge, microwave, and popcorn machine and opt for cabinets with soundproofing features to keep noise levels in check."

7. Minimal designs

For those who appreciate simple, pared-back design, transforming a basement space can be the perfect opportunity to work from a blank slate. Opt for flat, matte, handle-free cabinets paired with light wood accents to maintain an emphasis on simplicity and functionality, stripping everything down to its essential elements. 

A minimalist basement kitchen thrives on ample visible floor space and polished concrete fits seamlessly into this aesthetic, offering a smooth, reflective surface that keeps things uncomplicated. 

For storage, think of natural wood, stone, and marble elements to introduce warmth and texture. Emphasizing light and space is key so style lends itself best to a basement space that has access to the garden or outdoor area. 

Whether you're planning a full-scale basement renovation to add an entirely new floor to your house or transforming a small, unused space into something practical, even the most overlooked areas can become stylish and functional. More importantly, these changes can add significant value to your home and open up new possibilities for how you live and entertain. With a bit of creativity and thoughtful design, you’ll be happy you made the investment! 

Influencer Nara Smith has been making absolute waves on TikTok at the moment. Whether she's making cola from scratch or warming up a Marc Jacobs bag in the oven, she has people talking with every video that she posts.

While her delicious dishes have inspired me, I also can't help but swoon over her gorgeous kitchen essentials. So, I've tracked down nine of these to help you create your own Nara-style dishes at home.

Whether you love her small kitchen appliances (shout out to the Smeg toaster) or her famous chunky plates, I've sought them out and shown you where you can shop them.

Nara Smith's kitchen essentials

Whether you love these pieces because of their style or because Nara Smith uses them, they’re all brilliant ways to add elegance and functionality to your kitchen.

Looking for more celeb-approved kitchen essentials? I have also found Reese Witherspoon’s Smeg appliances and sought out budget alternatives.

My fridge has been a little bit of a mess recently, so I've been looking at the things people with organized fridges never do, in order to fix my mistakes.

I've asked design and organizing pros what they have seen in clients' homes, and what they have come back with has really surprised me. Not only are they super ways to keep this space tidy, but they will also help your groceries stay fresher for longer.

If you're looking for fridge organization ideas and want tried-and-tested tips, these are all worth checking out.

1. They never store dairy in the door

I’m totally guilty of keeping my milk and oat milk in the door, so I’m shocked that this is a big no-no when learning how to organize a refrigerator.

“This is a common mistake due to easy access, but the door is the warmest part of the fridge,” explains Nicole Saunders, interior designer at The Design Build Vault.

Instead, she says to keep milk, cheese, and yogurt on the middle shelves where the temperature is more consistent. 

“I often prefer to use a designated drawer for dairy products as it allows them to stay fresh longer,” she adds.

2. They never rush putting groceries away

I know how easy it can be to run inside with a big bag of food from the store and immediately throw them all into the fridge without a second thought.

But, rushing to put groceries away is something people with organized fridges never do. 

“It's important to ensure that everything that goes into your organized fridge goes into the right spot immediately and that it's always returned to the right spot, too,” says Carolina Kazimierski, cleaning expert and co-owner of Sophia’s Cleaning Service.

“I have noticed that people who tend to simply place groceries wherever find it much more difficult to stick with an organizational scheme,” she adds.

You can create designated zones for different types of food by using the best organization products.

For example, I have the Beauty Cottage Stackable Refrigerator Organizer Bins from Amazon and they’re perfect for keeping snack bars and juice boxes contained.

3. They never put hot food away

When I’ve felt a little lazy, I have indeed put leftovers in the fridge without thinking about the consequences. This is a mistake I won’t make in future, though.

“This mistake can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage of other items in the fridge,” Nicole tells me.

“The biggest risk is the possibility of the food not cooling down fast enough, causing bacteria to multiply,” she says.

Because of this, Nicole suggests letting your food cool down completely before placing it in the fridge. 

You can also place them in glass storage containers to make them easy to put in the oven and heat up again. I’ve had the Amazon Basics Glass Storage Container Set for years and have used them in my fridge, freezer, and even on the go.

Now you know what people with organized refrigerators never do, you can follow their advice and make sure yours works as functionally as possible.

Want to carry on following useful advice for your cooking space? Finding out the things people with organized kitchens always do will also come in useful.

Useful fridge organization buys

I'm not the most tidiest person in the world and I know I've made plenty of mistakes when it comes to organizing my kitchen.

But, I'd like to fix my messy ways though, which is why I've asked interior designers for the errors they often see. From underutilizing vertical space to choosing aesthetics over functionality, there are so many different errors that are easy to make but equally simple to sort out.

If you're looking for kitchen storage ideas and want to know what you shouldn't be doing, these tips will help you get your cooking space in order.

1. Not utilizing vertical space

For those working with small kitchens, it’s especially important to make the most out of all the space you have.

“Vertical space is the empty space above cabinets and between shelves,” explains David Silva, interior designer at HomRem LLC. “If you don't have stacked cabinets or have large gaps between shelves, you're likely over-crowding your existing storage, making your kitchen look more cluttered.”

He says this is a common mistake because nobody thinks it makes that much of a difference. “It’s not until you put it into practice that you see just how much storage you were missing out on,” David continues.

To fix this, he recommends using storage bins above the cabinets and putting shelf risers in cabinets and pantries. “By doing this, you can essentially double your storage space to reduce clutter,” he adds.

2. Improper space allocation

Trust me — I know how easy it is to get back from grocery shopping and throw everything inside your kitchen cabinets. However, this is a big mistake that interior designers see.

“Measure everything in your kitchen and create zones for each category like glasses, pots, and pans,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild.

“Pullout drawers, lazy Susans, and slide-out trays keep items organized and prevent mess,” he explains.

Lazy Susans are especially great for those with small cabinets, making it easy to grab what you need without knocking anything over. For example, the OXO Good Grips Lazy Susan Turntable from Amazon is soft, non-slip, and has a deep ledge to help keep items upright.

3. Choosing form over function

When looking through kitchen ideas and designing your dream cooking space, it can be easy to reach for the most beautiful ideas instead of the most functional — but this can cause problems.

“Customized, space-efficient storage designates a spot for everything,” explains Nick. “With strategic storage, you'll have an efficient kitchen where clutter and frustration are minimized.”

For a recent project, Nick integrated wall cabinets, a pantry, and deep drawers to keep everything in its place. “The clients now enjoy cooking and hosting in their newly transformed kitchen,” he says.

If you’re renting like me, just make sure to plan out your kitchen effectively before moving everything in. 

You can have fun with custom kitchen storage ideas, such as creating special shelves and boxes for different supplies. In fact, you can even put them in rainbow order, just like The Home Edit did in Reese Witherspoon’s kitchen.

4. Keeping items out of reach

If you have too many items in one cabinet, it's easy for them to get lost. I’ve had a few occasions where I’ve found out-of-date food and immediately felt bad having to throw them away.

“This is common because people think they'll remember where they store things, but they always inevitably forget,” says David. “And it's not until they don't need that tool or ingredient that they finally find it.”

The solution? Make sure that everything in a cabinet or drawer is visible or, at the very least, should be easy to access. 

David continues, “There are many unique solutions to this like door racks and pot shelves. No matter what you choose, the outcome should be that everything is easy to see and access.”

If you like this idea and are looking for the best kitchen organizers, the Trademark Home Lavish Home Over the Door Organizer at Walmart is a versatile and chic solution.

5. Overcrowding kitchen countertops

As someone who has a small kitchen and loves kitchen countertop decor, I have found that mine has become a little chaotic.

“While it's tempting to keep every appliance within arm's reach, this habit clutters your space and makes it harder to clean,” explains Joseph Passalacqua, cleaning expert and owner of Maid Sailors.

“A quick solution is to store appliances you don't use daily in cabinets or pantry spaces, such as air fryers and coffee makers if they aren’t in use,” he says. 

This frees up valuable counter space and will leave your kitchen looking more organized and inviting.

By sorting out these storage mistakes in your kitchen, your space will become easier to use, making it more enjoyable to cook and host in this space.

Want to carry on fixing problems in this room? Learning the things people with organized kitchens always do is also a great idea.

Whether you're hopping on a plane for a long trip or simply are heading away for the weekend, it's a smart idea to find out the appliances you should switch off during this time.

“This will avoid any risk of a fire or damage to the appliance that could be caused by a fault — be it with the electrics or a power surge,” says Mathew Shelley, appliance expert and Customer Service Manager at Dualit. “Unlike larger appliances like fridge-freezers, there is no downside to doing this and it also then brings peace of mind for while you’re away enjoying your vacation!”

From small kitchen appliances to fragrance emitters, there are different ones throughout the house that are worth unplugging before wheeling your suitcase out of your home.

1. Coffee makers

If you’re not bringing your best coffee maker away with you, it’s important to make sure this brewing machine is switched off.

“These devices often have clocks and timers that consume power even when not in use,” explains Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

Unplugging this will ensure you prevent any risk of electrical fires, which you definitely don’t want to have to deal with when you’re lounging in the sun.

2. Toasters

While you might take your coffee machine with you (especially if it’s a small coffee maker), you’re definitely not going to take a toaster away.

Tommy explains, “These can be a fire hazard if left plugged in — especially older models without automatic shut-off features.”

When it comes to finding the best toasters, I always make sure to find ones that won’t cause any hassle and that will last ages. For example, the Dualit Classic 4-Slice Toaster from Williams Sonoma pictured above has a mechanical toaster, fast warm-up, and extra wide slots.

3. Plug-in fragrances

This might not be an obvious small appliance to unplug when you’re on vacation, but it’s an important one to remember, as you may have a few of them around the house.

“Plug-in air fresheners and fragrance diffusers always be unplugged,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild. “The heat and motors can fail, and strong scents may linger for days unattended.”

I’m actually slightly terrified of having these in my house, so instead I opt for having the best reed diffusers, flipping them before I go on holiday so they fill the house with delicious fragrance when I’m back.

4. Microwaves and air fryers

You’re probably dreaming of having cool drinks and nibbly foods on vacation, so your hot and heavy microwave likely hasn’t even crossed your mind. But, it’s a big small appliance one to unplug.

“While they might seem harmless, microwaves draw power continuously for their displays and clocks,” Tommy says.

Make sure to switch this off, as they can help reduce your electricity bill slightly. The same goes for the best air fryers, as these often have electrical displays and timers, too.

5. Hair tools

I always pack my hairdryer when I go on staycations, but if you don’t and are prone to leaving yours in, unplug this and all your other hair devices.

Tommy explains, “These can pose a significant fire risk if left plugged in, so I always recommend unplugging them before leaving for an extended period.”

Even if you haven’t used your straighteners for a while, it’s still a good idea to unplug them, just in case you accidentally flick the switch while you’re moving and packing.

While simple mechanical timers (such as the best-selling BN-LINK Indoor Mini Outlet Timer from Amazon) can provide security, if you’re going away for a long while, it’s best to unplug and be safe rather than sorry.

If you’re looking for more ways to take care of your home during the summer, learning how to cool down a room without AC will also be handy.

Our favorite small appliances

Trends come and go, but kitchen trends tend to have some longevity so updating your color scheme can be worth it. 

Our kitchen cabinet color trend ideas for 2025 have something for everyone, and there's a real move towards shades that invoke nature. 

Have a look at our kitchen cabinet color trends below and pick one that you love. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Natural wood

Over the last year, we've seen more rough-hewn wood kitchen cabinets appearing, some plain and others painted and this is definitely going to continue into 2025. 

“We’re seeing a big shift toward natural wood finishes for cabinetry. Rich walnuts and oaks add a nice layer of warmth that more homeowners are looking for. In our signature Soft Modern kitchens especially, the contrast of natural wood against more refined materials strikes a balance that feels contemporary and timeless," says Paul Kropp, co-founder and head of operations at Bakes & Kropp.

You can combine them with a mixture of painted cabinets as shown here, or use natural wood throughout. One way to get more wood in your kitchen is to choose artisan accessories like Nordstrom's Acacia Wood Serving Bowl, it's one of those useful pieces you'll wonder how you lived without it! 

2. Inky blue

We've had a spate of blue being a kitchen cabinet trend in the past, but this color is different, it's a strong inky blue – brighter than navy and most definitely a statement color to choose. 

We asked Damla Turgut, founder and creative director of Otto Tiles & Design for her take on this new shade:

"Moving away from navy, inky blue packs more of an intense punch of color whilst remaining sophisticated and timeless. All these strong hues are contrasted by a continued popularity for soft blush tones."

For a similar punchy blue check out Lick's Blue 111 Matt – a bold shade that's invigorating, team with crisp white for a fabulous contrast.

3. Verdant green

Sage green cabinets has been swapped for this pretty verdant green – you've heard it here first! Softer than sage but not as perky as apple green, this shade is very calming and easy on the eye. 

“Green has been very big this year! We are seeing a lot of interest and a wide array of choices," says Paul Kropp. "From deep forest green that gives a very proper look to light pastel green for more of an airy feel, it's a truly versatile color."

Want to embrace this new shade in your kitchen? Check out our verdant green buys below.

4. White

White in a kitchen is always on trend especially if you love a minimalist look, but the new version of this color on kitchen cabinets is to place color elsewhere. Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages explains:

"White cabinets made our small kitchen feel spacious and modern and provided the neutral base color we needed, allowing us to experiment with color on our walls and backsplashes." 

This is exactly what we predict for 2025 – Jamie recommends pairing white units with light colors if you’re introducing a patterned wallpaper to help keep the sense of space, and then to keep a consistent color palette by using blush pink tiles too.  "White has a timeless and versatile appeal, as it offers a clean, crisp look that can adapt to various design styles, from modern to traditional. In addition, white surfaces reflect natural light better than darker shades, helping to maximize the natural brightness of a kitchen," he adds. 

You don't need to go for a harsh bright white though, look for a white that sits near the off-white scale, like Benjamin Moore's White Heron OC-57, a fresh white that's not too clinical. 

5. Nearly black

Not for the faint-hearted, but fabulous when done right, black or nearly black cabinets are going to be big in 2025. How you balance them with the rest of the space is key to making this bold look work. 

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

For a bold monochromatic wall and floor tile check out Wayfair's honeycomb mosaic wall and floor tiles, they would look eye-catching in a scheme like this. 

6. Blush pink

A great antidote to the darker richer tones for 2025, blush pink is not going away and will be a color for kitchen cabinets that is popular. Why? Because it's so versatile and goes with most other colors. From navy to apple green, black, and aubergine – investing in blush cabinets will give you the freedom to add accents when and where you like. It's almost like a new neutral.

This is why Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens is such a big fan, "Here at deVOL we stick to a fairly small selection of colors, only adding new ones once in a while. Our new blush pink, named ‘Princelet Pink’ after one of my favorite East London streets, has become everyone’s new favorite. The color is barely there, soft and skin-like, and matches perfectly with black and green, not as a contrast but more of a pairing that just sits so quietly and unassumingly."

If this harmonious shade is for you, then have a peek below at our blush pink buys. 

7. Earthy terracotta

Create a welcoming feel in your kitchen with this grounding terracotta. Ideal for north-facing kitchens that can feel the visual chill of less natural light, this shade will feel cozy instantly. 

Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene says we should embrace these earthy tones, "We’ve seen that there is a greater desire to surround ourselves with comforting, nurturing colors that are not only easy to scheme but provide serenity and tranquillity in our homes."

We've definitely noticed a trend towards more grounding shades throughout the home, Ruth continues, "This has been reflected in the increasing popularity of neutrals and earthier tones that have an inherent warmth. Easy to incorporate into both contemporary and traditional homes, these shades provide the perfect backdrop to rustic natural finishes, be they oak or darker woods, and stone or quarry tiled floors."

Anthropologie's Lyla solid side plates will work well in a terracotta kitchen scheme. 

Our kitchen cabinet color trend ideas give you a good selection of shades to consider for 2025 – there's definitely something for everyone and for all styles of kitchen. 

If you're unsure then start by introducing accessories in the color you love first and see how it works in your exiting space. 

We all want to create a relaxing yet sociable kitchen that suits our daily needs and is stylish to boot. The Chinese art of feng shui is about creating the right energy and flow throughout the space. 

This is relevant whether your kitchen is large or small, keeping your space peaceful as much as possible is something we all strive to do. 

As well as keeping on top of your kitchen clutter – an important factor in keeping the energy flowing – kitchen colors are key to a restful feel. We asked our experts for the best feng shui kitchen colors and why they work best. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Green

Pale green is a key feng shui color and it's ideal for kitchen cabinets and walls especially if the shade is muted. 

"Soft earthy greens are a great color for a kitchen, it's calming and soothing which well suits the busy heart of the home. In feng shui, green, which represents the element of wood, can be used across the home and symbolizes growth and evolution as well as stability and strength," says Damla Turgut, founder and creative director at Otto Tiles & Design.

The other key element with picking the right feng shui color is that it can have health benefits, Damla adds, "When used in the kitchen it balances out the elements of fire and water and as a color is believed to also promotes digestion."

For a similar green shade try Lick's Green 09 Matt, it's a subtle shade that adds a hint of color without being too strong. 

For three accessory buys have a look at our selection below.

2. White

The simplicity of white makes it a perfect color for a kitchen using feng shui methods. White represents renewal and a clean slate and of course, we know about the benefits of using it from an interior design point of view too. 

David Silva, interior designer at HomRem gives us his advice on using white:

"It's important to understand what the term means before listing any colors. In a sentence, Feng Sui describes the Chinese philosophy of matching the energy of an environment with the desired energy of its occupants. White promotes purity and cleanliness. It also reflects natural light the best, which increases energy and positivity in the room."

To copy this look use Benjamin Moore's Silver Satin OC-26 on your walls and White Dove OC-17 on trim, ceiling, cabinets, and island, both will create a bright feel and a good feng shui flow. 

3. Sky blue

Pastel shades are a good safe option when it comes to feng shui kitchen colors, they're easy on the eye and work well with all styles. David explains, "The colors of nature create serenity. It's a sense of calm that allows occupants to relax and share a moment with those around them. These natural colors also promote the energy of eating natural, healthy meals."

Sky blue in this instance works as it's combined with a wood element which aids calm and balance. The result is a kitchen that's light and bright with good energy. Teaming it with white, which is a metal element in feng shui also helps.

Copy this charming kitchen with our top three buys below, start with sky blue paint, and add in some accessories. 

4. Yellow

Yellow and orange offer warmth to a kitchen so if you can find a shade that sits between the two like Little Greene's Bombolone it will aid harmony too. 

David Silva adds, "Yellow is a cheerful color that also increases energy," and sometimes you might need to add that to your kitchen if it's small and tends to feel dark. We love the idea of painting cabinets and walls in the same color, it ticks the color-drenching trend and adds a cohesive feel. 

Add a wood element with a farmhouse-style dining table like Wayfair's Rhem Solid Wood Dining Table in Brown and consider adding a marble effect peel-and-stick covering to your countertops, Amazon's Yancorp Self Adhesive design will do the trick. 

5. Deep red

For an energetic feel then consider a red kitchen – ideal if you love entertaining for example. In line with feng shui philosophy, it needs to be balanced with other elements to cool it down as it represents fire. An off-white or cream can help soothe the boldness and black is considered a yin color so offers balance. 

Red is also auspicious when used in the northeast and southwest sectors of your home, it can help with relationships and learning. Representing yang energy it's a powerful color to use. 

Copy both these colors with Benjamin Moore's Cottage Red HC-184a deep shade with brownish tones, rather like a barn door color and team it with their French White 1093 – a creamy beige that adds warmth. 

Generally speaking, the best feng shui kitchen colors are those that are muted, so think soft tones like pastels for a harmonious feel that helps energy to flow around the space. 

For a simple look go with white, and for a pop of energy look to an orange or red. 

As a social editor for a home and interiors magazine, I spend a lot of time scrolling through beautiful homes on TikTok and Instagram, and there’s one kitchen that has caught my attention, along with the rest of the internet.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t equal parts fascinated by and jealous of Nara Smith’s kitchen, and, in particular, her collection of sleek appliances and unique kitchenware. 

Recently, however, I’ve been on the hunt for the unusual coffee cup seen in her ‘everything I eat in a day’ Tiktok. Take a look at Nara’s pick and some of the best coffee mugs to snag as an alternative.

Nara Smith's fave coffee mug

Nara Smith has taken Tiktok by storm over the past year, known for cooking food from scratch in her stylish kitchen, which is complete with modern kitchenware and unique food dishes. Her stand-out style has certainly fuelled my own kitchen decor ideas, with her handmade mug being my latest obsession.

With its cute mushrooms and red bow detail, it’s the perfect blend of the cottagecore and coquette aesthetics with the perfect amount of Whimsy (get it?) to upgrade my at-home coffee bar and quirky mug collection. 

As usual, she cooks entirely from scratch throughout the video. This time, it’s a batch of blueberry pancakes, served on none other than her failsafe Gustaf Westman chunky plates, accompanied by a cup of herbal tea in the aforementioned quirky mug. It was here that I had to pause and run straight to Google, frantically typing to find out just where I could buy Nara Smith’s mug.

Luckily, I’ve found Nara Smith’s fave mug, and you can purchase the unique coffee mug online via British ceramics studio, Naetive, who specialize in custom mugs and ceramics.

Everything I love about Nara Smith's coffee mug

Thanks to open shelving appearing in kitchens everywhere, from stars like Gwyneth Paltrow down to online DIY open shelf tutorials, our small appliance and kitchenware choices have become a lot more playful, as they’re on show for all to see.

And, as I work from home, the open shelving trend coincided with the need for a barista-style coffee machine. My trusty Breville Duo-Temp Pro was quickly crowned queen of my kitchen and, of course, given pride of place with its own coffee bar. A machine like that needs some cool coffee accessories though, right? And, thus, my unique but chic mug collection was born.

Nara seems to have a similar ethos when it comes to her choice in both dinnerware and mugs, favoring her Gustaf Westman ‘Chunky Cup, and, now, her Naetive Studio handmade ceramic bow mug. 

The best part about her bow mug is that it is both microwave and dishwasher-safe, so no need to worry about an accidental dishwasher cycle. Made of stoneware ceramic with clear glass glaze, reviewers call the work of the ceramics studio ‘absolutely stunning,’ and note how much care is taken with the packaging to avoid any breaks in transit. You don’t need to worry about overuse, either, as one 5-star reviewer noted that they use the mug every single day.

Three budget-friendly alternatives to Nara Smith’s mug

Unsurprisingly, custom ceramic mugs have a slightly higher price point than your average coffee cup, so I’ve found some budget alternatives to help give your coffee station a chic upgrade.

On the hunt for more celeb kitchen inspo? We’ve sourced Jennifer Aniston's coffee machine, as well as affordable dupes, so that you don’t have to. Or find out why every celebrity, including Cameron Diaz, loves the viral Always Pan.

A truly luxe option, our white and gold kitchen ideas will leave you inspired and running to the nearest DIY store for paint and metallics! If you already have a white kitchen then adding a touch of gold is a sure fire way to pep it up and turn it into a white and gold space. 

We often talk about updating your kitchen with accent colors rather than metallics, so this is where you can add some beautiful gold effect accessories, add some trimming, and update countertops with a 'gold' finish. 

This kitchen theme is great if you're on a budget too as small luxe touches will give your hub of the home a more expensive look with simple yet workable ideas. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Add a gold trim

We love this idea of adding a gold paint section to the top of your cabinetry. Simple yet very effective – all the best ideas are, it really creates a glow visually. 

There are several ways to create this look, you could use gold leaf from Amazon or source a gold paint. We love Annie Sloan, which has three shades of gold paint each with a lustrous finish.

2. Consider a golden yellow paint

If you're not sure you want to go down the metallic route, you could opt for a warming 'golden' yellow paint instead. Gold doesn't have to result in a shiny finish, which is why a paint color that represents the glow of the sun for example cold works instead. 

Farrow & Ball's Babouche No.223 is a good choice and it will lift an otherwise white kitchen perfectly. 

3. Use gold effect hardware

Perhaps one of the easiest and most instant ways to add a gold look to your existing white kitchen is to change up your hardware. You can use a mixture of knobs and handles depending on what you want to update. They're a good way to refresh a tired scheme too. From circular to bar style, modern or ornate, there's plenty of choice for all kitchen styles. 

Take a peek below at our favorite three gold effect hardware options for your white and gold kitchen. 

4. Add black to the mix

Adding black to the mix will really turn a white and gold kitchen into something that's striking and design-led. A monochromatic scheme can be prevented from feeling too clinical with gold accents and this is a great look to copy. 

"This kitchen screams luxury. The stark, cool white kitchen is a thing of the past. We are now seeing softer creamery whites that are more of a backdrop than the kitchen's lead interest. In this particular kitchen, the softer white is there to blend in with the stunning surrounding materials," says Shae Wilder, BlueStar manager of Designer Relations.

"The brass accents are a perfect accent shimmering against the veining marble. Using mixed metals with stainless steel and brass, again, shimmering brass continues to speak luxury. The brushed brass knobs on the matte white BlueStar range appear as jewelry for the kitchen, which is the role golds and brasses are taking in the kitchen."

Wayfair's 36" 400 CFM ducted wall mount range hood has the option of having a gold effect rail on the front and the actual cooker hood is white making it perfect for this look. 

We love this pot filler kitchen faucet in brushed gold from Wayfair, it's a great investment buy and will look striking against a white tiled backsplash. 

5. Pick a marble with 'gold' veining

Another way to introduce a gold feel into your kitchen is to choose a countertop that has that aspect within it. It could be a composite with a gold fleck, or a terrazzo design for example. 

"The color palette of gold, white, and brown reflects a perfect balance. To avoid an overly brown appearance, we incorporated luxurious white and gold finishes for the cabinets above the cooktop, extending to open cubbies on the opposite side. The lower cabinets, crafted by Wilsart, feature warm and cool undertones that complement the upper cabinets beautifully," says Mini Gangwal, principal designer at MGG Designs. 

Marble comes with different colored 'veining' and some have a white and gold effect look that would suit this theme perfectly. Amazon's marble peel-and-stick countertop has gold veining that would help introduce it to a white kitchen. Shae agrees, "Currently, a strong trend in the kitchen industry is the inspiration of nature, especially with highly contrasted veining marble."

6. Choose a gold faucet

There are some fabulous upgrades you can make that will transform your kitchen into a luxe white and gold design. Choosing a gold-effect faucet will do exactly that. Gold instantly adds a higher spec look to your scheme whether it's a cottage core style kitchen, sleek and contemporary, or farmhouse.

Our top three faucets below will suit most kitchen styles, check them out below and see which you like best. 

7. Choose a cooker hood with detailing

This beautiful kitchen has a stunning cooker hood that has a hint of gold in the form of a metal trim with an aged patina. It ties in with gold-effect light sockets too. These small details can transform a tired kitchen theme into one that's striking and fresh-looking.

“Introducing gold accents, whether through hardware, lighting or statement features such as the cooker hood can elevate white kitchen cabinetry beautifully. Gold touches can also delicately highlight the warm tones found in organic materials such as natural stone and wood, while the patina and contrast of mixed materials add further interest to the overall kitchen design,' says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr. 

 Switch up your light plates with this brass light switch plate from Amazon, there are plenty of designs to choose from to suit your needs from toggle switch versions to blank plates and rocker designs. 

8. Hang gold effect pendants

Add a touch of glamor by installing some statement kitchen lighting above your island. There are plenty of gold effect finishes to choose from – brass is your main go and you can choose from antiqued, brushed, hand-painted, or gold effect. 

“White with brass accents is a classic combination in the kitchen. It can sometimes feel overpowering, so at Bakes & Kropp," says Bob Bakes, co-founder and head of design, "we like to opt for subtle accents through lighting or cabinet hardware to add a level of refinement and luxury. In this space, the island, marked by a combination of walnut and marble, shines bright with a beautiful trio of pendant lights seated overhead to illuminate the prep space. It's a nice contrast to the white cabinets while adding balance and continuity to the brass hardware throughout the rest of the space,"

Take Bob's advice by adding a touch of gold above your kitchen island with our top three pendant lights. 

We believe white and gold kitchens are here to stay because they're a luxe classic that has already stood the test of time. They're essentially a white kitchen with gold effect accents, and that's what makes it easy to implement and to change up as much or as little as you like. 

A kitchen color scheme that has been extremely popular over the last few years, but are gray kitchens out of date finally? We ask our experts for their take on this key question. 

Pick a shade that's light and you've got a great base color to layer up, or go moody with charcoal if you love a more dramatic scheme. 

Kitchen trends do come and go, and it's been a favorite in all rooms of the home, but most particularly in the kitchen and it is easy to see why. Forever versatile, gray in a kitchen can work well, but is it still relevant and how can we use it in a new way? 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

What are the pros and cons of gray kitchens?

Gray kitchens can be sophisticated and elegant – if you pick the right shade, and that really is key to making it work. 

Mor Krisher, head of product design for Caesarstone, comments, “Natural yet sophisticated, lighter colors such as grays bring a serene and calm feel to a kitchen. Utterly timeless, these hues pair beautifully with other colors and can make a quiet statement on their own through subtle detailing.”

Choose the wrong shade of gray though and you can be left with a space feeling clinical and cold. Consider which shade you pick carefully – there are yellow-based grays that are better in a north-facing kitchen, they'll warm it up, or for a cooler feel choose one that's blue-based. This is one of the cons of using gray, if you get it wrong you're left with an unwelcoming kitchen in which no one wants to spend time. To combat this, look for more 'greige' or 'putty' grays that will add warmth. 

What type of renter or homeowner might benefit from a gray kitchen?

When ceilings are low or natural light is sparse, then a beautiful barely there gray will add a touch of warmth over a brilliant white. Pale shades are always preferred by landlords so gray is a good option for renters too. 

"Whilst grey may have fallen from our consciousness as the only color to decorate with, it’s still very much part of the painting repertoire and a great choice for a clean and uncluttered look," says Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador, of Farrow & Ball. Shown here is No.88 Lamp Room Gray, it's got a timeless appeal and would look great in any sized kitchen. 

Mid grays have tended to fall out of grace a little with designers, so opt for a lighter tone as Patrick suggests, or go dramatic with a charcoal. 

What works well with gray kitchens?

The beauty of gray is that it looks fabulous with white – which is ideal for adding contrast with charcoal and it creates a balanced look. Metallics look great too, consider brass or copper to add a touch of warmth. Wallpaper is another option, match the tones of your chosen design with a paint shade to tie the two together. 

"Adding wallpaper with a decadent pattern to a gray kitchen can significantly enhance its aesthetic appeal," says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. "It introduces texture and a sense of style that can transform the space from plain to spectacular. Whether you choose a bold pattern or a more subtle design, the right wallpaper can breathe new life into a gray kitchen."  

If you love this Deco Martini wallpaper, then consider matching it to this Midnight Blue 1638 shade by Benjamin Moore, its blue-gray tones give a touch of drama. 

How can I make gray work differently in my kitchen?

If you still love the idea of using gray in your kitchen then change it up a little so it's not dated. Bob Bakes, co-founder and head of design at Bakes & Kropp suggests a different approach:

"We’re finding that soft grays are in demand with homeowners particularly leaning toward a walnut base that creates a muted, gentle blue effect. The classic look withstands ever-changing trends, whilst also being styled more contemporary."

Patrick O'Donnell adds, "For best results, i.e. with a note of warmth, choose a browner based grey such as Ammonite or its darker sibling Purbeck Stone and team with their flattering stablemate Strong White for your woodwork."

Another way to keep it looking fresh according to Jamie Watkins is to combine gray with unique materials to keep it looking fresh and modern, "For instance, pairing charcoal grey cabinets with brass hardware or adding contemporary pendant lights helps to elevate the overall look. At Divine Savages we don’t believe that any color is deemed ‘out of date’… like any design choice a color can become stale if not updated with current trends and personal touches but by incorporating modern elements and ensuring the design fits your personality, a grey kitchen can remain a stylish and sophisticated choice.”

Shop our top three favorite grays for a kitchen below, all are very different but still come under the gray umbrella. 

We don't believe gray kitchens are outdates as such, however, mid-gray is perhaps the most used shade so consider other ends of the scale instead. Barely there shades that add a hint of color act as a perfect neutral base for schemes, and on the other end of the spectrum go for brooding charcoals – perfect for creating a kitchen that's intimate and welcoming. 

From British chef Nigella Lawson to Hollywood star Cameron Diaz, everyone is ditching their favourite kitchen pots and pans for the viral Our Place Always Pan.

Several members of the Real Homes team have also been converted to this kitchen staple, rating it a five star on functionality and style. Yet, we’re aware it also comes with a celebrity-approved price tag. 

Alongside our love for the Always Pan 2.0, we have also found a more affordable alternative to rival the original, if you’re looking to adopt this celebrity style at home.

The actress and organic wine-founder of Avaline has been spotted using the ultimate kitchen accessory, which she frequently uses in her cooking videos at home. 

The 8-in-1 chic pan not only looks stylish placed on top of your stove, it’s specifically designed to be the only pan you ever need as it’s a non-stick pan, suitable for saute, steaming and sauces. 

From hearty family dinners to steamed, healthy greens, this pan can truly do everything, so no wonder it’s become a firm favorite for celebrities and us all alike. 

Nigella has even been said to have swapped out her staple Le Cruset pan for this viral version that had a wait list of over 50,000 at it's peak. Paris Hilton and Selena Gomez were even spotted using this appliance in their kitchen, making it the must-have to cook with. 

Looking for more celebrity approved appliances? Discover Jennifer Lopez's favourite coffee machine and our review of Beautiful by Drew Barrymore, her new go-to appliance. 

Our fave cookware

For more celeb kitchen inspiration, dive into Reece Witherspoon's organized kitchen and Smeg appliances.  

Jennifer Aniston has often spoken about her morning ritual, which involves sipping on a good cup of coffee. Of course, Jen throws some collagen and vitamins in, too.

The Friends actress is no stranger to making coffee in front of the camera, as her long-running character Rachel Green poured drinks at their local Central Perk for the first few seasons of the show and at home in real life, she's loving the Terra Keffe Super Automatic Coffee Machine, as seen on her Instagram page.

In it, Jen is seen gleefully using the machine, and all the gear a wannabe barista could ever dream of. We've delved into her exact coffee machine's features, which could arguably be one of the best bean to cup espresso machines, and have tracked down alternatives to suit all budgets.

Jennifer Aniston's coffee machine 

The actress has opted for a sleek, black Terra Keffe coffee machine that has a futuristic feel to it, which elevates her modern kitchen with accents of black against the natural wood. The TK-01 Super Automatic Coffee Machine offers a bean to cup experience with the push of a button.

For the traditionalists, why not try out a retro style machine that still boasts all the bells and whistles of the chic contemporary ones too such as the Swan Nordic Espresso Machine or the Smeg Retro Style Coffee Machine. 

Smeg also have a bean to cup machine with a built in milk frother too, to recreate more of Jen’s coffee shop at home experience. 

If the morning coffee is a family affair then a Gevi filter coffee pot might be the best option, as it stays hot and retails for under $30. Another affordable option that can transform your favourite coffee grounds into brilliant brews is the Ninja Speciality Coffee Maker, that even creates the summer staple, an iced coffee. 

Another way to elevate the everyday coffee experience is by investing in a milk frother, similar to Jen. Her Nespresso Aeroccino 3 is a popular choice for creating foam, froth or hot milk by one simple touch of a button. 

Another alternative is to invest in a small hand held frother to manually spruce up your coffees, matches and hot chocolates by adding in some extra foam and froth to the regular texture. For under $10, the Zulay Kitchen Frother is a handy choice if you’re looking for speed and ease on a budget. 

Want to see more of celebrities favorite kitchen appliances? Look no further than our dive into Reese Witherspoon’s Smeg appliances, Jennifer Garner’s cool KitchenAid espresso maker and of course, those all important dupes too. 

Looking to shake things up with your kitchen countertop choices? Whether you're craving a bold, dramatic statement or just want to subtly explore something a little more unique, kitchen design has evolved far beyond the days of monochrome and muted tones.

These days, kitchens are all about embracing a rich spectrum of colors that cater to every taste imaginable, and choosing the right countertop will make a major style statements, as these seven beautiful ideas from our interior designers show.

Picking the best kitchen countertop color for your space will set the tone for your entire kitchen. While colorful cabinets are popular and therefore abundant, tracking down a vibrant kitchen countertop takes a bit more searching.

1. Aqua

Aqua is a unique and rarely seen choice in the kitchen, but this beautiful sea-green marble brings a polished and fresh look to an otherwise neutral space. Paired with cabinets in a similar shade and sleek stainless steel accents, this kitchen exudes a cool, clean vibe that's ultra-luxe.

Nina Lichtenstein, founder of Nina’s Home Design, says, “Aqua is an interesting and underused color that really complements white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and light wood accents.”

If you’ve always been color-shy but are looking to introduce soft hues into your home, soothing shades like aqua are a great place to start. This vibrant pop of color adds a unique touch without overwhelming the space. Aqua can fit just as well in a sleek modern apartment as it can in a contemporary coastal home.

2. Blue

Blue has emerged as a popular trend in kitchen design, with cabinetry showcasing a stunning range of shades from soft, dusty blues to deep, rich navies. This timeless color offers a sophisticated touch, allowing homeowners to introduce vibrant hues while maintaining a connection to traditional kitchen palettes of white and gray.

While it's common to see beautiful blue cabinetry paired with classic wood or white countertops, have you considered matching your inky blue cabinets with a countertop in a complementary shade?

For a striking look, try a dark navy countertop with lighter blue cabinetry, or if you're a fan of the coastal kitchen vibe, pair a fresh white kitchen with a bold navy countertop. This combination keeps the design classic while adding a unique twist.

3. Pink

This pink-tiled countertop is a bold choice for a statement kitchen. It brings undeniable warmth to the space and pairs harmoniously with other rich colors, creating a beautiful and unique bohemian feel.

The rarely seen pink countertop in particular, looks stunning when teamed with dark green kitchen cabinets or walls, resulting in a surprisingly balanced color palette. You can wallpaper or paint the ceiling for added depth and drama.

If your heart is set on a pink countertop, unless you’re going full-on Barbie Dream House, opting for a muted or dusty pink shade is key. These softer hues play well with a range of cabinet colors, whether you’re into dark greens or warm woods. Just remember to steer clear of crisp whites if you want to lock in that cozy, inviting feel.

4. Cream

If you’re looking for something that’s not too clinical but still soft and muted, a cream latte-colored work surface is a perfect choice. It bridges the gap between making a statement and maintaining a cozy, inviting vibe.

And for those who aren't quite ready to dive into bold kitchen colors, going with a cream latte-colored countertop is a great way to step away from the black and white trend. This neutral-toned countertop works beautifully with a wide range of warm kitchen colors.

Think pinks, plums (as shown in the image above), warm oranges, and wood tones from light to dark, they all pair wonderfully with cream.

Cream is incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into both modern and traditional kitchen styles and Jerome Bertuglia, owner of Prime Homes Inc agrees. He adds, "It's timeless, low-maintenance, and warms up any kitchen space while pairing nicely with most cabinetry and backsplashes. It's ideal for small kitchens or homeowners looking to create a cozy, warm space."

5. Copper

Whilst copper is technically a material, its color is something really special. Its uniquely rich, warm, orange-y tone adds a warm glow to any kitchen space.

This bold color looks fantastic against brickwork and stone, whilst also pairing well with warm neutrals and other rich tones such as deep blues, greens, and pinks. In fact, there are few colors it doesn't compliment when considering cabinet and wall colors.

What’s really great about copper is its versatility. It fits right in with almost any kitchen style, as long as you match it with the right accessories.

Nina agrees. She adds, "Copper adds a rich, warm glow to any kitchen, offering a unique and luxurious touch. It pairs exceptionally well with wooden cabinetry, black appliances, and earthy decor. One of the great things about a copper countertop is the wide range of complementary accents available to match it, such as lighting fixtures, sinks, and cooker hoods”.

Whether you're into sleek, modern industrial vibes or love the charm of ultra-traditional shaker styles, copper is a surprising all-rounder. Copper is the chameleon of kitchen design!

6. Green

Just like blue, green kitchens are really taking off thanks to their calming vibes and the way they bring a nod to nature indoors.

A gorgeous green countertop can spread that serene, elegant feeling throughout your kitchen.

Nina says, "Green is an excellent countertop color because it introduces a touch of nature, It's ideal for those who love a natural, organic vibe and suits farmhouse, cottage, or modern eco-friendly kitchens the best. It pairs beautifully with wooden cabinetry, white appliances, and natural decor”.

To keep things balanced, go for lighter green kitchen cabinets, such as the lovely matte sage pictured above to brighten up the space. And if your kitchen opens out into a garden, a kitchen with green countertops can tie the indoor and outdoor areas together beautifully, creating a seamless, harmonious flow.

7. Red

For kitchen enthusiasts who crave passion and drama in their space, consider adding a dark red countertop. This color blends elegantly with other shades of red, especially in tone-on-tone combinations, but due to its boldness, it's best paired within its color family or against neutral tones to avoid overwhelming clashes.

A deep burgundy hue introduces a sophisticated, moody vibe to a mature kitchen setting. Alternatively, for a playful approach to incorporating red architect, Pam Hutter of Hutter Architects recommends, "Vibrant red countertops beautifully complement glossy white cabinets, creating a bright, retro-inspired look."

You can also go a bit more subtle by plumping for a lighter colored marble counter with red veining, as pictured in the stunning kitchen above.

Bold countertop colors are ideal for adventurous interior designers. Whether you're fully committed to a colorful kitchen scheme floor to ceiling, or just dipping your toe into moving away from traditional kitchen palettes, exploring bold countertop options can transform your space.

If you're looking to snap up a kitchen bargain on Amazon, Ninja's range is well worth looking at.

From sizzling BBQs to the TikTok-famous Ninja CREAMi, there's plenty of deals to be had. I'm Real Homes' content editor and I spend many hours a month looking through the site, so you can trust me when I say these are some of the best appliance reductions I've seen on it. 

These are all Amazon sale prices, which are all correct at the time of writing. However, I'll be sure to come back and update if anything changes. 

Amazon Ninja deals

Ninja appliances can be a little expensive, so it's a good idea to snap them up while they're discounted.

Shopping for more SharkNinja deals? These Shark vacuum Amazon deals are also worth snapping up.

I've been preparing for a half marathon, so I've been on the lookout for a blender that's ideal for whipping up healthy smoothies and shakes. 

When I spotted Shay Mitchell's blender on her TikTok, I tracked it down to snag one of my own. Happily, I found her Nutribullet Personal Blender on Amazon, and what's even better is that it's on sale right now, but only till midnight (Pacific time) when the event ends.

I've shown you how to grab the discount, why shoppers love it, plus picked other on-sale options. As Real Homes' content editor, I have a keen eye for small kitchen appliances that are perfect for rentals and apartments.

Shay Mitchell's Nutribullet

Why shoppers love the Nutribullet blender

This is the most highly-rated small but brilliant blenders on Amazon, with over 40,000 shoppers giving it the full five stars.

Reviewer Faith says it's well worth the price. She shared how it blends food within two minutes, making super smooth mixtures that melt on the tongue. As well as this, she rates the fact you can store the cup in the fridge to meal prep food or for snacking later.  

The different kinds of food it can blitz up, especially considering its small size, is incredible. Shopper Amanda uses it to blend up spinach leaves, leaving no un-chopped leaves behind in such a quick amount of time. You can also use it to blitz nuts, fruit, and hard vegetables like carrots and celery for those superfood smoothies.

You can also use it extensively without worrying about it breaking under pressure. Reviewer J. Bevan uses it daily for making smoothies and likes the fact it makes up a lot of food considering its small size. He also makes salad dressings with it, which is a use for it that I've never heard of before, but I think it is super clever.

Other blenders on sale

A small blender like Shay Mitchell's Nutribullet in your kitchen is a useful tool to have, allowing you to make delicious drinks in no time at all.

Still searching for Amazon appliances? I also found Reese Witherspoon's Smeg appliances, plus three on-sale alternatives.

When it comes to my kitchen, I don't have the neatest space. I'm always wondering what people with organized cooking spaces do — and now I've actually found out.

I've asked professional organizers who have both gone into people's homes and made kitchens tidy exactly what they implement, which their clients go on to maintain. Thankfully they're all easy things to do, from maximizing space to setting up a routine. 

If you're looking to organize your kitchen and want secrets from the pros, I've got you covered with plenty of useful intel.

1. Utilize awkward spaces

I have a couple of cupboards I know I’m not making the most out of, which is why I’m a big fan of these small kitchen storage ideas.

“People with organized kitchens find the right organizational products to best utilize awkward spaces like corner cabinets and cabinets with narrow shelves,” says Kevin Connors, a professional organizer at Inspired Organizers.

“Lazy Susans are ideal for these spaces, and small acrylic bins are also excellent for keeping small items contained in these areas,” he adds.

For example, Reese Witherspoon’s kitchen utilizes acrylic bins to keep all her snacks contained.

2. Create zones

If you want to keep your kitchen organized, make sure to designate different zones for cooking, prepping, and storing.

“Take into account your cooking habits, dominant hand, desire for a coffee station, drink placement (e.g. near the fridge), and which items you need most accessible,” explains Christian Pfeiffer, a professional organizer at Valley Organizing.

Next time you’re sizzling up a storm or making a brew with your best coffee machines, note what you reach for regularly (both while cooking and snacking) and streamline your space accordingly.

3. Line drawers

How many times have you sworn you’ve put something in your kitchen drawers, only then for it to magically disappear? Chances are it has shuffled around.

“While most people line drawers to protect them from spills and damage from liquids, non-skid liners also help keep kitchen shelves organized by preventing every object from accidentally getting moved around inside the cabinet,” Kevin explains.

I haven’t actually lined mine, so I’ve now added the Gorilla Grip Drawer Liner from Amazon to my basket. It has over 25,000 five-star reviews from shoppers and comes in 14 chic styles that will allow you to tailor it to your kitchen designs.

4. Maximize vertical space

This tip is especially handy for those organizing small kitchens, as it will allow you to make the most of every bit of space you have.

“Over the door pot and pan and spice holders help utilize the space behind the door, even if it is only 2-3 inches,” Kevin says.

For smaller spice jars and packets, the Simple Houseware Over the Door Organizer from Amazon has 100,000 five-star ratings (yes, really!) and could also used for clothes and shoe storage.

You can also use shelf risers to maximize kitchen cabinet storage even further — for instance, the Songmics Cabinet Organizer from Amazon is the site’s choice and comes in four different styles.

5. Create a routine

As well as creating a cleaning schedule for your cooking space, it’s also a good idea to regularly set aside time to give it a reset.

“Set up a routine to always return items to their designated spots and regularly purge and donate items you no longer need,” explains Christian. 

You could always give these to family and friends or take them to secondhand furniture stores such as Goodwill.

If you do bring new items into your space, Christian says you need to make sure you can find a functional space for it before doing so.

By putting these practices into play, you can ensure your kitchen is sleek, orderly, and easy to use.

Want to carry on stealing the secrets of well-maintained homes? You might also want to find out the things people with clean small homes always do and the things people with nice-smelling homes always do.

Hailey Bieber's viral Erewheon smoothie has taken the internet by storm. But at $19 a pop, it's a pretty spendy beverage. 

That's why I dug around online to figure out how Hailey makes her own concoctions at home and I tracked down the exact blender she uses to get that creamy result. And Hailey isn't the only one who loves it — it's highly rated by customers with thousands of reviews. 

If you're looking for highly-rated small kitchen appliances that you can use to whip up tasty treats, her Vitamix is well worth checking on. 

Hailey Bieber's blender for perfect smoothies

A super-powered blender is always a good investment for whipping up sauces, making smooth soups, or blending frozen beverages. 

It's safe to say Hailey Bieber is the queen of blending, with her smoothie collaboration with luxe California grocery store, Erewhon, dominating TikTok and Instagram. The Strawberry Glaze Skin Smoothie is made from a base of almond milk, organic strawberries, and avocado and supplemented with collagen and sea moss. 

While packed full of nutrients, I certainly don't feel like forking out more than $19 every time I want a refreshing drink. That's where Hailey's kitchen appliances come in.

The model and owner of the beauty brand, Rhode, recently shared a TikTok of her whipping up a smoothie at home. The recipe comes from none other than her mega-star husband, Justin Bieber, as she adds almond milk, a banana, blueberries, raspberries, and protein powder to the mix. 

Hailey has great taste in kitchen supplies like the HexClad pans she uses for making dishes like pesto kelp noodles, so I had to know which blender she prefers. I searched online and tracked down the model that's loved by fans and celebs alike. 

Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender

The model Hailey swears by is one of the best blenders on the market. The Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender is a powerful machine, with a 1400-watt motor. It's capable of 10 variable speeds including a pulse feature. The stainless steel blades measure three inches in diameter for an even blend. It's easy to take care of too, as the 48-ounce container is dishwasher-friendly. The only downside is it's quite hefty, weighing in at 11.5 pounds.

Hailey's not alone in her love of this machine. With over 5,000 ratings, one shopper says, "I can't express how much I adore my Vitamix E310 blender! This machine is an absolute powerhouse in the kitchen and has transformed the way I prepare meals. From smoothies to soups to nut butters, this blender handles everything with ease."

More blenders on sale

Looking for an option that's a little more budget-friendly? If you're running out of places to store appliances in a small kitchen, then maybe a smaller model is for you. I scrolled through dozens of blender listings on Amazon, and read hundreds of reviews to find blenders customers say are worth the splurge.

Ready to snag more deals recommended by your favorite celebs? I found Reese Witherspoon's Smeg appliances and Martha Stewart's Amazon homeware essentials are chic and timeless. Start cooking with these superstar kitchen buys.

Reese Witherspoon is a style icon, so it's no surprise her interior design game is also on point.

While watching the actress organize her kitchen with The Home Edit, I spotted Smeg appliances sitting pretty on her counters. I've tracked down Reese's Smeg mixer, coffee maker, and kettle, as well as finding stylish budget alternatives that are on sale on Amazon. Hey, we don't all have celebrity-sized budgets, right?

I think that small kitchen appliances are a great way to quickly enhance the aesthetic and add practicality to your cooking space.

Reese Witherspoon's mixer

Alternative to Reese Witherspoon's mixer

Reese Witherspoon's coffee maker

Alternative to Reese Witherspoon's coffee maker

Reese Witherspoon's kettle

Alternative to Reese Witherspoon's kettle

Retro-style appliances like Reese's will add character and chicness to your kitchen. Whether you're a Smeg lover or not, there are plenty of options out there. 

Want to see more of what the Legally Blonde actor has done in her cooking space? Designers say Reese Witherspoon's kitchen is stylish and well-organized.

50s diner kitchen ideas are iconic themes that can flood the heart of the home with nostalgic and homely charm full of color and character. 

From kitsch and quirky textiles to hero appliances that kicked off a new era in culinary technology, the American diner style is so striking and distinct that transformations can easily achieved in kitchens of all sizes. 

It's important to remember that kitchens during the 50s were hardworking first, so these clever 50s diner kitchen ideas will create a multifunctional and practical scheme that's bursting with quintessential and oh-so-symbolic, retro style.

50s diner kitchen ideas for a retro look

To capture the essence of a 50s-style American diner in your own kitchen, think back to that mid-century era when vintage kitchen simplicity and form were being reshaped with curious curves, check patterns and all colors of the rainbow to dramatically transform kitchens into comfortable and personalized spaces for all the family.

"Transforming your kitchen into a 50s diner-style space is a fun project that involves capturing the vibrant, nostalgic charm of that era," says a home service and DIY expert, Tommy Mello.

“For an authentic 50s look, think about juxtaposing monochromes or soft pastels and ice cream shades. To further enhance the look, consider adding a Formica table and banquette seating upholstered in vinyl and checkerboard black and white flooring. The jukebox is optional,” agrees Rebecca Nokes, Design Director at John Lewis of Hungerford.

Give your kitchen a wonderfully wistful explosion with these brilliant ways to bring 50s diner kitchen ideas into your space.

1. Choose checkerboard flooring

Starting from the bottom checkerboard flooring creates the ultimate kitchen diner base with classic monochrome squares. 

Why? The simple design goes much further back than the fifties era but we are guessing the pattern was super popular during this time because it has a practical purpose yet slightly nods to playfulness.

Checkerboard flooring is super versatile so creates a smart foundation for other layers of retro interest without becoming too chaotic.

“The quintessential 1950s diner often featured black and white floor tiles arranged in a checkerboard pattern. This bold style is simple to recreate with the same size black and white tiles but could easily be altered to add a twist by laying a white tiled floor with a black border or an inset square or diamond design," says, James Bacon, Head of Group Customer Service at Tile Mountain.

"When paired with boldly colored kitchen cabinets, and chrome-based bar stools the monochrome floor is guaranteed to create an impact.”  

For a modern twist update the traditional black and white pattern for a chequered board floor that boasts contemporary color.  

2. Define with tiles

As well as checkerboard floors, checkerboard kitchen wall tiles and splashbacks follow suit. Again, this look was popular for practical reasons and homeowners soon grew the confidence to experiment with color. 

"When I think of a stereotypical American diner, I think of a classic checkerboard pattern with a retro color twist", Says Damla Turgut, founder and creative director, of Otto Tiles & Design US. 

"A great way to introduce this into a kitchen scheme is via a tiled backsplash. Not only will this provide a durable and practical surface for your kitchen that will protect your walls, but it will also add that classic diner aesthetic without having to even remodel."

For a more subtle diner vibe, team a checkerboard floor with crisp and clean metro tiles in a glossy white finish.

3. Sit in a booth

Dining booths are a great nod to the 50s era. Plus, they're super comfortable! Installing a booth is an easy way to make use of an awkward corner in the kitchen and maximize seating space.

To integrate the full 50s diner kitchen experience look for ways to accommodate, family meals in the space provided, be it a booth, breakfast bar, or bistro table.

4. Bring in a busy pattern

Kitchen wallpaper is an affordable way to completely transform a kitchen. Maximalist wallpaper patterns will inject a bright and fun 50s kitchen diner look into your home. 

Choose eye-catching patterns such as stripes, gingham, or geometric patterns in bright and fun colors. To avoid the set-up looking overwhelming, stick to one monochromatic color palette.

5. Go for gingham

We're back to checkerboard prints, but this time via textiles and on a smaller scale. 

Affordable, durable, and reassuring, gingham print is another hero of American kitchen diner style. Introduce good-old gingham prints to blinds, tablecloths, seat cushions, and dish towels and you won't go wrong.

6. Pick out primary colours

Whether used alone or in unison, the bright and beautiful tones of red, blue, and yellow are a 50s diner kitchen color pallet favorite. Red seems to remain on top as the ultimate classic and looks ultra-smart when teamed with blue for a patriotic twist. 

Inject the vibrant tones into the mix with a stand-out latest appliance. A bright and beautiful range cooker will add an instant wow factor and a retro toaster will look super cute on retro-style worktops.

7. Pop in pastel shades

If primary colors are too strong for your taste, take a more subtle approach with a softer shade set to create a nostalgic and pretty pastel kitchen. 

Pastel colors, such as baby blue and soft pink were also all the range during the 50s and these ice-cream shades broke new boundaries by being introduced to appliances too. 

"After World War II ended, the 1950s was the calm after a gigantic, traumatic storm and that need for tranquillity was injected into interiors hence the trend towards soft soothing pastel shades. This has been reinstated of late, as people move towards mood-boosting 'retro Kitchens' inspired by that period, seeking out the nurturing comfort of nostalgia", explains designer and stylist Dilly Orme.

"When working with a selection of pastels ensure your choices work together tonally to have a calming symphony of color within your chosen space."

8. Mix in chrome metals

Currently, Kitchen hardware trends are leaning in new directions such as brushed chrome for a gold effect, luxe-look, or matte black for a touch of urban chic. But, to bring American kitchen diner style to your space stick with classic chrome. 

The shiny metal was a relatively new find in kitchens back then so thought of as ultra-glamorous. Today's it's probably the most affordable of kitchen hardware metals and the most practical to keep clean option so it's a win-win. 

9. Highlight with feature lighting

Include a variety of light sources for practical and ambient 50s kitchen diner. For full authenticity choose a mix of feature pendant land task lights to create pools of light that help to zone cooking and dining areas. 

Colorful glass or metal finishes will create retro-style focal points that stand out. 

10.Vintage look accessories are a must

Kitchen homewares displayed on open-shelving will give a 50s diner kitchen attention to detail filled with credible character. 

Here's your chance to inject a unique personality into the mix so visit yard sales and search online marketplaces for genuine antique and retro finds. Or replicate the vibe with more affordable versions - 50s diner kitchen ideas are timeless department store favorites so you'll never run out of choice. 

As with black and white kitchens, 50s diner kitchens are funky time capsules that never go out of style. Love them or hate them, they certainly inject personality and pack a punch. Whether you stick to classic traditions or infuse a contemporary twist, American kitchen diner style is a nostalgic and timeless choice. 

Trends come and go, but there are always some key colors that never go out of style. Color is subjective of course, but there are some shades that really do stand the test of time and for good reason. 

There are plenty of ways to use timeless colors in a kitchen, from painting the walls to touching up the cabinets.

We've asked our design experts for their top three kitchen paint ideas. See their top picks and how to style these colors in a kitchen.

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

What makes a color timeless?

A timeless color is one that doesn't date and is forever versatile. You may be after a modern kitchen but don't want to commit to something too trendy. White is perhaps one of the most obvious choices because it creates a blank canvas that you can change up as and when. And it does have its place, but if you are yearning to introduce a color this time round then check out our ideas below. 

1. Sage green

This very usable shade is showing no signs of disappearing and it's easy to see why. It's a fabulous mid-green that suits both modern and traditional schemes and looks great with white, navy, or blush accents. 

"We love green in a kitchen because it brings a sense of freshness and calm, instantly making us feel relaxed and at home. Unlike some on-trend colors that come and go, green's association with nature gives it a lasting appeal. It's a color that never feels outdated," says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. Green comes in a wide range of shades, from subtle sage to deep forest, making it adaptable to various interior styles and moods. It can transform a kitchen into a vibrant, inviting area that feels both modern and classic."

Remember you don't just need to add a color with paint, it could be wallpaper and accessories too. We love these Moroccan Zellige Ceramic Floor & Wall Tiles from Wayfair, the shades of green will match sage perfectly.

2. Blue

This color is so versatile that you can use any shade of blue in a kitchen – that's the beauty of it. From navy to sky blue to indigo and teal, it is perhaps one of the most reliable kitchen colors.

"It works well on both contemporary and traditional cabinetry, and different shades can be used to create different effects. For instance, dark blue can be prevented from feeling oppressive with the use of contrasting light-colored worksurfaces, walls, and floors. We often see shades of blue used for kitchen islands with lighter cabinetry elsewhere, which creates a focal point in the space," says Richard Moore, creative director at Martin Moore. 

Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball agrees, "Blue kitchens are deeply popular and for good reason, they don’t seem to age in look and are a tried and tested formula that just keeps on giving. Rather than blue cabinetry against a white wall backdrop, go for a bit of blue-on-blue saturation."

Team your paint color with matching bar stools, Amazon's Contemporary Velvet Padded Gold Barstools in Navy looks great with indigo blue. 

3. Blush pink

For those who love a more feminine feel then a blush pink kitchen is for you. It's the prettiest pink you can pick and and will add warmth to a north-facing space or one with low ceilings. 

"Here at deVOL we stick to a fairly small selection of colors, only adding new ones once in a while. Our new blush pink, named ‘Princelet Pink’ after one of my favorite East London streets, has become everyone’s new favorite. The color is barely there, soft and skin-like, and matches perfectly with black and green, not as a contrast more of a pairing that just sits so quietly and unassumingly. I would say the most popular colors of the moment are definitely along these lines, quite soft and traditional," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. 

It also looks fabulous with accent colors and this is where you can transform it into a modern scheme with jet black or navy. Anthropologie's Rowen Dinner Plates are a great shade of pink. 

What dates a kitchen?

There are plenty of things that can date a kitchen and it's not just color. It could be ineffective lighting, high gloss units (sorry), a countertop that's not complementing the rest of your scheme, or hardware that's not enhancing your chosen color. 

Following trends too rigorously can date a kitchen too, it's best to go with simple yet beautifully crafted cabinetry in colors that are easy on the eye and a shade that you love. 

Shop our top three colors

Our three kitchen color ideas are timeless and will give you longevity, and the best thing is that you can play with different tones of them too and they'll work. So if you get a little tired of your blush pink cabinetry then choose some accessories in a coral or light pink to change it up. Most of all, pick colors that you love and that reflect your personality. 

Nailing white and gray kitchen ideas can be tricky if you're trying to avoid the space looking too dull.

The main design decision is how to get the balance right between the two colors – would you prefer more white than gray? Or do you love a moody look and fancy a dark gray with only a hint of white, say countertops only for example? 

Our white and gray kitchen ideas cover all design possibilities and show you how to use different shades of gray within this key space in the home, we also cover some fabulous accessories that will help you pull the look together perfectly.

White and gray kitchen ideas

White and gray are both popular colors for a kitchen, so why not team them together? Both can lighten up a dark kitchen depending on the gray you choose and they're most definitely easy to live with. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Consider a tonal look

Tonal colors are those that are from the same color family but in different shades. They can work quite harmoniously together and can provide a less harsh look against white – rather than a dramatic contrast. 

"Natural yet sophisticated, lighter colors such as beiges, greys, and whites promise to bring a serene and calm feel to a kitchen," says Mor Krisher, head of product at Caesarstone. "Utterly timeless, these hues pair beautifully with other colors and can make a quiet statement on their own through subtle detailing."

Team a tonal gray kitchen with artisanal ceramics and wooden accessories for a tactile look. 

For a similar gray cabinetry paint check out Benjamin Moore's Sparrow AF-720 shade that's dark gray with earthy brown undertones. 

2. Modern rustic

The modern rustic trend has been ongoing for quite a few years now and it's a great one to follow. Trends tend to come and go quite quickly but this one is here to stay. 

If you love rustic elements and a clean aesthetic then this look is for you and it looks fabulous with charcoal gray painted natural wood cabinets – Lick's Grey 08 Amsterdam House Matt would work really well here with its blue undertones. Offset that with a paler gray shiplap wall and ceiling and a fresh white on one wall. 

Keep the scheme uncluttered and add vases of flowers for pops of color. 

3. Embellish with wallpaper

For a more dramatic look team a dark gray with a kitchen wallpaper "Adding bold wallpaper introduces personality and character, making the kitchen lively and unique, especially when the designs reflect the personality and style of the homeowner," says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. We agree with this, it's really important when you're deciding how much gray to use if you can live with a more moody look.

Jamie continues, "The wallpaper can also act as a focal point, framing specific areas of the kitchen, such as an interesting window or a classic range cooker – the hub of the home! Our Art Deco-inspired wallpaper seen here, with its exquisite color palette of smokey gray and shimmering gold, brings Gatsby glamor to the kitchen and prevents the matching gray of the cabinetry from feeling monotonous."   

Keep the white element minimal – you still need it for balance, but it can be cleverly added to be more of an accent.

4. Crisp white countertops

For a purely elegant white and gray kitchen use a deep gray on all of your cabinetry and team with fresh white countertops. 

Here, the walls are slightly creamy with a white ceiling – this keeps the focus on the gray grounding the rest of the space. Richard Moore, creative director at Martin Moore explains:

"Gray and white continues to be a popular kitchen color scheme. It’s a classic combination that creates a calm feeling and neutrals, such as gray, white and cream, are timeless shades that transcend fashion, and a key trend is for greys and off-whites."

We like Lick's White 04 Matt interior paint, it has a gray undertone that will look great with darker gray tones. 

5. Warm up with metallics

Gray and white can both be on the 'cool' side visually so it's important to get the balance right and add warming elements. Even if you love a minimalist style, it's worth preventing a clinical look.

Metallics are a good way to pep up a white and gray scheme – choose brass or gold effect for maximum warmth. Introduce it in the form of pendant lights and accessories – we love these pendant lights featured – check out Wayfair's Beri 1 Light Single Pendant with its swirly design, it's a definite statement light. 

A hardwood floor and a wood paneled island are other ways to incorporate a warmer feel. 

6. Add an accent color

Another option is to just paint your walls and to keep the rest of your space white, this means you might need to add in some other elements to break up the expanse of gray on the walls. This could be an open shelf or artwork.

Adding in an accent color at this point is a design element that our experts love, and can be very effective. "Typically, people choose a stronger color for small touches, such as a cupboard interior or kitchen accessories, so that the space remains tranquil but with subtle pops of vibrancy," says Richard Moore, creative director, of Martin Moore. 

Green works particularly well with gray, have a look at our buys below to recreate this stylish white and gray kitchen. 

7. Keep the gray on lower cabinetry

If you love a Shaker style kitchen – who doesn't – then keep the gray just on the cabinets and leave the rest white. It draws the eye down so make sure your hardware looks fabulous too. 

For a really fresh look paint your floor white to match your walls and for a little intermediary linking color use marble on your countertop. Copy these white metro tiles with Target's Smart Tiles Self Adhesive 3D Peel and Stick Backsplash Tiles White, they have a glossy finish. 

8. Industrial style

This is a great look for a white and gray kitchen, it's streamlined and is almost the reverse of most options for this color combination as the cabinets are white and countertops are gray. 

Remember you can add these two colors anyway you like – it's about what you like best. Note how the gray countertops match the window frames too, it's these little details that make a scheme like this a great one. The ceiling is low so by keeping the gray minimal keeps the space light and airy. 

Match to this blue gray with Benjamin Moore's Comet 1628,  it has a touch of violet which gives it a blue hue. 

9. Paint your island in a different shade

Give your kitchen island its own shade of gray by going either light or darker than the color you've used on your cabinets. 

As the gray in this kitchen is quite minimal we love how the lighter shade is used under the island. Other grays can be introduced in different forms like the cooker hood and refrigerator, although metallics, they still look 'gray' and count in a scheme like this. 

We've sourced three buys below to help you copy this beautiful white and gray kitchen. 

10. Consider using marble

You can essentially use as a many shades of gray as you like and pop in some off whites too. Each one will help to layer the look and adds a more substantial effect visually. 

Here, there are two gray paint colors, gray and white backsplash tiles and an off white wall. Each has its place and adds texture too – and that's without mentioning the marble slab countertops.

"White marble countertops tend to have beautiful accents of grays, greens, blues and even browns in the veining. Pairing the right color of gray on the cabinetry can perfectly compliment the marble and let it stand out as the feature," says Brad Ramsey, principal and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors. "Not that we couldn’t pull from the other tones to paint the cabinetry, but to do so would make them stand out more in the space. This can be a beautiful look, but if you really want that gorgeous slab you hand picked to be on display, then gray is a great neutral to pair with it!" 

Add some upholstered gray bar stools to your white and gray kitchen – Wayfair's Berneta Upholstered Counter Stool with Metal Frame in Gray are a good match. 

Our white and gray kitchen ideas will give you some great design options to consider for your own refresh. From all white and a hint of gray, to all gray teamed with a decorative wallpaper, there's definitely something for everyone. 

If you're about to renovate, you might be wondering if matching your kitchen's perimeter counter color to that of your island's counter is a good idea — or whether going for a contrast is smarter, or more on trend. 

The truth is, there's no definitive answer. I spoke with two interior designers who are experienced in renovating kitchens, and they both agree that while either can work, both will bring distinctly different results which will impact the overall look and feel of your space.

So, if you're looking for kitchen counter decor ideas for both areas of your kitchen right now, this is the essential information you need to know now.

Choosing contrasting counter colors

Whether or not your kitchen countertops should match your kitchen island ideas depends on your personal taste and what effect you want color to have in this space.

“Matching countertops and islands creates a uniform space, which some of my clients prefer,” says Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer and founder of Intrabuild.

“However, contrasting colors add visual interest — for example, in one project we used white quartz counters and a wooden island, which created contrast and achieved a bright, rustic feel,” he adds.

The most important factor to consider is whether the counters and islands complement each other in style and tone. 

“For different colors, choose shades in the same color family — for counters, consider granite, quartz, marble, or concrete, while for islands, popular options are wood, stone, and metal,” Nick suggests.

Choosing matching counter colors

If you are revamping your kitchen countertops and island together, it’s worth considering the atmosphere you’re trying to create when designing. 

“In my experience, a cohesive yet vibrant kitchen, where counters and islands strengthen the overall design, is most appealing,” Nick says. “But uniformity can work for a polished and elegant feel if that's your preference.”

Looking at opting for the same material? It’s important to switch up the finish or edge profile to avoid monotony. 

“For example, polish the countertops but leave the island matte, or choose an eased edge for counters and a bullnose edge for the island,” suggests Bob Berriz, interior designer and founder of Berriz Design. “Subtle contrasts still create rhythm while unifying the space.”

This advice applies to those who can renovate their homes. If you’re renting and can’t do this, you can use peel-and-stick vinyl wrap to create a cohesive look or to add contrast. 

For example, I love the style of the PracticalWs Glossy Marble Paper from Amazon, which has over 29,000 five-star reviews from shoppers who love its appearance and easy installation.

In the end, the choice of matching kitchen islands and countertops comes down to how you want the kitchen to feel and function. 

“My best advice is to evaluate your needs, priorities, and personal style. A well-designed kitchen seamlessly integrates counters, islands, and other elements to reflect your unique lifestyle,” Bob finishes by saying.

If you are redesigning this area of your space, finding out if kitchen islands should match cabinets will also be useful.

Kitchen countertop decor edit

Fellow renters! If you're in the same position as me and can't renovate your island and countertops but want to still brighten them up, these picks will help you do just that.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.