The kitchen has evolved far beyond just a space for preparing food – it’s now the heart of the home and a hub for daily life. From unwinding after a busy day to sharing a meal with family or celebrating with friends, it’s where memories are made. With this in mind, it’s essential that your kitchen seamlessly blends functionality with comfort and style.

Click or scroll for our pick of the hottest kitchen trends and transform it into a place you’ll love to spend time in.

The once recommended, neutral and saleable kitchen is now a thing of the past – and it's a good thing too! We’re all going to be more experimental and expressive in our homes this year, with kitchen backsplashes being given more attention.

“Backsplashes will no longer be an afterthought,” says Darren Watts, Showroom Designer Director at Wren Kitchens. “They’re an easy and affordable way to lift a space or make a subtle move away from plain, neutral kitchens.” Why not try a bold pattern, like this gorgeous oversized terrazzo?

Featured kitchen available from Wren Kitchens.

Last year was a big year for pantries and they’re set to be even bigger – with everyone finding a way to squeeze one into their kitchen. And with different variations to choose from, there’s a solution for every space.

Freestanding pantry units are a popular choice, as is converting an adjoining room into a walk-in, but a standard cabinet could also be used as a dedicated larder.

Featured kitchen available from Wren Kitchens.

You heard it here first: breakfast bars are out and social seating is in. Think tables built into a worktop peninsula, banquette seating or expansive islands with seating on multiple sides – set-ups that encourage conversation and togetherness for family and friends to gather.

If you get the balance between cooking and dining right, then you’ll transform your kitchen from merely a functional space into a welcoming social hub.

Featured kitchen available from The Main Company.

New for this year is the waterfall worktop, where homeowners are choosing to carry the countertop material and colour onto the wall for a clean, harmonious look that is both practical and stylish.

We expect to see them being extended higher up the wall than ever before. Not only does this see the worktop doubling up as a splashback, but it also adds a striking feature to the wall, especially if you opt for a coloured design.

Featured kitchen available from Cosentino.

Drenching your rooms in one colour is nothing new, but for the new year, we're seeing the decorating trend move into kitchens for a dramatic look that's sure to turn heads. It's all about committing to one statement shade for the walls, cabinets, shelving and tiling to create maximum impact –  choosing cookware and accessories in the same colour takes the effect even further.

By using a single colour in this way, it can make a small kitchen space feel bigger, more striking and much more cohesive. Add on-trend gold hardware and your kitchen will be the talk of the town.

Featured cookware available from Dunelm.

“Minimalism will continue to shape kitchen design,” says Jessica Rhodes, Product & Marketing Manager at ASKO. “Where clean lines, handleless designs and integrated appliances will continue to be popular, creating a clutter-free look while offering exceptional functionality.”

Building on this foundation, we’ll see a shift from traditional cabinetry layouts to wall kitchens – a sleek, single bank of floor-to-ceiling cabinets and appliances. Paired with a central island, often featuring a sink, this setup creates a harmonious, stylish space that provides a hub for both cooking and socialising.

Featured appliances available from ASKO.

Combining materials is set to be a standout trend, bringing depth and character while avoiding a flat, uninspiring look. Consider pairing two different cabinet finishes – wood is a sustainable favourite which works beautifully alongside tactile surfaces such as metal, stone and ceramic.

Layering materials in this way adds visual interest and balance. Keep the palette natural with on-trend greens, browns and neutrals for a rich, warm feel or go for bold colours for a dynamic and daring space. Bonus: mixing materials can save money, too, as smaller quantities are often found in end-of-line clearance sales.

Featured hardware from LUSSO.

Banquette seating is becoming a must-have, offering style and functionality in one. With hidden storage built into the seating, it's a clever solution for stashing away everything from tablecloths to cookery books, helping to keep the kitchen clutter-free.

"The kitchen continues to be one of the busiest rooms in the home," says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr. "Creating comfortable, easy spaces that encourage people to relax and socialise is becoming increasingly sought after." Especially true when it also offers invaluable storage.

Featured kitchen available from Olive & Barr.

Glass is set to shine, with people choosing this practical and versatile material instead of tiling as splashbacks behind the sink and oven.

 Available in a range of finishes, from solid colour to artisan floral patterns and statement metallic designs, such as the one shown here. Contemporary and glamorous, it will add a touch of elegance while reflecting light into the room to make it feel brighter and more open.

Featured splashback available from Emma Britton and range cooker from Everhot.

"Natural hues are set to shine, with earthy tones looking to dominate,” says Emma-Louise Braham, Product Design Expert at Wilsonart. “While we anticipate a gradual shift towards more vibrant shades and lively tones, the desire for cosy and calm environments remains strong, with sage green emerging as a key colour.”

We'll also see an emphasis on texture being used alongside green, to create depth and interest. "The trend incorporates elements like wood, stone, textiles and plaster, allowing for a more dynamic and visually engaging aesthetic," says Emma.

Featured surfaces available from Bushboard.

Floral curtains are making a big comeback. As kitchen design has cycled through a more clinical design aesthetic, we're seeing a return to softness, charm and nostalgia in this practical space.

Whether bold and vibrant or subtle and understated, floral prints bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. Perfect for framing large windows or patio doors, floor-length curtains soften the room, especially when paired with wooden and stone finishes, creating a rustic vibe.

Featured furniture available from Furniture Village.

Gold sinks and taps have been creeping up the trends chart for a few years and this year, they're here with a bang! Offering a warm, luxurious alternative to traditional finishes like chrome, this look is a bold statement for any home.

Leaning into the sustainability trend, we're seeing a rise in boiling water taps too. "Gold is the ultimate expression of understated luxury," says Stephen Johnson, MD for Quooker. "And with a gold boiling water tap, you're investing in beauty and a more sustainable lifestyle." 

Featured tap available from Quooker.

Sustainability is shaping how we shop, design and live, whether that's fashion, food or in our homes. This year, you'll see a move into more minimalist designs with no fuss and more conscious thought given to the materials and design.

"Homeowners are increasingly seeking materials that can endure daily use, resist heat and stains, and contribute to a healthier indoor environment," says Ross Stewart, UK Senior Sales Manager for Neolith UK. "This year's trends will reflect a heightened awareness of sustainable living with greater emphasis on eco-friendly materials that don't compromise on style or durability."

Featured kitchen available from Neolith.

Transforming a functional necessity into a striking design feature has found its way onto the trends list. Acting as a focal point of the room, we're going to see more decorative cooker hoods, as homeowners look for ways to add character.

"The hood is no longer just functional, it's becoming a design feature," says Judi Kutner, a senior contributor for Virtual Staging. Discreet, integrated models are set to be replaced with sculptural shapes or clever boxing-in that encompasses textured finishes or can be painted to match the cabinetry colour.

Featured kitchen available from Olive & Barr.

Texture is taking centre stage this coming year, with homeowners ditching smooth cabinet doors and opting instead for tactile elements that add depth and interest – reeded, fluted and patterned designs are all proving popular.

Bringing a dynamic, handcrafted feel and offering a fresh alternative to a traditional kitchen, unique textured cabinet fronts are fast whizzing to the top of the what's-hot-in-kitchens list! And when paired with natural materials, such as wood and stone, for worktops, floors and walls it all comes together as more personal, warm and inviting.

Featured cabinets available from HIMACS.

A key change for this year, is the growing popularity of customisable outdoor kitchens, with the flexibility to choose from modular options to create the perfect garden cookspace – in much the same way you’d design the kitchen indoors.

“Homeowners will be able to choose configurations of modular designs, including elements such as appliances, fridges and sinks, allowing them to create a space that is really reflective of their personal style,” says Reilly Grey, Co-Founder of Suns Lifestyle.

Featured outdoor kitchen available from Suns Lifestyle.

The trend for minimalist, streamlined kitchens with walls entirely free of cabinets is still going strong, so it’s no surprise we’re seeing a shift towards under-counter fridges and freezers.

Blending seamlessly into a run of base units, these discreet appliances tuck neatly underneath the worktop, either integrated or otherwise, leaving wall space free for open shelving, statement backsplashes or simply a clutter-free wall. They’re also great for smaller households where space is a premium, and can even be much more energy-efficient, too.

Featured appliances available from Liebherr.

The nostalgic, romance of rural life, inspired by classic children’s literature, see The English Storybook trend thriving. Evoking cosy cottages with whimsical details in a palette of sage, lavender, burgundy and forest green – it’s the perfect way to showcase your favourite vintage finds, floral patterns and treasured antiques.

“Think gingham accents, café curtains, bobbin detailing and antique brassware for a warm and inviting space,” says Tom Revill, co-founder of Plank Hardware. “With the right blend of materials, you can transform your kitchen into a nostalgic sanctuary where you’ll love to spend time.”

Featured textiles available from Sophie Allport.

In a bold departure from dark and neutral schemes, colour kitchens that boost our dopamine levels will continue to rise in popularity. For a truly eye-catching look, consider rich plum cabinetry paired with mustard-tone wallpaper – a combination that oozes personality and character.

Not just colourful for colourful's sake, bright kitchen schemes like this are all about creating a kitchen that feels alive, full of character and sparks joy. Go on, express yourself!

Featured wallpaper available from Sorbet Dreams.

As many of us become more confident decorating our homes, we’re all looking for spots where we can add more personality.

"Functional kitchens can sometimes be a struggle to make look interesting," says Will Frankling, Co-Founder of Kitchen Makeovers. "By incorporating artwork with unique designs, colours and textures, you can create a more lived-in, cosy environment." Perfect for a décor refresh.

Featured art prints available from Beach House Art.

Texture is a word usually associated with bedrooms or living rooms, but it's becoming a key focus in kitchens too with delft tiles leading the way for the new year. These hand-painted ceramic tiles, known for their intricate patterns and charming designs, add a sense of craftsmanship and heritage to any kitchen.

Perfect for a splashback or a feature wall, their glossy finish brings style while reflecting light around the room. And when paired with natural materials, such as rustic timber with visible grains, linens and plants, as shown here, it creates a layered, visually richer feel.

Featured tiles available from Original Style.

If you’re over chrome and brass, consider matt gold hardware. "Matt gold finishes are an excellent way to draw attention to your cabinetry as well as adding warmth, especially when combined with a dark paint colour," says Tom Howley, Creative Design Director at the eponymous kitchen company. "Create a cohesive look and go for matt gold hinges, taps and even statement lighting."

Featured kitchen available from Tom Howley.

There's no denying it, tiles will always be practical, but a wow-factor wallpaper can provide the ultimate design statement in a kitchen.

Opt for non-woven paper and ensure you have good ventilation to keep your new paper in good condition. You could even coat it with a lick of matt water-based varnish to seal it in place and minimise wear and tear.

Featured wallpaper available from Lust Home.

Embrace the vintage look and put your preloved pieces front and centre. Whether it’s bakeware passed down through the generations, your grandmother’s recipe framed on the wall or an heirloom dresser housing your finest china, using vintage pieces adds warmth and depth to any space.

Love the look, but don’t have any family pieces? A blind in a gorgeous vintage print, like this one here, will bring in just a hint of the trend.

Featured blind available from Blinds2go.

The concept of a secondary or ‘back kitchen’ is becoming a hot trend. Often located behind the main kitchen, these are an extension of the cooking space, and provide a discrete area for prep work as well as providing storage for smaller appliances and everyday essentials. 

Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr says: “Back kitchens are ideal for those who love to host. Featuring a large sink, plenty of storage and sometimes even a second fridge, these added spaces allow your main kitchen to remain clutter-free and ready to entertain guests.”

Featured kitchen available from Olive & Barr.

According to trend forecasting company WGSN, warming woods will be a leading trend this year. From embracing timber’s natural beauty and imperfections to pairing light and dark tones with reclaimed elements, wood will continue to bring a timeless feel.

Alex Main, Director at The Main Company, explains: “Wooden cabinets can help to absorb sound, reducing noise levels in the kitchen, which is particularly beneficial in open-plan spaces."

Featured kitchen available from The Main Company.

Sharp edges are out this year and curves and scallops are in, and this will be seen in everything from smaller details to key kitchen design elements.

Melissa Klink, Creative Director at Harvey Jones says: “We’re predicting more smooth curves in kitchens. From extractor canopies that double as sculptures, to backsplashes that resemble framed paintings, each can be enhanced with organic textured panels and swerving lines for added character and balance."

Featured kitchen available from Harvey Jones.

The coffee station is the latest feature to add to your kitchen wish list. Whether you have a dedicated cabinet to hide away your beverage nook or simply carve out a corner of a counter, having an allocated space for your coffee machine, kettle, coffee pods and cups is most desirable.

With more people working from home, a coffee station is an enviable addition to a kitchen that will make mornings and coffee breaks streamlined and the kitchen space functional.

Featured kitchen available from Harvey Jones.

Stained wood-panelled kitchens tick so many trend boxes. The rough, tactile surface adds texture, it's sustainable, and by using a simple wash instead of block colour you enhance the natural grain. We love this farmhouse-style take on the trend that blends three earthy tones.

Featured kitchen available from LochAnna Kitchens.

White kitchens are classic and we get why they are so often the first choice; they’re soothing on the eye, feel spacious and hygienic and are unlikely to ever put a future buyer off.

However, they can sometimes feel a little dull. That’s why we're predicting a rise in white kitchens with character details, such as natural warm wood, black industrial-style accents or statement lighting. 

Featured kitchen available from Wren Kitchens.

This kitchen trend incorporates retro colours and structure alongside modern design for a fun mix of old and new. Annica Wallin, Executive Creative Director at Desenio says: “The Newstalgia trend combines the rich history of the past with fresh hope for the future. By mixing retro items with contemporary designs, you can create a sense of style and playfulness bringing intrigue into your home for the new year.”

Featured kitchen available from Wren Kitchens.

The metallics movement may not be new, but copper will be coming into its own this year, as its warmer hue is perfectly in keeping with our love affair with cocooning neutrals. Expect to see pendant lights, hardware and taps turning russet.

Featured lighting available from Pooky.

This year will see more focus on kitchen lighting, with a structural and multi-layered approach. As part of a traditional layered kitchen lighting plan, bring in a single drop pendant. Here, the recently popular trio of lights is making way for a wow-factor solo star. 

Featured kitchen available from Magnet.

The way we live now means multifunctional kitchen spaces are on the rise. Several zones are useful within the kitchen, from a workstation with a desk nook to multifunctional living spaces incorporating a kitchen sofa or armchair for family-friendly cooking and dining.

Featured kitchen available from Harvey Jones.

Love interesting detailing? We think we’ll see a lot more fluting this year. It's an easy way to add interest to a kitchen, as we look to add intriguing shapes, textures and patterns to the heart of our home.

Featured kitchen available from Magnet.

When it comes to kitchens, taupe and cream palettes are safe but stylish bets. Homeowners are favouring a more muted colour palette, paired with space-saving ‘smart’ appliances to make family life easier. If you’re looking for a kitchen that will stand the test of time, you can’t go wrong with a pared-back neutral. 

Featured kitchen available from Tom Howley.

However, if neutrals aren't your thing, don’t worry, bold, deep shades of green and blue are both set to be popular for kitchens in the coming year. From deep navy to forest green, these rich shades are not going anywhere.

Featured kitchen available from B&Q.

Terracotta floor tiles are also set to make a comeback. With its green credentials, this material is an environmentally friendly choice, plus it adds an earthy, grounded vibe.

Terracotta is also part of the ‘bring the outside in’ trend, according to Ben White at Swyft, who predicts that “we will see green and natural tones blended into our interiors through the use of plants, timber and terracotta".

Featured flooring available from Ca' Pietra.

But for those of us on a budget or looking for a kitchen to withstand a busy family life, vinyl flooring is an attractive option. “Vinyl flooring is an inexpensive way to add colour, pattern and personality to a room without compromising on safety or quality," says David Snazel, Hard Flooring Buyer at Carpetright.

Featured flooring available from Carpetright.

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