As we head into the new year, the heart of the home continues to evolve with kitchen design trends that reflect our desire for warmth, comfort, and personalisation. Our Home Designers, Tess Stobie and Sarah Maguire, shed light on what’s shaping the kitchens of 2024.

A warm shift in colour palettes

Tess Stobie has seen a significant shift away from the cool greys of the past decade. "Interior trends are warming up," Tess says. "Soft browns and greens are making their way into our kitchens." But grey isn't entirely out - warmer undertones make it compatible with the new earthy trend.

Sarah Maguire has seen similar patterns when working with clients, noting the rise of dark greens and blues, now giving way to "a warmer, nature-inspired palette." These hues are not just pleasing to the eye but also bring "a sense of peace" to the space. The use of wooden finishes and muted pastel shades, including the 2024 Pantone colour of the year, Apricot Crush, complements this natural palette beautifully.

Metallic finishes

Sarah highlights the importance of metallic finishes in kitchen aesthetics. "Brushed brass and copper are particularly popular, especially when paired with earthy cabinet tones." The trend of mixing metals also adds a layer of sophistication when properly balanced.

"The blending of different finishes is gaining popularity," says Sarah. Homeowners are becoming bolder, mixing brass with bronze or even introducing stainless steel into the mix. This design choice of mixing metals creates a layered look that adds depth and interest to the space. Sarah advises a ratio when mixing metals: "Pick a dominant metal for 70% of your fixtures and complement it with one or two other metal accents." This could mean brass handles on cabinets, a copper tap, and perhaps stainless steel appliances.

Open shelving and glass cabinets

The preference for minimalist designs continues, with an increasing lean towards open shelving and glass-fronted cabinets, according to Sarah. These elements create a more spacious feel.

Open shelving, in particular, offers a blend of functionality and decorative appeal. It encourages homeowners to display their personality through carefully chosen kitchenware, plants, and unique objects that might otherwise be hidden away. This design choice adds a personal touch to the kitchen and contributes to a sense of spaciousness and openness. Sarah points out that "open shelving is a great way to break up a wall of cabinets, making the kitchen feel less boxy and more lived-in."

Glass-fronted cabinets strike a balance between the openness of shelving and the traditional form of closed storage. They add a level of sophistication and can make a space feel larger due to their reflectiveness. The choice of glass can also influence the look—reeded or frosted glass adds texture and interest while obscuring the contents, offering a compromise between openness and privacy.

Innovative splashbacks and worktops

Metro tiles are being replaced by large, single-slab stone splashbacks, notes Sarah. The continuity of material from worktop to wall isn't just for visual effect but also practical, marrying functionality with bold aesthetics.

When it comes to worktops, the trend is veering towards choices that are both distinctive and expressive. Sarah predicts the emergence of worktops with bold colours or pronounced veining, allowing them to serve as the focal point of the kitchen. 

Smart storage solutions

Kitchen islands remain popular for their blend of sociability and utility. Sarah points out that "practicality is trumping hi-tech" with the rise of large, easy-access pan drawers being a trending choice for many clients.

Tall larder units are gaining popularity for their ability to store items in a way that is both accessible and aesthetically pleasing. These units can be customised with various internal configurations, including built-in spice racks, pull-out baskets, and adjustable shelving, catering to the specific needs of the homeowner.

The concept of the Butler or walk-in pantry is also being revisited, emerging as a highly desirable feature in modern kitchens. A Butler pantry serves as an extension of the kitchen, providing a concealed space for additional countertop appliances and food storage. This hidden area not only helps in keeping the main kitchen clutter-free but also allows for a more organised approach to food storage and meal preparation.

Sustainable practices

The 'unfitted' kitchen, as highlighted by Tess, is a nod towards sustainability. Mixing freestanding furniture with fixed cabinets not only adds a unique charm but also champions an eco-friendly approach to kitchen design.

Sustainability is also a key factor driving storage trends, with a noticeable shift towards using eco-friendly materials and methods. Incorporating freestanding furniture, like antique dressers or repurposed cabinetry, contributes to a sustainable approach while adding character and a unique narrative to the kitchen's design story.

As we embrace the new trends of 2024, it’s clear that the kitchen is becoming a space where design meets functionality, where the trend is personal comfort and style. These insights from Tess Stobie and Sarah Maguire serve as a guide for anyone looking to refresh their kitchen with a comtemporary, yet timeless appeal.