Don’t let dark nights and dismal days diminish your dining experience, Sarah Hammill shares four designs to change your kitchen from dull to dazzling in an instant

Great British Life: Roman KitchensRoman Kitchens (Image: Beach @ 8-19 Photography)

State of the Art

Kitchen designs should be more than just functional, they should adapt to suit your lifestyle and catering needs. Joanne Mcquillan, creative designer for Roman Kitchens, says: ‘Today we create the kitchen of tomorrow. HPL High Pressure Laminated Doors are extremely matt, extremely scratch resistant and easy to clean. Completely handless, there is no need even for a handless rail as all doors & drawers open with a touch system. The graphite finish looks stunning, mixed with earthy wood tones – leaving no fingerprints. The trend for glass sliding doors and open-plan living only enhances the kitchen, with the satisfaction that your kitchen will look stunning, always.’

Great British Life: Orwells FurnitureOrwells Furniture (Image: Beach @ 8-19 Photography)

Modern

Kitchen designs are always evolving and becoming more mobile and cutting edge, so if you’re looking to upgrade, a contemporary design is always a good option in terms of longevity. Aaron Farris, designer at Orwells, explains: ‘Being asked to design a contemporary kitchen goes far beyond what is modern or ‘now’. Up to date appliances are a must for a keen look. Technological advances in material and finishes can also be relied upon to aid the contemporary feel. Cutting edge window lights in the ceiling add light, which was enchanted by a cool pale pallet. We concentrate on contrasts of texture, pattern and colour which we achieve with modern materials and traditional techniques.’

Great British Life: Hutton KitchensHutton Kitchens (Image: Beach @ 8-19 Photography)

City

Bring a contemporary, urban edge to your kitchen style, incorporating a polished, utilitarian design that is easy to maintain, with smooth metals and high polish finishes. Nigel Hollis, a design consultant at Hutton Kitchens, has sound advice on how to create a minimalist, sleek kitchen. He comments: ‘The urban style creates a stunning kitchen. Our designs showcase high gloss polar white doors on the back wall, with a contrasting textured slate veneered island. It features 20mm Carrara quartz and steel grey granite worktops, alongside the latest built-in Siemens appliances.

Great British Life: Bentons Kitchens at StellisonsBentons Kitchens at Stellisons (Image: Beach @ 8-19 Photography)

Country

Country kitchens are warm and welcoming, while providing a traditional, rustic feel to the dining experience. Think walnuts and heavy oaks, with a lived in, relaxing environment. Richard Knight, of Bentons at Stellisons, comments: ‘The distinctive design of Omega Mackintosh kitchens offers the unique combination of a distinctly 21st century finish and the features of traditional, country-style kitchens. Perfect for anyone searching for a modern take on a classic look, the practical element of Omega Mackintosh kitchens will suit any home, from a chocolate box cottage to an ultra-fresh new build.’

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