When it comes to kitchen decor ideas, it's not just about your cabinets, it's also the finer attention to detail that helps turn basic into beautiful
Statement splashbacks are a great way of adding character to your kitchen(Image credit: Red Dog Glass Design)
When it comes to choosing kitchen decor, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. From lighting to layout, cabinet doors to colours and flooring through to freezers there are a multitude of choices to make when you're deciding how to design a kitchen.
And even though getting the bigger picture right is important, it's also the smaller details that can turn a functional kitchen into a stylish room that brings you joy.
From unusual shelving to statement lighting, these small touches can play a significant role in setting the tone for your space.
Use your kitchen decor ideas to create a unique look
“The research stage is often one of the most fun – whether you choose to flick through magazines, create Pinterest inspiration boards, or consult trusted friends and family for their thoughts," says Ruth Lavender, design expert at Benchmarx Kitchens.
“There are also valuable design tools you can access virtually, which allow you to experiment and help you visualise how different elements will look in your home."
Ruth has expertise on all things kitchens. Working at the forefront of predicting trends makes her well placed to advise on new products, design and solutions to help create kitchens that are both functional and beautiful.
1. Lift your decor with a touch of tomato red
Choose a shade of tomato red and combine with yellow for a vibrant kitchen decor idea(Image credit: Mustard Made)
Use the food in your fridge as inspiration when it comes to choosing kitchen accent colours. We love how the playful pop of tomato red brings an otherwise white, sterile kitchen scheme to life.
Add a dash of yellow – hot dog mustard style – and you've got a vibrant kitchen decor idea that doesn't involve having to figure out the best kitchen paint to use on your walls.
2. Look for unusual kitchen shelving solutions
Simple details such as unusual shelving can add character to your kitchen(Image credit: Black by Design)
It's often the smallest of details that catch your eye in a well-curated kitchen design. Whether it's an unusual handle on cabinet doors, or an unexpectedly placed shelf to store chopping boards, it's the addition of these items that add character.
And it's something we need to do more of, says interior designer, Tara Rodrigues. "With open-plan kitchens, we demand more now from the space than ever before, they are no longer a place solely for meal prep and cooking.
"We use our kitchens for dining, socialising and entertaining, storage, home working or studying. Personalising this multifunctional space is an art form," says Tara, "and curating a space which really reflects, inspires and connects the individual hearts within that home, is what sets it apart from being just a trendy show home."
Tara Rodrigues
Award-winning interior designer Tara Rodrigues was crowned the £250,000 winner of Channel 4’s Big Interiors Battle. The mum-of-two, who lives in London, gave up a career in law to become an interior designer and she now works with clients creating ideas to help transform their home.
3. Use materials that remind you of your favourite places
Marble flooring can evoke feelings of being in a different country(Image credit: Ca'Pietra)
When advising clients on choosing decor, Tara often asks them to think of places they've travelled to so she can incorporate these ideas into the scheme.
"Use a worktop inspired by places you've visited," suggests Tara. "Perhaps some Carrara to remind you of a trip to Italy, Thassos marble from Greece or granite as a memoir from a holiday to India.
"Terracotta tiles can transport your mind back to a fond time spent in the Mediterranean," she suggests, "while vessels in charming warm earth tones and rustic textures commonly found in Spain or Italy work really well for styling a kitchen."
4. Have some fun with your kitchen lighting
Who says kitchen lighting can't be fun? These chilli lights prove otherwise(Image credit: Ella James)
Even though it's lovely to walk around a kitchen showroom and be inspired by the sleek and sophisticated designs, when it comes to feeling comfortable in your home, there's nothing wrong with adding a dash of fun to your kitchen lighting ideas.
Insteady of relying on more standard fittings such as recessed spots, why not hang string lighting, such as these quirky chilli lights from Ella James. In keeping with the culinary concept of the room, they can't help but add character when positioned between two functional wall lights.
For an alternative idea, hang them along the length of a shelf or even pile them up in a bowl – just remember to warn your guests they aren't real.
5. Mix and match contemporary with traditional
Pairing modern designs with more classical furniture is a well known interior design trick(Image credit: Mustard Made)
"Mixing styles of furniture, such as contemporary with antiques is a fun way to add character to a kitchen," says Tara.
It has even more impact when the choice of materials and colour are in stark contrast to one another, such as this butteryellow locker from Mustard Made that's placed next to more traditional wooden chairs.
"Picking one or two statement pieces from your favourite design era is also a great conversation piece for when you do entertain guests," adds Tara.
6. Wow with wallpaper
Add a detailed wallpaper and pair with a stripy flounced tablecloth for a vintage style wow factor(Image credit: The Roost)
"I love wallpaper in the kitchen," says Will Plowden, founder of The Roost, "but it's important to choose a hard-wearing, wipeable wallpaper that can withstand the many splash hazards a kitchen presents."
It can also be a quick and easy fix if you are looking at a kitchen renovation project suggests Will.
"Unlike a bedroom or living room, most of the wall space will be taken up with kitchen cabinetry or appliances, which means that you can quickly, and affordably, update a kitchen with just few rolls of wallpaper.
"Fully embrace the cottage core vibe," he adds, "and pair your wallpaper with a chintzy fabric sink skirt and billowing café curtains. Alternatively, a feature wall is perfect for creating an interesting focal point, without completely overpowering the space."
Will Plowden
Will is a technology and interiors enthusiast and grew up surrounded by art and interior design magazines. This helped him develop the concept now know as The Roost – a radically innovative integrated furniture marketplace that lets you try before you buy, so you can visualise exactly how the products will look in your home.
7. Colour drench in darker tones
Coat your kitchen in shades of grey for a dark and moody finish(Image credit: Good Home bought to you by B&Q)
If you're seeking a sophisticated kitchen-diner idea, we think you'll love using this colour drenching technique as your main kitchen decor idea.
Opt for walnut wood and dark grey cabinets and painted walls and you'll be guaranteed a kitchen oozing with style. Just remember to ensure add enough lighting so that you have the right combination of practicality and atmosphere that doesn't leave you trying to cook up a storm in the dark.
8. Look to other rooms in your home for lighting decor
Don't limit yourself to kitchen style lighting when it comes to decorating your kitchen(Image credit: Lights & Lamps)
Although it can be instinctive to assume kitchens should be filled with ceiling spotlights, under-cabinet lighting and nothing else, thinking outside the box is a great way of adding detail to your kitchen according to the experts – especially if you are considering including a kitchen island idea in your space.
Niki Wright, co-founder of lighting company Lights & Lamps, says: “Consider the space when it’s not being actively used for cooking. Family and friends often congregate around your kitchen island, so consider low-level or pendant lighting here.
"Also, don’t be afraid to use ‘living room’ lighting in the kitchen: a floor lamp in a corner or a table lamp at the end of a worktop. We have seen our customers use pendants for above an island or table, wall lights for above or below a shelf, floor lamps to light the corner of a dining space and a statement flush ceiling fitting which perfectly complements each piece in larger or open-plan spaces.”
Niki and his co-founder, Scarlett Hampton, have over 25 years of experience in the British lighting and retail landscape, making them experts in creating beautifully designed lighting solutions for use across the home.
9. Dine in style on mid-century furniture
Pair mid-century classics with a minimalist kitchen cabinet design(Image credit: Naked Kitchens)
You simply can't fail when it comes to investing in furniture designed by mid-century style icons. Pair minimal kitchen cabinets with Eero Saarinen's tulip chairs and dining table and you'll have a kitchen decor idea that will stand the test of time.
And while you can still buy the designs today, you may also be able to bag a pre-loved bargain on sites such as Vinterior.
10. Wrap wood around your walls
Wood doesn't need to be reserved for just worktops or floors(Image credit: Houseof)
For a nature-inspired kitchen decor idea, use wood on your walls, not just for your kitchen flooring ideas. Keep it polished for extra shine but match it to worktops for a streamlined transition between surfaces and walls.
Choose a pale mint green for cabinet doors and for added visual contrast, instead of using wood for your kitchen island surface, opt for a more vibrant blue and green marble. It helps bring out the lovely copper tones of the wood.
11. Define your kitchen zone with Crittall-style doors
Block out odours and noise without losing sight of your beautifully designed kitchen(Image credit: Good Home bought to you by B&Q)
Although you may not want to block the view into your kitchen – especially if you've spent hours choosing every last detail – it can be one of the noisiest and smelliest rooms in the house.
But there's a solution to your dilemma. Instead of dividing the space with solid wooden doors, consider a glazed solution such as these Crittall-style doors. They're ideal for blocking out odours and sounds, without losing sight of your beautifully designed room.
12. Inject fun to your kitchen decor with blackboard paint
Blackboard paint can help you never forget what you need to buy again(Image credit: Naked Kitchen)
Always searching for a scrap of paper to write down your shopping list when you find the fridge empty? Use blackboard paint rather than a standard kitchen splashback idea and you can jot down your shopping list for everyone to see.
You could also use a combined magnetic and blackboard paint such as this Johnstone's specialist paint from Amazon, leaving you with a handy spot to display children's artwork or perhaps showcase your latest collection of holiday selfies.
13. Opt for contrasting decor styles
If you can't decide between farmhouse and industrial, why not combine them both?(Image credit: Caesarstone)
If farmhouse kitchen ideas leave you feeling a little uninspired, we think this scheme featuring Caesarstone worktops is a great example of how adding a touch of industrial chic can turn traditional into trendy.
While the exposed stone wall, beams and wooden island table speak of country-style homes, the large industrial pendant, paired with a drawer-based kitchen design, ensures this kitchen decor idea is anything but twee.
14. Pick colorful tiles for a pretty but practical splashback
Pink is on trend and there's no reason it can't work in a kitchen(Image credit: Porcelain Superstore)
Bored with the range of traditional kitchen colours or still secretly dreaming of a Barbiecore interior? Live out your decor dreams with a pink tiled splashback.
Using tiles to create the look means that even though the colour is paler, it's still a perfectly practical solution for an area where splashes and spills abound.
Choose a pink and purple colour scheme for pure pastel inspired joy(Image credit: Naked Kitchens)
If a pink splashback simply isn't enough to fulfil your fantasy, then turn to dopamine decor for a pure hit of pastel inspired joy.
It's the ideal solution if you're considering painted kitchen ideas but want to retain some of your original wooden doors. Paint some of your cabinet doors and your kitchen island pink, add aubergine-inspired purple to your walls and source a purple patterned rug as a finishing touch. Perfect!
16. Add an arch to break up your linear cupboard layout
Break up a linear heavy kitchen design with an arch display alcove(Image credit: Caesarstone)
It's hard to escape from the linear nature of kitchen design. And while adding round tables and curved cabinets can provide some relief, arches are also a good way of adding an extra element of detil.
If you're in the early stages of choosing a new kitchen, why not ask your kitchen designer to break up a run of floor-to-ceiling cupboards by adding an arched shelved alcove that's perfect for displaying decorative and essential items.
Alternatively, if you can afford to lose a kitchen cupboard or two during a kitchen refurbishment, you could create a similar look with marine ply that can be bent into shape to create your curves.
17. Commission a signature art-inspired splashback
Commission a bespoke glass splashback for a unique addition to your kitchen(Image credit: Red Dog)
If you're keen to stand out from the crowd, Tara says one way of achieving this is to choose a signature piece for your kitchen. It's advice we feel this show-stopping art-inspired splashback from Red Dog Glass Design demonstrates well.
However, "it doesn't have to be art that takes the centre stage in a room," explains Tara. "Spectacular lighting can equally transform a space. It could be one decorative pendant or chandelier, or think about the entire lighting scheme and add layers for ambience and drama.
"Perhaps your kitchen island could be the show-stopper," she adds, "or use a different countertop and go for cabinetry in a bold colour to set it apart from the rest of the kitchen."
18. Add simple stripes for an elegant kitchen decor idea
Simple stripes are classically elegant, even in a kitchen(Image credit: Sandberg Wallpaper)
Often reserved for living rooms or bedrooms, stripes are a simple way of adding a classical feel to any room. Kitchens are no exception to the rule.
It's an idea that works particularly well if you're looking at kitchen lounge ideas, as when hung in an area with seating, but colour matched with the kitchen cabinets, it's a clever way of connecting yet zoning the different spaces.
19. Use your kitchen walls to display artwork
Create a dining view with your favourite artwork displayed above a breakfast bar(Image credit: Abstract House)
If you don't have a window view above your breakfast bar, turn an empty kitchen wall into an art gallery and display your favourite pieces to enjoy while your sip your morning coffee or enjoy a quick bite to eat.
It's a sure fire way to brighten up any modern kitchen idea, especially when you choose bold, abstract prints.
Alternatively, if you prefer typography, consider this coffee inspired poster from Wayfair to add some fun and flavour to your daily dose of caffeine.
20. Tap into coastal colours with blue, white and wood
Put a contemporary slant on a coastal-inspired scheme(Image credit: Benchmark Kitchens)
If you yearn for something more nature inspired in your kitchen decor, you're not alone according to the experts, and where better to look for inspiration than the coastline.
“In 2024, we’re embracing a nature-inspired colour palette," says Ruth. "This is all about taking it back to nature’s roots by incorporating tones that reflect the natural world, offering a sense of serenity.
“The beauty of earth-inspired hues is that they can be diverse, fitting the role of a neutral base colour without being one-dimensional. The palette can be both warm and cool, depending on personal preference," she adds, "spanning across the colour wheel to include more muted tones like cashmere, driftwood blue and stone grey.
“Due to the neutral nature of this scheme, it can be worked into a variety of designs, from modern and minimalist to traditional and rustic, making this trend a versatile choice that creates everlasting appeal."
21. Light up shelves to showcase your favourite cookware
Turn your kitchen cupboards into display cabinets(Image credit: Benchmarx Kitchens)
Although we've referenced various ways of lighting your kitchen, don't forget that the inside shelves of your glass-fronted cabinets can be a way of boosting your design details.
Instead of letting them lay bare, turn them into well lit display shelves to showcase your favourite cookware, serving bowls and crockery. It's a museum-style method – but one that's hopefully not filled with relics of the past.
22. Design your decor with entertaining in mind
A well placed bar and wine cooler is perfect for a grown-up kitchen room(Image credit: Benchmarx Kitchens)
The key to successful kitchen decor ideas? “Consider your lifestyle and specific needs early in the planning stages, to ensure your design is perfectly suited," says Ruth.
"For example, do you host a lot of dinner parties? A conveniently placed wine cooler may be a good option if so."
Make the space seem more of an evening environment by opting for darker coloured cabinets – a trend Ruth notes is also on the rise. “While a black kitchen may seem like a bold choice, there are a variety of ways that the hue can be worked into the kitchen to maintain balance. Matt black kitchen cabinets are an obvious choice for this trend, and work with both light and dark stone worktops, depending on the desired look," she says.
Keen to add some element of light? "The incorporation of light marble creates a beautiful, monochrome design with added interest from the material’s dark veining," says Ruth.
Keen to ensure your kitchen decor ideas will stand the test of time? Ruth's final advice is to make sure you consider your lifestyle and how it may change.
“You are unlikely to redesign your kitchen again for many years, so you need it to work hard even as your lifestyle evolves. Creating a space that not only serves as a place to prepare meals, but also as a daytime office, dining room, or play area for kids will allow you to maximise the space fluidly throughout the years.
“Details like accessible plug sockets by work spaces, wireless chargers, and integrated bins can facilitate a busy lifestyle and ensure space is used to its full potential."
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Sarah is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Assistant Editor and joined the team in 2024. An established homes and interiors writer, Sarah has renovated and extended a number of properties, including a listing building and renovation project that featured on Grand Designs. Although she said she would never buy a listed property again, she has recently purchased a Grade II listed apartment. As it had already been professionally renovated, she has instead set her sights on tackling some changes to improve the building’s energy efficiency, as well as adding some personal touches to the interior.
