Texture, Screens, and Statement Hardware
Why texture, screening and statement hardware are the latest trends in kitchen design
For the last few years, the kitchen conversation has been dominated by one word – ‘clean’ – with lots of flat cabinetry, hidden handles, and seamless surfaces. In other words – the ‘showroom’ look. But now that’s shifting to kitchens that are warmer, more tactile, and more architectural. People want spaces with detail you can actually feel, not just look at.
So if you’re planning a new build or a renovation this year, here’s a deep dive into why texture is trending in the kitchen design world, and how we can help bring it into your own kitchen.
Texture is Doing the Heavy Lifting
Colour has toned down. Today’s palettes are calmer, more neutral, and more considered. But never fear – there’s still lots to be excited about because texture has stepped up to fill the gap. The trick with texture is restraint. In designing textural kitchens, we aim to keep the palette quiet, then let one hero surface do the talking. For example, timber-grain finishes introduce warmth, while matte and low-sheen cabinetry feels soft and hides fingerprints better than high gloss ever did
Architectural Screening is the New Statement Feature
A cool idea that’s been borrowed from hospitality and commercial interior design is screens that build depth and add layers without the clutter of open shelving. They can be woven or slatted panel inserts, perforated metal, or decorative mesh. It’s enough to catch the eye and the light, and avoids turning your kitchen into a display cabinet.
Hardware is the New Jewellery
Handles are no longer an afterthought bolted on at the end of the design process. In fact, they can actually be the jewellery the whole room is built around. Oversized hardware works especially well in minimalist kitchens. Long, linear pulls lend kitchens a sense of architectural presence, warm metallics bring the spotlight back to silver-toned finishes, and antique brass recall a sense of traditional craftsmanship.
Benchtops With Presence
Luxury isn’t just about budget, it’s about intention. And nowhere is that clearer than on the benchtop. Boldly veined stone-look surfaces are having a real moment, with dramatic, gallery-quality patterns that are intended to be the centrepiece of the kitchen rather than just a quiet backdrop.
A Subtle Case for Texture in Coatesville
One of our recent projects in a lovely home in Coatesville demonstrates how thoughtfully placed textures can create a beautifully strong yet subtle impact. Here, our designers have created a rich, tonal palette using Pure Walnut Shinnoki Veneer cabinetry, soft Taj Mahal natural stone, and brushed brass tapware to create a sophisticated, contemporary look with strong material contrast and warmth. In the butler’s pantry/scullery the textural theme continues with Pure Walnut Shinnoki Veneer cabinetry with matching stone benchtops and drawer banks.
Bringing These Trends Into Your Home with the Kitchen People
Our secret sauce is knowing what will have the biggest impact in your home, and having the in-house design and craftsmanship to execute it properly. For example, a single textured feature wall of cabinetry, upgraded handles, or a statement benchtop can shift the whole feel of a kitchen without blowing your budget. So if you’re thinking about updating your kitchen this year, why not have a chat with us? Our designers live and breathe the latest kitchen trends, and together we can create something truly special for your home.
