It’s widely thought to be the heart of the home, so it’s crucial to choose the right kitchen for your lifestyle, property and design ambitions. Emily Smith takes a closer look at the options

Emily Smith

Featuring clean lines and matt surfaces in charcoal grey, these handleless units by Hub Kitchens boast a sleek and modern aesthetic. Bespoke designs are available from £40,000

Rustic materials and freestanding storage made of metal and timber elements look striking alongside dark cabinets in this setup by Ikea. The result is a functional space that looks welcoming

Industrial

Creating an ambience somewhere between New York loft room and professional kitchen, the industrial trend has a rustic factory or workshop feel about it. Raw textures such as reclaimed wood and exposed bricks work in unison with dark hues, metals and concrete to create the stripped back and unpolished allure. This style is often seen in open-plan spaces and conversion projects. You can go for a clean, clinical look with stainless steel appliances or a lived-in feel with utensils hung from open shelving or magnetic wall strips. The look works well alongside exposed lighting chords and mid-century furniture.

Country farmhouse

Rustic details, furniture-like cabinetry and farmhouse tables create the rural feel of a country kitchen. The style calls for a lived-in, cosy look; consider finishes in primary colours and creams. Think fabric blinds, patterned tiles and crockery displayed neatly behind glass-fronted cabinets for more of a traditional ambience. Due to the origins of this style, country kitchens tend to work especially well in larger rooms, where you can look to include features such as a deep butler sink and a large range cooker. Tweak with earthy colours, florals and ornate flourishes to produce a French country feel.