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Kitchen trends 2023 – a round up of the latest looks

(Image credit: Olive & Barr)

If you're looking to give your kitchen a refresh for the new year, checking out the latest kitchen trends is a great place to start. A room that calls out to be both functional but beautiful, these days the breadth of choice available is almost endless,  ensuring that there's something to suit everyone.

While not always the cheapest room to update, with the right kitchen ideas and budget in mind, you can achieve a fresh, contemporary space that reflects the latest designs and style ideas, all of which we have collated here for you. 

What are the kitchen trends in 2023?

If you're setting out to find out how to plan a kitchen, there are so many design elements that need to be addressed. From choosing the right layout to work for your needs to researching the best appliances, splashbacks and worktops to create a space that you love. 

It's useful to keep kitchen trends in mind, especially when it comes to adding value for resale. It's a bit of a false economy to spend a fortune on an unusual kitchen that may not appeal to others, especially if you plan to sell up in a few years time. Choosing a look that has universal appeal and - dare we say it - bang on trend will attract rather than repel potential buyers.

We’ve asked the experts at leading retailers to share their thoughts and insights on the biggest kitchen trends 2023. And for good measure, we've added a few hot trends of our own that we love and swear by.

'Kitchen design can be so much fun and really satisfying when you take the time to design… rather than just filling a space,' notes Rod Gaskell, Owner, Kütchehaus .

So whether you know exactly what you want or if you're still undecided and need some inspiration, read on to discover all you need to help you create a kitchen that’s on-trend and right for you for many years to come.

1. Open shelving

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

It seems for kitchen trends in 2023, we are shying away from wall cabinets and embracing open kitchen shelving more and more. But it's about what works for you and your space, as Rebecca Nokes, Head of Design & Brand Creative, John Lewis of Hungerford explains.

'Trend-wise, we’re seeing people really do what they want to do! For example we have a London client but they want a really country-style kitchen. We’re seeing a mix of both contemporary and classic kitchens and with both having open shelves and a pantry rather than lots of wall cabinets. Islands will not go away and are still very popular and will continue to be as they’re great for practical reasons but also provide the perfect place to socialise.' 

2. Rugs (yes really)

(Image credit: Louis de Portere)

Rugs in a kitchen may instil the fear in the some, but they are the perfect addition to not only soften the space, but zone it too. 

Alan Russell, sales director UK, Louis de Poortere says, 'Kitchens are functional first and foremost and purposeful hard finishes reflect that, but with open plan dominating modern living they’re increasingly spaces that need flexibility and adaptability while also feeling cosy enough for activities outside of domestic duties. The layering of textures is a great way to achieve both – helping to zone areas and create an added layer of tactility.'

'Even in the most modern kitchens, and minimalistic of high-spec open plan kitchens, layering up on the floor to create pockets of activity can be a great way to bring order and comfort in equal measure. A well positioned rug beneath a dining table adds cosiness for family meals and entertaining, while dressing a reading corner or chill-out area with one makes the area’s intent clear and gives a feeling of warmth that you only truly achieve with textiles.'

'They’re also beautifully versatile. If you ever want to change the layout of your room, or simply fancy a refresh they can moved, swapped and playfully laid on top of each other for even more layers of cosiness.'

3. Reeded glass

(Image credit: Olive & Barr)

One of the easiest kitchen trends to embrace for 2023, even in a small kitchen,  is reeded glass. As we move away from frosted or mottled, reeded glass can even be achieved with window film to save having to completely replace panels.

Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr says, 'Reeded glass is having a full revival and makes a great addition to either glass cabinets, worktop dressers or within bakers tables. This stylish upgrade gives the kitchen a contemporary twist and is perfect for disguising everyday tableware which isn’t always display worthy.'

4. Aluminium hardware

(Image credit: Plank Hardware/Husk Kitchens)

While brass and stainless steel are still popular choices for hardware, Aluminium will take centre stage for 2023. Changing up your hardware is a great way to make your kitchen look expensive on a budget, and with a low environmental impact, the material is growing in popularity as people become more and concerned with carbon footprints in the interiors and design worlds. 

Tom Revill, Co-Founder Plank Hardware says, 'Aluminium is an infinitely recyclable material, making it one of the most sustainable choices a homeowner can make when choosing hardware. As of this year, we make all of our black products from anodized aluminium, as opposed to electroplating brass (which we did in the past). '

'Not only is aluminium more hardy than brass and super lightweight to handle, it can also be shipped more easily meaning the carbon impact of our products is reduced further. I foresee aluminium to be a trending finish in 2023 interiors, not only in black but also in its raw, mottled grey tone.'

5. Calming qualities

(Image credit: Wickes)

We all want our homes to feel calm not chaotic, but often we except that in the kitchen this might not always be possible. However choosing the right colours and materials can go a long way to creating a serene space, even in the busiest of homes, and Scandi kitchen ideas are increasingly popular when trying to achieve this. 

Paul Bangs, Category Director Wickes , Kitchens, Bathrooms, Flooring & Tiles says, ‘2023 continues to show a growing trend for calmness in the kitchen as consumers look to bring the outdoors in with natural textures and materials. Blues and green remain popular while neutral shades are increasing in popularity as households seek a serene environment. '

'Zoning techniques such as islands and dining spaces are key for homeowners as they seek open plan designs that reflect the multi-use nature of our homes. Now used for working and hosting in addition to cooking, there has been increased interest in open shelving as customers look for ways to display their prized possessions.’

6. Baker tables

(Image credit: Olive & Barr)

There's no doubt that kitchen island ideas are now an integral part of any modern-day kitchen, but new for 2023 comes a slightly different take on the stylish staple.

Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr says, 'While fitted kitchens are unlikely to ever go out of style, the request for freestanding pieces is on the rise. Rather than kitchen islands, we're seeing an uptake in bakers tables - similar to a kitchen island, but on legs. This freestanding piece makes the island feel like a piece of furniture while still having all of the benefits of a usual island with deep drawers and a place to perch. '

7. Stylish splashbacks

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

While kitchen splashback ideas might not immediately fill you with excitement, they are actually a great way to bring colour, pattern or texture into your kitchen and the trend for 2023 is to make more of a feature of them.

Melissa Klink, Creative Director at Harvey Jones says, ‘In recent years we have seen the worktop material carried right up the wall up to the underside of cabinets or shelving. Now we are cutting off the edge of the splashback and making more of a feature out from it. Adding careful curves and delicate finishes really elevates the sophistication in a kitchen and amplifies the beauty of the stone when you can see it from various angles.'

8. Wood flooring

(Image credit: Quick-Step)

For kitchen flooring ideas for 2023 - wood, whether real or porcelain/vinyl, remains hugely popular.

Orla Kerr, marketing manager UK & Ireland, Quick-Step , explains,  'The comforting and relaxing feel of natural materials has never been more relevant in these difficult times, when homes are becoming something of a sanctuary and escape from the realities of the outside world. Wood continues to be a constant in design themes and our close connection to it is almost instinctive and undoubtedly instils a sense of calm. 

'In the kitchen, its ability to stay timeless and balance artificial high gloss surfaces and stainless steel appliances shouldn't be underestimated. The right tone also softens high-shine, hard natural surfaces such as marble and quartz. However, it’s always been difficult to find a natural wood floor that’s also truly up for the challenge of kitchen duty.'

'We’ve developed our Cascada wood floor collection to be easy to live with and water-repellent, without compromising the tactility and appearance that makes wood so appealing. The collection uses our Wood for Life technology that helps to prevent mud, spilled foods and other dirt from getting stuck in the joints and texture of the wood. Wood for Life keeps Cascada looking as good as new, even in a busy kitchen.”

Continuing trends from 2022...

9. Colourful cabinetry

(Image credit: Future Plc / Brent Darby)

Handle-less or classic Shaker remain the most popular kitchen trends, but it seems we are embracing more colour in our modern kitchen ideas. ‘People want practical, with matt doors in an anti-fingerprint finish highly desirable,' says Rod from Kütchehaus. 'But the introduction of bolder colour is something that we're beginning to see lots more of lately.'

In line with other interior trends, blues and greens are hugely popular with the richer hues becoming the quickest growing trend. 'We’ve added a blue and green to our range for 2022,' adds Rod.

‘Many of our clients are keen to introduce bolder and darker shades through their cabinetry, such as teal blue, forest green and anthracite grey,' agrees Natalie Holden, Director, Natalie Holden Interiors .

10. Smart storage

(Image credit: Future PLC / Harvey Jones)

In a time when we strive to declutter for our overall wellbeing, storage is of the utmost importance in current kitchen trends. Especially in kitchens where we need so many 'things', from the ingredients to the cooking equipment. Well-placed, concealed kitchen storage ideas are a saviour for the aesthetic of our kitchens.

When planning any successful layout factoring in ample space to keep clutter out of sight is always key to making the space work harder for you. ‘Storage seems to be focusing on the practical rather than clever gizmos,’ says Rod from Kütchehaus. ‘Customers want large easy-access storage, such as pan drawers in islands and big-opening larder units.’

‘We’re being asked to maximise storage,' continues Natalie Holden. 'One project recently had a compact floor space, but really high ceilings, so we designed one tall wall of storage, with integrated fridge-freezer, butler’s pantry and pull-out larder.’

11. Practical yet stylish worksurfaces

(Image credit: Future PLC / Chris Snook)

As for kitchen worktop ideas, Natalie says her clients tend to specify quartz. ‘It’s extremely durable and easy to clean and maintain. Our suppliers have an amazing selection of colours, some which look like real marble,’ she explains. 'Many clients enjoy cooking and want to ensure a worksurface doesn’t stain easily,’ she adds.

Of course, it depends on budget. ‘Discussing contrast is a great starting point, when planning a kitchen,’ says Rod from Kütchehaus, ‘Such as light doors with a dark worksurface or vice versa. But worksurface choice is always about how hardwearing, heatproof and stain resistant it is. Those on a budget can look at combining a wood-effect laminate for the main kitchen with a stone for an island, although it's best not to introduce too many colours.'

Mike Turley, Technical Director at Mereway Kitchens likes to see cabinetry, doors and worktops matching; ‘It gives a streamlined look,’ he explains.

Natalie says there are more sustainable options for kitchen trends 2022, too. ‘One of our suppliers makes worktops from recycled brick rubble and concrete, while another, Cosentino , uses a new technology called HybriQ, which combines recycled glass content, 100% renewable energy and 98% recycled water in its factory.

12. Contemporary handles

(Image credit: Mereway Kitchens)

It seems we are paying lots of attention to handles, too. ‘The Shaker door with a contemporary knurled black or brass handle is always popular,' explains Rod from Kütchehaus, 'But we’ve recently designed a few kitchens with a slab door and contrasting gold or brass recessed profile detail, which gives a much more contemporary look.’

These warmer metallics are great for teaming with blue or green units, but stone-effect doors are also sought, as Rod explains, ‘For kitchen trends we might see more new sandstone or earthier finishes coming through, reflecting our concentration on nature and the environment.’

Design-led handles are also perfect for adding to small kitchen ideas as a way to add style without taking up space.

13. Squeeze in a utility room or pantry

(Image credit: Magnet)

The utility room is arguably one of the most desired kitchen trends. ‘Utility rooms are a sign that today’s kitchen has become much more of a living space,’ say Mike from Mereway. 

Wherever possible, it's always advisable to eke out a little space for either a utility room as you can store all of your laundry out of sight making your kitchen a much more liveable space.

‘Most of our projects have a utility room,’ says Natalie Holden, ‘especially open-plan kitchens. A utility space provides somewhere you can shut things away, such as washing and coats.’

Don't have a space for a utility room? A pantry is the next on the top trend hit list. ‘Kitchen pantry ideas are also a lovely addition, especially if you have the space for open shelving floor-to-ceiling,’ says Rod from Kütchehaus. ‘They allow you to make great use of multi-buy deals on non-perishables.’ Mike agrees; ‘If space allows, go for a modern take on the pantries of post-war years.’

14. Supersize your sink

(Image credit: Future PLC / David Parmiter)

‘When it comes to kitchen sink ideas, large bowls are high on people’s lists,’ says Rod from Kütchehaus. ‘We’re so used to dishwashers being part of our daily routines now, but we still need to wash up those larger items. For colour and finish, granite and steel sinks are in demand – even copper and gold-effects. '

'We’re often asked how a sink will wear – customers will always look for scratch-resistant and easy-clean sinks, especially where limescale is an annoyance. That’s why ceramic sinks are always in the mix, with undermounted sinks helping to keep things tidy.’

‘Brass taps seem to be all the rage,’ says Natalie Holden, ‘Yet other appliances and fittings haven’t quite caught up with these kitchen trends, so it can be a challenge to source matching fittings throughout a scheme.’ 

 ‘While black taps are a favourite, and gold a contender, we find they are always chosen to match other items that are decided upon first, like handles,' agrees Rod.

15. Sleek marble surfaces

(Image credit: Iconic Lights)

'Marble is such a versatile material,' explains Natalie Holden. 'It suits both traditional and contemporary kitchens. Due to it being natural, every slab will have a unique veining, so hand-select from a stonemason if you can. You’ll be surprised how much pattern and colour can vary between each piece. '

'It's expensive, but you can get the look with composites that also have the benefit of being non-porous. Think about using a lower-priced worksurface in your utility room or area, leaving more budget to splash out on marble in the main kitchen.'

'To really work a marble look take it from the worksurface and use up the walls as a splashback, or go down to the floor on the sides of an island.'

16. Broken plan vs open plan

(Image credit: Magnet)

‘Open-plan spaces are still desired in larger properties,’ says Natalie, ‘however in smaller homes, we are seeing more broken-plan solutions, where each space can function for a variety of different purposes throughout the day. Think of two or three rooms that have the option to be opened up with sliding doors when you want to entertain but exist as a kitchen or a separate workspace when needed.’

Rod from Kütchehaus thinks bigger is better. ‘I think the kitchen is becoming larger than ever before,' he says. 'We’re seeing double island units allowing ease of movement around the kitchen, with different-height worktop levels and seating areas introduced to keep all the family and visitors happy.’

17. Clever lighting plans

(Image credit: Pooky)

Understandably, a well-thought-through kitchen lighting plan that incorporates plenty of task lighting is essential, but that doesn't mean it has to be dull. Natalie’s seeing more organic shapes and sculptural pendant designs for the kitchen trends 2022; ‘I love layering up wall lights, recessed strip lighting and statement pendants into a space to add drama and a cosy atmosphere.’

Rod says it’s all about increased connectivity, too. ‘A connected home, such as mood-controlled lighting like Philips Hue smart lighting, will soon be everywhere, not just the kitchen.’

Lighting has more freedom within the modern kitchen, with statement pendants being used to dress the aesthetic more and more. While the use of spotlights or down-lights are still key, there's a trend for making the kitchen feel more like our living rooms – smart kitchen lighting ideas play a key role in this.

18. Integrated appliances

(Image credit: Kitchen Makers)

The desire for streamlined, clutter-free spaces sees kitchen trends leaning towards integrated, concealed appliances remaining a firm favourite. While there has been an abundance of tech and new gadgets for our kitchens, we don't want to necessarily see them, which is why kitchen appliance layout is key.

‘The appetite for discreet storage is expected to grow,’ says Ben Burbidge, MD, Kitchen Makers . ‘Homeowners are scrutinising the aesthetic of the appliances they are integrating into their kitchens. And so concealment solutions, that create a streamlined finish without impacting the style, are a key consideration.’

So how can we have the latest appliances without them taking over our kitchens?

Ben advises, ‘Concealing these appliances can take the form of simple cabinetry to hide a fridge or dishwasher. Or a storage design that minimises small counter top appliances. A hidden station, which keeps the kettle and toaster from cluttering the worktop. And helps to create a dedicated area to sit and enjoy breakfast will be popular.’

19. Clever compact design

(Image credit: Kitchen Makers)

Whether narrow, square or broken plan, where space is at a premium compact kitchens come to the rescue. More and more, kitchen design looks to benefit from minimal clutter and maximum efficiency. This is especially important if you have a small kitchen.

‘When presented with a smaller space it is essential that the kitchen layout ideas are carefully considered to make sure every inch of the kitchen is utilised,’ says Ben from Kitchen Makers.

‘Creating a bank of cabinetry along one wall is a great way of streamlining and opening up the space. Tall wall units are particularly suited to narrow spaces. This is because using this space ensures the area feels less cramped than if filled with larder style dressers.'

'Don’t be afraid to include an island or breakfast bar. But try not to make the overall dimensions too big, as it may restrict movement around the kitchen. Opting for an open or floating island will keep all areas accessible and provide additional seating opportunities. The area under the island’s worktop can offer ample space for kitchen storage.'

20. Boiling water on demand

(Image credit: Abode)

We've become so accustomed to everything in an instant that even boiling the kettle is a wait we would rather do without. It's presumably no surprise that boiling taps are firmly on the kitchen trends list.

Sales of the best boiling water taps increased hugely over the course of this year, spurred by more of us working from home and therefore wanting hot water on demand for making tea and coffee in between Zoom calls etc.'

21. Downdraft extractors

(Image credit: Bora)

Extractor fans are being reimagined. ‘The kitchen trends are showing a shift towards downdraft extraction systems which remove odours and vapours at their source, i.e. directly from the hob. And draw them downwards before they have a chance to permeate the air,’ explains Willi Bruckbauer, founder, BORA .

‘This is particularly important in open-plan kitchens and living spaces. This is because a head-height extractor hood above an island can create a visual barrier and conflict with the open-plan ambience. A downdraft extractor integrated into the hob gives greater creativity of design and taps into the trend for minimal, professional styling.’

22. Structured simplicity

(Image credit: Wren)

The trend for streamline kitchens is set to reach new heights of popularity. This less-is-more minimalist approach creates a calming space with clean sweeping lines.

This contemporary look is easy to achieve, with practicality being key. 'It's all about choosing high-quality materials and items that put strong lines and functionality at the forefront,' explains Darren Watts, Wren Kitchens . 'It's essential to have integrated appliances and hidden storage to ensure the smooth look isn't disrupted.'

You can update your existing kitchen with clever storage solutions to clear worktops.

23. Two-toned kitchens

(Image credit: Optiplan Kitchens)

Kitchens are set to become more and more blended in this new decade. ‘The kitchen trends for combining two colours throughout kitchen cabinetry is soaring,’ says Andy Briggs, Designer, Optiplan Kitchens .

‘It’s a great approach to adding an interesting twist to your aesthetic and it can change the whole feel of the room. Opt for deep, dark units and contrast with brighter shades elsewhere in order to add depth and character to the space.'

The trend extends beyond just a contrasting paint colour on the walls. From the cabinets to the worktops, it gives you the freedom to explore different painted kitchen ideas and design elements. Andy goes on to say, 'You can play around with rich textures, such as wood grains, matte finishes or sleek laminate'.

Using them together creates a juxtaposition of instant interest.

24. Industrial style

(Image credit: Life Kitchens)

In kitchen design the use of raw materials, which are rich in tones and texture, will definitely continue to rise in popularity beyond 2021. Metal finishing alongside concrete offer a unique aesthetic that will continue to prove exceptionally popular for an on-trend industrial look.

'Metal framing is growing in popularity for kitchen trends,' say Life Kitchens . 'An eye-catching design element, framing can be a great option for open shelving. With the metal finish carried through to features such as taps, and spindle island or table legs'.

What colour kitchens will be popular for 2023?

‘Colour wise for 2023, green will remain very popular from dark greens to subtler shades such as sages will be very popular as we take inspiration from nature and being outside. We’re also seeing a really shift towards warm greys,  puttys and barley colours too. The creams and beiges are very popular rather than the colder blues and greys,' says Rebecca Nokes, Head of Design & Brand Creative, John Lewis of Hungerford.

‘Painted kitchens are still going strong and it's no surprise to see that green remains a popular choice, but pink is making a comeback. From hot to blush pink, the demand for painted pink kitchens is on the up,' says Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr.

What colour kitchen cabinets never go out of style?

When considering colours for more permanent kitchen items, such as cabinets, worktops and wall paint, opt for neutral shades. Natural colour palettes never date because they are so versatile and timeless. This is also a great option for potential buyers if you ever sell your house in the future.

If you fancy a pop of colour using kitchen trends, but you don't fancy a permanent feature wall or bright pink set of cabinets, neutral walls, cupboards and work surfaces can acts as a blank canvas. Try adding bright accessories and artwork which can be removed or replaced when fashions or your mood changes. Alternatively, you may like a simple neutral palette left as it is.

Investing in any element of the kitchen can prove invaluable, for both while you live in your home but also when it comes to adding value for resale. Be inspired to make the right style choices for your home with a look at the latest kitchen ideas and designs.

What kitchen trends are popular for 2023?

There are plenty of kitchen trends that will be popular for 2023 and wood flooring is definitely one to get on board with. 

'Wood-effect porcelain tiles laid in a herringbone pattern is great for open-plan kitchens extensions that have lots of natural light streaming in,’ says Natalie Holden. 'They bring a sense of warmth and texture to the space, yet don’t fade in the sunlight and are very easy to clean.’

But don't forget, flooring trends are not always visible. Sustainable options are also a big consideration with today's consumers with eco-friendly flooring like FSC certified wood, cork and lino, becoming more widely available. If presented with two similar choices, people tend to always choose the one that has less impact on the environment.

Another trend we expect to be popular are larders. Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr says, 'Freestanding larder units that encompass it all; from storing your dry food, harbouring electrical goods, to the full tea station with a hot tap, it's no surprise it has become the must-have of any kitchen. These freestanding elements allow you to swap and change the look and feel of the kitchen, while giving you the freedom to move pieces as you move homes, which is particularly great for renters.'

Ginevra Benedetti has been the Deputy Editor of Ideal Home magazine since 2021. With a career in magazines spanning nearly twenty years, she has worked for the majority of the UK’s interiors magazines, both as staff and as a freelancer. She first joined the Ideal Home team in 2011, initially as the Deputy Decorating Editor and has never left! She currently oversees the publication of the brand’s magazine each month, from planning through to publication, editing, writing or commissioning the majority of the content.  

With contributions from

Modern Kitchen - 22 Modern Kitchen Design Ideas For A New Kitchen

Verde Tinos Marble Kitchen, Cullifords (geraldculliford.co.uk)

If 2021 was the year in which the humble kitchen reinvented itself (largely due to the pandemic), what's in store for the modern kitchen in 2022?

A successful kitchen design includes many elements – layout, cabinets, worktops, appliances, and so forth, and today's modern kitchen seamlessly combines function, aesthetic and technology where every square inch needs to work harder. Essentially, our spaces need to do more.

The modern kitchen

2022 is set to be a 'landmark year for the blended kitchen space', Matt Phillips, Head of UK Operations at Rotpunkt, declares. 'Presenting a true democracy for today's lifestyle, the kitchen of tomorrow will be contemporary in style and spatially ergonomic with the very best sustainable furniture forming the basis of each scheme.'

The most desirable modern kitchen designs will reflect what Daval Furniture refer to as 'whole-house interior design schemes', where the kitchen-living space includes added value living areas like a home bar or utility/boot room.

Optimising how the kitchen space adapts with our lifestyles will be vital this year, says Simon Bodsworth, Managing Director at Daval: 'Post pandemic life will bring a deeper appreciation of the capabilities of custom-made furniture, alongside the introduction of hygienic surfaces and hardworking kitchen storage like walk-in pantries.'

From adventurous earthy tones to brilliantly bold hues, we're getting braver with colour, too. Ian Penney, Business Unit Director for Room Solutions at Homebase, elaborates: 'There will be lots of earthy tones as we continue to appreciate the great outdoors, but also bright colours such as teals and vibrant accents like copper or gold handles for an optimistic burst of colour. We’ve introduced new cabinet colours into our on-trend collection of contemporary House Beautiful kitchens. Designed and built right here in the UK, these kitchens are sleek and stylish with smart finishing touches. There really is something for everyone, especially those looking to turn their Pinterest dreams into reality.'

New kitchen vs simple refresh

Not all kitchen makeovers have to be expensive. 'Kitchens can be costly investments and aren't easily interchangeable. Using paint to add a splash of colour to walls, cabinet fronts, tiles, or shelving units is not only cost effective, but also allows for a unique burst of creativity and personality to be injected with ease,' says Helen Shaw, Director at Benjamin Moore UK.

To give you all the modern kitchen inspiration you need, here are the top kitchen trends for 2022. From colour and surface choices to finishes and layout, planning your dream kitchen starts here...

1

Green is still the 'It' colour

Tom Howley

Green kitchens are still having a moment in 2022.

'As a colour we associate primarily with nature, this grounding shade has an incredible way of reconnecting us with our surroundings, creating moments of calm and positivity,' says Tom Howley, Design Director at the eponymous kitchen company.

Ben Burbidge, Managing Director of Kitchen Makers, agrees that we'll continue to a surge in popularity of green finishes: 'A positive and versatile colour it can be used in deep, rich saturated tones to deliver a luxury look, especially when combined with marble worktops and brass detailing. At the other end of the scale softer, more powdery tones are particularly efficient in delivering the aspirational country kitchen look. '

Pictured: The Devine Collection in Serpentine, Tom Howley

2

The painted kitchen

British Standard by Plain English

When paired with authentic raw materials, painted furniture creates a durable kitchen environment that is classic in nature, yet contemporary in finish. The grains in the wood are still visible too, giving an element of texture. Above all, it's cost-effective, providing a great way to renovate your kitchen without the expense of replacing whole units.

The British Standard design team are seeing an increase in cabinets being painted in bright, playful hues. As seen here, Jacqueline Mercer aka @tinyandthehouse, transformed her hand-painted British Standard kitchen by repainting the originally inky blue cabinets in a cheerful yellow.

Read more: How to paint your kitchen cupboards & where to buy the best kitchen cupboard paint

3

Storage of every kind

House Beautiful/Jake Seal

Storage is, and will continue to be, a big part of the kitchen space, with a specific focus around hidden storage solutions. Essential for a streamlined finish, storage systems will maximise space without negatively impacting the look and style of your kitchen.

Ian at Homebase comments: 'Storage remains a top priority, which is why Homebase are launching butler pantries and corner units to help customers to make the most of their kitchen space.'

Pictured: House Beautiful Islington Kitchen in Ice Blue, Homebase

4

Statement sinks

British Standard by Plain English

To balance the stylised aesthetic of statement taps (from brass to matt black), we are placing more attention on sink details when it comes to kitchen design.

‘Statement sinks are a trend that continues to gain momentum. More and more clients are focused on finding “the one” when it comes to their kitchen sinks, with vintage and vintage-style pieces, such as this fluted farmhouse design, among the most covetable,' says British Standard Design Manager, Adrian Bergman.

Pictured: British Standard cupboards, British Standard by Plain English

5

The peekaboo pantry

British Standard by Plain English

Pantry or larder storage is an essential part of any modern kitchen, and for 2022 the focus is – as British Standard by Plain English calls it – Peekaboo pantries.

'With pantries continuing to top kitchen wish lists, people are adding open shelving to slimline doors or a curtain to even the smallest of spaces to create mini ancillary spaces,' Adrian at British Standard explains.

Pictured: British Standard cupboards, British Standard by Plain English

6

Modular furniture

InHouse Inspired Room Design

Broken plan will be the layout of choice and statement furniture solutions combined with modular furniture will become the building blocks of the modern kitchen.

The experts at Rotpunkt explain: 'Industry forecasts indicate that versatile pieces of furniture that create a more flexible home environment will top the charts in 2022, with integrated wall and ceiling storage systems through to all-inclusive islands with space to cook, dine and do business.'

Case in point: The stylish and practical NX510 kitchen from next125 features tall wood veneer doors which open with a tap, then slides effortlessly to disappear to the sides of the cabinet with a gentle push.

Pictured: NX510 kitchen from next125, InHouse Inspired Room Design

7

Home bars

Davonport

As we're entertaining more at home, the modern kitchen needs to accommodate this, so it's no wonder that built-in bars (however big or small) are becoming a must-have feature.

The team of expert designers at Davonport explain: 'With restrictions on socialising over the past two years, our homes have evolved from being our sanctuary to our main social and entertaining hub. As a result, the demand for a home bar or drinks cabinet within the kitchen has increased and is not looking to abate any time soon.'

Pictured: Pantry in classic Mayland kitchen, Davonport

8

Breakfast bar

Moores

There's also an increase in demand for the breakfast bar. 'A breakfast bar is a versatile piece perfect for a multifunctional kitchen – with the right seating it can work as a dining table where you can enjoy a quick breakfast or informal meal with family and friends, while it doubles up as a bar and buffet area to serve drinks and canapes when hosting a party,' say Harvey Jones designers.

Pictured: House Beautiful Islington Kitchen - Ice Blue, Porcelain, Wild Oak, available at Homebase

9

Steeped in history

Quorn Stone

The idea that 'old is the new' is driven by a sense of nostalgia and comfort. The design team at British Standard by Plain English say customers are seeking to create spaces full of intrigue and charm. How? By blending older, more characterful pieces into their new kitchens. 'These homely spaces go beyond function and are a backdrop to treasured personal objects, ceramics, glassware and artwork,' they explain.

Equally, filling your home with natural stone flooring, for example, will lend a soothing quality to any room, complementing both contemporary and more traditional kitchen interiors.

Pictured: Bordeaux French Limestone, Quorn Stone

10

All glass

Tom Howley

On the modern kitchen wish list this year is glass. 'Not only do glazed cabinets break up the monotony of repetitive, solid fronted doors – especially in large spaces – they maximise the flow of light into darker corners,' Tom Howley explains. 'Having glass-fronted doors is as good as open shelving when it comes to displaying your prized pieces. '

Davonport designers say in the last 12 months glass has been used more decoratively and dramatically as splashbacks or backdrops for open shelving.

Pictured: The Hartford Collection in Azurite, Tom Howley

11

Cupboard skirt

British Standard by Plain English

A cupboard skirt is an ideal decorative finishing touch for rustic, country-style kitchens.

'Instantly softening, a sink skirt is also a great way to inject colour and pattern into your kitchen or pantry,' says Karla Patterson, Designer at British Standard. 'Affordable and stylish, it's also a clever way to conceal any unsightly storage and undersink spaces.'

Pictured: British Standard kitchen in the home of Lisa Mehydene, founder of edit58, British Standard by Plain English

12

The kitchen office

Moores

The rise of the 'working kitchen' has seen an increased demand for multi-functional spaces.

Kitchens will continue to require extra worktop space for home workers who may not have a home office, making way for laptops and monitors and even spaces for craft making.

There's a continued focus on integrated seating areas, storage solutions and extended breakfast bars or kitchen island units that become an all-inclusive workstation.

Pictured: House Beautiful Camberwell Kitchen - Nickel, available at Homebase

13

Large flagstone tiles

Quorn Stone

For a high-traffic area like the kitchen, you need durable flooring which also looks good. The choice for 2022? Flagstone floor tiles.

Isabel Fernandez, Director of Quorn Stone, explains: 'For centuries, estates and country homes have used flagstone flooring, thanks to their hardwearing characteristics and classic appearance that have stood the test of time. Now more than ever, people are wanting to create this timeless look in their kitchens by choosing large format flagstones. '

Pictured: Monte Carlo tumbled limestone, prices start from £33, Quorn Stone.

14

Glazed tiles

British Standard by Plain English

The British Standard design team have noticed a growing number of clients opting for plain or patterned glazed tiles to create eye-catching sink walls. This rich, glossy depth of colour on glazed tiles provides great textural contrast against pared back, hand painted wooden cabinetry.

Ian Penney at Homebase says tiling is the perfect way to upgrade to a modern kitchen: 'If you’re looking for a simpler refresh, tiling is a great way to go. We’ll be launching a new tiling range that will suit every style; everything from fun patterns and bright shades to darker and bolder colours in all shapes and sizes. Tiling is a great way to inject character into a kitchen, while being versatile, easy to clean and extremely durable. It's also really easy!'

Pictured: British Standard cupboards, British Standard by Plain English

15

Round shapes

Harvey Jones

In modern kitchen design, rounded shapes exude luxury and sophistication. A beautiful design element, these softer forms are more ergonomic and feel more natural to use. Aesthetically too, every view is taken care of, rather than creating abrupt stops.

'Rounded corners will be particularly popular in kitchen islands. The majority of worktop features, especially for breakfast bars, use contrasting materials like wood and quartz composite, with different level thickness. A curved seating area is more sociable (think of a round table vs. a long narrow table),' Emma Cowburn, Kitchen Designer at Harvey Jones, explains.

Pictured: Shaker kitchen, Harvey Jones

16

Back to front kitchens

Our kitchens are moving, quite literally.

'Traditionally a kitchen sits at the back of the home overlooking the garden but we have noticed a growing number of clients creating kitchens at the front of the home,' Adrian at British Standard explains. 'Many terraced houses feature two rooms at the front which can often be knocked through to create one large living space, this can be a good alternative to a side return, saving you the cost of an extension.

'By moving the kitchen to the front you can benefit from an open plan layout and a quieter sitting room at the back of the house, plus a double perspective will give added natural light.'

Pictured: British Standard cupboards, British Standard by Plain English

17

Delightful displays

deVOL

The kitchen shelfie is reinventing itself for 2022. 'From contemporary open shelving through to traditional dressers, the trend for decorating kitchens with beautiful ceramics and glassware is back,' says Ben at Kitchen Makers.

Open shelves offer an area to showcase your styling capabilities, as well as being a highly practical storage solution. 'Displaying meaningful or decorative items is a relatively simple and effective way to inject personality into a room, giving it a more inviting and homely feel,' adds Richard Davonport, Managing Director at Davonport.

Pictured: Kitchen cupboards in Scullery Yellow, deVOL

Read more: This yellow kitchen in a fisherman's cottage in St Ives is full of character

18

Invisible shelves

British Standard by Plain English

Open shelving takes on an invisible form in the modern kitchen. Adrian at British Standard explains this kitchen trend: 'Adding a single shelf in the same colour as the wall behind creates the illusion that the shelf is floating or invisible, allowing the pieces featured on them to take centre stage. This type of open shelving offers a less fitted appearance over wall cupboards.'

Polly Shearer, Kitchen Interiors Expert at Tap Warehouse, develops this trend with the idea of the 'invisible kitchen'. She adds: 'People no longer want to fill their kitchens with clutter and accessories, but strip it back to the essentials and have cupboards that blend into the walls behind them.'

Pictured: British Standard kitchen in the home of Susanna Hawkins (@shnordic), British Standard by Plain English

19

Metallic accents

Moores

As well as looking stylish, metal is a practical solution – it's extremely hardwearing and boasts antimicrobial properties which makes it a great choice for a working kitchen. And for 2022, metallic surfaces, from handles to worktops and splashbacks, will prove popular in kitchen design.

Hush Kitchens founder, Chris Spink, comments: 'While stainless steel was commonly used in industrial kitchens, now brass, copper and zinc are the must-have materials.'

Gold and bronze shades adding a splash of luxury or hotel-decadence will be big. 'These colours were once reserved for smaller accents such as handles or taps, however, in recent times, we have seen them appear in larger forms such as sinks and entire island work surfaces,' designers at Davonport explain.

Meanwhile, Darren Watts, Showroom Development & Design Director at Wren Kitchens, singles out hardware in any form of brass, from vintage to polished, as being the most popular as it will add warmth and a touch of drama without being overpowering.

Pictured: House Beautiful Islington Kitchen - Alpine, available at Homebase

20

Marble splashbacks

British Standard by Plain English

Changing your kitchen splashback is a great way to give your cooking space a facelift. A modern kitchen must-have, marble continues to be synonymous with style and elegance.

'Elegant, tactile and organic, marble is making a comeback as the most popular choice for splashbacks and work surfaces,' says Adrian at British Standard. 'Richly veined varieties, such as the piece seen in this Streatham kitchen, are a great way to make a statement if you are not looking to use bold colour or pattern and can look particularly luxurious when paired with metallic lighting and hardware,'

Pictured: British Standard cupboards, British Standard by Plain English

21

Cork

Marcus Lawett

Both renewable and biodegradable, versatile cork is making its way into the modern kitchen.

Bo Hellberg, CMO at String Furniture, comments: 'Cork is a material part of the “biophilia” trend, where we seek to connect with nature and organic materials and plant life, in our homes. It is obviously inherently sustainable and brings warmth and texture to any surface or space, but it’s also ideal for insulating, which makes it great for kitchens.

'Cork is a great match for our metal shelves, taming the industrial look. It combines the Scandi kitchen interior with a softer, organic material.'

Pictured: String system cork bottle tray, String Furniture

22

Integrated appliances

Kitchen Makers/Jon Day

As we're spending more time cooking and entertaining at home, there's now a greater investment in kitchen appliances – from coffee machines to wine coolers – that won't compromise cabinet or other appliance space.

Ben at Kitchen Makers explains: 'With the rise in the popularity of laundry rooms and breakfast stations, integrated appliances will allow you to keep your room streamlined.'

Pictured: Alderley in Bone, Kitchen Makers

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What to try in the UK: traditional cuisine and food

I had to travel around the UK on all 3 types of visas: tourist, student and business visas. And, as you understand, I had to eat in various establishments: from 5-star hotels and the best restaurants to modest eateries. Of course, if you travel with enough money and go to good drinking establishments, then there is no problem: UK restaurants provide the best of world and English cuisine, and it is simply impossible to stay hungry. But what if you are a tourist or a student? nine0003

A bit about English cuisine

“Good, honest food...”

So, what to eat in England and what you should definitely try? One could say, "Sugar-fried nuts on Westminster Bridge," and that's it. Because at first glance, things are really sad with food in England.

My colleague was leaving on a six-month business trip from Great Britain to France, and an adult man, almost with tears of joy in his eyes, later told how lucky he was that England was at the beginning of the trip. If he had to go to London after Paris, he would not know what to eat at all. And I agree with him: unlike their eternal "friend-enemy" France, where food is prepared for pleasure, in England they believe that "food should be good and honest", i.e. simple and satisfying. So simple that if you look into the cafe in the Tower, you will be quite "delighted" with liver sausages with boiled grated beets. And this is not a stylization of the kitchen of the times of Henry the Eighth. Sauces in English cuisine are minimal. it is believed that they should not drown out the taste of the dish. But at least a drop of mayonnaise would definitely not hurt me! nine0003

However, let's be honest: in damp cool weather, food really should be dense, satisfying, and one croissant for breakfast is not enough here.

All the flags are visiting us

Today's English cuisine is a mix of many different cultures. Since various nationalities flocked to London, and the former colonies rightly went to the capital, it will not be difficult to find a restaurant of Thai, Greek or Iranian cuisine here. For example, there is such a variety of these restaurants on Queensway that you just have to choose what you want to eat: Turkish falafel, Indian curry or Chinese noodles, spending 6-8 EUR (5-7 GBP) for dinner. By the way, some things, like chicken curry, are now considered a traditional English dish, and not an Indian dish at all. nine0003

In London, there is a whole district of China Town, adjacent to Soho, where you can eat deliciously and quite cheaply. The entrance to the area is marked with red lanterns and pillars with a dragon. In the year of Prince William's wedding, a huge screed was hung there with congratulations to the prince and his wife and their photographs. A Peking duck will hang in the windows, and you will have to sit crowded at small tables - there is little space and even food is served by elevator from the lower floor. Soho itself is full of Italian and Spanish cafes where you can have a tasty and hearty meal. At the Camden Lock market, you can easily find Brazilian cochinhas, meat pies. nine0003

English people and cooking

And yet the national English cuisine exists. These are all types of meat: beef, lamb, pork, chicken, fish and potatoes with vegetables for garnish. You can try typical English dishes in national cafes and pubs. The British are still praised for the fact that they have a daily food routine: breakfast, lunch, dinner. However, they are second in the world after the United States in terms of obesity. This is due to fast food and semi-finished products. Of course, the world-famous Jamie Oliver program tells about the secrets of the cuisine of Foggy Albion and advocates healthy eating, but the population honestly watches all the programs, but does not cook. And if he cooks, it's like Bridget Jones at her birthday party - from a recipe book with square eyes, and in the end it will end with scrambled eggs. nine0003

Of course, the grocery store system contributes a lot to this. The fact is that the system of semi-finished products and finished products is very common here. Firstly, in big cities there are many cafes like the Pret a Manger chain, where for 1 pound (1.16 EUR) you will be given two boiled peeled eggs in a box and three spinach leaves on top. More cookies from the shelf, smoothies, so we had a bite. Secondly, in any department store, the shelves with food “Heat me up and dinner is ready in 2 minutes” will be the first to meet you, and the shelves with raw steaks and vegetables will be somewhere in the depths and away from your attention. nine0003

When I went to cook in the university dormitory (on the 1st floor with 8 separate rooms there was one well-equipped kitchen with 2 useless ovens), the local boys looked at me as if at a deity and tenderly asked: “Can you cook?!”. On me, except that the halo did not shine at that moment! True, in order to find a normal roast chicken, I had to try hard and go deep inside huge food halls, but the respect of the English graduate students who tasted the result was worth it. nine0003

The British buy in Tesco supermarkets (analogous to Auchan), in the more expensive Sainsbury's, in the prestigious Marks & Spenser and Selfridges food halls, usually located on the -1 floor. Everyone drops by at Tesco, and there is even a Tesco Express right in front of Big Ben and Parliament. There are also a bunch of small shops run by people from Turkey, Greece, India and even Russia, where you can buy water, yogurt, bread, vegetables and other food.

Breakfast

Traditional breakfast

So, English traditional breakfast is scrambled eggs or any kind of scrambled eggs, fried bacon, sausages, baked tomatoes and champignons, beans in tomato sauce, coffee and juice. And no one cooks it like this on a weekday! The hostess can get confused by a grand breakfast only on the weekend. Agree, at home before work, you also do not boil yourself a porridge and do not make a full breakfast.

A typical English breakfast consists of toast with butter and jam and coffee or a glass of juice. And most often from a box of cereal and milk. Many students who lived in families complained that breakfast was just that or even a jar of canned food. However, the milk here is to be praised. It is really very tasty. I used to not understand the complaints of my English friends abroad that there was no good milk until I tried the local one, even if it was from plastic bottles. It's really delicious! nine0003

Breakfast at the hotel

But if you stay at the hotel , then breakfast will be exactly traditional, as I described above: scrambled eggs, bacon, tomatoes, champignons. The only thing: when ordering a hotel and choosing a meal, you may have 2 options for breakfast - a continental and an English breakfast. Do not skimp on a few pounds and always choose English. Because the continental (French) breakfast consists only of cold dishes: cheese-ham, yoghurts and toast with jam. Oh, and coffee and juice. Practice shows that breakfast is a really important thing, and even more so before a long working or tourist day. You never know where and how you will have to eat next time, so I am for a hearty and hearty English breakfast. nine0003

Oatmeal, sir!

"Where's the oatmeal?" you ask. The traditional porridge seems to be a thing of the past. Rumor has it that it is prepared in the cold season, however, I have never met her either in a hotel, or in a cafe, or in any other place. The only oatmeal I ate in the UK was the one I brought with me in sachets. However, this is convenient, because. in every room in an English hotel there is always a kettle, tea bags, sugar cream and sometimes a small cookie. Tea is so sacred for an Englishman that in the room all tea-drinking utensils are usually provided free of charge. When I didn’t have much time to eat between events, I just popped into my room, brewed oatmeal in a mug, and ran on. nine0003

Breakfast in a cafe

If you are used to having breakfast in a public place and coffee with a croissant will satisfy you, then there are plenty of establishments like Costa Coffee and Nero Caffe at your service. These are chain coffee shops like our Chocolate Girls and Coffee House and there is also nothing special there except coffee, hot chocolate and pastries for 3-6 EUR (2. 5-5 GBP). But they cook deliciously and these establishments are at every step from Soho to Heathrow Airport.

Curiously, Nero Caffe has recently introduced a code for the toilets. Those. to get to the amenities, you need to buy something in a cafe and get a check with a code. This practice exists in other countries: for example, in Italian and Swedish McDonald's. But this tourist problem is solved simply. You can safely drop by McDonald's (English Macs are still free for that matter), Burger King, or a major department store. And if you come across a pub along the way, but you are not going to eat, then you can just leave a little bit of tip. nine0003

Lunch

The second meal in England is lunch . In fact, this is our lunch. True, since at this time everyone is at work-study, they make do with what they take with them or buy at the nearest take-away eatery. Usually it is sushi, sandwiches, some fruit and a drink. Sandwiches are triangular sandwiches with cheese, ham or tuna, lettuce, a slice of tomato and a layer of mayonnaise. It is customary to take all this boxed food with you and go in small companies to the nearest park or, at worst, a square, where everyone sits right on the grass and eats their lunch. nine0003

On weekends, of course, there is a tradition of family gatherings for the Sunday Roast . A family dinner with oven-baked meat usually starts at 2-3 hours after the church service. They also serve baked potatoes and vegetables. The next day, zealous Englishmen collect the remnants of the Sunday feast, pour over the egg and get something like a casserole called "Bubble & Squeak" (bubbles and squeaks). Sometimes this is served even in a pub, but I did not dare to try this “dish”.

So, for us, lunch time is still the time for a full meal. Therefore, after polite snacks with friends on the grass, I usually rushed to eat normally. You can dine in a European way in the Italian Bella Italia or the French Cafe Rouge. These are chain cafes spread all over England and they have traditional lunches for a fixed price. Those. you can choose a salad or soup, one of the 2 main courses offered, a drink and a sweet. For such a dinner, you will have to pay 15-19 EUR (13-17 GBP).

For authentic English food, head to Pub . Fish&chips, steaks, beer and dessert are traditionally served here.

In the menu of any pub you can find:

As you can see, English desserts are a pretty dense thing. For coffee and more refined sweets, you will have to go to a French pastisserie or a Turkish cafe.

In general, it is best to have a good meal in a pub before 5 o'clock. The British start early and finish early. Perhaps, the effect is that business Europe and the East start much earlier. Be that as it may, at 5 p.m. the pubs begin to fill up with local people who want to have a drink or two after work and discuss the latest news. nine0003

It will immediately become noisy and possibly smoky. However, most of the people stand on the street in front of the bar with glasses in their hands. A pub is generally such a place of English social life. If an Englishman invited you to a pub without friends, then this is regarded as a full-fledged date with quite serious intentions. When a local womanizer-graduate student received from me a turn at the dance from the gate a couple of times, he decided to conquer me by going to the pub together. However, I did not have time, since I was already packing my bags for the morning flight and preferred a solitary evening walk along Regent Street, looking at the windows and walking people. nine0003

However, daily trips to the pub with a full meal still hit the wallet. In this case, you can look at all sorts of fast food cafes :

Tea

At 5 pm, while the bars fill with ale lovers, another tradition is celebrated throughout the city - "5 o'clock ". The tradition of drinking tea at 5 pm originated a long time ago from a rather large gap between lunch and dinner. Once a royal trick to eat bypassing the palace ceremonial has turned into a whole ritual. In fact, this is our usual afternoon snack. Only, I dare say, it turns out to be much denser than kefir with a cookie and can pass for a full meal. For the British, this is another social outlet, where it is customary to dress discreetly, but not in jeans. It is said that the five o'clock tea is observed mainly by older ladies. But, nevertheless, any decent hotel serves tea daily. And, therefore, this tradition is still alive and in demand. In well-known places, it is better to book a table in advance. nine0003

The teas are not very strong, and for appetizers on the sideboard are served cucumber sandwich, scones with jam and cream, cheesecake or apple pie with English cream. An English cream is a French blancmange, a Spanish catalana cream, and, simply put, a cream of cream. Sweet can serve a variety of things, but usually in sufficient quantities to get enough. The restaurant in the famous department store Fortnum & Mason serves a table for two from 93 EUR (80 GBP). One will cost half as much, but there may not be a table, because. they are usually booked in advance. nine0003

The best hotels in London always serve 5 o'clock for guests and just guests from the street. True, a five-hour tea in the historical walls will cost a decent amount:

Good hotels are great because you can freely visit restaurants and cafes on the ground floor. how much will it cost you. In general, reading the menu at the door and looking at the prices in the UK is considered quite normal. However, if your friend invites you home in England for tea, then most likely it will be a full dinner, because now it is customary to call dinner that way. nine0003

Borough Market

There is a place in London called Borough Market, a gloomy market under iron arches in the area of ​​the Shard skyscraper. It was located literally under the subway tracks and the wall of the church in the not very prosperous Southwark area. But in the 13th century, they didn’t even dream of a metro, and the market already existed. Now many gourmets from London and beyond flock here.

Opening hours:

But trading may end earlier, so it is advisable to come here in the morning. The easiest way to get there is by metro, the nearest station is London Bridge, address: Southwark street, 8.

The fact is that in this market you can taste and buy real farm products, find exactly the traditional food that is prepared throughout England, Scotland and Wales according to the old recipes of grandmothers and great-grandmothers. England is famous for its cheeses, in no way inferior to France in this. It is almost impossible to find farm cheese in stores due to ministerial delays, but Borough Market has the whole color of English cheese making. nine0003

Here you can find various smoked meats, traditional meat and sweet pies, Scotch Egg (Scotch egg in minced meat and breadcrumbs), homemade pates, jams, Scottish heather honey and Cornish honey ice cream. Come here hungry and with cash. In addition to the fact that you can taste the tasting, among the hundreds of stalls there are those that sell ready-made food. And this is not only an English meat pie, but also Chinese noodles, and an American burger, and Turkish falafel. By the way, in the middle of the market there is an excellent Turkish delight shop of various tastes. I could not resist my favorite sweet, but large pieces weigh heavily and, taking a little bit, you can give 17-23 EUR (15-20 GBP). nine0003

They either eat on the go or go down to the small courtyard of the Southwark Cathedral church adjacent to the market, where they sit on stone slabs and gobble up what they have bought. By the way, once in the end of the 18th century, the church encroached on the territory of the market, but the inhabitants of the area chipped in and bought the land under it. The market has its own administration, which sets its own requirements for products, an order of magnitude higher than the usual market ones.

There is a fresh vegetable and fruit, fresh meat and fish department where you can buy wild Scottish salmon or Welsh domestic duck. You can also try Irish oysters - and all this will be very fresh. There are also products from the continent on the market: grapes from Provence, olive oil from Greece, Parma ham and parmesan. The market is designed primarily for the Londoners themselves. Here you can taste both ale and homemade cider - those drinks that are allowed to be sold on tap in such places. nine0003

So, we have already talked about pubs, markets, and the famous five-o-clock, but we haven’t really talked about the drinks that accompany these meals here and are definitely worth a try:

Last but not least

Of course, English cuisine has earned a reputation for being simple and crude, and at first you may think that there really is nothing to eat on the island. However, you quickly realize that the weather conditions really require good and unpretentious food, and the joy of simple pleasures like an apple Cornish pie can be no less than from bouchet and profiteroles. After a week, you just get sucked into the local diet and start wondering about “those picky people from the mainland” and myths about oatmeal. nine0003

So feel free to come to London and other English cities! You won't go hungry, and the list of new favorites may include very unexpected dishes like Scotch eggs and black pudding.

8 wooden kitchens that exude warmth and comfort — INMYROOM

We are used to seeing porcelain stoneware or tiles “ pig ” in the kitchen, and experiments with the color palette of sets can be listed endlessly. However, we want to remind you that the use of wood in the interior is one of the main trends today, and interesting solutions can also be implemented in the kitchen. We have collected modern and beautiful spaces with wood: from window frames to furniture and kitchen islands. nine0003

Muswell Hill house, UK

Architecture for London has transformed a dilapidated home into a modern, energy efficient home using materials such as wood, stone and lime plaster. I would like to pay special attention to the bright and spacious kitchen.

Here light oak furniture contrasts with gray limestone lamps. The studio also retained the original wooden roof to highlight the structure's modest beauty. nine0003

Photo: dezeen.com

Surf House, USA

The exterior of the American "Surf House" is made from wood by Bureau Feldman Architecture . This warm material was also chosen for the kitchen overlooking the Pacific Ocean: here you will see stunning wood paneling. The interior is designed to fit in with the surroundings: the cypress tree has become the center of the design.

In the kitchen, the worktops, the stove wall and the wooden kitchen island are framed in black marble, creating a striking contrast with the warm wood. nine0003

Photo: dezeen.com

Curve Appeal, UK

The name of the London house speaks volumes: it owes its name to the opulent interiors. The 1920s building was restored by a team of architects from Nimtim Architects. The authors of the project used multifunctional partitions built from plywood.

The kitchen has wonderful decorative arches that make the space flow more smoothly, while ball and crescent lamps add their own zest. Thanks to well-chosen decor, the kitchen does not look empty or too simple. nine0003

Photo: dezeen.com

Hood Cliff Retreat, USA

The wooden interior of the Hood Cliff Retreat matches the scenery perfectly: the holiday home is located in the coastal forest of the Pacific Northwest. American studio Wittman Estes designed the interior using simple details and a restrained palette of materials, including pine plywood.

In the kitchen, the countertops are made from wood collected from an old hut that used to stand on the property. It seems that this kind of reuse is worth learning. nine0003

Photo: dezeen.com

Coopworth farmhouse, Australia

This spacious farmhouse in Tasmania is designed to evoke rural traditional buildings. At the same time, the interior is quite spectacular: plywood lining helped. The ceilings follow the angled line of the roof, and the wool from the farm was used for insulation.

In the kitchen and living room, wood was used for furniture and a kitchen island, as well as for a low table next to the wood-burning stove, on which there are three sculptural vases. nine0003

Photo: dezeen.com

Fjord Boat House, Denmark

Fjord Boat House's ebony-clad interior features a warm palette of materials. Oak walls and cabinets, as well as handmade ceramic brick floors, catch the eye. The architectural bureau Norm Architects was responsible for the stylish and close to nature project.

The oak paneling pairs beautifully with the wood dining table and chairs in the kitchen, while a large pendant lamp, made by Norm Architects in collaboration with Japanese brand Kojima Shouten, hangs above the table and adds an organic touch. nine0003

Photo: dezeen.com

Ti Clara, Portugal

The combination of stone flooring and countertops with a wooden wall in this Portuguese kitchen creates an original contrast of materials and gives the room a more luxurious feel.

According to architecture studio Atelier Espaço P2, the kitchen, set in a recessed wooden space created under a gable ceiling, is finished with wood and stone to create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

Photo: dezeen.com

Point Lonsdale House, Australia

Point Lonsdale House is the work of Edition Office. The kitchen and living room have a common motif - the natural texture of the wood looks just great and makes the interior warmer and more comfortable.

Learn more