Skip to content

The big you can do it sale has landed. Shop unmissable deals online & in store this spring

B&Q ClubCustomer supportSell on diy.com

25 kitchen design ideas

By Ellie Reeves | 9th January 2025 | 8 min read

On the hunt for kitchen design inspiration? Whether you’re planning a bold transformation or just looking for ways to refresh your space, we’ve got plenty of ideas for your kitchen design. From soothing pastels to vintage-inspired charm, there’s something here for every taste. Let’s get started, shall we?

Small kitchen with black upper cabinets and wooden base cabinets.Small kitchen with black upper cabinets and wooden base cabinets.Small kitchen with black upper cabinets and wooden base cabinets.Small kitchen with black upper cabinets and wooden base cabinets.

1. Mix and match cabinet colours

Why settle for just one colour when you can mix it up? Combine deep navy with soft grey or try a two-tone look with crisp white upper cabinets and bold charcoal bases. It's all about balance, so make sure the tones complement each other for a cohesive feel.

Large pink fitted shaker style kitchen with white worktops, wooden flooring and a wooden dining table.Large pink fitted shaker style kitchen with white worktops, wooden flooring and a wooden dining table.Large pink fitted shaker style kitchen with white worktops, wooden flooring and a wooden dining table.Large pink fitted shaker style kitchen with white worktops, wooden flooring and a wooden dining table.

2. Shaker style charm

Shaker cabinets have timeless appeal. Their simple, clean lines make them ideal for a variety of styles, from modern to rustic. Try them in muted tones for a laid-back, Scandinavian-inspired look, or go bold with deep hues for something a bit more dramatic.

White and wooden industrial style kitchen with exposed brick walls, open shelving and black accents.White and wooden industrial style kitchen with exposed brick walls, open shelving and black accents.White and wooden industrial style kitchen with exposed brick walls, open shelving and black accents.White and wooden industrial style kitchen with exposed brick walls, open shelving and black accents.

3. Go industrial with exposed shelving

If you love that warehouse-chic vibe, why not add exposed shelving to your kitchen? Pair it with a reclaimed wooden worktop and rustic brick walls to create an industrial feel that’s both practical and striking.

Medium cream shaker-style kitchen with light wooden floors and brass accents.Medium cream shaker-style kitchen with light wooden floors and brass accents.Medium cream shaker-style kitchen with light wooden floors and brass accents.Medium cream shaker-style kitchen with light wooden floors and brass accents.

4. Scandi simplicity

Keep it simple and functional with Scandinavian-inspired design. Light woods, white cabinetry, and minimalist features create a bright and airy feel. Plus, the design prioritises functionality, so it's easy to keep everything organised. Love the Scandinavian look? Our Scandi kitchen ideas will help you create a space that’s stylish and serene.

Small pastel pink kitchen with gold handles and tap, and light blue walls.Small pastel pink kitchen with gold handles and tap, and light blue walls.Small pastel pink kitchen with gold handles and tap, and light blue walls.Small pastel pink kitchen with gold handles and tap, and light blue walls.

5. Soft pastels for a relaxing vibe

Light pinks, soft greens, and buttery yellows – pastel tones bring a calming feel to any kitchen. Pair pastel walls with white cabinetry or make a statement with pastel-painted cabinets for a soft yet stylish space. For more colour inspiration, don’t miss our roundup of kitchen colour ideas to find your perfect palette.

Large white and cream kitchen with black statement kitchen island.Large white and cream kitchen with black statement kitchen island.Large white and cream kitchen with black statement kitchen island.Large white and cream kitchen with black statement kitchen island.

6. Add a pop of colour with your island

Your kitchen island doesn’t have to be the same as the rest of your cabinets. Choose a bold hue like emerald green, burnt orange, or deep charcoal to make the island the centrepiece of your kitchen. It’s a playful and eye-catching design choice. Dreaming of a statement island? Check out our kitchen island ideas for inspiration.

Modern kitchen with dark teal tiled walls and wooden wall panelling extending up to the ceiling.Modern kitchen with dark teal tiled walls and wooden wall panelling extending up to the ceiling.Modern kitchen with dark teal tiled walls and wooden wall panelling extending up to the ceiling.Modern kitchen with dark teal tiled walls and wooden wall panelling extending up to the ceiling.

7. Statement wall panelling

Panelling adds texture and visual interest. Choose tongue-and-groove, shiplap, or even board-and-batten to bring a rustic, coastal, or vintage vibe to your kitchen. White panelling with contrasting dark wood features adds a lovely balance. Fancy some more wall panelling ideas? Check out our article!

Vintage style kitchen with blue and white gingham check wallpaper, blue floral blinds, and marble worktop.Vintage style kitchen with blue and white gingham check wallpaper, blue floral blinds, and marble worktop.Vintage style kitchen with blue and white gingham check wallpaper, blue floral blinds, and marble worktop.Vintage style kitchen with blue and white gingham check wallpaper, blue floral blinds, and marble worktop.

8. Vintage-inspired designs

Take a trip back in time with vintage-inspired kitchen designs. Think retro appliances, floral curtains, patterned tiles, and gingham wallpaper. Perfect for anyone who loves a bit of nostalgia in their space!

Dark green and cream large country style kitchen with wooden beams and a large kitchen island.Dark green and cream large country style kitchen with wooden beams and a large kitchen island.Dark green and cream large country style kitchen with wooden beams and a large kitchen island.Dark green and cream large country style kitchen with wooden beams and a large kitchen island.

9. Traditional cottage-style kitchens

For those who love that cosy, countryside charm, a cottage-style kitchen is the way to go. Incorporate wood beams, a range cooker, and plenty of open shelving to create a warm, welcoming feel. Explore our country kitchen design ideas and bring your cottage-style kitchen to life!

Large white and blue modern kitchen with handleless gloss cabinetry and a large breakfast bar.Large white and blue modern kitchen with handleless gloss cabinetry and a large breakfast bar.Large white and blue modern kitchen with handleless gloss cabinetry and a large breakfast bar.Large white and blue modern kitchen with handleless gloss cabinetry and a large breakfast bar.

10. Minimalist modern kitchen

Minimalist kitchens are all about clean lines and calm vibes. Think handleless high-gloss cabinets, integrated appliances, and a soothing neutral palette. It’s the perfect recipe for a clutter-free cooking space that feels effortlessly chic. Looking for more kitchen inspiration? Check out our guide to modern kitchen ideas for sleek and stylish designs.

White and wooden kitchen with white walls, white cabinets, wooden worktops, wooden handles, and wooden flooring.White and wooden kitchen with white walls, white cabinets, wooden worktops, wooden handles, and wooden flooring.White and wooden kitchen with white walls, white cabinets, wooden worktops, wooden handles, and wooden flooring.White and wooden kitchen with white walls, white cabinets, wooden worktops, wooden handles, and wooden flooring.

11. Classic white and wood combination

The perfect blend of light and natural textures. White walls paired with wood cabinetry create a balanced, clean look. Plus, you can dress it up or down as you wish, depending on your chosen accessories and finishes.

Pink and blue kitchen with pink walls, blue cabinetry, and a small breakfast bar.Pink and blue kitchen with pink walls, blue cabinetry, and a small breakfast bar.Pink and blue kitchen with pink walls, blue cabinetry, and a small breakfast bar.Pink and blue kitchen with pink walls, blue cabinetry, and a small breakfast bar.

12. Maximise vertical storage

Take your storage solutions to new heights with tall cabinets that reach the ceiling. This not only gives you more storage space but also creates a sense of grandeur and openness, especially in smaller kitchens. Need tips on making the most of your space? Our kitchen storage ideas article has you covered.

Modern dark green kitchen with black lighting, black tap, and black cabinet handles.Modern dark green kitchen with black lighting, black tap, and black cabinet handles.Modern dark green kitchen with black lighting, black tap, and black cabinet handles.Modern dark green kitchen with black lighting, black tap, and black cabinet handles.

13. Bold black accents

Black is bold, dramatic, and full of style. Incorporate black in the form of your cabinets, light fixtures, or even a statement backsplash. It adds an instant modern touch without feeling overwhelming. Discover the beauty of black in the kitchen with our black kitchen ideas – bold and effortlessly modern.

Blue kitchen with open shelving and a ceramic white Belfast sink.Blue kitchen with open shelving and a ceramic white Belfast sink.Blue kitchen with open shelving and a ceramic white Belfast sink.Blue kitchen with open shelving and a ceramic white Belfast sink.

14. Belfast sink for added charm

A Belfast sink is a classic feature that adds both style and practicality to your kitchen. Its deep basin makes washing up a breeze, and its vintage-inspired design brings a timeless feel to your space.

Sage green kitchen with wooden worktops and open shelving.Sage green kitchen with wooden worktops and open shelving.Sage green kitchen with wooden worktops and open shelving.Sage green kitchen with wooden worktops and open shelving.

15. Open shelving for easy access

Love your kitchenware? Show it off with open shelving. It's perfect for creating an easy, laid-back vibe and ensures everything you need is within arm's reach. Just keep it organised to avoid clutter!

Large white kitchen with white cabinets with glass fronted doors, and brass accents.Large white kitchen with white cabinets with glass fronted doors, and brass accents.Large white kitchen with white cabinets with glass fronted doors, and brass accents.Large white kitchen with white cabinets with glass fronted doors, and brass accents.

16. Sleek glass-fronted cabinets

If you’re after something a little more refined, glass-fronted cabinets are an elegant way to showcase your wares. Display your favourite crockery, glassware, or even cookbooks. Pair with soft lighting for a subtle glow that highlights your beautiful pieces.

White kitchen with statement blue herringbone pattern tiled splashback.White kitchen with statement blue herringbone pattern tiled splashback.White kitchen with statement blue herringbone pattern tiled splashback.White kitchen with statement blue herringbone pattern tiled splashback.

17. Colourful tile splashbacks

Brighten up your kitchen with a colourful tile backsplash. Whether it’s geometric patterns, floral designs, or solid colours, it's a simple and effective way to bring personality to your kitchen. Thinking of a new backsplash? Our kitchen splashback ideas are packed with creative designs to inspire you.

Large kitchen with dark green cabinets, black walls, black worktops and splashback, and a large breakfast bar.Large kitchen with dark green cabinets, black walls, black worktops and splashback, and a large breakfast bar.Large kitchen with dark green cabinets, black walls, black worktops and splashback, and a large breakfast bar.Large kitchen with dark green cabinets, black walls, black worktops and splashback, and a large breakfast bar.

18. Dark and moody aesthetics

For a sophisticated, atmospheric vibe, go for dark cabinetry with rich wood or stone countertops. Deep hues like midnight blue, charcoal grey, or forest green create a luxurious, grown-up kitchen look.

Blue and white kitchen with tile effect kitchen wallpaper.Blue and white kitchen with tile effect kitchen wallpaper.Blue and white kitchen with tile effect kitchen wallpaper.Blue and white kitchen with tile effect kitchen wallpaper.

19. Experiment with kitchen wallpaper

Who says wallpaper is just for living rooms and bedrooms? Add personality to your kitchen with bold patterns, colourful prints, or textured designs. Our kitchen wallpaper is wipeable for easy maintenance. Perfect for those inevitable kitchen splashes! Check out our kitchen wallpaper ideas.

Large white and wooden kitchen with big windows and a large kitchen island.Large white and wooden kitchen with big windows and a large kitchen island.Large white and wooden kitchen with big windows and a large kitchen island.Large white and wooden kitchen with big windows and a large kitchen island.

20. Maximise light with large windows

Natural light is key to making any kitchen feel bigger and more welcoming. If possible, install large windows or even bi-fold doors to bring the outdoors in and make the space feel expansive and airy.

Large white handleless kitchen with layered lighting - task lighting, LED strips on plinths, and statement pendant lights.Large white handleless kitchen with layered lighting - task lighting, LED strips on plinths, and statement pendant lights.Large white handleless kitchen with layered lighting - task lighting, LED strips on plinths, and statement pendant lights.Large white handleless kitchen with layered lighting - task lighting, LED strips on plinths, and statement pendant lights.

21. High-performance lighting

Think beyond just overhead lights. Add task lighting under cabinets, over the island, and inside your cupboards. Dimmable lighting allows you to set the right mood for cooking, dining, or entertaining. Brighten up your space with tips from our kitchen lighting ideas.

White kitchen with potted plants on shelves and a trailing plant hanging from the ceiling.White kitchen with potted plants on shelves and a trailing plant hanging from the ceiling.White kitchen with potted plants on shelves and a trailing plant hanging from the ceiling.White kitchen with potted plants on shelves and a trailing plant hanging from the ceiling.

22. Bring in nature with greenery

A bit of greenery can transform your kitchen into a lively, welcoming space. Hang trailing plants for a relaxed vibe, line up potted herbs on the windowsill, or place a statement fern in the corner. Not only do they add colour and texture, but they also bring a breath of fresh air – quite literally!

Open plan kitchen with white marble effect flooring in kitchen and wooden laminate flooring in the living area.Open plan kitchen with white marble effect flooring in kitchen and wooden laminate flooring in the living area.Open plan kitchen with white marble effect flooring in kitchen and wooden laminate flooring in the living area.Open plan kitchen with white marble effect flooring in kitchen and wooden laminate flooring in the living area.

23. Create zones with flooring

Create a visual distinction between your kitchen’s zones by using different flooring materials. For example, use tiles in the cooking area and wood flooring in the dining space. It’s a great way to visually break up an open plan kitchen. Head over to our open plan kitchen ideas for tips on creating functional, flowing spaces.

Large blue kitchen with statement blue pendant lights over the kitchen island dining area.Large blue kitchen with statement blue pendant lights over the kitchen island dining area.Large blue kitchen with statement blue pendant lights over the kitchen island dining area.Large blue kitchen with statement blue pendant lights over the kitchen island dining area.

24. Statement pendant lights

Good lighting isn’t just practical – it’s a chance to make a statement. Oversized pendant lights above your island or dining table can turn heads while setting the tone for your space. Whether you opt for sleek metallics, bold colours, or textured glass, the right choice will add plenty of character and charm to your kitchen.

Black kitchen with wooden worktops and a statement gold effect hexagon tiled splashback.Black kitchen with wooden worktops and a statement gold effect hexagon tiled splashback.Black kitchen with wooden worktops and a statement gold effect hexagon tiled splashback.Black kitchen with wooden worktops and a statement gold effect hexagon tiled splashback.

25. Metallic accents for glam

If you want to add a touch of glamour, incorporate metallic accents. Think copper effect taps, gold effect handles, or even a metallic backsplash. This helps bring warmth and shine into your kitchen, making it feel both luxurious and inviting.