From concealed appliances to sociable islands and seating areas, the emphasis is firmly on making kitchens work harder without compromising on style.
Local specialists, Parker Kitchens in Towcester have revealed the biggest trends shaping kitchen design in 2026 in a brand new guide available to homeowners.
The guide highlights the styles, features and layouts expected to grow in popularity over the coming year.
The trends reflect changing lifestyles with kitchens increasingly designed as multifunctional spaces rather then rooms used purely for cooking.
“We are seeing a clear shift towards kitchens feeling warm, lived in and homely, rather than designed simply to look good in photographs,” said Darren, Managing Director at Parker Kitchens, Towcester.
“Homeowners want spaces that support everyday family life, socialising and working from home, while still feeling timeless and well crafted.”
According to Parker Kitchens, homeowners are moving away from stark, minimalist interiors in favour of warmer, more welcoming spaces. Natural materials, softer finishes and thoughtful lighting are becoming more central to modern kitchens.
The guide highlights the trends set to define kitchens next year. A few excerpts from the guide are:
🔶 1. Colours are getting softer and warmer
The big move is away from cool greys and stark contrasts towards more natural shades with softer neutrals and warmer palettes — including taupe, stone, ochre, clay and olive‑inspired tones. These hues make kitchens feel welcoming and timeless rather than cold or clinical.
Greens with depth is still a standout, but the 2026 version is richer and more grown up. Dustier, paler blues are replacing deep navy giving colour that feels more relaxed.
🔶 2. Door styles: slimmer with more texture.
Shaker is not going anywhere but is evolving. The ‘super skinny Shaker look’ gives definition without feeling heavy.
🔶 3. Smarter storage solutions and flexible layouts
Storage trends in 2026 are all about removing clutter from view and making kitchens feel more organised.
Flexible lay-outs designed to suit busy households, remote working and entertaining are also highlighted. From concealed appliances to sociable islands and seating areas, the emphasis is firmly on making kitchens work harder without compromising on style.
Bench seating with storage is growing in popularity because it’s practical and makes the room feel more cosy.
🔶 4. Appliances: smarter, tidier and more multi-functional.
Induction hobs are continuing to replace gas in 2026 kitchens because they make everyday cooking quicker, cleaner and more controlled.
🔶 5. Lighting is more concealed
Kitchens are being lit more like living rooms, with layers rather than one central ceiling fitting. Expect to see under-cabinet lighting, plinth lights and display cabinet lighting for feature areas.
“These trends show that people want kitchens that work beautifully day‑to‑day and feel like an extension of their home’s style,” added Darren.
For the full kitchen design trends guide 2026 visit: https://parkerkitchens.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-design-trends/
ABOUT PARKER KITCHENS
Parker Kitchens is a Towcester-based, independent kitchen specialist providing a fully project-managed service from design through installation. Cabinetry is made to measure in their Towcester workshop, and projects are delivered with clear communication, tidy working and a structured handover.
Parker Kitchens can be found at The Old Cattle Market, Watling Street, Towcester NN12 6HN. Visit their website at https://parkerkitchens.co.uk/