Play with PATTERN
If you’re going for a neutral base, introducing pattern is a great way to lift a space. The trend for bringing elements of living and dining rooms into kitchens has made this so much easier, creating scope for playing with soft furnishings and artworks (tread carefully if your units are a strong colour, though).
Kitchens play host to lots of furniture and finishes, and you need them to be practical – this means placement is key to making pattern work. Reserve it for areas that aren’t at risk from frequent drips and splashes, and choose a finish that can withstand steam and be wiped clean easily.
Whichever area you decide to enhance – splashbacks and floors are functional choices, as are textiles in the dining area – plan ahead for best results. Make a moodboard of fabric, tile and wallpaper swatches with samples of your worktops, paint colours and the finish on your units, so you can see how the tones work together. To prevent your kitchen from looking fussy, stick to a palette of no more than three shades, and be aware that large-scale prints need much gentler handling than small ones. With the former, restrict them to one area, but the latter can be used to add interest around the room.
Lastly, don’t discount the potential of wallpaper. It used to be a no-no, but modern vinyl finishes resist moisture and peeling. Look for washable designs – properly applied, they can last for years, and they’re easier to change than tiles.