✱curved edges
Roundness in some way or other – squashy forms, arched shapes or oversized elements – has been coming to a home near you for quite a while, a trend that’s so far dominated furniture design, decorating and accessories. Now the heart of the home is getting involved, with the kitchen’s classical ‘hard’ surfaces taking a softer, curvier turn as the space incorporates its new role as a place of calm and a place to socialise. The contrast between a rounded kitchen surface and the traditional hard right angle is dramatic. A curved edge invites you to run a hand along it, while a 90-degree angle hints at the potential to bump into it. ‘Softer forms in the kitchen are appealing because they exude luxury and sophistication,’ confirms Emma Cowburn, kitchen designer at Harvey Jones. ‘They are more ergonomic and feel more natural to use, while aesthetically every viewpoint is taken care of, rather than creating abrupt stops.’