Stylist Lauren Olive Photography Helen Bankers
An all-white kitchen is like a nude mani-pedi – a trusted, long-term classic. But it’s always fun to switch things up a little. A kitchen facelift will breathe new life into your home. Whether it’s finally treating yourself to that new fridge, swapping out your dated kettle or investing in some gorgeous new kitchen stools, there’s no better time than the present.
If you’re considering adding a splash of colour to your existing white space, but not sure where to start, we’ve got you covered with these four trending looks.
1. It-girl green kitchen
Green is the colour on everyone’s paintbrushes right now – we just can’t get enough of the stuff. “Soft greens are making a big impact this year,” says Jane Hawksworth of Kitchen & Interior Co.
If you’re wary of committing to the full-on green look, it’s smart to start small and build momentum along the way. Plants are an obvious go-to but, if you really want to level up, herb pots are a chic and useful addition to your kitchen. There’s nothing like a flourishing pot of basil to fragrance your tomato girl summer.
Then, of course, brands like Citta, Father Rabbit and Kmart are leading the game in green glassware and plates. Colours like off-white, gold and smoky grey also lend themselves to complementing tones of sage and olive.
Easy updates:
Green party
Green is an incredibly accommodating – and calming – colour in the kitchen. Instead of sticking to one particular shade, don’t be afraid to mix olive green with vibrant emerald and a range of other leafy hues, just as Mother Nature does in the outdoor environment.
All glass
Place a set of jewel-like green glasses on a sunny window sill in your kitchen to catch the light and the eye.
Planting season
Plants do double-duty in a green kitchen, complementing the colour theme but also adding a welcome living element.
Pro tip: Keep expensive fittings, such as pendant lights, neutral and change the mood with accessories.
2. Coastal-style kitchen
Grab your sunhat, we’re going to the Hamptons.
The contemporary beachcomber look is warm and welcoming, with comfy seating and soft elements paired alongside tidy blues and greens. “White kitchens are being balanced out by the addition of timber elements and textures,” says Jane. Timber or cane bar stools are an obvious introduction, but don’t be afraid to look at your light shades too.
A statement fruit bowl is a must, ideally something that mimics coral or seashells with natural, organic shapes. Swap in some blue glassware, rattan baskets and something striped, for good measure.
“White kitchens are being balanced out by the addition of timber elements and textures.” – Jane Hawksworth
Easy updates:
Wear it well
Switch out your tired old knobs, pulls and hardware for brass or simple white knobs.
Streamline whiteware
Hide your appliances for a seamless holiday feel. Integrate the fridge, go minimal with an induction hob and either conceal the rangehood, or go for a sleek modern style.
Define areas
Place a rug under the bar stools to define the kitchen zone. For a relaxed coastal vibe, go for natural coir or textured jute.
3. Colour-pop kitchen
With such an array of fun kitchen cookware and accessories out there on the market, there’s no excuse not to add some colour to an all-white space. We’re talking pink toasters, orange Dutch ovens, blue teapots and more. Jonathan Adler, Smeg, Marimekko and Dusen Dusen are all brands that specialise in hearty doses of whimsy when it comes to the kitchen.
When in doubt, a patterned tea towel or two can pack a punch. Dust off those recipe books to showcase them prominently and, of course, a beautiful bunch of flowers will never go astray.
“You can easily update a drab white kitchen by wrapping your cabinet fronts with a vinyl adhesive or getting them spray painted,” says Laura Heynike of Pocket Space Interiors. “Alternatively, just updating the splashback with a pattern or colour, which can uplift a kitchen instantly.”
Plenty of renter-friendly DIY options offer a light touch, from vinyl tiles to peel-and-stick wallpaper. Frame your favourite prints and use them to inspire your next culinary adventures.
Instant updates:
Good times
The thing about a riot of colour is that anything goes with everything, so don’t overthink whether your pink toaster goes with your orange cast iron.
Extra, extra
A mandarin dishcloth, a set of clashing tins and even a silly kitsch tiger trivet will all give you small moments of joy at the end of the day. Choose little extras that make you smile.
Unleash your inner child
Before long you’ll be wanting ice cream for breakfast or love-heart pancakes. Stock your kitchen with appliances to enable these flights of fancy.
3. Earth-tones kitchen
If you’ve been loving wabi-sabi style recently, this one’s for you. This kitchen makeover is all about mindful decorating, using calming neutrals and textured elements in interesting and thoughtful ways. Opt for handmade pottery over mass-manufactured stuff, avoiding bright plastics in favour of porcelain, wood and natural materials.
“Soft natural elements are coming through now,” says Jane. “Natural stone and travertine-inspired porcelain offer gentle linear veins, and timber veneers are inspired by earthy hues in warm tones and soft matte finishes.”
Be sure to include a wide spectrum of neutral colours, from taupe to ivory and pistachio, so your kitchen doesn’t end up looking too early-2000s beige.
Instant updates:
Lots of pots:
Pottery is the obvious choice with an earthy theme. Look for handmade organic bowls and cups, as well as large fruit bowls. The warmth of ceramics can’t be beat.
Shop your cupboards:
Before you head out shopping, check your cupboards for rustic everyday items, such as well-scrubbed chopping boards and wooden spoons, which you can put on display.
Props to arts:
Lean a print or a piece of art in appropriately earthy tones against the splashback to provide an unstudied look.
Related articles:
- 12 vibrant kitchens that bring a burst of colour to your home
- Everything you need to host the ultimate wine-and-cheese night
- How to organise a fridge: 4 tips for storing your food
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