Dark kitchens have moved beyond trend status to become a confident, enduring choice. In spaces where form and function must work in tandem, deeper palettes provide a refined backdrop for daily life; practical, hard-wearing and quietly dramatic.
Discover how Roundhouse are delivering dark kitchens, the bold new sign of true luxury.
Black kitchens offer clarity and composure. Deep tones simplify the visual field, letting proportion, shadow and material take the lead. They frame veining in stone, make metals read as intentional highlights, and sit comfortably in both period and contemporary settings. With layered lighting and tactile finishes, black feels less “statement” and more a quietly confident backdrop to daily life.
In the Lipman project, that approach is distilled into a calm, material-led scheme cabinetry in matt black is paired with black-stained, rough-sawn oak, honed Antique Nero granite, and walnut-lined interiors, with a concealed larder keeping elevations composed. Roundhouse’s kitchen bridged the original home and its zinc-clad extension and was named Livingetc’s “Best Kitchen Design” for 2025.
From deep graphite to soft charcoal, dark grey provides a versatile foundation for luxury kitchen schemes. It pairs elegantly with pale worktops for layered tonality and takes on a jewellery-like quality when set against metallic accents. For clients who prefer a softer contrast, pastels and natural neutrals introduce warmth without diluting the overall depth.
In the Stephens project, Classic doors hand-painted in Farrow & Ball “Hopper Head” are balanced with fluted-glass wall cabinets and walnut-veneered interiors—an inviting composition that reads both tailored and welcoming.
Emerald, verdant and racing-green tones bring a natural depth that flatters texture and metalwork. A matt-lacquered kitchen in an earthy near-black green, paired with burnished copper and a monochrome worktop, creates a crisp silhouette with strong architectural lines. Crucially, dark green proves as effective in traditional settings as it is in contemporary ones, its inherent warmth works hard alongside timber, stone and patinated finishes.
The Cheung project demonstrates how deep green elevates classic detailing, with proportion and joinery doing as much of the talking as colour. For clients seeking a more accessible route, the Roundhouse Studio Collection includes a Forest Green shade, offering similar impact.
Deep navy, royal and midnight blues are a sophisticated alternative to black or charcoal, often chosen to encourage a composed, restful atmosphere, useful in family kitchens and open-plan spaces. Blues also excel at framing warm metals and softly reflective surfaces.
In the Fawnbrake kitchen, Hague Blue matt-lacquer cabinetry is offset with antique-copper splashbacks and shelving. The result is serene yet characterful, demonstrating how considered material contrast lends depth without visual noise.
If colour-blocked doors aren’t the brief, dark-stained veneers provide an equally striking route while showcasing grain, texture and craftsmanship. The tonal variance and tactility of timber add warmth and longevity to darker schemes, particularly when book-matching or end-grain details are used to express making.
The Brooks project with its dark-stained, book-matched veneer, delivers a calm, cohesive space that feels robust and welcoming. Proof that a dark palette can be family-friendly as well as refined.
Dark kitchens succeed when they are personal: tuned to the architecture, the client’s routine and the material language of the home. With thoughtful specification and well-resolved detailing, a darker palette offers longevity, performance and a quietly luxurious presence. Design that works beautifully, day after day.
About Roundhouse Design Ltd
Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.
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In today’s fast-paced world, our home environment plays a vital role in supporting our overall wellbeing. From mental clarity to physical health, the spaces we live in deeply influence how we feel and function each day. By thoughtfully shaping our surroundings, we can create a home that nurtures and restores us.
GI Design has provided several reasons why a supportive home environment is essential to wellbeing.
Home should be a sanctuary, a place where we feel protected and at ease. When we feel secure in our surroundings, both physically and emotionally, we are better able to relax and recharge. A supportive, calm, and respectful household can greatly reduce stress and promote a sense of emotional balance.
Our homes can have a powerful impact on our daily routines and choices. A well organised kitchen can make healthy cooking more convenient and enjoyable. Creating dedicated spaces for movement, such as a corner for yoga or a peaceful spot for meditation, encourages regular physical activity. Even small changes like keeping fresh produce visible or setting up a daily hydration station can support healthier behaviours.
By intentionally designing our home to support wellbeing, we set ourselves up to make more positive choices effortlessly.
Cluttered spaces often lead to cluttered minds. A tidy, well-ordered home helps reduce visual and mental distractions, making it easier to focus and feel calm. When our surroundings are clear and purposeful, we’re more likely to stay on top of daily tasks, avoid stress, and maintain a balanced mindset.
Investing time in creating an organised home, even if it’s one room at a time, can make a significant difference to mental clarity and productivity.
Bringing nature indoors is a simple yet powerful way to elevate wellbeing. Houseplants, natural materials and ample natural light all help foster a sense of calm. Even a small window view of greenery or the gentle sound of water can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
This connection to the natural world, known as biophilic design, is proven to enhance mood, lower anxiety, and improve overall health. Incorporating nature into the home doesn’t need to be complicated. A few indoor plants, natural textures, or soft earthy colours can make a meaningful difference.
A home that reflects who we are contributes to our sense of identity and emotional wellbeing. Personalising our space through meaningful objects, artwork or colour choices fosters a feeling of comfort and belonging. It’s not about following trends but creating an environment that aligns with our values, tastes and memories.
Whether it’s a gallery wall of family photos or a reading nook styled just for you, these small details help turn a house into a home.
The bedroom environment plays a crucial role in sleep quality. A calm, dark and quiet space encourages deeper, more restful sleep. Reducing clutter, minimising electronic distractions and maintaining a comfortable temperature all contribute to a better night’s rest.
Simple adjustments such as blackout curtains, soft bedding or a gentle evening routine, can have a lasting impact on your physical and mental recovery each night.
The home environment is more than just a backdrop to our lives, it is a dynamic contributor to how we feel, behave and thrive. By creating spaces that promote safety, support healthy habits, enhance mental clarity, connect us to nature, reflect our identity and improve sleep, we can significantly boost our overall wellbeing.
Take time to assess how your living environment supports you. Even small, intentional changes can lead to lasting improvements in your daily life.
About GI Design
At GI Design, we believe that spaces should do more than just look beautiful—they should inspire, rejuvenate and connect people to the natural world. Founded on the principles of functional elegance and a deep appreciation for nature, we specialise in creating interior environments that enrich lives. With a team of experienced designers, we blend aesthetic expertise with innovative biophilic design, bringing organic elements into each project to create harmonious, sustainable spaces that nurture wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to redesign a single room or transform an entire building, GI Design is here to bring your vision to life.
The beauty of bespoke kitchen design is that it is entirely yours. It’s more than just picking out cabinets and worktops; it’s about designing a space that complements your life, surpasses your expectations, and adds those small daily indulgences that make home life feel exceptional. Even on a drizzly Monday morning with a full day of work looming.
Be it a cosy breakfast nook bathed in gentle morning light, drawers that glide shut with effortless grace, or an elegantly designed wine room to cradle your cherished collection, every element is crafted with you in mind. At Roundhouse Design, we believe true luxury is found in personalisation, where masterful craftsmanship intertwines with boundless creativity, ensuring every corner of your kitchen feels purposefully curated and enduringly exquisite.
Discover why bespoke kitchens remain the gold standard in luxury living.
Craftsmanship lies at the very core of every luxury bespoke kitchen. This isn’t about uniform units churned out by countless factory lines with scarcely a human touch. It’s about the artistry of time-honoured joinery techniques, meticulously hand-finished surfaces, and detailing that only skilled artisans can achieve. That’s not to imply we’ve shunned modern manufacturing technology at Roundhouse; our Malvern factory is equipped with some of the most advanced machinery in the industry. Concurrently, our approach remains deeply human-focused, drawing on traditional hands-on expertise that no robot can currently hope to replicate.
Our newest bespoke wine room exemplifies crafted perfection. Thoughtfully designed and meticulously crafted to exact specifications, it features striking, black-framed glass doors that reveal exquisite joinery, ambient lighting, and specialist finishes. Whether you’re an avid collector or enjoy hosting guests, bespoke wine storage offers a personal and elegantly crafted statement within your home.
Craftsmanship goes beyond just aesthetics; it’s about functionality and tactile experience. Drawers glide effortlessly on precision runners, cabinet doors align perfectly as they close, and every surface feels robust and substantial. True craftsmanship is a daily luxury you can both see and feel.
One of the joys of bespoke kitchen design is the ability to incorporate personal details that make you smile every time you use them. In the kitchen, this could be a breakfast pantry complete with a built-in coffee station, bespoke spice drawers tailored to your preferred selections, or dedicated larder drawers labelled for each family member.
At Roundhouse, we collaborate closely with our clients to grasp how they live, identify the little indulgences that spark joy, and discern what they’re content to forgo. There’s no standardised approach here and that’s exactly what makes your journey enjoyable.
With bespoke kitchens, it’s not just the exterior finishes that deserve attention – the interiors can be every bit as beautiful. Every Roundhouse project is tailored to your wants and needs.
Take our fitted wardrobes as an example. Concealed behind refined doors, you may discover soft-close drawers lined with luxurious leather, built-in watch charging stations, and subtle mood lighting that gently illuminates upon opening.
The same applies for the kitchen: think pull-out storage with integrated lighting, and beautifully veneered internal drawers that look as good open as they do when closed. By tailoring storage solutions to your needs, we ensure your space reflects who you are.
Luxury bespoke isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s also about smart problem-solving. Our design team loves finding ways to solve tricky design challenges. A concealed extractor seamlessly tucked within a custom hood, cabinetry artfully angled to complement a sloping ceiling, or ingenious approaches to tricky corner spaces, each design element is thoughtfully crafted to suit the distinctive character of your home. Such meticulous personalisation guarantees that your kitchen and fitted furniture remain practical, functional, and a delight to use.
Every Roundhouse bespoke kitchen is made-to-order in our own Malvern factory. This allows us to control quality at every stage, from concept to completion. Our talented designers work hand-in-hand with our experienced project coordinators and skilled craftspeople to ensure every detail is perfect. From start to finish, every cabinet, drawer, and worktop is crafted to meet your exact specification.
Bespoke kitchen design is about creating a space that reflects who you are and how you want to live. That requires expert craftsmanship, thoughtful details, and practical solutions. Every project has you at the heart of it; designed around you, made for you, and fitted with expert precision.
There are so many options when it comes to choosing a kitchen worktop. Lots of suppliers have created quick tables to compare the properties of different materials. But all these grids focus on the worktop and not on the client. At Athena Stonecare, we think that it is important to put design priorities at the forefront.
When it comes to natural stone it is hard for any beholder to deny its beauty. Marble, limestone and granite have been formed over thousands of years. Even the most premium man-made versions cannot match the intricacies that nature produces. When you walk into a kitchen with a stunning marble island or glistening granite worktops it takes your breath away. If the island is to be the centrepiece of your client’s kitchen, then stone is the natural choice.
Marble is often hailed as the premier choice for a luxury kitchen. If you choose marble for a kitchen worktop there is an array of colours to choose from. It is also guaranteed that the chosen piece is completely unique. You might not realise, that there is also an abundance of choice with granite. Although typically associated with darker tones, there is a plethora of tones and finishes available in granite that are just as beautiful as marble.
If creating a kitchen with wow-factor is your top priority, then you can probably stop reading here and book in a visit to your local stone supplier. However, it is usually only one of many considerations. How to maintain that wow-factor and continue to enjoy the beauty of natural stone is usually the next question. So, let’s look at that in a little more detail.
Choosing to use natural stone for a worktop is an investment. We always think of it akin to choosing a luxury car. A brand-new Ferrari will be beautiful and shiny and certainly make a statement. But just like any car it will get dirty, could get scratched and it will need to be cleaned. However, you’re not going to take your Ferrari through the drive-through car wash. Instead, you will invest in specific products to clean it and have repairs completed by specialist.
We urge you to think of worktops similarly. If your client chooses marble, then they need to be prepared for the ongoing maintenance. Marble is acid sensitive and softer than other materials. This is particularly relevant in a kitchen. There’s no such thing as a self-cleaning worktop no matter what material you choose. But with marble it is important to use the correct products in the right way.
If, however, practicality is an important consideration, then marble might not be the best option. Lots of people prefer a kitchen worktop that requires a little less maintenance or that they can use with less concern about what they do day-to-day. With this in mind, granite is considered more hard-wearing than marble. It is usually denser and doesn’t scratch as easily. Granite is also not acid sensitive in the same way as marble and limestone.
If practicality is the no.1 priority, then man-made is the best option. There’s a huge range of brands that manufacture worktops to look like stone. Quartz has been a popular choice for low-maintenance kitchen worktops for a long time. These materials look like stone, but they don’t have the same qualities. This means that the products that you use to clean them don’t have to be as carefully considered.
Very closely linked with practicality is durability but the two shouldn’t be confused. Natural stone has been used in buildings for centuries so there’s no denying that it is durable. A marble or granite worktop won’t wear out. That doesn’t mean that it won’t wear though. And this is where the old cliché of beauty being in the eye of the beholder really comes into play. If your client wants a worktop that always looks perfect, then marble will need special care and even professional maintenance. However, marble can also be just as stunning when it naturally develops a patina over time. Many people are happy to live with the odd etch mark or scratch on their marble worktop and it’s still a statement in their kitchen. Enjoying the natural wear of a worktop is something that is completely personal.
Granite too is a great choice for a durable worktop. Being a little more hard-wearing than marble, means that you are less likely to experience staining and scratching that create that patina as described above. The other main advantage of granite is its restorability. Being a natural stone, means that the surface of granite can be repolished back to perfection. The structure of a man-made stone such as quartz means that this is not the case. If a granite worktop becomes dull or is damaged, then we can use diamond abrasives to bring it back to its original condition making this stone an incredibly durable choice for a kitchen worktop that is beautiful too.
The durability of stone is one of the factors that makes it also makes it a sustainable choice for a kitchen worktop. Ensuring that the materials chosen for a project will not need to be replaced is a key consideration if you are planning a sustainable build. There is also lots of evidence to support natural stone as being more sustainable to produce than man-made alternatives and our recent blog series explores this in more detail.
One of the huge benefits of stone that makes it sustainable once in situ, is its restorability. Marble, granite and limestone worktops can all be restored. If are aware of the ongoing maintenance requirements there is no reason that a marble worktop can’t be enjoyed for many years without needing professional restoration. However, spillages do occur the great news is that stone worktops can be repolished and refinished back to their former glory. And what is more, it will never go out of fashion. No matter how many times a kitchen is redecorated, the marble or granite worktop will always fit in. Natural stone is timeless and with the right know-how its beauty really can endure.
About Athena Stonecare
Natural stone is an investment and we are committed to ensuring that its beauty endures. We specialise in working with marble, limestone, travertine, granite, and all types of natural stone, ensuring that stone will continue to be a beautifully sustainable feature within any property. As natural stone restoration experts we work with floors, worktops, shower walls, sinks and vanity units. The ongoing care of stone is important to us too and so we have developed a suite of advice and guidance on how to maintain the finish of any stone surface. This is distributed through stone suppliers across the UK and is also available to anyone who works with natural stone.
The design landscape is rapidly evolving as Katharine Pooley moves beyond visual experiences to something more immersive and appreciative of the full spectrum of human perception. Sight is no longer the deciding force in shaping the aesthetic experience of a space, and so we are weaving considerations for sound, touch, smell and even taste into our projects to create spaces that not only look good but feel good by leaning into our intuition. As we discover more about the multisensory nature and intricacies of the brain we begin to realise how important our world around us is to our personal experience and sense of wellbeing.
Enter sensory design. Sensory design considers how each element of an environment influences our mood and behaviour whether consciously or not. Textures of natural materials, the ambient silence of a room with gentle acoustic and bespoke fragrances are some of the more known practices in crafting a space that speaks to the senses. Here are my considerations for each of the senses being thoughtfully integrated into today’s interiors.
Going far beyond that which we feel with our hands, touch encapsulates a number of elements that stem from the body's sense of balance and spatial orientation. Proprioception is regularly called the sixth sense and describes how your body senses where it is in ‘space’ or its position and movement. It’s how we walk without constantly looking at our feet, or how we’re able to touch our noses with our eyes closed. In interior design this translates to creating environments that gently engage the body through subtle movement. Rather than static, passive rooms, we can integrate things like varying floor levels or a mixture of textures to stimulate feedback. Small shifts in elevation or underfoot material are enough - not every living space needs a conversation pit.
Touch in architecture isn’t only about material, it’s also symbolic. As Finnish architect Juhani Pallasmaa famously said, “the door handle is the handshake of the building.” The first thing we often touch when entering a space is the entry point, it sets the tone for what follows. A good front door is one of the most important elements in a residential home and I love creating a moment through bespoke handles, shapes or weights to a doorway. Once inside, every surface we contact - floors, railings, upholstery, elevator buttons - contributes to a tactile experience both emotional and physical. Heavy doors with textured handles are a low-effort way to enhance tactility, while larger gestures like curved corridors, soft corners, or material changes (think the coolness of marble or the grain of wood) all influence how the space feels and how we feel within it. Texture and temperature are core elements of tactile design and can subtly support our limbic system and anchoring us through memory, comfort, and embodied presence.
Sound is often at the bottom of the list in considerations to factor in architectural design yet it has one of the most profound impacts on how we experience a space. Jarring or unpredictable noise is typically seen as something to eliminate but it's also important to recognise how the presence of certain sounds can shape atmosphere and emotional response. Acoustic design is becoming increasingly considered essential in homes, schools, healthcare environments, and as we continue to live in increasingly urbanised environments the effects of noise pollution on wellbeing are becoming harder to ignore.
Most architectural discourse on the topic has been historically centred on the reduction or isolation of sound and past research has focused almost entirely upon noise or the presence of ‘unwanted sound. Previously, sound in architecture was often addressed in terms of absorption and insulation. But we now know every space carries its own auditory identity. I like to adopt careful zoning, material selection, and sound-absorbing surfaces to sculpt the auditory impact of a space to ensure the soundscape is not only controlled but comforting and has a welcoming rhythm to it.
Taste holds surprising potential in creating immersive experiences and this is especially the case within hospitality design. It can evoke powerful emotional memories and effortlessly enrich a space’s narrative. In residential settings kitchens and shared living areas are where food and drink naturally bring people together and in these moments taste becomes a powerful connector that fosters a sense of belonging. I love encouraging casual interaction around food, and incorporating spaces that support hosting and social ‘rituals’ creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A well-designed kitchen with ample casual dining space invites debriefs at the end of a long day, while a thoughtfully planned bar or tasting nook offers residents a place to relax and unwind. Outdoor dining areas that blend food experiences with nature extend these sensory moments beyond the walls and are increasingly important to my clients. Good design invites guests to engage, share stories, and build relationships—making dining a multisensory experience that goes far beyond the plate.
Scent has a uniquely direct line to the brain’s limbic system which is the primitive centre of our emotion and memory, making it an incredibly potent sensory tool. Even subtle aromas that are delivered through essential oils, fresh botanicals, or the natural qualities of materials like cedar, leather, or natural stone can instantly influence mood and atmosphere. In sensory design olfactory, or scent, elements are used strategically to influence the mood and experience of the individual. Scientific studies confirm that ambient fragrances can reduce stress hormones and increase feelings of wellbeing, underscoring scent’s profound potential as an invisible yet impactful design element.
Many brands and businesses have appreciated this fact and adopted their own signature scents to deepen the connection to their branding - brands like Chanel or Hermes use bespoke scents in their boutiques, hotels like the Aman or Ritz-Carlton have been doing the same for years, and myself I like to have a distinctive diffuser oil at each of my homes.
Sight remains a primary sense in interior design, but the focus has shifted from pure aesthetics to creating visually soothing and supportive environments. Natural light is now understood as essential for mental and physical health, influencing circadian rhythms and emotional wellbeing. Designers employ dynamic lighting—adjustable in tone and intensity throughout the day—to mimic natural cycles, promoting alertness or calm as needed. Biophilic design principles bring nature indoors through views, organic forms, and natural materials, enhancing visual comfort and reducing cognitive fatigue. Colour palettes are selected not only for style but for psychological impact, with calming hues reducing stress and vibrant tones energising. Minimalist compositions and balanced spatial arrangements help to prevent sensory overload, allowing occupants to process their surroundings with ease and clarity. The visual environment is thus crafted to support both the function and emotional resonance of a space.
Designing for the senses is not a trend but a fundamental shift toward more inclusive, engaging, and wellbeing-focused environments. As our understanding of sensory processing and cognitive diversity deepens, so too must our design strategies. Thoughtfully crafted interiors offer a chance to reconnect—with ourselves, our surroundings, and our senses. In doing so, they elevate spaces from the merely functional to the experiential, deepening our connection to the world around us.
About Katharine Pooley London
Recently named ‘British Interior Designer of the Decade’, ‘International Designer of the Year in Asia’ and ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Katharine Pooley has in a short space of time become one of Europe's leading designers. Her portfolio encompasses a multitude of interior styles and architectural genres and her design ethos is one of luxurious eclecticism. No two projects are ever alike, but they are universally beautiful and timeless.
Blending Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality, Japandi has transcended trend status to become a cornerstone of modern interiors. Celebrating simplicity, expert craftsmanship and nature-led connections, this enduring design philosophy has quietly informed homes for more than a decade. As Roundhouse Design observed at Milan Design Week 2025, Japandi’s ethos remains as vital as ever, particularly in the heart of the home. For an in-depth look at how these principles can transform any space, download the comprehensive Roundhouse Design brochure.
Wood has always underpinned Japandi’s warm simplicity. In 2025, Roundhouse Design’s team is embracing wood’s individuality more deeply than ever by celebrating unusual grain patterns, textural effects and considered installations. A recent project named Bulpitt showcases bookmatched crown-cut oak veneer that stretches across handle-less push-touch cabinets, creating movement and intrigue. By highlighting the tree’s natural heritage, a luxury bespoke kitchen feels both grounded and inviting. To discuss how wood can shape your bespoke Japandi kitchen, book a design consultation with Roundhouse experts.
Early Japandi schemes favoured strict monochromes; today’s interpretations layer warm whites, stone tones and earthy accents such as terracotta, clay, bronze and copper alongside muted greens like sage and moss. These richer, more balanced colour stories allow kitchens to flow effortlessly into open-plan living areas, reinforcing Japandi’s holistic approach to home design.
Functionality meets form in 2025’s storage solutions. Timber-lined drawers with bespoke dividers, removable cutlery trays and floor-to-ceiling glazed cabinets featuring fluted glass and timber frames marry practicality with refined aesthetics. Walk-in larders and pantries concealed by sliding shoji-inspired doors keep clutter at bay, nurturing the zen-like calm that defines modern Japandi kitchens.
As throwaway culture gives way to lasting quality, Japandi’s commitment to enduring construction resonates strongly. Roundhouse Design kitchens fuse time-honoured British joinery with precision engineering by combining frameless cabinets, soft-close mechanisms and integrated LED lighting to promise years of whisper-quiet, reliable performance. Every kitchen is backed by a 10-year guarantee, ensuring peace of mind and true longevity in home design.
Environmental responsibility lies at the core of Japandi and of Roundhouse Design. From concept to completion, sustainability informs every decision: sourcing only FSC-certified timber, partnering with The Woodland Trust to support UK reforestation, and operating a biomass-fired factory that repurposes offcuts to minimise waste.
To bring Japandi to life in your home, download the brochure, book a design consultation or visit one of Roundhouse Design’s seven showrooms in Wigmore Street, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford or Cheltenham to experience these ideas firsthand.
When designing a kitchen for serious cooking, drawing inspiration from the layouts preferred by professional chefs can be incredibly valuable. Since chefs spend countless hours in the kitchen, their expertise offers practical insights that can enhance both the functionality and efficiency of your kitchen design ideas.
Over the years, Roundhouse Design has collaborated with numerous talented chefs, designing both their personal kitchens and the chef-friendly working kitchens in our showrooms. One thing has become clear – when it comes to creating the ultimate chef’s kitchen, the galley layout reigns supreme.
A galley kitchen is a corridor-style layout with two parallel countertops and a central walkway. In narrow kitchens, a single galley is often preferred. Whether single or double galley, this design consistently proves to be the top choice for professionals, offering exceptional workflow efficiency and maximising space in kitchens of all sizes. But what makes this layout so effective, and how can it be adapted to suit different homes? Let’s explore why chefs love the galley kitchen and how you can make it work for your space.
Chefs prefer the galley kitchen layout because it is designed for maximum efficiency, by which we mean minimal walking around the kitchen. With everything positioned within arm’s reach, exactly where you need it, the galley layout minimises unnecessary movement and allows for a smooth workflow. Not great for your step count, but excellent for getting dinner on the table quickly and easily. Ideal for high-intensity cooking, this linear layout keeps prep, cooking and cleaning areas within a few steps of each other. In a single one-wall galley kitchen, you’ll move from side to side – almost like a crab! – whereas a double galley layout provides additional workspace and storage, allowing you to pivot effortlessly between both sides.
The galley layout is very versatile and can work in most kitchens, including small kitchen ideas, but there are a few points to consider. In an ideal world, a galley kitchen should be around 3-4.5m long to accommodate all the essential appliances, storage and sink, with sufficient workspace between. Any shorter, and prep space could get tight; any longer and you’ll lose efficiency. On width, aim for a 1.2m minimum walkway between cabinets and the opposite wall in a single galley and at least 1.8m walkway between the two parallel runs for a double galley layout. This will allow people to pass each other comfortably and doors to be opened without obstructing the aisle.
Many chefs love to entertain while cooking and will opt for an open-plan galley layout, whereby an elongated island sits parallel to a long run of units. This provides all the benefits of a double galley layout but within a much more sociable setting. To make their home kitchens more family-friendly, chefs will often add extra prep spaces and prep sinks on the bespoke island to encourage communal cooking and share skills.
Whatever layout you go for, it’s easy to bring a professional touch to your kitchen. Chefs swear by the working triangle rule, where the sink, cooker and fridge are positioned in a triangle formation for optimal efficiency. When planning storage, aim for a clear view of cupboard contents in one glance – clear storage containers and a label maker are chef essentials. Walk-in pantries with open shelves are also great for gathering ingredients quickly, like professional chefs do in the food stores of commercial kitchens.
Finally, keeping your workspace clutter-free is essential when you’re cooking up a storm. A boiling water tap removes the need for a kettle, while magnetic knife strips and custom in-drawer compartments for utensils and herbs help to minimise countertop clutter, ensuring everything you need is always within easy reach.
There’s plenty to learn from the best layout ideas for a chef’s kitchen. While we can’t promise Michelin-star meals, our made-to-measure service ensures that a bespoke kitchen from Roundhouse will create a professional-grade cooking space that elevates your culinary experience and makes light work of dinnertime. Whether you’re looking for a modern kitchen design, small kitchen design, or a more tailored kitchen cabinet design, pop along to one of our showrooms to find out more.
Most natural stone should be sealed before and after installation, and all of our restoration treatments include the application of a sealant. There is a lot of misconception about what this means for the stone, how it works and why it doesn’t give 100% protection. Here we explore the world of natural stone sealants.
Impregnating sealants penetrate the capillaries of the stone and protect from within. They can leave the stone with a natural, or colour-enhanced appearance, but always with the stone surface exposed.
Because 99% of natural stone is porous, this sealant is essentially designed to stop any spillages onto the stone penetrating the internal structure of the tile and causing damage or a deep set stain. There is a video on our YouTube channel which demonstrates the difference between water poured onto a sealed and an unsealed marble surface.
Accidents happen. Our clients have split everything from coffee machine descaler to limescale remover on their natural stone and it is always restorable. When stone has been properly sealed, the damage is usually only surface level. Take a look at our portfolio pages to see this in action.
Surface sealants form a physical barrier between the stone and the environment. Modern sealants are either wax or polymer-based, which can achieve matt, satin or gloss finishes to the stone. Such sealants however cannot be applied outdoors or in wet areas as they are affected by moisture. They are also ineffective if applied to a polished surface as they cannot penetrate the surface sufficiently to bond.
Surface sealants are usually used to create a shine to a tile that would otherwise be very dull. Riven slate, pillow edged limestone, tumbled travertine and other textured surfaces will be naturally matt finish. The texture and unevenness don’t allow these finishes to be polished mechanically, so a topical sealant is required if a satin or glossy sheen are required.
In other situations, such as terracotta, a surface sealant will also act to bind and consolidate a rough textured finish. This will mitigate the potential for the surface to flake apart or create dust by breaking down.
In practice, aside from the aesthetic changes these sealants can provide, apply them to textured stones will give another line of protection to staining. Rough textured and matt finish stone will be naturally more porous than honed and polished finishes. Applying a surface sealant on top of an impregnating sealant will provide a ‘sacrificial layer’. Any chemical spills will react with this sealant rather than the surface of the stone.
Contrary to popular belief, impregnating sealants themselves don’t degrade naturally over time. The pores and capillaries that were originally sealed will remain so. However, abrasion caused by foot-traffic will create and expose new pores and capillaries which will require additional sealant. Usually, the more people or pets in the property the more frequently the protection will need to be reapplied.
Impregnating sealants can also be denatured by high alkaline or acidic liquids. Chemical spills can cause damage to a stone surface but also render the previously applied sealant to become ineffective. This is why it is worth having the stone restored and resealed as soon as possible after a spillage has occurred. The damage from the initial accident won’t worsen but the exposed stone will be more vulnerable as a result.
Surface sealants on the other hand are designed to be a sacrificial layer. They aim to protect the stone surface from the external environment. This means that liquid spillages and abrasion will impact the sealant and not the stone surface. These sealants will also be impacted by repeated cleaning regimes. Over time, you can expect this sealant to degrade and it will need to be reapplied in order to keep the stone safe from internal damage and maintain the level of shine that they provide.
It is almost more important to look after the sealant as it is your stone – the two go hand in hand. Our Athena Aftercare guide, is designed to provide your clients with best practice when it comes to maintaining their stone. Following this guidance will ensure that the sealant can continue to do its job to protect any natural stone surface. For a PDF copy email [email protected]
The creative journey in interior design is frequently misunderstood—sometimes romanticised as effortless artistry, other times dismissed as a luxury or mere decoration. At Studio Anqet, we know this journey is a sophisticated, undervalued process that blends imagination, technical skill, and problem-solving to transform spaces and lives. As a multi-award-winning interior design studio, we demonstrate daily that great design is both an art and a science.
Unlike the instant makeovers often seen on TV and social media, the true creative journey in interior design is intricate and multi-layered. At Studio Anqet, every project begins with deep client exploration—understanding lifestyles, preferences, and aspirations. This foundation is followed by research, conceptualisation, sketching, technical planning, and hands-on execution. Each phase demands intentionality and expertise, not just an eye for style.
The work behind a well-designed space often goes unnoticed—until something goes wrong without a professional at the helm.
- Discovery & Research: We immerse ourselves in our clients’ worlds, gathering inspiration from art, travel, history, and the surrounding environment. This research shapes the narrative and function of each space. - Concept Development: The main idea or 'spirit' of the project is formed here. Mood boards, sketches, and brainstorming sessions—hallmarks of our process—help visualise the atmosphere and themes that will guide the entire design. - Space Planning & Sketching: We translate ideas into tangible plans, often hand-sketching layouts and unique features. Our meticulous attention to detail ensures every area is considered for both function and originality. - Material & Finish Selection: Our choices are guided not just by aesthetics, but by durability, sustainability, and—crucially—well-being. Wellness-centric design is at the core of our ethos, so every material is selected with the health and comfort of our clients in mind. - Technical Drawings & Visualisation: Detailed CAD drawings and 3D renderings ensure our creative visions are feasible and ready for execution. - Execution, Project Management & Site Follow ups: Our collaboration with artisans, contractors, and suppliers brings each design to life. Regular site visits and quality checks are integral to maintaining the integrity of our vision.
The undervaluation of interior design’s creative journey often stems from its invisibility. The final, beautiful room is tangible, but the months of research, technical problem-solving, and coordination remain hidden. DIY culture and influencer content further distort reality, making design seem simple and accessible to all, which undermines the profession’s complexity and expertise. The process of designing a space that works efficiently, harmoniously, and safely requires technical skill, education, and—most importantly—experience.
- Problem-Solving: We balance creativity with client needs, budgets, technical constraints, and building regulations, transforming challenges into innovative solutions. - Personalisation: Our best designs reflect the unique stories, values, and lifestyles of the people who inhabit the space. - Transformation: For us, interior design is not just about aesthetics—it’s about improving quality of life, enhancing well-being, and supporting productivity and connection. Our wellness-centric approach ensures every project is a sanctuary that nurtures body and mind.
While both experienced interior designers and amateurs may share a passion for creating beautiful spaces, the difference lies in depth of knowledge and execution. Choosing an inexperienced or unqualified interior designer can have serious—and sometimes dangerous—consequences, especially regarding building safety and compliance with fire regulations. Unlike seasoned professionals, amateur designers often lack the technical knowledge required to navigate complex building regulations and the ever-evolving landscape of safety standards. This gap in expertise can directly compromise the safety of clients and their loved ones.
Fire safety is a critical aspect of our work, encompassing everything from the selection of fire-resistant materials and the planning of escape routes to the integration of alarms and ventilation systems that prevent smoke spread. We are trained to incorporate these elements and ensure that every aspect of our work meets or exceeds the latest fire safety standards whilst maintaining design aesthetics and elegance in every detail. Amateurs, by contrast, may overlook or misunderstand these requirements, inadvertently creating spaces that are vulnerable in the event of an emergency.
With the introduction of stricter building control regulations last year and the updates to the Building Safety Act, the responsibility for compliance is now shared by all parties involved in a project—including interior designers. Dutyholders must demonstrate competence and provide evidence that their designs meet all regulatory requirements. Failure to comply can result in delays, refusal of building control sign-off, or even legal penalties and criminal charges. In the worst cases, non-compliant designs may lead to unsafe buildings, costly remediation, or the building being condemned.
Ultimately, hiring an interior designer without the proper qualifications and up-to-date knowledge of building and fire safety regulations is a risk not worth taking. The stakes are higher than ever, and only competent, experienced professionals can ensure both the beauty and safety of your space.
The creative journey in interior design is far from a myth. It is a rigorous, undervalued process that demands both artistry and discipline. At Studio Anqet, we believe recognising and respecting this journey is essential—not just for designers, but for anyone who seeks to live or work in spaces that truly support and inspire. The next time you step into a thoughtfully designed room by Studio Anqet, remember: the visible beauty is only the tip of a much deeper creative iceberg.
About Studio Anqet
Studio Anqet is a well-established multi award winning design studio providing interiors, landscape and architectural design services. At Studio Anqet, we believe that impeccable design has the power to improve lives. Our bespoke interiors & landscapes are conceived to uplift, inspire and delight. Guided by our clients’ aspirations, we breathe life into personal visions – turning houses into incredible homes and buildings into beautiful sanctuaries. We see possibilities others may not, finding beauty in the everyday and solutions where none seem to exist. This spirit runs through everything we create. Studio Anqet’s identity is shaped by our agility, persistence, and personal touch. We are Industry trailblazers committed to wellness-centric design and sustainable practices. Our work is a tribute to both our Egyptian namesake – the goddess of the Nile River – and the new life we help cultivate every day.
Neutral kitchen design never goes out of fashion – after all, timelessness is its USP! Yet subtle seasonal shifts and emerging trends continuously infuse fresh vitality into this classic look, ensuring that neutral kitchen cabinets remain both modern and relevant in homes of all styles. For 2025, Roundhouse designers are anticipating a move away from cool neutrals – pure whites and greys – towards warmer, more inviting neutral kitchen colour schemes.
First spotted at the Milan Furniture Fair and now firmly evident across the interiors landscape, we’re talking about pale browns, soft beiges and warm taupes. Still timeless and easy on the eye, the new neutrals trend is all about incorporating earthy colours that bring a sense of nature indoors, instilling a sense of calm and balance into contemporary kitchens. What’s not to love? Here’s how to bring this refreshing trend into your kitchen.
One of the easiest ways to work the earthy neutrals trend in kitchens is by integrating natural materials like wood and stone. Timber toned cabinetry, worktops, and open shelving in warm, natural finishes can dramatically shift the ambient temperature of a neutral kitchen. Similarly, stone elements – whether they are marble-inspired quartz or natural stone splashbacks – will help reinforce the connection to outdoors. Patinated metallic finishes in warm copper tones dial into the terracotta trend, without disrupting the serene atmosphere of a soothing neutral scheme.
Embracing earthy neutrals is about more than the colour of the walls or cabinets, it’s about creating a layered, tactile energy that tunes into all the senses. Textures play a pivotal role in this interior design philosophy – think woven textiles, rustic timber and burnished metals. Even with a neutral palette that deliberately lacks strong colour contrasts, you can shake things up a little just by mixing up matte and gloss finishes. This dynamic interplay of textures will add depth and subtle friction that feels sophisticated. Don’t overlook the effects of light and shadow on textural surfaces – they can dramatically enhance depth, highlight movement, and bring your kitchen’s design details to life throughout the day.
While earthy neutrals provide a relaxed foundation, that doesn’t mean brighter colours are banned. Modern neutral palettes tend to be in warmer tones, which makes them so easy to elevate with the strategic use of colour accents. The key is to go for subtle colour pops, nothing that overpowers. Roundhouse designers recommend allowing around 20% of the palette for accent colour if you want to keep the balance firmly neutral. Accessories, such as ceramic vases, patterned cushions, window treatments or art that incorporate colours inspired by nature are all great choices. For more permanent accent colours, try kitchen splashbacks in burnished copper, or a two-tone kitchen with pale perimeter cabinets and an island in deep green or soft sage. Aim for accent colours that tie in beautifully with the overall warm, earthy theme, providing contrast while still harmonising with your core neutral shades.
The importance of lighting cannot be overemphasised when planning an earthy neutral palette. Above all, you need to avoid a chilly atmosphere, so aim for light bulbs with colour rendition in the range of 2700K-3000K, which will provide a warm, white light that complements soft neutrals like stone and greige. Also try to plan in as much natural light as possible to highlight the depth and variety of a neutral palette throughout the day. Large-scale architectural glazing is ideal, while skylights and roof lanterns are also a popular way to flood a neutral kitchen with light.
The new neutrals trend in kitchens is about more than just a switch in colour – it’s a shift towards creating spaces that nurture, comfort, and inspire. For more ideas and inspiration, why not head to one of our showrooms and chat to our design team?
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