Lighting has long been an important feature of the kitchen, but as the space evolves into something more multifunctional, the latest lighting trends are shaping it more than ever. Lighting is now shaping layouts, zoning areas and defining the overall ambience of the home – illumination is now becoming a seamless blend of architecture and art, and that fusion is unlocking extraordinary creative potential.
Roundhouse is predicting a move away from the traditional spotlight-and-pendant formula and towards lighting schemes that feel more layered, expressive and character-driven. From sculptural statement pieces to illumination that almost behaves like furniture, lighting is proving to be one of the most transformative tools in bespoke kitchen design.
Softer, more organic lighting is influencing kitchens for the year ahead. Crescent profiles, arcs and rounded silhouettes are becoming more prominent, offering a gentle counterbalance to the clean lines of modern cabinetry. This direction has been led by designers such as Tom Raffield, John Pomp and Lindsey Adelman, whose work explores sculptural circularity, curved glass and halo-like forms. Their pieces demonstrate how circular lighting can create a warm, atmospheric glow with refined, architectural impact.
Roundhouse’s Ashbury Project highlights this beautifully. Tom Raffield’s Loer Crescent Pendant, suspended over the breakfast bar, introduces quiet drama without asserting itself too strongly. Curved lighting works particularly well in busy family kitchens, encouraging a more soothing, inviting atmosphere. These rounded shapes also pair effortlessly with natural materials like timber, stone and plaster, which are hallmarks of many of Roundhouse’s bespoke designs.
Another key movement for bespoke kitchens in 2026 is the integration of lighting traditionally associated with living rooms. Designers such as Bert Frank, Matteo Bianchi and Gabriel Scott have helped champion this evolution, showing that decorative lighting can actually enhance practicality. Kitchens are now beginning to borrow the warmth and intimacy of lounge environments - not just through sconces or wall lights but increasingly through table lamps. A table lamp in a kitchen immediately softens the aesthetic, creating a sense of comfort and intentionality.
Roundhouse’s Ling Project illustrates this shift with Vibia’s Mayfair table lamp in gold satin placed on the island. Its soft glow and touch-dimmer control offer a salon-like refinement, demonstrating how ambient lighting can add depth and cohesion in open-plan settings.
Personalisation continues to be a defining theme in interior design, and lighting is following suit. Brands such as Buster + Punch, Martin Huxford and Porta Romana have pushed forward with modular systems, mix-and-match components and adaptable silhouettes, enabling lighting to evolve alongside the demands of multifunctional family homes.
This appetite for customisation reflects an evolving desire for flexibility - designers are embracing adjustable cords, pivoting heads, interchangeable shades and modular assemblies.
Roundhouse’s Weir Project captures this versatility with Buster + Punch’s Hooked 6.0 Pendant Nude. Each element can be repositioned or reconfigured, allowing the piece to serve different roles within the same space. In bespoke design, this adaptability is especially valuable, responding to unique architecture and varied family routines.
A more curated form of eclecticism is emerging, driven by a desire for spaces with narrative depth and authenticity. Designers such as Kelly Wearstler, Beata Heuman and Martyn Lawrence Bullard have embraced the dialogue between past and present, blending vintage lighting with contemporary architecture to create interiors with soul.
Roundhouse’s Moony Project with Webb Architects demonstrates the strength of this approach. A vintage chandelier is suspended within a modern take on an Arts & Crafts kitchen, adding instant character and a sense of history. This interplay works particularly well where the kitchen forms part of a wider architectural storyline. A heritage light can anchor a streamlined contemporary space, while surrounding modern elements keep the overall design feeling balanced and current.
For homeowners seeking boldness, oversized pendants continue to make a commanding statement. Influenced by the sculptural, gallery-led collections of brands including Tom Dixon, Bomma and Moooi, these larger-scale fittings combine visual drama with generous illumination.
In a recent Roundhouse kitchen project created in collaboration with QWC Stone (photographed by Carmody Creative), Tom Dixon’s Beat Stout LED pendants take centre stage. At more than 50cm tall and wide, they offer architectural presence while delivering focused light. Oversized pendants work best when given space to breathe, with clean sightlines and complementary materials ensuring the scale feels intentional rather than overwhelming.
Explore these evolving trends first-hand by visiting one of Roundhouse’s seven showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Guildford, Cambridge or Cheltenham, where Roundhouse’s expert designers can help you reimagine lighting for 2026.
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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The SBID UK Interior Design Icons were selected to recognise leading design practices throughout the UK who have consistently displayed exceptional standards within our esteemed industry network.
This week’s instalment of the SBID Icon Insights series features Johnny Grey. Johnny Grey Studios specializes in crafting bespoke kitchens that seamlessly blend architecture and interior design with comfortable living.
My design style evolves and rotates between many polarities. I’m inspired by Medieval and Georgian periods in our culture, early Chinese furniture, also Arts and Crafts and Modernist architecture, as well as Japanese movements such as the Metabolists. I am always on the lookout to connect with artists and craftspeople, including through the paint and patterns of domestic artefacts, fabrics and wood carving. My new Unfitted Kitchen shows off this approach with aesthetics that incorporate many of the design references I have mentioned.
Unfitted kitchens are increasingly popular as they offer a range of furniture items to give clients freedom in creating their own personal environments. Furnishing a room, as opposed to having cabinetry built in, allows clients more flexibility and self-expression. Kitchens are no longer just for cooking. The functions of other downstairs room are often folded into them these days. With home working, hobbies and sociability increasingly taking place in the kitchen, the room can now be designated a ‘House Place’, an idea articulated by the poet William Wordsworth. This fits with a process that involves functions of rooms becoming less specific and more diverse. Interestingly the trend applies to both small and large homes. The hybrid nature of this new kitchen, ‘broken plan’ rather open plan, suggests that we need activity areas as well as nooks for privacy or security, plus a personal sense of belonging expressed through its decor.
We have a section on the Johnny Grey Studio website called Full Circle where we resell kitchens that have been taken out of their original homes. This is a very effective way of reducing waste and the problem of disposal of building materials. Our kitchens are always well crafted, very durable and fit to be repurposed. We make conscious efforts to use natural and recycled materials when possible and to avoid plastic finishes on our furniture when this can be done in line with durability, which it often can.
Our designs use multiple style references, allowing them to stand out from fashion trends and obsolescence. Because of this, a thirty-year-old Johnny Grey kitchen still looks modern. Three essential design ideas of mine are in evidence in most, if not all, of my kitchens. Number one is to make eye contact possible as this promotes sociable use of space so that people can have conversations while cooking and preparing food. Number two is ‘soft geometry’ – that is, the avoidance of sharp corners, particularly on furniture like central islands in the middle of a room. Walking around the kitchen feels safe and natural and it means the passageways can actually be narrower. The third principle is the use of dedicated work surfaces instead of indiscriminately long countertop work surfaces. This allows both small and large kitchens to function efficiently, often with reduced distances between key activities. It frees up space for sociable furniture.
Spend time in a workshop to learn how things are made. Take your education and learning processes across design boundaries. Learn skills from product design, architecture and interior design as well as project management. Observe how people use space, follow research into behavioural psychology and neuroscience, visit historic buildings and enjoy books on the history of design. Remain self-critical of your work, seek a broad spectrum of style and constantly explore new ways of approaching your work.
It is not fashion focused. It connects history and my personal vision of using colour, pattern, shape with a sense of fun and quirkiness. I attempt to make people feel comfortable and happy in their surroundings through sociable design philosophy. The quality of the individual pieces of furniture should last for generations.
Many if not all my projects represent the core aspects of my approach. Narrowed down, I would say the Unfitted Kitchen for the reasons mentioned above. It’s the distillation of years of work honing furniture that is practical, stylish and flexible, has an easy appeal and represents good value for money. After successfully offering this to the public in 1986-9 through Smallbone of Devizes, I have now revived the concept as part of my legacy. I’m hoping it will change the industry by becoming a popular alternative to fitted kitchens.
The Guildford kitchen is a classic JG Studio collaboration between clients, furniture makers and the design team. The design is functional and innovative – three working tables distribute the activity of the kitchen, all linked together and with different heights and materials. Surfaces are warm to the touch, including the ceramic wall with its innovative unglazed hammered finish that is soft and eye catching in a fun way. The Dolphin shaped legs make a hinged bar that is ideal for leaning against and serving food is a classic example of one of my custom designs. For interior projects, the Treasure Island House for Felix Dennis stands out. This was a themed fun house based on the writings of Robert Louis Stevenson. It centred around a swimming pool with palm trees distributing heat, a seventeenth century opium ketch kitchen and panelled dining room, a four poster bed decorated with carved statues of Long John Silver and the Spanish Lady with a secret staircase to the stars, a shell filled bathroom and a double-sided aquarium through which the viewer enters the building on arrival.
About Johnny Grey Studios
I trained as an architect at the Architectural Association School of Architecture. Afterwards I enjoyed a brief time running an antique furniture business before setting up a workshop making furniture. When it became clear that design was my strength, I set up a design studio in 1977. My aunt, the food writer Elizabeth David, then asked me to design her a kitchen based on a book chapter on her dream kitchen that she wrote for Terence Conran in The Kitchen Book (1977). It became clear to me around this time how poorly functioning and uncomfortable most kitchens were and what a difference you can make to people’s lives if you get the design of this crucial room right. The need for a new template for kitchens was the spur that got my career up and running as well as an interest in writing design books. I have written four on kitchen and home design. I have a life-long interest in education, which is why helped set up The Kitchen Education Trust. I also provided impetus for the first kitchen design foundation degree, at Bucks New University. This is now closed but am currently devising an apprenticeship called Living Spaces Design. I speak at events worldwide on design innovation in the kitchen that include smart tech, sustainable design, neuroscience and history of design. I have helped set up the South Downs Food Festival held at Stansted Park in Hampshire each summer.
As the clocks go back and evenings draw in, the kitchen reclaims its place as the true heart of the home. Autumn brings with it a slower pace – candlelit suppers, warming meals and interiors that invite comfort. Yet, within the clean architectural lines of a contemporary kitchen, achieving that sense of warmth requires a careful balance between precision and personality.
At Roundhouse, each kitchen is designed to achieve harmony between form and feeling. While minimalist design celebrates clarity, bespoke craftsmanship ensures it never becomes cold. By layering materials, finishes and light, Roundhouse designers create spaces that remain refined yet unmistakably welcoming – kitchens that embrace both elegance and emotion.
Texture plays a pivotal role in transforming a cool, contemporary kitchen into a tactile and grounded space. Smooth cabinetry gains depth when paired with fluted timber, ribbed glass or leathered stone, inviting both touch and visual interest. The Roundhouse Kinsey project demonstrates this perfectly – its fluted oak cabinets and stone splashbacks bring richness and rhythm without compromising clean lines.
Underfoot, natural flooring in reclaimed timber, tumbled terracotta or rugged limestone enhances the sense of warmth. Metallic details, from brushed brass handles to softly glowing bronze taps, complete the look with a gentle radiance that catches the evening light.
Lighting defines atmosphere, particularly during darker months. To create a space that shifts effortlessly from functional to intimate, plan lighting in layers – ambient for relaxation, task for practicality, and accent to highlight form and materiality. The illuminated glass display in the Roundhouse Nash kitchen is a perfect example, where concealed LEDs transition the mood from daytime energy to evening calm. Discussing lighting design early ensures circuits, controls and fittings all work in harmony with how you live in the space.
Colour underpins emotional connection, and autumn’s earthy tones offer natural inspiration. Deep forest greens, clays and umbers can be balanced with paler mushroom or stone shades to maintain a contemporary freshness. Pairing paint with timber or stone grounds the palette in nature – a hallmark of Roundhouse design. Even cooler schemes can feel inviting when layered with tactile finishes or subtle metallics that lend softness and depth.
Natural materials offer authenticity, warmth and longevity. Marble with expressive veining, oak shelving or handcrafted ceramics all introduce character and tactility. The Roundhouse Hardings kitchen embraces this philosophy, with natural oak and glazed cabinetry displaying artisan pottery and glassware. Sustainability is integral, too – choosing responsibly sourced timber and low-VOC finishes ensures that luxury remains both beautiful and conscientious.
A truly inviting kitchen encourages people to linger. Consider curved islands, upholstered seating or a built-in banquette that becomes a natural gathering spot. Soft furnishings – linen blinds, wool cushions, woven shades – add acoustic comfort and a relaxed aesthetic. Thoughtful storage solutions, meanwhile, maintain the calm by keeping surfaces clear. The art lies in marrying practicality with beauty, where every detail supports a sense of ease and belonging.
To experience the balance of warmth and precision that defines Roundhouse, visit your nearest showroom and discover how Roundhouse bespoke kitchens bring contemporary comfort to life.
As 2026 approaches, many homeowners are beginning to plan their kitchen renovation for the year ahead. While cabinetry, colours and worktops remain central to any design, appliances continue to play a vital role in shaping how kitchens look and perform. Premium appliance brand, Miele GB’s Category Lead for Kitchens, Tom Hopper shares his insight into the appliance trends set to influence kitchens in 2026, following the brand’s latest innovations revealed at IFA and the impact of key social proof metrics shaping these trends.
AI powered assistance, voice control functionality and connected smart systems are now integral to modern living, with kitchen appliances being no exception. As well as offering everyday convenience, these smart features can also make a kitchen more accessible, ideal for multi-generational households.
Miele offers smart home integration across its appliances range - from allowing keen cooks to preheat the oven on the way home to making it possible to check the fridge’s contents remotely (new MasterCool models) while on a food shop or open the door using voice control technology. Next year appliances will continue to benefit from AI integration. Miele’s SmartView ID available on selected ovens uses a built in camera and AI technology to identify ingredients, adjust cooking settings and ensure consistent results automatically. When it comes to laundry, Miele’s new Nova washing machine features a patent-pending technique which uses AI to adapt the movement of the drum to the items being washed each time, minimising guesswork.
As induction cooking continues to grow in popularity, so does the demand for intelligent cookware that communicates directly with the hob. “Cookware for induction” has recently emerged as a breakout search term on Google Trends¹, reflecting a surge in interest in smart, precision-led cooking. Miele’s KM8000 induction hob and M Sense Cookware, coming to the UK in May 2026, allow recipes to be sent directly from the Miele app to the hob, with cookware that prompts each next step and adjusts temperature automatically.
As kitchens continue to be multifunctional spaces for more than just cooking and dining, the increasingly popular ‘invisible kitchen’ trend celebrates clean lines and clutter-free design. Hidden or integrated appliances lend themselves perfectly to this trend, helping to create a sense of calm and organisation. Miele’s built-in ovens with AirFry function, combination steam ovens and integrated coffee machines are designed to support this aesthetic – all minimising countertop clutter while offering the functionality of multiple small appliances.
Over the past three months, Pinterest has reported a surge in ‘modern kitchen’ searches, with many homeowners moving away from traditional styles in favour of a more futuristic space. Seamless integration, matt finishes and statement lighting are defining features, with Miele’s handleless built-in appliances and matt black finish ideal for this trend.
2026 sees a return to warmth and tactility, with WGSN highlighting ‘primal sandy tones’ as a key interior trend in its Spring/Summer 2026 colour report. ‘Cream’ has also become a breakout search term on Google Trends, reflecting a broader shift towards soothing, natural palettes. Miele’s Pearl Beige finish features a subtle shimmer, bringing understated luxury to the kitchen.
Discreet, high-performance extraction continues to be a must-have for open-plan spaces, offering quiet efficiency without compromising functionality. Lighting integration and minimal visual impact will be among the top priorities for extraction in 2026. Miele’s new downdraft extractor hood with integrated lighting (available in the UK from May 2026) delivers powerful ventilation while enhancing atmosphere, while Miele’s award winning KMDA range of integrated extraction also provides a discreet option.
This year, the kitchen has started to evolve into a space that promotes balance, calm and health - from appliances that support nutrient-rich cooking methods to noise conscious appliances. Miele’s steam ovens and steam combination ovens are a great way to gently cook delicate fish and vegetables as colours, aromas, tastes, textures and nutritional content will be largely retained. Miele’s upcoming steam drawer, debuted at IFA 2026 and launching in the UK in 2027, will continue to bring healthy steam cooking to more households, even those with compact kitchens. Meanwhile, Miele’s Quiet Mark approved dishwashers help to create a serene, restorative kitchen environment, with Quiet Mark laundry appliances doing the same in utility spaces.
Warming drawers will increase in popularity for 2026, as they make the most of previously un-utilised space. With multiple uses, including defrosting foods, proving dough and warming dishes or cups, they are ideal for compact kitchens and bring restaurant level precision to the home.
Longevity and low energy and water consumption will always be a top priority in the kitchen. Miele’s washing machines automatically release the right amount of detergent for the load type while its heat pump tumble dryers conserve energy and save money; costing just £100 a year to run compared to around £400 a year when using a vented model. Meanwhile, Miele dishwashers feature automatic detergent dispensing technology, which when combined with PowerDisk, reduces detergent consumption by up to 30%. Miele continues to lead the way with its recently upgraded 60cm dishwasher range – now all rated A for energy efficiency. What’s more, most of Miele’s appliances have been engineered to last for 20 years, so they can be enjoyed for many years.
Reducing food waste will continue to be a global focus, with smart refrigeration technology helping households extend freshness and plan meals more efficiently. Miele’s new XXL MasterCool Refrigeration with FoodView, available in the UK from April 2026, allows users to check fridge contents remotely via the Miele app, reducing waste and making weekly meal planning easier than ever.
With the trend for wellness, more homeowners are slowing down and romanticising the little moments in life – with dedicated coffee, wine and breakfast stations helping homeowners do just that. Recently, Pinterest has seen a clear increase in ‘coffee station’ searches, reflecting this trend. Miele’s countertop and built-in machines offer barista-quality coffee at the touch of a button, turning daily rituals into moments of indulgence. Meanwhile, dedicated wine fridges with dual temperature control will continue to be a popular solution for wine storage, especially in homes where entertaining is frequent.
About Miele
All Miele appliances are designed to enjoy a long lifespan, have a strong focus on sustainability through efficiency and innovative features, and further enrich your kitchen with timeless looks.
Ledbury Studio is delighted to present its latest design, the Hampshire Kitchen. This beautifully curated kitchen, pantry and utility space forms part of a meticulous renovation of a country house, located within the grounds of a Victorian walled garden.
Led by Charlie Smallbone and the team at Ledbury Studio, this project is a testament to the brand’s signature ethos: artisan craftsmanship meets timeless design. Working in close collaboration with interior designer Hollie Bowden and the client, their combined efforts have created a scheme that perfectly balances rustic simplicity with contemporary sophistication.
“This kitchen is all about balance,” says Charlie Smallbone, Founder of Ledbury Studio. “We wanted to create something that feels authentic to its setting – rooted in the craftsmanship and character of a traditional country house – but with just enough refinement and modern detailing to make it truly timeless. Every material, every junction, every finish has been carefully chosen to stand the test of time, both aesthetically and practically. It’s a design that feels both grounded and elevated, as functional as it is inspiring. The whole team is delighted with the finished result.”
At the heart of the kitchen sits a stainless-steel island, conceived as both a showpiece and a hardworking hub. It houses a striking Lacanche range cooker, paired with a bespoke stainless-steel hood complete with a rail for saucepans and utensils. Every element has been meticulously considered. The island’s custom-cast handles, crafted in stainless steel with brass accents, echo the oven’s detailing. In addition, the limestone worktop – sourced from The Once A Week Quarry in Bakewell – is edged in stainless steel and finished with a surrounding rail, lending the piece a distinctly tailored, architectural feel.
To allow the island to take centre stage, the surrounding cabinetry adopts a classic Shaker design, hand-painted in Cloth by Atelier Ellis, and paired with handmade, rustic wall tiles that add texture and warmth.
The pantry and utility room continue this understated, timeless aesthetic, painted in Tirzah by Atelier Ellis and complemented by dark-stained solid oak worktops and matching open shelving. The result is a cohesive and deeply considered design language that flows seamlessly throughout the home.
Together, these spaces form a masterclass in pared-back rustic chic – elegant yet inviting, stylish yet supremely functional. Built to be lived in and loved for generations, the Hampshire Kitchen exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship at the heart of every Ledbury Studio project.
Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.
About Ledbury Studio Ltd
Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a calm and sleek kitchen design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Daulby and Tickle.
Daulby and Tickle was commissioned to design, manufacture, and install a bespoke kitchen for the Devereux Road project, aiming to create a calm, sleek, and modern space that balances minimalist aesthetics with everyday functionality. The resulting kitchen showcases a refined palette of premium materials. Every element was meticulously planned and executed, with Daulby and Tickle’s in-house manufacturing. The final result is a harmonious, elegant kitchen that not only meets but exceeds the client’s expectations, delivering both visual sophistication and everyday usability in equal measure.
Category: Kitchen Design
Design Practice: Daulby and Tickle
Project Title: Devereux Road
Project Location: London, United Kingdom
Design Practice Location: Hampshire, United Kingdom
The client asked us to design a calm, sleek, modern kitchen with a minimalist aesthetic. They wanted premium materials, handleless cabinetry for a seamless look, and advanced appliances that support both cooking and entertaining. The space needed to be highly functional, practical to maintain, and visually refined, blending style with everyday usability.
The design was inspired by the client’s desire for balance, something understated yet sophisticated, where every detail contributes to a calm, considered atmosphere. Our use of textured walnut veneers, ultra-matte Fenix finishes, and the dramatic Neolith Calacatta Luxe framing created a refined contrast that feels both warm and contemporary. Further inspiration came from the client’s reference to European design studios, which guided the development of our bespoke solid-brass patinated handles, ultimately becoming a defining feature of the project.
Though originally intended as a fully handleless kitchen, the design changed just before installation when the client requested a bespoke handle solution inspired by images from a French design studio. Sourcing wasn’t possible, so we designed and developed our own version from scratch. Working with local specialists, we precision-milled solid brass handles and hand-finished them in-house to achieve a smooth bronze patina. What began as a sourcing challenge became a Daulby & Tickle solution, playing to our strengths both creatively and technically, and ultimately elevating the entire kitchen design.
Our highlight was seeing the completed space come together exactly as envisioned, a kitchen that feels balanced, calm, and effortlessly sophisticated. Every element, from the subtle lighting to the refined mix of walnut, Fenix, and Neolith, works in harmony to create an atmosphere that is both modern and timeless. The client’s reaction, and their continued enjoyment of cooking and entertaining in the space, confirmed for us that we had achieved the perfect blend of style, practicality, and equilibrium.
We entered the SBID Awards to share our work with a wider audience and celebrate the craftsmanship, design precision, and ingenuity that define our projects. Although we have been in business for over 30 years, we have rarely shouted about our work, yet many of our projects are of an exceptional standard. The SBID Awards felt like the right platform to finally showcase what we do, benchmark ourselves against the best in the industry, and honour the creativity and dedication of our team.
Becoming an SBID Award Finalist has been hugely significant. It validates the dedication and skill of our team, giving both our clients and partners confidence in the quality we deliver. For our business, it has elevated visibility, opened conversations with new clients, and reinforced our reputation as a studio and manufacturer that blends exceptional design with outstanding craftsmanship.
Questions answered by Robin Evans, Lead Designer at Daulby and Tickle.
We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a playful and luxurious residential design, click here to read it.
In contemporary home design, kitchens are more than places to cook, they are social hubs, open living spaces, and architectural focal points. Yet with this new visibility comes a challenge: how to balance elegant entertaining with the inevitable mess of food preparation. Enter the Dirty Kitchen; a modern revival of the scullery that is transforming the way we live, cook and host.
Historically, the scullery was a service space hidden from view, used for dishwashing, pot-scrubbing and food prep. Today’s Dirty Kitchen retains its practical purpose but elevates it into a design-led feature. No longer a neglected backroom, it is conceived as an intelligent extension of the main kitchen, seamlessly integrated with the home’s architecture.
Behind sliding pocket doors or discreet partitions, these second kitchens house the heavy-duty appliances, deep sinks and generous storage needed for modern entertaining. From extra ovens and dishwashers to bulky mixers and chest freezers, the functional elements of culinary life are tucked neatly away, allowing the front-of-house kitchen to remain pristine and composed.
The renewed popularity of the Dirty Kitchen is driven by lifestyle. Today’s kitchens are rarely used for cooking alone, they are living, working and entertaining spaces. A support kitchen makes it possible to maintain calm, clutter-free interiors while still preparing food for family dinners or large gatherings.
Architecturally, this approach solves one of the great challenges of open-plan design: how to reconcile generous social space with the storage and functionality a working kitchen demands. By relocating bulk preparation and cleaning tasks, the Dirty Kitchen ensures that open spaces remain visually serene while still performing at a professional level.
The success of a Dirty Kitchen lies in thoughtful planning. Appliance capacity is often the first consideration; a second oven, dishwasher, prep sink or oversized fridge can take the pressure off the main kitchen, freeing it up for more social and aesthetic functions. Storage, too, is key. Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry makes the most of every inch, with open sections for trays, pans and bulk provisions. Far from being purely utilitarian, these elements can be designed with elegance in mind to introduce both practicality and architectural presence.
Lighting should be treated with the same care as in the main kitchen. Good task lighting ensures efficiency, while under-shelf LEDs or even a statement pendant bring atmosphere and design intent to the space. Integrated motion sensors can add both convenience and a sense of theatre, making the room feel active and alive as soon as you step inside. Finally, flexibility is what sets the Dirty Kitchen apart. It can be conceived as a pantry, a dedicated wine store, a laundry zone or even a coffee bar – a multi-functional room shaped precisely to the rhythm of each household.
Every household uses its kitchen differently, and a Dirty Kitchen should be tailored to these individual needs. At Roundhouse, we have designed everything from compact concealed larders to expansive walk-in preparation rooms with chef-grade equipment. The goal is always the same: to let the main kitchen breathe, maintaining its architectural presence while ensuring no functionality is sacrificed.
The Dirty Kitchen may be rooted in tradition, but its design language is entirely modern. Crafted with the same level of detail and material quality as the main kitchen, it feels like a natural extension of the home.
A second kitchen is no longer a luxury reserved for grand houses, it is increasingly the hallmark of considered, contemporary living. The Dirty Kitchen represents a quiet revolution: a space that liberates the main kitchen, enhances entertaining, and brings style and efficiency into perfect alignment.
To discover how Roundhouse can create a kitchen tailored to your lifestyle, visit one of our showrooms and explore how bespoke design can transform your everyday culinary rituals into something extraordinary.
For this elegant Esher home, HUX created a kitchen that brings together refined craftsmanship with a warm, earthy aesthetic inspired by the clients’ South African heritage. Stained oak cabinetry with delicate fluted detailing forms the foundation, complemented by a leathered Cosentino Sensa Platino island, satin brushed brass accents, and the subtle shimmer of bronze antique mirrors framing the floating shelves and bar.
Beyond its visual appeal, every detail was designed for purposeful living, from the bespoke wine display cabinet above an integrated wine fridge to the custom oak ladder and brass rail offering graceful access to tall storage. Hidden pantry space keeps the design sleek, while textured materials and layered finishes create a space that feels luxurious, personal, and built for a lifetime of use.
For The Pelhams project, the client asked for a kitchen and joinery scheme that felt warm and textured while retaining a sense of sophistication. By prioritising a palette of earthy tones, fluted oak detailing, and natural stone, the aim was to create a space that was welcoming and refined. At the centre of the design is Sensa Platino by Cosentino, chosen for its silver-grey base and striking veining that give the kitchen a natural depth. But beyond its visual appeal, this surface was selected for its unique performance qualities. Treated to be stain-resistant, Sensa Platino withstands the demands of a busy family home without compromising on elegance. Its low-maintenance finish ensures that everyday spills and marks can be easily managed, while its durability and premium quality mean it retains its beauty for years to come.
Designed as both a family hub and a space for entertaining, the kitchen centres around a generous island with bar seating, creating a place to gather, cook, and connect. Intelligent storage and considered layouts ensure the kitchen works just as hard on a weeknight as it does when hosting friends. The Sensa Platino surface extends across the kitchen island and into the home bar, creating a cohesive material flow that feels both robust and natural. This choice perfectly balanced the family's desire for practicality with moments of luxury, as the bold drama of the quartzite paired elegantly with warm cabinetry tones and oak veneers, resulting in a home that feels both grounded and refined.
About Cosentino
Cosentino Group is a global, Spanish, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of design and architecture. It works together with its clients and partners to provide with solutions that offer design and value, and inspire the life of many people. This objective is possible thanks to pioneering and leading brands in their respective segments such as Silestone®, Dekton® or Sensa by Cosentino®. Technologically advanced surfaces that allow the creation of unique environments and designs for the home and public spaces.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a striking kitchen design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Sola Kitchens.
Sola Kitchens was commissioned to design and build a bespoke kitchen as part of a wider refurbishment of a West London home, which included the replacement of a traditional conservatory with a striking glass-roofed extension. The brief called for a dark-painted finish, a statement marble worktop, and the inclusion of natural wood to reflect the garden beyond. The resulting design features flat-fronted black cabinetry, walnut accents, and a dramatic Calcutta Apuana marble island with a Neolith breakfast bar. Seamlessly blending form and function, the kitchen creates a striking yet warm focal point within the architect-designed open-plan living space.
Design Practice: Sola Kitchens
Project Title: Refined Sanctuary
Design Practice Location: London, United Kingdom
The clients sought a kitchen that echoing the monochrome aesthetic of their architect-designed glass-roofed rear extension, with a dark painted finish paired with a marble worksurface. They also wanted to integrate natural wood accents to complement their houseplant collection and maintain a harmonious connection to the garden visible through Crittall doors.
The design was influenced by the need for a sleek, contemporary kitchen that marries dark, dramatic finishes with organic warmth. The contrast of black spray-painted cabinetry with walnut veneer introduced both depth and natural texture. The marble-wrapped island, in Calacatta Apuana, was selected for its rich brown and black veining—bringing dynamic, organic energy to the space, while echoing the refined simplicity of Scandinavian design.
A key challenge was coordinating the integrated extraction within the island. Since the client chose a hob with built-in extraction, the island’s exact placement had to be finalized early to allow precise underfloor ducting installation. That left very little room for changes later in the process—demanding detailed advance planning and precision execution.
The standout feature is the marble-wrapped island with the cleverly concealed breakfast bar. With discreet underfloor cabling rising through the leg to a hidden power socket beneath the Neolith iron-finish surface, it functions seamlessly as both a stylish bar and a functional workstation with a direct view of the garden.
Sola Kitchens submitted Refined Sanctuary to the SBID Awards to highlight how refined craftsmanship, thoughtful design and bespoke functionality can elevate interior spaces—specifically kitchens. Being shortlisted is also a way to celebrate and showcase the project’s design excellence on an international stage.
Achieving finalist status at the SBID Awards signifies external validation of Sola Kitchens’ design vision and execution. It reinforces the team's commitment to quality bespoke design and craftsmanship, elevates the brand’s credibility, and bolsters visibility among discerning clients and industry peers seeking expertly crafted, luxury interiors.
Questions answered by Matthew Collins, Sales Specialist at Sola Kitchens.
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring an eclectic residential design by Sadie Pizzey Interiors, click here to read it.
Premium appliance manufacturer, Miele has introduced four built-to-order models to its VitroLine cooking range in its popular Pearl Beige finish. The new appliances pair Miele’s renowned performance with a soft, contemporary aesthetic designed to bring warmth and elegance to the modern kitchen.
Previously exclusive to Miele’s sleek, handleless ArtLine range, the four new additions mean that the elegant Pearl Beige colourway is now also available in Miele’s more traditional VitroLine cooking range. Compared to ArtLine, VitroLine models feature handles that match the appliance colour for a classic yet contemporary look.
The four new models are Miele’s H7440 BM 45cm Microwave Combi Oven (RRP £2,869), Miele’s H7464 BP 60cm Oven (RRP £2,829), Miele’s DGC7440 HC Pro 45cm Steam Combi Oven (RRP £3,149) and Miele’s DGC7460 HC Pro 60cm Steam Combi Oven (RRP £4,599). Combining a nuanced blend of grey and beige with metallic rear printing on white glass, the Pearl Beige appliances feature a glossy surface with a subtle glittering effect. This unique finish integrates seamlessly with both lighter and darker kitchen interiors, offering versatility and timeless appeal.
With the new additions, homeowners can now benefit from a fully coordinated kitchen suite alongside existing Pearl Beige products, such as built-in coffee machines, warming drawers, wine conditioning units and cooker hoods. This expansion also responds to the growing demand ahead of 2026 for warm, natural tones in kitchen design that evoke a ‘cocooning’ aesthetic - a style that creates inviting, calming spaces with subtle sophistication. Pearl Beige also complements both light and dark natural materials, making it a perfect fit for the ongoing trend of integrating nature-inspired elements such as wood into home interiors.
Tom Hopper, Category Manager for Kitchens at Miele GB, commented: "Building on the success of Pearl Beige in our ArtLine series, bringing this sought-after colourway to our VitroLine range allows us to offer customers a beautifully understated alternative for traditional kitchen styling. The warm, natural tone and distinctive glass finish add elegance and depth to any space, while the range’s expanded functionality meets the needs of today’s discerning home cooks."
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