There are dozens of different kitchen styles out there and it can be tricky choosing one that’s right for you. Here are a few different kitchen styles that you can try and adopt for your space, or at the least take some inspiration from.
Also, some styles are and aren’t suited to different kitchen layouts so it might be useful to go over our guide on kitchen layouts so that you can get a better grasp of how a style might look in your kitchen.
The Modern Kitchen
What defines this style?
Modern kitchens are all about the minimalist approach. They prioritise function over fuss keeping everything simple and efficient. You’ll often see flat-front cabinets, integrated appliances, and a focus on smooth finishes rather than decorative details.
What are the flagship features?
Glossy or matte cabinetry, handleless cabinet doors, no clutter, hidden storage and neutral colour palettes (white, beige and grey usually) are key. Built-in lighting is almost always featured, keeping things looking sharp and again, minimal.
What type of kitchen does it suit?
The modern style works well in both small and large kitchens thanks to its focus on function rather than style. It’s especially suited to open-plan spaces where its seamless design helps everything flow together. In more traditional homes, a modern design can feel a bit stark and artificial-feeling, maybe add some natural textures like wood and keep a bit of clutter to make it work better.
How timeless is this style?
It’s a long-standing design style, but some elements like high-gloss cabinets can look dated over time. A modern kitchen done well will probably still look fresh in a decade, especially if you mix in natural materials rather than going for a totally clinical aesthetic. It’s also a little harder to classify as a trend or solid style as “the modern kitchen” can evolve a little and change with the times.
Affordable or expensive?
It can swing either way. Flat-pack modern kitchens are an affordable option, but high-end bespoke versions with premium finishes and built-in tech can get pricey. The key is choosing the right materials – laminate worktops and MDF cabinets can keep costs down, while quartz, marble, and custom joinery push up the price. If you’re on a big budget, a modern kitchen might be a good pick, if you’re on a tighter budget, a modern kitchen might still be a good pick.
The Farmhouse Kitchen
What defines this style?
Farmhouse kitchens are warm, inviting, and full of character – pretty much the complete opposite of a modern kitchen. They take inspiration from traditional country homes and combine practicality with rustic charm. It’s a mix of old and new with a modern appliance blend and vintage touches to create a space that feels both lived-in and stylish.
What are the flagship features?
The apron-front sink (or Belfast sink) is the star of the show, paired with wooden worktops, shaker-style cabinets, and open, cluttered shelving. Much of the time, you’ll find some sort of island that looks in use (with cutting boards, ornaments and such). Warmer colours and natural materials are one of the most recognisable features of a farmhouse kitchen.
What type of kitchen does it suit?
Farmhouse kitchens are quite versatile when it comes to size and thrive in larger spaces, especially in open-plan layouts where a big island or dining table can take centre stage. That said, a small farmhouse kitchen can work really well too as more of a cosy, homely style kitchen. If your house is more modern, a farmhouse-style kitchen might be a bit jarring. This style lends itself more naturally to traditional homes and cottages.
How timeless is this style?
Farmhouse style kitchen has been around for centuries and while it’s evolved, the core elements remain almost completely the same. Farmhouse is one of the most timeless styles you can have as it’s safe to say there will always be a market for the more rustic, traditional style kitchens.
Affordable or expensive?
Yet again, it can go either way. If you’re using reclaimed wood and vintage finds, you can create a farmhouse look on a budget. However, solid wood cabinetry, granite worktops, and high-end farmhouse sinks can make it quite pricey. A good balance is mixing rustic elements with more affordable modern materials.
The Rustic Kitchen
What defines this style?
Rustic kitchens are all about natural materials and earthy tones that give off a warm, cosy feel. Think of a kitchen with weathered wood, exposed brick, rough stone, and metal accents. The difference between a rustic kitchen and most other types of kitchens is that they embrace their imperfections and unrefined elements, making a natural style out of them.
What are the flagship features?
The two main features you can expect are solid wood cabinetry that looks somewhat untreated and brick wall features that also look quite rough and rugged. Colours lean towards earthy tones like deep browns, creams, terracotta, and muted greens.
What type of kitchen does it suit?
Rustic style kitchens work best in larger spaces where their chunky materials and rich textures can be better highlighted. That said, if done carefully, a small rustic kitchen can still feel cosy rather than cramped – you’ve just got to avoid using heavy, dark wood everywhere which can make a space feel closed in. They suit open-plan layouts well, as natural materials help create a seamless flow into living areas.
How timeless is this style?
Like most other styles that give off a more raw, natural feel, rustic design has been around forever and because it’s rooted in natural materials, it never truly goes out of style.
Affordable or expensive?
It depends. Reclaimed wood, vintage furniture, and second-hand finds can make a rustic kitchen affordable. But if you go for bespoke solid wood cabinetry with real stone worktops and artisan finishes, it can get very expensive. It depends on your approach but it definitely shouldn’t be written off if you’re on a budget.
The Mid-Century Modern Kitchen
What defines this style?
Mid-century modern kitchens are a far cry from farmhouse and rustic-style kitchens. They bring about a 40s/50s/60s/70s retro feel but with a conscious effort not to be dated or old-looking. This style blends more refined wood with some modern and futuristic elements like chrome, glass, and Formica. It’s mostly about having a relatively regular, contemporary kitchen that incorporates some mid-century styles and aesthetics.
What are the flagship features?
Flat-front cabinets with warm wood tones (like teak or walnut), bold accent colours, and minimalist yet stylish hardware are typically what you’ll find. Expect some geometric tiles, funky lighting (think sputnik chandeliers), and vintage-style appliances.
What type of kitchen does it suit?
This style works well in both small and large kitchens, as its streamlined aesthetic keeps things feeling spacious and uncluttered. It suits open-plan spaces far more than it does closed, but a mid-century modern kitchen in a compact layout can still look great – especially with clever storage solutions and bold feature walls.
How timeless is this style?
It’s hard to say how timeless mid-century is as it uses design elements from styles that are outdated themselves. Although it isn’t the most popular style of kitchen, it’s been going relatively strong for a few decades now. If you’re flirting with the idea of going with a mid-century style, it’s safe to say that the whole retro aesthetic isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Affordable or expensive?
It is what you make it. If you’re hunting for authentic vintage furniture and designer lighting, it can get pricey (although this isn’t the most common approach to a mid-century style kitchen). But if you focus on flat-front cabinetry, bold colour choices, and simple retro details, you can achieve the look on a budget. Modern brands now make affordable mid-century-inspired pieces, so you don’t have to go full collector’s edition to get the vibe.
Eclectic
What defines this style?
Eclectic kitchens are all about mixing and matching without sticking to one set style or aesthetic. There are no strict rules, just a focus on personality, creativity, and unexpected pairings. No eclectic kitchens are going to look exactly the same and you’re free to go with some mid-century elements, farmhouse elements and even modern elements if it’s your thing.
What are the flagship features?
A mix of cabinet styles, very bold colours, open shelving, and diverse materials. You might see a patterned tile backsplash next to sleek modern cabinets, or a vintage farmhouse table paired with contemporary pendant lighting. Wood, metal, glass, and stone can all work together in weird and unconventional ways when you’re going with an eclectic style.
What type of kitchen does it suit?
Eclectic kitchens can work in any size, but they’re more fitting in open-plan spaces where different elements can flow together naturally and there’s more space for design freedom. In smaller kitchens, the key is curating rather than cluttering. Too many bold choices in a tiny space can feel chaotic rather than stylish, but your eclectic style kitchen is totally up to you and your own tastes.
How timeless is this style?
Because eclectic design is so personal, it never truly goes out of style. That said, some bold trends might feel dated over time so it’s best to balance statement pieces with classic foundations. If you keep the layout and core elements timeless, you can switch out accents to keep things feeling fresh.
Affordable or expensive?
Thrifted finds, repurposed furniture, DIY projects and a lack of rules and conventions make an eclectic kitchen one of the easiest styles to achieve on a budget. However, if you’re splurging on designer statement pieces or custom finishes, obviously it can get expensive.
As you might have gathered, these styles all come with their own terms and conditions and one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Whichever style you’re thinking of going for (or taking some inspiration from), make sure to really think it through and explore all your options before deciding.
If you need advice on choosing a kitchen worktop, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to help you out.
