Whether you want to overhaul your current kitchen design or refresh a tired kitchen cabinet colour scheme, every effective kitchen combines many elements – layout, cabinets, worktops, appliances, tiling, and so forth.

Kitchen ranges in shades of black, white, charcoal and even midnight are still proving to stand the test of time. Monochromatic kitchen colour schemes offer a sleek and elegant design that will complement a modern apartment or can be incorporated into a traditional kitchen for the perfect family home.

There’s a growing interest in brave yet tasteful colours in the kitchen, from vivid greens to deep purples. Not only have rich forest greens been the go-to classic kitchen shade, but paler greens and earthy mid greens are popular for a contemporary style. Popular looks include pairing charcoal kitchen cabinets with deep, plummy tones or adding dramatic flair by giving your whole kitchen a refresh with cabernet-inspired cabinet paint.

As we move into 2020, research shows that eco-credentials are a growing concern to the modern homeowner, following a new consciousness surrounding our planet and how we can save energy. Making steps towards more sustainable living could include adding dedicated recycling bins in your cupboard, installing a 3-in-1 hot water tap, or choosing induction hobs to reduce the amount of energy used and wasted.

Broken-plan living will define the next decade. An emerging trend in the last few years, the kitchen, living room and dining area are all merging into one open-plan space. Making the home a connected space, zoning is replacing open-plan layouts with the ‘phenomenon’ referred to as broken-plan. Retaining the spacious feel of an open-plan design, the trend employs the use of screens, freestanding furniture, cabinetry and house plants to create distinct zones and nest-like nooks intended for cooking, relaxing and entertaining,’ the team explain.

Technology is the key for kitchen designs to coincide with the evolution of modern lifestyles, all whilst maintaining a high end, sleek aesthetic. Technology in the kitchen has developed over the past 10 years, with the use of steam ovens, vacuum drawers and fridges that keep food fresh for longer surging in popularity. It’s becoming even more of an essential for new technologies such as wi-fi enabled gadgets that are easily controlled from the phone, and USB points and sockets in draws.

2020 will see a resurgence of natural finishes, where wood components are left exposed; adding detail, definition and character to a space. Natural oak drawer boxes, granite worktops and soothing neutrals will be favoured options.