Materials mastery

There’s been a lot of talk in the kitchen world of ‘texture’ and ‘mixing materials’ – it’s a really hot topic just now. Combining different materials to create interest is not only very popular with Roundhouse clients but we like to think we’ve been instrumental in creating the trend in the wider kitchen design world too.

Texture contrast

Matt and high gloss lacquers in kitchens will always be popular but mixed with a metallic or textured surface for cabinetry in the kitchen is an emerging trend – people are moving away from uniformity and looking for more individuality and Roundhouse has developed an exclusive range of metal wraps in matt sanded Brass and Copper, Antique Brass, Antique Copper, which work alongside more traditional finishes like painted matt lacquer.

Highly textured finishes like rough sawn Oak ply, deeply riven river-washed finish and beautiful bleached wood are also growing more evident. As are textures used in unusual combinations, with simple hand painted matt lacquer and gorgeous natural stone worksurfaces or beautiful polished concrete that with age, acquires its own patina.

Metallics

Glamorous metallic finishes include Burnished Copper and Bronze, and Hammered Silver which gives a textured look. Finishes like these are reflective and rich, with depth and texture and used with matt or gloss lacquers, beautiful book matched veneers or textured finishes, create a layered effect. As they age they acquire a natural patina, which adds to their beauty and richness.

Why use texture in your kitchen design?

While your colour palette can contribute to the overall tone of your kitchen, it’s the interweaving of complimentary textures that can help to create a visually interesting, finished space. Without careful thought being given to the texture within your kitchen, the space can feel ‘flat’. Contrasting materials avoid a uniform look by creating a palette of textures.

Whether you’re looking for a sleek minimalist design, or want to create a cosy feeling kitchen space, using textures throughout your design adds both depth and personality to your kitchen.

From mixing woods with polished stone worktops, to using architectural features such as exposed brickwork, mixing up elements creates a kitchen which is visually interesting and not stark.

Creating a focal point through textures

Using textures in your design can also allow you to showcase specific areas of the kitchen that you want to highlight and can be used to dramatic effect.

Metal wraps are reflective and rich with a depth and texture that contrasts beautifully with a range of finishes, and can be used to create a stand out kitchen island, which truly draws the eye.

Natural, rough-hewn woods contrasted with smooth finishes can give what would be a sterile space a warmer feel, while polished concrete offers many possibilities: it can be set against rough sawn finishes, metal wraps and patinated or burnished metallics to add true character to a kitchen.

Textures and open spaces

With a trend towards integrating the kitchen into a larger living area, textures can be used to bring the design together, creating zones for cooking, dining and relaxing. Due to the lack of division between rooms, mixing materials must be well thought through in order to ensure that the kitchen and living room furniture compliment and contrast well.

Finishing touches such as matching the materials across fixtures and fittings throughout also help to promote a feeling of unity throughout the space.

If you’d like to read more about the latest design trends, get advice about what to choose and how to plan your own bespoke kitchen, or enter an exclusive competition why not sign up for our Newsletter

Our expert kitchen designers can help you make the best choices for your Roundhouse bespoke kitchen. Visit any of our six Roundhouse showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Guildford & Cheltenham and get planning!