The most desirable luxury kitchen styles in 2026 balance warmth, craftsmanship and personality – moving away from cold minimalism and towards lived-in elegance.
As 2026 kitchen trends continue to evolve, homeowners are prioritising bespoke kitchens that feel personal, practical and timeless. According to designers at Harvey Jones, kitchens are becoming softer, warmer and more expressive.
Designers at Harvey Jones, Lewis Buckley and Rachel Davis have forecasted the trends they believe will lead the way in 2026 kitchen trends.
“From earthy colour palettes, statement stone and natural materials, these elements are perfect for creating kitchen and living spaces that stand the test of time, whilst incorporating sophisticated character.”
Below, we explore three enduring bespoke kitchen styles. Each is rooted in heritage, refined by modern design, and perfectly aligned with 2026 kitchen trends.
Scandi Kitchens: Calm, Yet Modern Luxury Kitchen Design
Scandi kitchens are evolving warmer woods, softer colours and tactile finishes replace stark minimalism.
Why Are Scandi Kitchens Still Popular in Luxury Kitchen Styles?
Scandi kitchens remain a favourite because they create calm, light-filled spaces that work beautifully as luxury kitchens – especially for small kitchen inspiration.
In 2026, Scandi kitchens lean away from icy whites and embrace earthy neutrals, natural oak cabinetry and matte finishes. Lewis Buckley explains:
“After a surge in bolder colour schemes, earthy tones are becoming the new neutrals. Mushroom browns, clay taupes and sage greens are increasingly popular with our clients as they bridge the gap between cold neutrals and dark coffee colours.”
Key Design Elements
- Slim Shaker cabinetry for a refined silhouette
- Whitewashed oak or ash cabinetry for warmth and texture
- Matte stone worktops for durability and understated luxury
Rachel Davis adds:
“Moving away from glossy textures, matte finishes are going to be big in the coming year… Their glare-free finish makes them a popular choice for contemporary design.”
How To Style Scandi Kitchens
Pair Scandi kitchens with hidden storage and integrated appliances to maintain visual calm – a defining feature of 2026 kitchen trends.
Natural materials add warmth in interior spaces, making them ideal for luxury kitchen design.
Cottage & Farmhouse Kitchens: Timeless Character Meets 2026 Kitchen Trends
Cottage and farmhouse kitchens are becoming more refined, less rustic -perfect for elegant luxury kitchens.
What Defines Modern Cottage and Farmhouse Kitchens?
Today’s cottage kitchens and farmhouse kitchens retain their charm while embracing bespoke craftsmanship, warm colours and contemporary layouts. These luxury kitchen styles feel collected rather than curated – a major shift in 2026 kitchen trends.
Earthy palettes dominate here. Lewis Buckley notes:
“Warm neutrals help create a calm, inviting kitchen and work for both small kitchens and large rooms.”
These tones pair beautifully with classic Shaker kitchens and natural stone.
Key Design Elements
- Original cabinetry for heritage appeal incorporating modern technology
- Statement stone such as Calacatta marble on islands or splashbacks
- Natural oak cabinetry layered with burnished brass handles
Rachel Davis explains:
“Calacatta marble is defining the shift towards more expressive kitchens… Its dramatic veining looks beautiful on statement islands while enhancing natural light.”
How To Style Farmhouse and Cottage Kitchens
Incorporate hidden pantries and utility zones to keep farmhouse kitchens functional without sacrificing charm.
If you prefer a modern take on the more traditional cottage style, Shaker kitchens remain one of the most popular bespoke kitchen styles in the UK thanks to their versatility.
Industrial Kitchens: Softer, More Liveable Luxury Kitchens
Industrial kitchens are losing their harsh edge – warmth and texture now define luxury versions of this style.
How Are Industrial Kitchens Changing in 2026?
While traditional industrial kitchens focused on steel and concrete, 2026 kitchen trends soften the look with wood, curves and matte finishes. This evolution makes industrial kitchens more liveable – and more luxurious.
Natural oak cabinetry plays a starring role here. Lewis Buckley explains:
“Natural oak cabinetry has been a popular choice… particularly whitewashed ash which provides contemporary character while highlighting craftsmanship quality.”
Key Design Elements
- Our handleless Linear Edge cabinetry paired with industrial textures
- Dark or mid-tone woods to replace cold metals
- Sculptural lighting used as functional art
Rachel Davis highlights lighting as key:
“In 2026 we’ll see matte worktops with warm earthy colourways, brushed metal handles and marble splashbacks for subtle contrasts.”
How To Style Industrial Kitchens
Use industrial kitchens as a backdrop – let statement stone or lighting create drama without overwhelming the space.
Smart integrated appliances are now standard in luxury kitchens, regardless of style. This shift in technology makes it easier than ever to create a streamlined industrial style kitchen.
Why These Luxury Kitchen Styles Define 2026 Kitchen Trends
The most successful luxury kitchen styles for 2026 combine warmth, craftsmanship and flexibility. Whether Scandi, farmhouse or industrial, the focus is on bespoke kitchens that feel timeless yet personal.
From natural woods to Slim Shaker cabinetry, these styles reject cold minimalism in favour of lived-in elegance. As trends fade, these three designs continue to evolve rather than date.
FAQs: Luxury Kitchen Styles & 2026 Kitchen Trends
What is a Shaker style kitchen?
A Shaker style kitchen features framed cabinetry with clean, simple lines. Modern Shaker kitchens, especially slim Shaker designs, are a cornerstone of luxury kitchen styles thanks to their versatility and timeless appeal.
What style of kitchen is popular now?
Luxury kitchens that prioritise warmth, natural materials and bespoke detailing are most popular. Scandi kitchens, cottage kitchens and industrial kitchens all align with current 2026 kitchen trends.
What are the top kitchen design trends for 2026 in the UK?
Key 2026 kitchen trends include earthy colour palettes, natural wood cabinetry, matte finishes, statement stone, Slim Shaker designs and integrated storage for calm, functional spaces.
How do I choose kitchen lighting that fits 2026 styles?
Choose lighting that doubles as a design feature. Sculptural pendants, warm metallic finishes and layered lighting enhance luxury kitchen design while supporting functionality.
Design Your Bespoke Luxury Kitchen with Harvey Jones
If you’re planning a renovation inspired by these luxury kitchen styles, Harvey Jones specialises in bespoke kitchen styles crafted to suit your home and lifestyle. Book an appointment to discuss your favourite 2026 kitchen trends for your renovation.
