The modern kitchen is no longer just a space for cooking, it’s the heart of the home, a hub of design, function, and self-expression. In 2025, kitchen design is embracing bold colours, rich textures, and a blend of old and new that reflects both personal style and practical needs. From patterned tiles and waterproof wallpapers to durable soft furnishings and tactile finishes, here’s how to transform your kitchen with materials that are as beautiful as they are functional.
1. Tile Trends That Elevate Your Space
Tiles remain one of the most impactful design elements in any kitchen. Whether used as a statement backsplash or to define zones in open-plan layouts, tiles offer endless creative possibilities. This year, we’re seeing a resurgence in patterned tiles, textured ceramics, and natural stone-inspired surfaces that bring depth and warmth to the space.
Ca’Pietra’s collections, balance timeless elegance with modern edge. Think handcrafted zellige tiles, matte finishes, and colour-rich designs that reflect a lived-in luxury. Pairing contrasting patterns with subtle grout tones creates a curated look, while large-format floor tiles add drama and continuity underfoot.
2. Soft Furnishings That Work Hard
Fabric might not be the first material that comes to mind in a kitchen, but done right, it adds softness, texture, and warmth. Marie Goodwin, Head Designer at Prestigious Textiles and PT Blinds, shares her expert insight on the best fabrics for functional yet beautiful kitchens:
“Kitchen environments are prone to higher levels of heat and moisture, so using materials that are able to withstand more extreme elements is essential. For the ultimate hard-wearing option, PVC fabrics are the best for soft furnishings such as blinds and table runners, as they contain highly water-resistant properties. They are also easy to maintain thanks to their simple, wipeable finish, making splashes and spills easy to clean up.
Faux wood blinds are also composed of hard wearing materials, making them another practical yet stylish and timeless option for kitchens. Their durable finish also makes them resistant to moisture. This not only helps when it comes to cleaning them, but also prevents warping over time.” – Marie Goodwin, Prestigious Textiles and PT Blinds
Add Texture & Personality
“When chosen correctly, fabrics in the kitchen can work well to create a warm, inviting feel. Really focus on pattern work and colourway options to enhance your desired kitchen aesthetic.
Whether you decide on conversational prints of nature and florals to invite the beauty of the outdoors into your country shaker-style kitchen or, opt for modern geometrics in earthy colourways to help build a moody and atmospheric ambiance in your contrasted contemporary space – there’s a range of variations to consider.
Alternatively, for more minimalist spaces you can focus on the subtle use of texture rather than pattern to create an inviting space. Some options suitable for kitchens include weaves, jacquards and embroidered details.”
3. Wallpaper That Can Handle the Heat
Introducing pattern in the kitchen is a stylish way to elevate the design, and wallpaper is a perfect tool for this, especially when it’s made for high-moisture, high-traffic environments. From geometric prints to botanical designs, wallpaper adds kitchen texture and visual interest without overwhelming the space. According to Bryce Capp, Creative Director at Milton & King:
“Kitchens are the heart of the home – a space filled with movement, conversation, and creativity. The right wallpaper needs to stand up to this energy. In high-traffic and high-moisture environments, durability is key. Vinyl wallpapers and non-woven substrates are ideal as they are washable, resistant to moisture, and easy to maintain. A well-chosen wallpaper can bring warmth, depth, and personality to a kitchen, ensuring that the space feels inviting while being practical for everyday life.”
Trending Now: Richness, Layering & Personal Touches
“Right now, the biggest trend in interiors – and particularly in kitchens – is richness. There’s a move away from stark minimalism toward spaces with personality, texture, and nostalgia.
Walls aren’t just smooth backdrops; they are saturated, layered, and storied. Surfaces are decorated, colours are deep and velvety, and materials feel lived-in and loved.
This shift is, in part, a reaction to the hyper-digital nature of modern life. We crave spaces that feel real, tangible, and human. Kitchens are becoming more expressive – filled with objects that tell a story, colours that evoke memories, and textures that invite touch.” – Bryce Capp, Milton & King
4. Create Cohesion Through Design
To truly bring your kitchen to life, focus on more than just the big-picture elements, it’s often the finer details that tie everything together. Incorporating texture through tongue and groove panelling, natural stone worktops, or layered finishes can add depth and warmth, transforming a space from functional to soulful. These tactile touches introduce character and a sense of story, grounding your kitchen in personality and purpose.
“This approach isn’t about making a single ‘right’ choice but about curating a collection of elements that resonate. A great way to do this is by defining a palette of 4-5 key elements – a warm wood tone, polished chrome, a cherished antique, a moody blue, or a dusty pink. The key is to ensure that these choices weave throughout the home, creating cohesion rather than a disjointed mix of styles.
Ultimately, choosing wallpaper for a kitchen is about more than just aesthetics – it’s about creating a space that reflects you. Trust your instincts, lean into what resonates, and build a space that feels like home. Whether it’s through colour, texture, or pattern, wallpaper can be the perfect way to infuse your kitchen with personality and history.” — Bryce Capp, Milton & King
5. Milton & King Spotlight: The Palace Grove Collection
For a statement wallpaper that brings both artistry and history into your kitchen, look no further than Milton & King’s Palace Grove collection:
“Our latest release, The Palace Grove collection, is an intricately hand-painted celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and storytelling through design. Blending delicate detailing with structured composition, Palace Grove captures the essence of traditional techniques. Each design is a testament to the artistry of the past, thoughtfully reimagined to resonate with a modern audience.
Contemporary colour palettes and artisanal styles meld flawlessly to create designs that radiate warmth, sophistication, and distinctive character. This collection is perfect for kitchens where nostalgia, personality, and a sense of history bring the space to life.”
Your Kitchen, Your Story
Whether you’re updating your space or designing your forever home, the magic is in the mix. Rich colours, layered textures, practical finishes, and thoughtful materials come together to tell a story, your story. Grab your copy of our brochure and get inspired our client’s real homes that embrace colour, pattern and texture!
If you’re ready to infuse your dream home with texture and pattern, schedule your discovery appointment today.
