The careful use of colours in the kitchen shapes aesthetics, functionality, and the behaviour of users for the better. Tim Spann of Keller Kitchens explains how architects can harness colours to create spaces that inspire, energise, or calm.

In the ever-evolving kitchen sector, trends shape designs and challenge us to rethink the familiar. We follow them, create them, or sometimes disregard them, but they’re always a reflection of the world around us. For example, in the current cost-of-living crisis and economic turbulence, many are turning to brighter, uplifting colours to boost their spirits. This trend taps into the psychology of colour, where our kitchens act as canvasses to express emotions and project the ‘vibes’ we want.

Nature’s colour palettes remain an enduring inspiration. Today, we are drawn to earthy hues – gentle greens, serene blues, and soft neutrals – creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity. These shades, rooted in the landscapes around us, foster a connection to nature. The result? A design that’s minimal yet abundant, with sustainable touches like natural woods, ‘greige,’ cream, and pastel tones. These colours soothe the soul, create harmony, and evoke comfort.

On the other hand, the bold trend of “Cluttercore” embraces maximalism, extravagance, and imperfection. This aesthetic celebrates individuality, encouraging creativity and adding intrigue to the heart of the home. It’s about embracing the unique quirks of spaces and lives, creating an eclectic mix that’s vibrant and playful, with each design choice telling its own story.

For those seeking something rooted in history, Hellenism offers inspiration. Ancient Greek style brings grandeur and elegance to modern spaces with tactile, vibrant materials – textures that beg to be touched – and colours that shimmer. Whites, golds, silvers, and marble accents convey luxury, while soft, rounded shapes suggest femininity and grace.

For pure energy, consider mixing organic and synthetic materials. This playful fusion adds fun and function to kitchens with dynamic features like bold colours, abstract shapes, pop art symbols, and vibrant stripes. Earthy tones like bronze, ochre, and deep blues bring grounded energy while injecting a sense of freedom and joy. This trend emphasises mixing and matching, turning chaos into creativity.

Colours in the kitchen do more than set the mood; they can influence how we feel and even impact our appetite. It’s not just about personal preference; it’s about understanding the psychology behind each colour choice. When selecting kitchen colours, it’s essential to consider the energy and mood that the homeowner wants to cultivate in the space.

Let’s explore the psychology of some key colours and how they affect the kitchen’s atmosphere. Red is a powerhouse of energy; known to stimulate appetite, it’s why many restaurants use red in their decor. It evokes passion and excitement, but can feel overwhelming if overused. Balance it with other colours to keep the energy high without making the space too intense.

Yellow uplifts spirits and is a perfect choice for a lively kitchen where cooking and eating are a joyful experience. Yellow can energise the room, so use it in accents or feature walls to bring a sunny vibe.

Calming blue helps create a sense of space and confidence. While it is perfect for creating an easy-going atmosphere, too much can make the space feel too laid-back or sleepy. Keep it in balance for an active yet relaxing environment. Green is calming, promoting relaxation and balance; it’s believed to aid digestion, making it a great choice for kitchens, and makes a space feel fresh and vibrant.

As open-plan living and the ‘omni-design’ trend (of creating a unified feel across different spaces) continue to gain popularity, the kitchen’s colour choices now play an increasingly significant role in shaping the entire home’s vibe. The kitchen’s palette is more interconnected with the rest of the interior design. Designers should therefore embrace the freedom to mix and match colours and explore bold combinations to bring energy into domestic spaces.

One crucial and constant factor governing how colours will appear however is lighting – whether natural or artificial. Lighting quality affects how colours are perceived, as different materials and colours interact with light in unique ways. The same colour can look completely different depending on the time of day or the light source. Therefore, good lighting is key to bringing out the best in your colour choices.

For kitchens with limited natural light, bold colours can breathe life into the space, making it feel vibrant even in darker areas. However, neutral colours are timeless and versatile. They create a solid base that complements almost any other hue, making them ideal for kitchens where flexibility in design is key.

If the homeowner prefers a more neutral base, personality can be added with colour pops. Accessories such as vibrant dishware, funky textiles, or statement light fixtures allow you to inject character without overwhelming the space. Alternatively, a feature wall or splash-back in a bold colour can create a striking focal point.

Tim Spann is national sales manager UK for Keller Kitchens