Words by Karen Bell, from David Salisbury, a company manufacturing and installing top of the range hardwood extensions and luxury kitchens.
In today’s fast-paced world, where interior trends tend to regularly evolve, there’s something particularly enduring about the appeal of natural materials in kitchen design.
When it comes to luxury kitchen design, solid timber has long been the material of choice for both designers and discerning homeowners. Alongside this, natural stone is a wonderfully hardwearing and practical material for flooring, whether in a kitchen, entrance hall or utility room.
Beyond their natural aesthetic charm, materials such as wood, ceramics or stone offer a range of wider benefits. We consider the reasons behind the continued popularity of natural materials in kitchen design, the numerous advantages they bring, and how to expertly combine them for a harmonious and timeless kitchen.
Why natural materials are so popular
There is something special about quality kitchen cabinetry, crafted from solid wood, that exudes a timeless, elegant beauty. When complemented with a natural stone floor, this combination provides an innate character and texture, instantly creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in any kitchen. These materials have been used for centuries and continue to captivate with their simple, yet sophisticated aesthetics.
Nowadays, kitchens are well-established as the heart of the home, where families gather to cook, eat, and entertain. Designing an open plan kitchen space with natural materials helps to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, essential for creating a welcoming and family-friendly space, as well as being perfect for entertaining. In fact, research shows that integrating natural materials helps provide a positive sense of wellbeing.
There’s also the organic variations to enjoy. The allure of natural stone is that no two tiles are the same, and similarly no two pieces of oak are ever the same – in fact, the differences in grain and appearance are part of its attraction.
Natural materials, however, are not just noted for their aesthetics – they are also incredibly versatile. They can be adapted to suit various design styles, from rustic to contemporary. This adaptability means an experienced designer can infuse a client’s personality and style into their kitchen, adding bespoke touches to make it truly their own space.
Natural materials are renowned for their durability too. They can withstand the rigours of daily use, maintaining their natural character. This longevity is an attractive feature for homeowners looking for sustainable interiors that stand the test of time. Natural stone flooring in particular is known to wear in, as opposed to wearing out. When you’re dealing with a busy room like a kitchen, the focus needs to be on function as much as beauty, and natural materials that are scratch-resistant, hygienic, practical and easy to use, will always be popular.
It’s also a win for the environment too. When sourced responsibly, natural materials have a lower environmental impact than synthetic alternatives, making them a greener choice for your kitchen.
Timber is widely regarded as the only truly sustainable construction material so investing in a solid wood kitchen is the best way to balance sustainability concerns.
Selecting and combining natural materials
When incorporating natural materials into your kitchen, it’s essential to select and combine them thoughtfully for a cohesive and timeless result.
For example, the beautiful character of a natural stone floor can be balanced by the solid oak kitchen joinery – a combination of natural tones that flawlessly complement each other. Consider natural materials for upholstery, cushions and throws too, like wool, cotton, and linen.
Maximise natural light to showcase the beauty of these materials. Large windows or strategically placed lighting can enhance these natural textures and colours.
To take the natural look a step even further, why not experiment with a range of plants to really bring the outdoors in?
Central to creating timeless style
In the world of kitchen design, the enduring allure of natural materials like wood and stone remains as strong as ever. Their timeless beauty, comfort, and versatility make them the ideal choice for creating a family-friendly space at the heart of your home.
Beyond aesthetics, these materials offer practical benefits and eco-friendliness. When thoughtfully selected and combined, they can transform your kitchen into a haven of warmth and elegance, ensuring that your space will remain as appealing as ever for years to come.
For anyone planning a new kitchen project, consider the lasting charm of natural materials – they’re a timeless choice, with an allure that endures whatever the changes in current design trends.
