How To Add A Quirky Design Element To Your Kitchen

Adding personality to a kitchen is one of the most exciting parts of your design process. Adding “quirk” to your space is one of the luxuries of having a bespoke kitchen and often what creates the wow-factor. 

When we talk about quirky kitchen design elements, we talk about adding unique and perhaps unconventional designs that will create character and personality in your space. Feel free to experiment with different ideas and find elements that resonate with your own sense of style and personality. Here are a few examples of how to “quirk up your kitchen”. 

Bold and Vibrant Colors: 

Unique colour combinations are instant gratification. The colour choice of your kitchen cabinets really is down to the individual. If you like pops of colour and aren't afraid of a mix of strong colours on your cabinets go for bright yellows with pastel pinks, greens or greys or if you are more likely to bring in colour through your accessories whites, taupe, terracotta work well throughout the kitchen or paired with another tone of the same colour creating a two-toned kitchen. Make sure you pick up samples and try them in your space at different times of the day. In this way you will be able to see how colours look in different lights. A tip is to make sure to hold your sample vertically, the way the cabinetry sits, not horizontally in order to get the most realistic effect." 

Wallpapers with Patterns: 

A way to bring in pattern, texture and fun is to decorate your walls with wallpaper. Think about how you can complement your kitchen cabinet colours with the wallpaper and how it can make the space bigger. We like to make the two work together rather than speak for themselves as the combination can make the whole room become your favourite space in your house. Make sure you order samples and test them out together before investing in your wallpaper as it can be pricey to do so if you decide against it. 

Exposed Timber Cabinetry: 

Natural oak is such a beautiful and warm material to use in any space. This includes natural, stained, detailed or washed wood statement pieces such as islands, dressers or display units to bring warmth, elegance and luxurious textures into the kitchen space. This material makes for a lovely and timeless piece of furniture that will stand the test of time. Combined with heavily veined marble these two texture powerhouses create a real wow-factor. 

Bar Seating Upholstery: 

Again, pattern here is key. Upholstering your kitchen island chairs, bench seating or banquette is a fun way to show off your personality. Again, make sure it works with the rest of your design by ordering in samples and creating a mood board. We offer upholstering services as part of your project here at Herringbone so we can help you decide. 

Dramatic Veined Worktops: 

Worktops with veined patterns, large and dramatic, add character and a wow-factor to your space. It goes really well with dark colours such as green or deep purple as they bring out a dramatic effect. When you bring in a dark, veined worktop like true marble, they work like a piece of art. Pairing these with a light or dark coloured cabinet will set your design apart. Matte finishes on worktops provide a sleek and contemporary look. This trend contrasts with the traditional high-gloss surfaces. Noisette marble is a great example as it has an excellent finish. Deciding on a work top can be daunting especially because the options can seem endless. However, at Herringbone we love to make it a part of the design that brings it all together with the cabinet colour, worktop and interiors. Whether you’re into bright tiles, beautiful marble, exposed brick or porcelain there are many options on the market that can add unique character to your kitchen.