Designing a new kitchen means making choices, and some of them can feel surprisingly personal. From cabinet finishes to colour tones and storage styles, the decisions you make shape not just how your kitchen looks, but how it works for you day to day. If you're feeling torn between timeless classics and modern trends, you're not alone.

​In this post, we're diving into three of the most common kitchen style dilemmas: gloss or matte? Cool or warm tones? Pantry or larder? Let’s explore the pros, cons, and best uses for each, so you can create a space that feels right for your home and your lifestyle.
Gloss vs. Matte: Which Finish Works for You?
Your kitchen finish sets the tone for the entire space, and gloss and matte each bring something different to the table.
Gloss kitchens reflect light, helping smaller spaces feel larger and brighter. Their smooth surfaces are easy to wipe down, making them a practical choice for busy households. They work especially well in contemporary homes where clean lines and a sleek finish are key. However, they can show fingerprints and smudges more easily, especially in darker colours.
Matte kitchens, on the other hand, offer a more understated, luxurious look. They absorb rather than reflect light, which can add depth and a soft, velvety texture to your cabinetry. They’re excellent at hiding minor marks and fingerprints, and they pair beautifully with wood accents and industrial-style elements.

Cool vs. Warm Tones: Setting the Mood
Colour plays a huge role in how your kitchen feels. Cool tones — think soft greys, whites, or blues — create a calm, clean aesthetic that’s perfect for modern homes. These shades pair effortlessly with chrome, marble, and sleek appliances.
Warm tones creams, taupes, terracotta, or natural wood — evoke comfort and homeliness. They’re ideal if you want your kitchen to feel like the heart of the home, with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Warm tones work beautifully with rustic fixtures, brass handles, or vintage-inspired tiling.
When choosing a palette, consider what natural light your kitchen gets, as well as your style. Our design team can help you visualise both options before you commit.

Pantry vs. Larder: Smart Storage Decisions
Storage isn’t just about function, it’s about how you use your space. The walk-in pantry is a dream for keen cooks and bakers. With room for dry goods, appliances, and even wine racks, it offers unbeatable organisation- if you have the space.
Larders, by contrast, offer brilliant storage in a single, built-in unit. You can customise with drawers, shelves, spice racks or breakfast stations and they’re ideal for medium to smaller kitchens where you still want everything within reach.

Let’s Build Your Perfect Kitchen
Whatever side of the debate you fall on, there’s no wrong answer, just the right one for you.

Ready to get started?
Contact our friendly team of Manchester kitchen fitters to talk through your ideas and discover what’s possible.

As the spring cleaning gets underway, you might want to change things around your kitchen. If you’re struggling for inspiration here is what’s trending in kitchen design this year.

 
Stone flooring
Stone flooring is a low-maintenance, durable option that can give your kitchen a stylish, rustic feel. Natural stone is incredibly forgiving for everyday use in a kitchen, and with time, its appearance only improves. No two tiles are exactly alike, lending itself perfectly to a country-style home. From limestone to granite, there are plenty of stone options to choose from, each bringing its own unique character. For a more affordable yet equally elegant alternative, porcelain tiles mimic the look of natural stone while offering extra resilience and ease of maintenance.
​
Marble tops
2025 is all about one-of-a-kind kitchens that showcase nature’s beauty in an elegant way. Marble is a luxurious way to bring a sense of refinement into your space while embracing the unique variations found in natural stone. Whether you prefer a honed matte finish or a polished shine, marble adds an expensive, timeless aesthetic. Pairing it with natural wood cabinets or contrasting it against dark tones can make a dramatic statement. If you’re considering fitting a marble countertop, be sure to have it professionally installed for a flawless finish.

Environmentally conscious materials
Sustainability is a key focus in kitchen design, with eco-friendly materials taking centre stage. Recycled wood panels offer a stylish yet responsible way to update your space, while worktops made from reclaimed or composite materials provide durability with minimal environmental impact. Choosing low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints is another sustainable way to refresh your kitchen while improving indoor air quality and reducing exposure to harmful toxins.

Smart kitchen technology
Technology continues to revolutionise the modern kitchen, making everyday tasks more efficient and convenient. Smart appliances that can be controlled remotely, voice-activated faucets, and automated lighting systems are becoming increasingly popular. Touchless taps improve hygiene, while built-in charging stations and wireless device integration make multitasking in the kitchen easier than ever.

Concealed storage solutions
Minimalism remains a strong influence in kitchen design, with hidden storage options allowing for a sleek, uncluttered look. Seamless cabinetry, pop-up sockets, and concealed pantries are practical additions that maintain a clean and streamlined aesthetic. Custom-built storage solutions, such as pull-out spice racks, hidden compartments, and deep drawers for pots and pans, help keep everything organised while maximising space. Toe-kick drawers and built-in appliance garages are also trending. For those who love an ultra-modern look, handleless cabinetry and push-to-open mechanisms provide a seamless, sophisticated finish.
These trends reflect a shift toward kitchens that prioritise sustainability, functionality, and individuality. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or just looking to update a few key elements, these ideas will help keep your kitchen feeling fresh and on-trend in 2025.
​
Ready to make changes to your kitchen this year? Get in touch with our expert Manchester kitchen fitters for a no-obligation quote.

Here are some key things to start thinking about:

Choose the right appliances
When shopping for your new fridge freezer, dishwasher, extractor fan, microwave and oven, go for A-rated appliances. These are designed to be the most efficient products in their class.
It usually means spending more money, but it can be worth it. Not only are A-rated appliances better for the environment, but they’re also cheaper to run. This means they could save you money on your energy bills over time. You can find out more about energy ratings here. 

Another thing to think about with appliances is the type. For example, you might want to go for an induction hob instead of a gas-powered one. These tend to heat up more quickly and cook at a faster speed, while gas hobs tend to lose heat around the sides of the pans.

Bring in as much natural light as possible
To save you putting the lights on all the time, think about how you can maximise natural light in your kitchen. This could mean a big change like putting in a skylight, light tunnel or a bigger window. Or you can try a tiny touch of trickery, such as using light enhancing colours and glossy, reflective surfaces in order to bounce light around.
When you do get round to installing lighting, it goes without saying that energy saving LEDs are the way forward.

Splash out on new technology
There are some gadgets and high-tech appliances out there that can make your kitchen more energy efficient, as well as being convenient – and pretty cool too.
For example, instant boiling water taps, which can save a huge amount of energy compared to putting the kettle on.

Tips for using your new kitchen efficiently
By this point, you’ve put a huge amount of effort into designing as energy efficient a kitchen as possible. So it’d be a shame to undo all that hard work now, by slipping into bad habits that waste energy unnecessarily.
Here are just a few quick tips to conserve energy in your shiny new kitchen:

• Only run your dishwasher when it’s full
• Lower the thermostat by a degree or two, or turn it down completely when you’re cooking and the oven is on
• Run your washing machine at lower temperatures
• Avoid overfilling your fridge freezer, and avoid putting in anything that’s above room temperature – as this will lower the temperature inside the appliance
• Only boil the amount of water you need in the kettle.

​
Need help with your kitchen design, or ready for fitting? Get in touch with our experienced kitchen fitters here at A&J Kitchens.  ​

If you’re looking to create a timeless, luxurious-looking kitchen, marble is a great material to choose. Classic white marble worktops not only look fantastic, but they’re pretty durable too. You’ll need to be careful with staining and scratching, although with use the surface can develop an attractive patina. 
 
But like with any key kitchen components, it’s important to choose carefully. You need to get the fitting spot-on, and know how to look after your new worktops to ensure they last.
 
This is why we’ve put together a handy guide covering everything you need to know.
 
Choosing a marble worktop
 
Marble worktops come in a large number of varieties, so you should have plenty of choice. There are plenty of luxury options out there, including Calacatta and Statuario – these are both bright white and offer pronounced ‘veining’ effects.
 
Generally, marble worktops come in two main types. These are:
 

• Polished – these worktops have a glossy, reflective surface, which is also better for repelling moisture. It’s less likely to stain, but more prone to scratches.
• Honed – this is where the surface of the stone is sanded, for a soft, matte finish. Scratches won’t show so easily, but this technique does make the marble more porous so staining is more likely.

 
As for how much it costs, some marble specialists advise that you can expect to pay around £300 per square metre. Although of course, it depends which variety you choose, and how large your kitchen is.
 
Fitting your marble worktops
 
Once you’ve chosen the worktops you want, it’s time to think about fitting. It’s not recommended to take this on as a DIY job. It requires skill and the right tools to get the perfect fit, making adjustments where needed and accommodating any cut-out sections (like sinks). So, a professional worktop fitting service is the best choice.
 
In many cases, it’s best to buy custom cut marble worktops. This is where the manufacturer has already cut out the required inserts for sinks, hobs etc. They’ll also have cut your worktops to size. But even these will require careful, expert fitting.
 
The crucial thing to remember is that marble worktops are an expensive material – so you absolutely don’t want them damaged or otherwise spoilt by a poor fit.
 
How to care for marble worktops
 
Your marble worktops are all in and fitted perfectly – so what do you need to do to look after them? Here are some pointers to remember:
 

• Make sure your marble worktops are sealed professionally when first installed, if sealing isn’t included when you buy them
• Wipe up spills right away, especially if it’s anything acidic
• For general cleaning, use a soft cloth and hot soapy water, then dry to avoid water marks
• Avoid using lemon-scented cleaning products (as they can be acidic) and abrasive sponges.

 
Ready to fit your beautiful new marble worktops? Get in touch with our expert Manchester kitchen fitters for a no-obligation quote.
​

​There’s a lot to think about when designing a new kitchen, but sustainability should be near the top of your list. Not only is an eco-friendly kitchen good for the planet in the face of climate change crisis, but it’s also great for your wallet. A sustainably designed kitchen will last longer, so you won’t have to shell out to replace it in 5 years’ time.
​
Here are some tips to help you design a dream kitchen with a smaller carbon footprint:

1.Choose a timeless style
Design trends are a great source of inspiration, but be careful not to go overboard. Some trends can make a space feel outdated very quickly, while a classic style ensures a longer life for your kitchen.
 
2.Opt for good quality materials
It may require spending a little more at the outset, but good quality units, worktops and flooring will almost certainly last for longer.
 
3.Incorporate repurposed items
Using second-hand cabinets, door fronts or other items is a super eco-friendly way to bring a unique kitchen design together. You need to choose the right pieces and use them in the right way, but the end result can be a bespoke, characterful kitchen.
 
4.Make professional fitting a priority
We may be a little biased, but it’s a fact - the quality of kitchen fitting can make an enormous difference to its overall lifespan. Some mistakes or misaligned units you can live with for a while, but you’ll soon find yourself wanting to make a change. But get it right first time, and you’ll have a kitchen that lasts for decades.
 
5.Sell or give your old kitchen away
When ripping out an old kitchen, pause before you take it to the tip. If in decent condition and removed carefully, your old units can have a second life in another home.  It could even make you some extra cash to spend on your new kitchen.
 
6.Choose manufacturers with strong sustainability policies
Look for products made with Forestry Stewardship Council (FCS) accreditation, or made from eco-board, low-emission glue (without the environmentally damaging formaldehyde that many standard cabinets contain) and other eco-friendly materials.
 
7.Touch up rather than rip out and replace
If your kitchen doors and drawer fronts are looking a little tired, chipped or scratched, this doesn’t mean you need whole new units. If the carcasses of the units are in good condition, you can simply replace or touch up the doors.
 
8.Choose a worktop made from recycled materials
You can find many worktops these days which are made using 100% or part-recycled materials, such as recycled glass, timber or sintered stone.
 
9.Consider the small things
A sustainable kitchen design means considering all materials, however small. This means choosing eco-friendly grout, zero VOC paint and looking closely at the eco-friendliness of all other DIY and decorating supplies you need.
 
10.Get super energy and water efficient appliances
Lastly but just as importantly, opt for A-rated appliances to save energy and water. And don’t forget about lighting – go for energy efficient LED lights across the whole of your home and you could reduce your CO2 emissions by as much as 40kg a year.
Ready to fit your new sustainable kitchen? Give A&J Kitchens a call on 01942 873781 or email [email protected] to get started.
​

Your worktops are arguably the most important part of your kitchen, both practically and aesthetically. Visually, they take up a large part of the overall space. Any mistakes in the fit or imperfections will be obvious, so it’s worth taking the time to get it absolutely right.  
Here’s our key dos and don’ts for fitting kitchen worktops perfectly: 
 
DO use a professional fitter 
 
Fitting worktops is tricky and skilled work, so it’s not something an enthusiastic DIY-er should tackle. There are difficult corner joints, angles and awkward wall gaps to work around, which require expertise as well as specialist equipment.  
 
If you try it yourself and it goes wrong, and your expensive new worktops could be ruined. So, even though we may be biased, our number one tip will always be to hire a professional kitchen fitter or joiner.  
 
DO double check your measurements 
 
Before any cuts are made, it’s a smart idea to measure once more. Then perhaps one more time, just to be safe. Once the cut is made, there’s no going back, so it needs be spot-on. You could even whip out a cool gadget like a digital laser measure to make sure your measurements are super accurate. 
 
DON’T put worktop joints near sink cut-outs 
 
You should leave at least 100mm (or more, preferably) between worktop joints and the cut-outs for sinks or appliances. Any closer, and you won’t have enough support or strength within the worktop. There’s also the risk of water from the sink entering and warping the joint.  
 
If you’re having a cut-out made for the hob, make sure you put heat insulation tape around the inner edges to protect the material.  
 
DO make sure your base units are level 
 
If you want your worktops to be straight, the units underneath need to be perfectly level. Check yours with a spirit level before your countertop is installed, and make any necessary adjustments.  
 
DON’T overcomplicate joints 
 
The easiest way to join two pieces of worktop in a corner is with a mitre or a butt joint, the latter of which offers a little more strength. It could be a mistake to try anything too complicated or unusual, as the chances of something going wrong are higher. If you’ve got an awkward corner or angle, speak to your kitchen fitter to come up with a solution.  
 
DO check joints carefully before cutting your worktops to length 
 
Remember – there’s no going back once your worktops are cut. A whole 2-3m length may be ruined if you cut too early. This is why it’s always worth checking that the joints fit perfectly and that all other details are right before cutting to length.  
 
You should also be consistent with the measurement of the overhang. This is how far the worktop projects over the front edge of the base unit. Aim for around 10-20mm, and make it the same all the way round. Again, speak to your fitter for advice on what will look best.  
 
If your head is spinning with all the rules to remember, don’t worry. Get in touch with A&J Kitchen Fitters and we’ll walk you through the process. We have 20+ years of experience, so you can be sure of a perfect fit and a stunning finish.  ​

​Thinking of giving your kitchen a makeover in the new year? Whether you’re designing from scratch or just updating an existing kitchen, a little inspiration can go a long way.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at what interior designers are predicting will be the biggest kitchen design trends in 2024 (according to GoodHousekeeping.com).

Coffee stations
 
A growing trend among homeowners right now, especially in the US, is dedicated ‘coffee corners’. These are just as you’d expect from the name – a space just for your kettle, espresso machine, favourite mugs, teapots and whatever other paraphernalia you use to make your morning cuppa. It’s somewhere between a breakfast bar and an actual home bar, but obviously only viable if you have the space.
 
Secret appliances
 
Not a fan of the lived-in look? If you prefer a clutter-free kitchen, you could embrace the  trend for appliance cabinets. This is where you hide all of your small appliances away in one cupboard, or a cubby space in a tall unit.
 
There are pros and cons to this, the advantages being that your kitchen is easier to clean and gives you the minimalist look you’re aiming for. But it may not be practical, especially considering the wires and cables, restricted space to actually use the item and inconvenience of taking appliances in and out of the cupboard.
 
Green, green and more green
 
Green is set to overtake blue as one of the most popular kitchen colours in 2024. Here’s US interior designer Marie Cloud from Indigo Pruitt speaking to Good Housekeeping about the many ways to use green in the kitchen:
 
“Green really is a hit in kitchen designs these days, and it's easy to see why. It's got that fresh, natural feel, reminding us of the great outdoors right in our homes. It can go from a calm sage to a snazzy emerald, fitting into all kinds of kitchen styles, whether you're going for a laid-back vibe or something super chic. Plus, it pairs well with various materials such as wood and unique metals.”
 
Herringbone floors
 
If you follow interior design, you might already have spotted that herringbone floors are all the rage right now. By 2024, they’re set to find their way into the kitchen.
 
Designers and homeowners love it because it offers the warmth of a real wood floor, along with a modern, chic look in the pattern. There are also lots of styles out there, from chunky chevron designs to classic parquet style floors.
 
And if you’re worried about whether wood is the best choice in a space like the kitchen (especially near the sink), there are options available. One of the most popular choices is luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), ideal for replicating the look of wood while being more hard-wearing and resistant to moisture.
 
If you’re planning a kitchen transformation in 2024, we can help. Get in touch with our expert team of Manchester kitchen fitters here at A&J Kitchens for a chat about your plans.

A little tired of your kitchen, but not quite ready (emotionally or financially) for a new one? There are lots of things you can do to breathe new life into your kitchen, without spending a fortune or starting from scratch. We’ve put together some top tips below, some of which are free, cheap and easy.

​1. A fresh coat of paint
 
Paint is one of the cheapest ways to transform a room, and it can make a big impact too. You’ll need to put some time and care into getting a good finish, but a lick of paint could be one of the most budget-friendly ways to refresh your kitchen.
 
Need inspiration? Popular kitchen wall colours for 2024 (according to the experts at Elle Decor) include earthy green, warm sand, deep sea blue, rich gray and hot chocolate. However, you’ll also want to choose something that coordinates well with your kitchen, worktops and tiles.
 
2. A deep clean
 
You don’t necessarily need to spend a penny to give your kitchen a much-needed refresh. You’ll be amazed at the difference a deep, thorough clean can make. It can restore the colour to tiles, door and drawer fronts and floor surfaces too.
 
3. New handles
 
Another super quick, easy and affordable way to update your kitchen is to simply replace the handles on doors and drawers. You can make a statement with a bold or metallic design, or keep it sleek and minimalistic – it’s completely up to you. If you want to go a step further, you could even coordinate your new handles with other room features such as light fittings and taps.
 
4. Updated lighting
 
Changing light fittings can quite literally transform the look and feel of a room. It’s a relatively inexpensive way to make your kitchen brighter or cosier, as well accentuating its best features such as high ceilings or beautiful worktops.
 
Interior lighting trends for 2024 (according to House Beautiful) include nature-inspired and stylish sustainable fittings, along with sculptural and minimalist lighting designs. For interior designers at least, the year ahead is all about understated, ‘quiet’ luxury. 
 
5. New worktops
 
It’s one of the more expensive tips on our list, but replacing your worktops really could give your kitchen a whole new lease of life. A stylish worktop and matching splashback can instantly turn an out-of-date design into a stunning modern space.
 
You don’t necessarily have to splash out on marble or quartz either, as there are plenty of realistic-looking laminate options out there. These offer a luxury look for a fraction of the cost, as well as being durable and easy to keep clean.
 
If you’re getting a new worktop, make sure you have it professionally fitted. It’s not recommended as a DIY job, as it can sometimes be tricky to get the perfect fit. Any errors or miscalculations can be costly, as well as potentially spoiling the look and finish.
 
Get in touch with A&J Kitchens for a chat about your plans and an estimate for your job.
 

Have your heart set on a stunning all-white kitchen? It’s easy to see why, as this is a look that looks clean and sparkling, and it never dates. You can also style it up with any other colours or accessories you like.
 
The only drawback with a white kitchen (apart from perhaps some extra cleaning) is that it can easily look clinical if you don’t get the balance right. With that in mind, let’s run through a few ways you can nail a white kitchen design.

Choose the right whites
 
Believe it or not, there’s not just one shade of white. There are actually hundreds, all subtly different and all creating their own moods within a room. You can go for antique white with its creamy rose-hue, china white for greyer tones, regency white with a clear, pure cream tone or any other white tone you like.
 
The key to balancing the extreme whiteness of an all-white kitchen is to choose complementary shades. These can add depth and texture, while just one pure white used everywhere could end up looking flat.
 
Warm up whites with natural materials
 
A great way to warm up a cold-feeling white kitchen is with natural materials. For example, you can incorporate wood in your breakfast bar stools or add in a few bamboo or rattan-style light shades. Complete the look with some house plants, which provide a fresh pop of green, and you’re on your way to creating a warm, welcoming space. 
 
Get the lighting right
 
Lighting is crucial in any kitchen, but it’s even more important in an all-white kitchen. Avoid cool white LED lighting at all costs, as it can look blue when shining on white surfaces. Aim for warm or neutral white options instead.
 
Go for a darker floor
 
If every surface from the floor to the walls and ceiling is white, there’s the risk that your kitchen will look like it’s ‘floating’ – and not in a good way. This can easily make a white kitchen look sterile, like an operating theatre or an alien spaceship. A darker or at least contrasting floor is a good way of grounding the kitchen, and give the white something to ‘pop’ against.
 
Avoid under-accessorising
 
You’re aiming for the minimalist look, so you understandably don’t want to clutter up the space with too many accessories. But there’s also such a thing as under-accessorising, which can lead to a clinical-feeling space with no personality or character.
 
So choose your accessories carefully, adding in artwork, decorative items, plants, light fitting and furniture to suit your tastes and balance the space. You can really have fun with colour, as everything looks amazing when contrasting against the white.
 
Ready to go? Once your design is finalised, you’ll need to think about kitchen fitting. Get in touch with our expert team of Manchester kitchen fitters here at A&J Kitchens – call 01942 873781 or email [email protected] and we’ll get right back to you.
​

Designing a new kitchen from scratch? If it’s a new build or extension, you might need to get an electrician in for first fix wiring. This means making some crucial decisions about where to place lighting, how many sockets you need and the location of appliances.
 
There’s a lot to think about, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. It’s especially difficult because at this stage, you may be nowhere near actually fitting or even buying a kitchen. You might just have a shell, and envisioning the finished kitchen is a real challenge.
 
We’re here to help, with a handy list of things to remember and talk to your electrician about. To make it even easier, we’ll break it down into sections – lighting, sockets and appliances.

 
Lighting
 
Let’s start with the most difficult one first – lighting. Everyone struggles with designing a lighting plan, perhaps because there are so many different options. There’s also the fact that everyone knows just how important good lighting is in interior design. So, there’s a lot of pressure.
 
This is why many people choose to use the services of a professional lighting designer. But if you’re doing it yourself, here are some key things to think about:

• Room lighting – how will you generally light the whole space? Will you use pendants, large central light fittings or wall lights, or a combination?
• Task lighting – this is essential in a kitchen, as you need light for your countertops, sink and hob. Downlights and angled spotlights can be good for this, as long as you make sure to position them so that you won’t be in your own light. If you’re having wall cabinets, an easy option is to fit strip lighting underneath.
• Decorative and atmospheric lighting – you may want to consider this when choosing your main room lighting, but you can also add lamps and warm coloured bulbs to create atmosphere to finish off your lighting.

 
Getting lighting right is all about balance. It’s a good idea to have a few different types of lights, to add texture, depth and decorative appeal to the space. But you don’t want too many clashing styles or ‘visual clutter’ either.
 
Sockets
 
Sockets are a little easier. You need to consider where you’ll be plugging in small and large appliances, and pop a double socket within easy reach. If in doubt – put an extra socket in. You’re unlikely to regret it.
 
Appliances
 
Before you can come up with your electrical and lighting plan, you need to have your kitchen design nailed down. This is because you need to know exactly where all your appliances will be positioned, so your electrician can prepare the wiring for them.
 
Key appliances include:

• Hob
• Oven
• Microwave (if integrated)
• Fridge/freezer (if integrated)
• Dishwasher
• Instant boiling water tap
• Washing machine/dryer
• Extractor fan

 
And lastly, don’t forget about smoke alarms and heat sensors. Building control regulations may require you to have these hard-wired in certain locations, so you’ll need to tell your electrician about them.
 
Need help planning your kitchen, or ready for installation? Get in touch with our expert Manchester kitchen fitters here at A&J Kitchens.
​