In Ledbury Studio’s Ascot kitchen installation, the team has combined a grey-stained natural oak for the base units, teamed with a contrast stain on the island, which has been wrapped with a dramatic Quartz waterfall worktop in soft grey.
‘The couple wanted a sleek, contemporary aesthetic for their kitchen, so we chose grey-stained natural oak for the base cupboards,’ explains Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio. ‘Then, to create a contrast, the island cupboards are also oak but stained white. Staining timber in this way allows the natural beauty of the grain to shine through.’
‘The doors are also grey-stained oak with exquisite brass inlay in a diamond-shaped design. One of my favourite elements is the liquid pewter finish with shagreen-like texture we created for the wall cupboards in between,’ adds Charlie.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7kN0e5.Qh0OwauGM6OTMGQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/c603d65b94a8ffb8f3596b238262f0f7 class=caas-img data-headline=”Enhance a natural grain with grey”> Grey and white kitchens can look a little clinical, but exposed brickwork adds bags of character, texture and warmth. The simple Shaker cabinets of this deVOL kitchen have an honesty that will sit well in pretty much any setting, from classic period or urban industrial kitchen like this smart set-up.
Lead grey painted units feel warm and authentic, topped with Carrara marble counters with their naturally mottled and cloudy appearance. Finish off with a mixed metallics, from antique brass taps and handles, shiny beaten copper pendants to brushed steel appliances to add contrast.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/oJx7qQlntF52NrCO9hszRA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/aef23c061c8e1229fc75811de5844d79 class=caas-img data-headline=”Partner exposed brick with lead grey”> Put the focus on the kitchen wall decor ideas with grey plaster walls that will partner beautifully with dark grey cabinets or a rustic timber kitchen if all-grey is too dark and foreboding.
This DIY plaster-effect finish is inspired by Moroccan ‘Tadelakt’ and is achieved by applying Chalk Paint onto a plain base color using thick strips of cardboard. Simply drag, wipe and scrape the paint along the wall, building up layers of color and tone until blended to your liking. Once dry, finish with a thin layer of wax to seal and protect your handiwork.
‘Updating your kitchen is the perfect project for painters of all abilities,’ says paint and color expert Annie Sloan. ‘With a partner and no interruptions, you could do the walls and your kitchen cabinets in a weekend. Or if the thought of a big project is overwhelming, break it down and try it over two weekends instead.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mo1PrvKIdxtQdVYyA_amLg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/14c81161f2d870b49c02d09d150007ae class=caas-img data-headline=”Go grey with wall color”> Bring a touch of luxe to any space with a striking two-color marbled kitchen shot through with accents of gold. Mixing dark with light is a great way of including grey in a kitchen scheme without it overpowering the space – and adding gold into the mix will guarantee some extra glitz and sparkle.
Keep cabinets sleek and streamlined in a luxury kitchen like this. Opt for simple slab-front doors, integrated handles and no unnecessary extra detailing – let the luxe finish do all the talking.
‘Our Q-Line combines a range of styles which can be mixed together to produce a high-end contemporary kitchen,’ says Emma Stuart Stephens, Head of Marketing at Mereway. ‘Doors and cabinets are handmade and sanded numerous times to ensure the perfect finish, with standout glass and ceramic door finishes that allow for the creation of some truly iconic luxury kitchens.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q2oqmFnczrj376rjcJMM_g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/aafee1e4a294a4f7934c3dddd6ff5778 class=caas-img data-headline=”Add shimmer and shine”> For farmhouse kitchen ideas, opt for freestanding mix-and-match units in a steely grey hand-painted finish. Dark grey will bring out the best in other colors, so team grey paintwork on kitchen cabinets with weathered timber countertops, a mismatched tiled backsplash and cheery kitchen linens.
Open cubby-hole shelves like this are crying out for a display of country crockery and kitchenware, so fill them with stacks of patterned plates and glassware, colorful cloths and linens, painted enamelware and rustic woven baskets. Open shelving always looks super-jolly and characterful, but on a practical level it makes kitchen essentials much easier to access too.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zRCDqzMSplwXzsixAlCGXQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/1dd41c94d64cf1b61a7c6304083a8da8 class=caas-img data-headline=”Pack the kitchen with personality”> With its moody colors and rich textures, this is a modern reinvigoration of classic Shaker-style cabinetry. The bespoke Roundhouse kitchen is finished in Farrow & Ball’s Pitch Black, with brass handles and hinges to add a hint of glamor.
‘The feature wall of polished plaster frames the wall cabinets, while the fluted glass adds interest and allows for the display of items,’ says Paul Welburn, designer at Roundhouse. Other details include antique silver mirror backs in the wall units and handles in antique brass.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/e9VraO_tyQlsVIa61cMSCg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/d4066acf44929f288e040ee1ace24dcd class=caas-img data-headline=”Mix old and new”> This breakfast cupboard from The Metallics Kitchen Collection by Ledbury Studio features hand-textured pewter fronts with dark-stained ash. Concave handles bring another point of difference to the doors, which are fashioned from stainless steel that has been blasted to dull the shine and darken the appearance.
‘I love combining fine craftsmanship with beautiful and unusual materials and textures,’ says designer Charlie Smallbone. ‘It’s the part of designing a bespoke kitchen that excites me the most.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/No1bpOi_ykoaRx3Fm5Lokw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/c831461c5535704beb5c577f3060466c class=caas-img data-headline=”Introduce metal effects”> Arresting materials in the kitchen are having something of a resurgence. Use marble to bring wow-factor to an otherwise subdued or lifeless grey kitchen. Dramatic and distinctive, cosmic black granite brings glamor to this grey kitchen by Martin Moore. ‘There is a growing trend for statement finishes, with kitchen countertops matching backsplash,’ says Richard Moore, design director. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/bDQaJo4cCo2SWEJHZ1zNVQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/8ee17d0eac0ea6e1d797b59d1f874d43 class=caas-img data-headline=”Bring in mesmerizing materials”>
‘Taking the plunge with a grey color palette needn’t plunge the whole kitchen into darkness,’ says Mioko Fujisaki, director, Kitchen Bee Design. ‘The cabinetry is rarely anywhere near the largest surface area. You’ll see far more floor, ceiling, wall and countertop, and keeping those areas light will provide contrast and a brightening effect.
‘Reflective surfaces, such as metallics and mirrors, bounce more light into the kitchen. Mostly you need a little courage. If you love dark colors, and follow these steps, the results will be fabulous.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mgSPigwqCig9oDW4VP1.1g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/7a17b86d6d8c573c9b4024b28be0ce70 class=caas-img data-headline=”Confine grey to cabinetry”> Taking timber in a contemporary direction requires a considered approach to avoid missing out on the wood’s natural beauty. TR Studio chose deVOL’s Sebastian Cox range, featuring cabinetry in grey-stained beech.
‘We like to use wood in a very calm way in kitchens. You can maintain clean lines and use sleek surfaces, but wood itself brings craft and texture, both visual and tactile,’ says Tom Rutt, founder, TR Studio.
‘We love how this kitchen strikes the balance between traditional and contemporary. It is clearly a real solid timber door, but the ash-grey color makes it abstracted and adds a modernity.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xjdIMRP5TYd7_r3XoYUwAQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/3cf12af6fbfaae3835a18a23b60e0e05 class=caas-img data-headline=”Stain wood cabinets grey”> A grey scheme doesn’t have to take the form of paint. Look to pale ash wood or laminate cabinetry for a similar effect that is great for more contemporary spaces.
Beautiful wood is a timeless choice: pick woods with mid-tones for a look that won’t date.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/_bQIAiJZwNQrNTrVKjvoyA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/6021cf6cbf3c750e77dacb6080387f24 class=caas-img data-headline=”Go with the grain in a grey kitchen”> Dark greys look instantly dramatic. For luxurious grey kitchen ideas, pair with a thinly-veined marble work surface.
Coveted for its subtle tone and beautiful veined effect, you can see why marble is such a hit – it looks good wherever it’s put and will continue to look striking year after year.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/JxvF_5bZMFbC4FAqRJdfkw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/8a5717a1cb8e9f770da2df5cdb85b1aa class=caas-img data-headline=”Look out for luxury”> We have seen the revival of grey in interiors over the last seasons, but this time it’s combined with wood tones to instantly add warmth and depth.
Grey is a fresh alternative to the classic neutral palette and acts as a great backdrop to introduce splashes of other colors. Here, a vibrant red kitchen pantry really sings out against the deep grey walls.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/aV202hcLLXjGm0WUP6g0Ow–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/ce2cb2faac4207e9791f31cbf2782694 class=caas-img data-headline=”Be bold with color”> If you are cautious about going all-grey, then isolate it to just the kitchen island or cabinetry, like in this stunning white kitchen. This will make a stylish statement, and can be changed as often as you like, with little effort.
‘Grey paints are warmest when they’re a mix of blue and orange pigments, rather than black and white. Using these will make the kitchen feel more homely,’ explains Pip McCormac, Editor of Living Etc.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vPLgWepfOcDUb8NzuNnJHQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/d8b7102b251d74ad7e06ec8cf42f03b0 class=caas-img data-headline=”Opt for statement style”> The wonderful thing about grey is that you can pair it with just about any other color.
Here, the strong grey, black and white kitchen palette, echoed in the undercounter curtain, rug and cabinetry, is lifted by pops of green gingham upholstery.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Af56Wwsn9avGCc4J49sbtg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/2226bce3fa8beb7d7028fefb0a1606a9 class=caas-img data-headline=”Play with pattern”> Whether it’s pale or slightly darker, dove grey is a great all-rounder for painted kitchens. You can dress it up with silvers and metallic shades for a luxe look, or keep it simple with natural colors and earthy textures. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zNrWEfNCy_2TKQnKCINOKg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/19db6215edef71702507c5ab678a6d63 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose a pale and interesting hue”>
Grey might be on trend, but its elegance and design flexibility give it a timeless quality. Use either as a feature color or to complement another finish – wood grains look especially dramatic against a smoky grey tone. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NPS0YI5hEjnTdwmmDQb9KQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/35155c8c908d3e1b90b2a1acabc720e9 class=caas-img data-headline=”Marvel at the wonder of wood”>
A match made in heaven, cool shades of grey bring out the warmth and beauty in natural wood.
This is a great combination for kitchen cabinetry, suiting both classic and modern styles – but it also works well for accessories.
For the perfect accents, add splashes of mustard yellow and pale marble, to play with the cool and warm on a whole other level.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/bSlyxvk9hTeWMh.QvSHtIA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/6e0f4a950e7fc4331c87ac3ac3191081 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose a winning combination”> Work in a bold accent color to give grey a modern feel. Grey has the advantage of complementing a whole host of colors, so anything goes – whether it’s a punchy purple or vivid lime green kitchen accent color as pictured above.
Paint a feature wall, opt for a bright backsplash, or use colorful accessories.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/htKhT5e2S_GQxpkY1k.Lpg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/ab67c3a138d23d6880f3bfde37ccd07e class=caas-img data-headline=”Use grey as a canvas for vivid color”> Think about how all the various finishes – including the kitchen flooring and wall colors – work together.
Use a variety of kitchen lighting ideas, including wall and pendant lights, to create a comfortable mood when not cooking.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ytdSbR42oiXdzePx9Ebayg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/56102cb145afd02f6b731712fecf7a87 class=caas-img data-headline=”Complement the living area in an open-plan space”> Contrast light and dark grey kitchen ideas for a more dramatic look. Combine dark grey units with bright white worktops, or light greys with smart black granite surfaces. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/YeUWF2cdXSnGjIIZHvsccg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/04ade7aae5abe749220d2ac050cf9d20 class=caas-img data-headline=”Use a combination of light and dark”>
One of the beauties of grey is that it can feel fresh by day but warm at night. When picking a shade, take a sample door home so you can look at it in daylight and artificial light to get a feel for how it will appear at different times. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q4hTepZkjUKg8yrxCICC_A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/68f28f2a8efbb9edd7290cc2e37a0031 class=caas-img data-headline=”Consider how a grey kitchen will look during the night and day”>
Choose worktops and backsplashes in tonal shades to complement your kitchen cabinet colors. Paler, browner shades of grey look good next to natural stone worktops, while crips white worktops will set off darker grey.
‘Neutral tones such as grey are timeless and don’t go out of fashion – they help create a feeling of light and space, and ensure the look isn’t harsh,’ says Graeme Smith, conceptual designer at Second Nature Kitchens.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NJzr5L4T4kl9U7w9.Vz9Iw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/be5da37b7c1318e010477d0951a701a2 class=caas-img data-headline=”Curate a tonal palette”> Consider taste, light levels and the size of the room when choosing. Lighter greys help create a feeling of space, but darker, graphite greys area great for adding drama to a big room.
Also, a high-gloss finish looks sleek and will help reflect light, whereas a matt finish blends better with other surfaces in an open-plan space.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/6ra085DklXGlABfHcMTcYQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/33c6c5d906faca59d50d842fb93d3016 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose the perfect grey”> Grey is ideal for kitchens in an open-plan area because it blurs the line between kitchen and living zones.
Grey kitchen ideas can blend with a huge variety of floor types, colors and finishes, bringing a sense of unity to the separate areas.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mrssw9laziXzG4IOHFthHw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/26018e101ef56133e37d55e56a56839e class=caas-img data-headline=”Use grey as a modern backdrop”> Grey works well with most colors, which is why it’s such a versatile choice. For an urban, contemporary look, team it with vivid yellow or pink.
Deep reds, purples and oranges can add extra warmth, or opt for green and blue kitchen accents for a cooler feel.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/65iA5_onck7SpfIKR2hcUA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/7f59dddbb32c47158729fb38ad301f8c class=caas-img data-headline=”Decorate with colorful accents”>
