The right surface is a pivotal choice in all new kitchens. Yes of course the cabinetry is important, and many hours are spent mulling over colours, textures and finishes. With the continued popularity of large islands and extended splash backs – often from work surface to wall-cabinet height, the surfaces can have equal prominence. This time we’re taking a look at surface trends and ideas that will super-style a new kitchen …

Transitional kitchen trend from Neolith, featuring Calacatta Luxe

The Neolith team has identified the trend of transitional kitchens, which seamless blend traditional and contemporary styles, resulting in a timeless and sophisticated space. It’s necessary to understand how to strike a balance between the two elements to achieve a well-balanced design that is harmonious and considered. Andreas Manero, Marketing Director, Neolith, comments that ‘A transitional kitchen thrives on a thoughtful mixture of textures and materials, balancing aesthetics and function – achieving a bright and relaxed design with minimal fuss. Strive for a cohesive mix of traditional and modern elements, pair classic cabinetry with modern appliances and a backsplash matching the worksurfaces to give a contemporary look. Statement sintered stone work tops, such as Calacatta are a firm favourite for blending practicality with refined, classic aesthetics and innovative properties’.

Traditional kitchen featuring Mont Blanc by Neolith

The Neolith team has the view that classic and traditional design aesthetics remain highly valued and sought after, particularly regarding kitchens that also integrate advanced technology by including smart features and multi-functional appliances. Andreas Manero, Marketing Director, Neolith, says ‘Traditional kitchen design embraces classic aesthetics, often characterised by ornate details, intricate mouldings and materials such as solid wood and natural stone. This style is deeply rooted in timeless craftsmanship, often featuring raised-panel cabinetry, vintage hardware and warm, muted colour palettes. Using Neolith sintered stone collections it becomes possible to find counter top materials that offer the traditional look and feel of natural stone, but without the disadvantages. Shown here, Montblanc.

A very simple and understated kitchen featuring Everest Sunrise by Neolith

The Neolith sintered stone collections are intended to seamlessly address the everyday needs of a modern kitchen. Neolith’s sintered stone is highly resistant to scratches, stains and heat, with the use of natural materials and sustainable practices combining to provide a kitchen (or bathroom or any other room) that is kind to the environment. Read more here about the company’s concept of sustainable beauty. Shown above, Everest Sunrise.

New Leamington Spa showroom for Olive & Barr

We’re always interested in hearing about showroom openings, so wanted to include the latest news from Olive & Barr. Their newest showroom has just opened, in Leamington Spa. It features a traditional  glazed shop front, with an impressive L-shaped display at the front. It definitely has the wow-factor, with marble work surfaces and splashback, decorative corbels and a cooker hood, as well as a spectacular Bertazzoni range cooker. It’s a compact showroom, painted in Liquorice and Dove Tail by Farrow & Ball, and has been designed by Founder Al Bruce to showcase as many design skills and ideas as possible. Find the showroom at 24 Regent St, Leamington Spa CV32 5EH.

The first of two new design from Caesarstone ICON, this is 8151 Moonflow

It’s good to see two new ICON designs from Caesarstone, Moonflow and Ocean Sage, which introduce the next generation of pioneering high-design surfaces with the aim of featuring enhanced transparency, depth and a heightened sense of dimension and texture. 8151 Moonflow has a bone-white base, built up gradually in creams and beiges. The overall effect is luxurious lightness, bringing serene calmness to a space.

The second new Caesarstone ICON design, 8477 Ocean Sage

This Caesarstone surface was designed to celebrate the green shades found in nature, with a deep sea-green base mottled by cream and white foam, with seaweed veins standing out to resemble the layers of the ocean. The ICON range is known as an advanced fusion surface, made from up to 80% recycled content. 8477 Ocean Sage has a marble appearance, and can be paired with wood looks to great effect.

A new vibe for the Dekton® by Cosentino collection, Onirika in Awake

Marble-effect surfaces remain a top choice, infusing spaces with elegance and sophistication. It’s considered that marble looks possess an inherent timelessness, keeping it rooted in home décor trends. Heavy veining effortlessly reflects light and generates a sense of movement. Shown above, Dekton Onirika in Awake by Cosentino

UKIYO with vertical milled grooves in Bohemian Flame from the Silestone by Cosentino collections

Create a layered and textured scheme with UKIYO, the new concept from Silestone, Bohemian Flame from the Silestone by Cosentino with  vertical milled grooves showing off the colour continuity throughout the surface. Equally stunning when used in a bathroom setting too.

A look at some stunning taps from GRAFF, this design is Harley

A beautiful tap is a clever finishing touch to a new kitchen, so we are taking a look at some options from GRAFF. Harley is inspired by the wheels of a classic Harley motorbike, featuring circular handles. The pull-out function provides spray and steam, and there are 24 luxury finishes available, this is Polished Chrome.

The Futurismo Chef’s tap from GRAFF

Futurismo from GRAFF has futuristic flair and elevated functionality – standards required by commercial kitchens. It provides high performance, streamlined aesthetics and is once again available in numerous colour/finish options. Shown here in Matt Black with Satin Nickel.

The Segovia two-tone tap from GRAFF

The stunning Segovia design  from GRAFF has a hint of vintage style about it, and is shown here in a fabulous two-tone combination of Black and Polished Gold PVD. Pull-out spray heads extend to up to 1800mm, there include built-in magnetic locking mechanisms. Options include Water Filter and Pot Filler, so there’s definitely something to cover all tap requirements within a new project.

A colourful rug from Sonya Winner Studio

Let’s finish up with some colourful inspiration in the shape of a rug from Sonya Winner Studio. The vibrant colour combinations are always uplifting and can be used as link between rooms, there are many sizes and proportions available, including runners and creative, irregular shapes. This is the gorgeous Barragan Pool, from the recently launched Mexico Collection.