Kitchen Art

The heart of the home need not look like the traditional kitchen of old — there are many ways to give it an appealingly creative makeover.

1. Concrete — unsung hero

Photograph: Paul Massey

For good-looking countertops, granite isn’t the only option. ‘The raw element of concrete makes it an alluring material to create a simple surface to work on,’ says Joanne Sykes, marketing director at Cemcrete. ‘Although it’s a porous material and should be sealed to prevent staining, the odd mark blends into the characteristic mottling of the material.’ Use it to achieve a more industrial, yet polished, look that works especially well when juxtaposed with ornamental tiles and built-in appliances, such as those from Grundig.

Splashback

From plain and textured to matte, gloss, frosted, back-painted or geometric glass, there’s a stylish splashback to suit every taste.

1. Glass

Photograph: William Waldron

A custom glass splashback (available from Douglas Jones) is striking and practical. ‘Glass is popular for its reflective qualities and streamlined look, and it’s easy to maintain,’ says John Dammermann, marketing director at Easylife Kitchens.

2. Geometric

Photograph: Elsa Young

Introduce a strong graphic element to your kitchen with 3D patterned tiles, such as these ‘Cashmere Rhombus Cimento’ mosaic tiles from Tile Africa. ‘Most types are cost-effective and easy to install,’ says John. ‘Choose between ceramic or porcelain mosaics in different shapes, colours and textures.’

3. Patterned

Photograph: Greg Cox

If yours is a country kitchen, these Spanish ‘Pavimento Antiqua Glazed’ ceramic decor tiles from Italtile are a clever way of introducing rustic charm and colour. ‘Tiles are ideal for a splashback because they hold up well to heat and most are easy to maintain,’ says John.

Colour

Creatively applied, colour — even neutrals — can make a kitchen both homely and modern.

4. Through the glass

Photograph: Richard Powers

If you want to introduce pops of colour but the cabinetry is glass, paint the inside back panels in a striking hue. In this kitchen, hexagonal tiles in the same colour continue the theme.

5. Colour-layering

Photograph: Greg Cox

A tone-on-tone approach is an effective way to add depth and warmth. ‘Combine bold colour choices with natural wood for contrast,’ says Fanie Marais, chairman and CFO of Optima Kitchens, which creates similar kitchens.

6. Neutral palette

When you’re looking to achieve a naturalistic kitchen space, ‘focus on the authentic, using neutral tones and natural materials contrasted with textures such as smoked mirror and natural stone,’ says Philip Richards, brand director at blu_line.

Wood

The warmth of wood never goes out of fashion. Team it with smooth materials for a sleek finish.

7. Veneers

Photograph: Adam Letch

‘A veneer is as unique as a face. The organic pattern makes each front unique,’ explains Ramon Casado, design director at Bulthaup. Opt for a finish that emphasizes this feature, such as in this Bulthaup b3 kitchen, which uses a single trunk of 2 000-year-old marsh oak to maintain consistency in the grain.

8. Old pieces

Photograph: Tim Street-Porter

Give an antique table a new place in the kitchen by converting it into an island with character. ‘Repurposing is a great way to use family heirlooms and treasure finds,’ says Hayley Turner of Bone Interior Design. ‘This eclectic style also allows for uniqueness within your interior.’

9. Texture play

Photograph: Nicholas Mathéus

The great virtue of wood is its versatility. ‘Making your kitchen drawers look like wooden panelling is a clever way to give the beautiful nature of wood a voice,’ says Kevin Beesoondoyal, brand manager at Schmidt. ‘Sanded, brushed, grooved or wide-plank, these finishes can be appreciated visually and by touch, following the trend to use raw materials.’