Bespoke Design Insights from Abbey Kitchens
At Abbey Kitchens, we design, manufacture and install bespoke kitchens in Cheltenham and across the Cotswolds. Looking ahead to kitchen trends for 2026, we’re seeing a clear shift towards warmer colours, natural materials and kitchens that feel more personal, practical and considered.
Inspired by trusted paint brands such as Farrow & Ball, Little Greene and Paint & Paper Library, and shaped by the homes we work in every day, these trends reflect how people want their kitchens to feel — comfortable, characterful and designed to last.
Warmer Colours with Depth and Character
Cool greys and bright whites continue to soften, making way for warmer, more inviting tones. Shades such as stone, putty, mushroom and clay create a calm backdrop and work beautifully in both period and contemporary homes found throughout Cheltenham and the Cotswolds.
Alongside these neutrals, deeper colours are becoming increasingly popular. Rich greens, inky blues and earthy red-based tones — often drawn from Farrow & Ball and Little Greene palettes — are being used to add depth and interest, particularly on islands, pantry units and feature cabinetry.
Designing with Colour, Not Just Choosing It
One of the defining kitchen design trends for 2026 is the move away from single-colour schemes towards layered, considered palettes. When designing bespoke kitchens, we help clients bring together cabinetry colours, worktops, wall finishes and materials into a cohesive whole.
Popular combinations include deep green or blue cabinetry paired with warm wood interiors, soft plaster pinks and warm off-whites as an alternative to white kitchens, earthy red or terracotta islands as focal points, and two-tone cabinetry to add balance and depth.
Natural Materials That Feel at Home
Colour trends for 2026 are closely linked to a renewed appreciation for natural materials. Wood, stone and matt finishes are being chosen not just for their appearance, but for how they age and wear over time. Across many of our bespoke kitchen projects in Cheltenham and the Cotswolds, we’re seeing
continued demand for solid wood cabinetry, stone or stone-effect worktops and warm metallic details such as brass and bronze.
Practical Design That’s Made to Last
While design trends influence how a kitchen looks, functionality remains essential. Thoughtful layouts, well-planned storage and integrated appliances ensure kitchens work effortlessly for everyday life.
Because our kitchens are designed and manufactured to order, we can tailor every detail — from cabinet sizes to internal layouts — creating bespoke kitchens that feel both refined and practical.
A Personal Approach to Bespoke Kitchen Design
Perhaps the most important trend we’re seeing is a move towards individuality. More homeowners are choosing bespoke kitchens because they want something that reflects how they live and suits their home.
Whether that means subtle, understated colours or bolder design choices inspired by Farrow & Ball or Little Greene, our role is to guide you through the process and create a kitchen that feels right
long after trends have passed.
