Interiors Trends: Modern Materiality

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Interiors Trends:

Modern Materiality

Words by Ali Howard

From aged zinc to polished steel, these striking kitchens prove that texture is everything

Top: Verde Gauguin makes a statement in this Cullifords kitchen. Bottom: Smooth stone, tactile wood and cool steel bring captivating contrasts to this Cabbonet kitchen Top: Verde Gauguin makes a statement in this Cullifords kitchen. Bottom: Smooth stone, tactile wood and cool steel bring captivating contrasts to this Cabbonet kitchen

SUPER TEXTURE

Dramatic yet utterly sophisticated, Verde Gauguin granite brings a rich depth to the Cullifords kitchen, with its mesmerising mix of deep bottle green, earthy khaki and fresh lime, shot through with creamy whites, soft greys and the occasional hint of pink. Used as a waterfall island and splash-back, the material creates a striking, seamless look, elevating the space with natural beauty. Hardwearing and timeless, the bold stone makes a serious design statement whilst offering everyday practicality. From £790 per sq m (geraldculliford.co.uk)

NATURE’S ART

Blending raw industrial edge with refined luxury, Cabbonet’s Industrial Lux kitchen is a masterclass in materiality. Rich Breche Ruggine stone, with its dramatic veining and earthy warmth, contrasts beautifully against sandblasted walnut cabinetry and woven metal accents. The interplay of textures – smooth stone, tactile wood, and cool steel – creates a space that feels both timeless and forward-thinking. Hidden storage, smart tech, and bespoke detailing further elevate the design, making it as functional as it is striking. From £50,000 (cabbonet.com)

Top:Exposed plasterwork lends a sense of rugged beauty to this kitchen from The Main Company. Bottom: The monolithic island in this Abimis kitchen creates a 1950s feel Top:Exposed plasterwork lends a sense of rugged beauty to this kitchen from The Main Company. Bottom: The monolithic island in this Abimis kitchen creates a 1950s feel

MAXIMUM EXPOSURE

Raw, tactile, and beautifully imperfect, this kitchen by The Main Company embraces the charm of natural materials in their most authentic form. Exposed plaster walls provide a textured canvas for sleek concrete waterfall worktops and warm, wood-fronted cabinetry – each element enhancing the other’s rugged beauty. Hand-finished, the handle-less stained wood cabinets feature subtle, built-in grips for seamless functionality, while open shelving and integrated appliances maintain the minimalist aesthetic, creating a space that feels effortlessly lived-in yet undeniably refined. From £25,000. (maincompany.co.uk)

TIME TO SHINE

Sleek, seamless, and unapologetically modern, the Abimis Ego kitchen takes centre stage in this Austrian home (opposite page), its orbitally polished steel surface catching the light and reflecting its surroundings. Designed with the precision of professional catering, the monolithic island is completely bespoke, its rounded edges and integrated handles lending a soft, 1950s-inspired aesthetic. Set against parquet and original ceramic flooring, the high-tech finish contrasts beautifully with the home’s historic elements, creating a space where past and present coexist effortlessly. Price upon request (abimis.com)

Top: Bespoke cabinetry by Olive & Barr celebrates the natural beauty of wood in this kitchen. Middle: Naked Kitchens’ luxurious yet functional Highgate kitchen is award-winning: Clad in aged zinc, these refrigeration cupboards are both practical and visually arresting. Bottom: Naked Kitchens’ luxurious yet functional Highgate kitchen is award-winning Top: Bespoke cabinetry by Olive & Barr celebrates the natural beauty of wood in this kitchen. Middle: Naked Kitchens’ luxurious yet functional Highgate kitchen is award-winning: Clad in aged zinc, these refrigeration cupboards are both practical and visually arresting. Bottom: Naked Kitchens’ luxurious yet functional Highgate kitchen is award-winning

PATINA PLAY

A striking blend of refinement and industrial edge, the refrigeration cupboards in this Ledbury kitchen (far right) make a bold statement. Clad in sheets of aged zinc, their softly patinated surface contrasts beautifully with the crisp ash white cabinetry, adding depth and texture to the space. The raw, organic quality of the metal introduces an understated toughness, tempering the kitchen’s polished elegance while at the same time, enhancing its character. A perfect balance of form and function, these materials are both practical and visually arresting. From £70,000 (ledburystudio.com)

BACK TO BLACK

The award-winning Highgate kitchen by Naked Kitchens masterfully combines luxurious materials with functional design. Rich American black walnut cabinetry introduces warmth and texture, while handle-less fronts provide a sleek, modern aesthetic. A central island, featuring a single slab of dark marble atop a walnut frame, takes centre stage, serving as both a striking focal point and a practical workspace. The thoughtful layout ensures ample storage and efficient workflow, creating a space that is as functional as it is visually captivating. From £20,000 (nakedkitchens.com)

TERRA FIRMA

Rich, warm, and effortlessly timeless, Olive & Barr’s bespoke dark wood Bakers Table (far right) celebrates the natural beauty of oak in its most refined form. Deep, chocolatey tones bring a sense of depth and authenticity, enhancing the grain’s organic movement. Handcrafted cabinetry showcases the material’s inherent texture, creating a space that feels both grounding and luxurious. Whether paired with crisp whites or moody hues, the richness of dark wood lends a striking contrast, elevating the kitchen with quiet sophistication. Handmade oak cabinetry from £12,500 (oliveandbarr.com)