Book A Free Design Appointment Find A Showroom
Back for more inspiration

Richness – the 2027 design trend you need to know about

Warm, earthy, minimal and textured – those are the key interior design trends to look out for in 2027, according to Nolte Kitchen's Senior Kitchen Designer, Lucy Darke.

Richness – the 2027 design trend you need to know about
Home Inspiration Richness – the 2027 design trend you need to know about

Lucy is constantly being asked for advice on the next trend in kitchen interior design. Here she reveals what advice she is giving out to consumers ahead of their 2027 projects.

We’re moving towards warmer, earthy tones and increasingly tactile finishes, and away from colder whites and high-gloss surfaces, with a real focus on richness and understated luxury. This comes in the form of dark, cosy woods, matte rather than glossy finishes, and warmer metallic finishes are also adding another layer of richness and contrast. But I believe the biggest trend is going to focus on layering texture.

Textures for 2027

Layering texture is going to be a key focus in 2027 interior design. Rather than relying on one contrasting finish, we’re seeing much more interest in combining several complementary materials and textures within one space, creating depth while still retaining a considered, cohesive feel.

Dark, rich woods such as smoked oak, walnut and tobacco oak bring natural texture and a sense of luxurious comfort. Their visible grain works beautifully alongside more architectural detailing such as fluting, grooved finishes and increasingly slim framed fronts, creating depth without making the overall design feel overly traditional.

2027 complementary colours

Textures and dark woods lend themselves beautifully to earthy colours and more of the pistachio greens that are increasing in popularity. Dusty, plaster pink is becoming more favourable too which looks beautiful against deep wooden tones. Greige and clay are continuing to show up as neutral colour choices highlighted with deep browns and tranquil taupes.

Statement pieces

There’s been a shift in statement pieces too with kitchen worktops having their moment. Porcelain is continuing to grow in popularity thanks to its durability, practicality and the breadth of striking finishes now available. We’re also seeing consumers become more confident with statement worktops, using expressive veining, richer tones and more tactile finishes to make the surface a focal point rather than simply a practical choice.

As kitchens become increasingly connected to living spaces, I’m also seeing clients favour less wall cabinetry where the room allows, creating breathing space for artwork, open shelving and more personal decorative pieces. Showcasing statement art is growing in popularity as consumers are steadfast in their support of British artists and believing in the value of authentic and exclusive pieces.

Styling and furniture

Minimal styling with a touch of warmth complements rich woods and earthy tones. Adding plants, glass and fluted vases to a kitchen will enhance the room’s atmosphere helping to add character and charm to the space.

We’re also seeing framed furniture become much more refined. Rather than heavier, traditional frames, slimmer profiles offer a more contemporary interpretation, bringing subtle architectural detail without compromising the clean lines of the space. Nolte’s neoSLIM is a great example, pairing a delicate frame with real wood veneer to bring together warmth, texture and modern simplicity.

Ultimately, what we’ll see more of in 2027 is the rise of kitchens that evoke a sense of understated luxury, calm and quality. Richer materials, layered textures and warmer tones will create inviting spaces with depth and personality, moving away from some of the colder, ultra-crisp designs that have dominated kitchen interiors in recent years.

Lucy Darke is a renowned kitchen designer from exclusive German kitchen brand, Nolte Kitchens UK and is based at the Nottingham Showroom.

Meet the author

Mairi Hale
Mairi Hale

Kitchen Content Lead

Mairi thinks a kitchen isn't finished until it has a story attached to it. That instinct is exactly what she brings to her role as Kitchen Content Lead at Nolte,...

Your recipe to a beautiful kitchen

Kitchen inspiration, special offers, expert advice. Welcome to a newsletter you’ll actually want to read.

By choosing to sign up, you will join our mailing list. You can opt out at any time.

Find your nearest showroom

Download a brochure

Love where you live.