Kitchen trends

Essentialism Kitchen Trend

Essentialism is a concept based around human-centred design that uses soft, natural materials to create a comforting haven to escape the distractions of everyday life. Read on to discover how to introduce this trend into your space.

How to create the Essentialism look

Howdens Trends 2020 Essentialism Frontals RT

Pale tones

Soft pastel shades create a soothing environment which is central to capturing this trend. Crisp whites and greys having a cooling effect, whilst cobbled tones offer subtle warmth. Or, try sage green, which brings a zen-like tone typically found in spa retreats.

Textured timber

Humble materials found in nature have been used throughout the ages to create robust and simple designs - which is where this trend takes its inspiration. Feature light timbers in your scheme, which will introduce a classic, woodgrain texture for a cosy space.

Howdens Trends 2020 Oak Trim Accent 6 RT

Muted finishes

Opt for unobtrusive and discreet finishes, like brushed effect fixtures and matt textures, to furnish your space. Combine with handleless or integrated cupboards to create a look that is pared-back, peaceful and in keeping with the minimal look.

Greenwich Super Matt White Handleless Detail

Fashion and function

Features that support a daily routine is crucial to this trend, so choose elements that keep functionality at the forefront of the design. Built-in devices work well with many offering technology that saves on cooking and cleaning.

Oak underfoot

Tie your Essentialism scheme together by adding wood-effect floorboards. Pale, honey-coloured texture, or white-washed styles give a light and cosy feel, while also enhancing the natural elements of your design.

White matt handleless kitchen in single wall layout with under cabinet lighting, wood worktop and built under electric oven.

Smart storage

This trend is all about maintaining a core look with minimal fuss and maintenance. Well-designed storage will make it easy to keep a room tidy and reduce visual clutter to emphasise that stripped-back feel.

Customise Essentialism in your home

Handleless kitchen in grey with a matt finish with built under electric oven shown in a single wall kitchen layout.

1. Say hello to handleless

Handle-free designs are a great way to create a scheme that is simple, stylish and functional. Combine handleless units with understated shades, like Grey, which introduces pale tones and muted textures for a pared-back feel.

Discover grey kitchens

An open-plan Scandi white kitchen idea with super-matt handleless doors, a ceiling-mounted cooker hood, and a white sink.

2. Strip back with super matt

Essentialism is about getting back to basics, so look for options that are simple in tone and texture. Our Clerkenwell Super Matt white doors have a soft finish that reduces glare for a calming feel. It also has an integrated handle design that complements the minimalist aesthetic of this trend.

View Clerkenwell Super Matt White

3. Work in woodgrain

Woodgrain is a timeless texture, and is great for adding warmth for a cosier space. Our new natural-oak effect counter replicates the look of timber for less, so you can get the stylish look of premium organic materials in an affordable and low-maintenance way.

See natural oak effect worktop

4. Add a glass backsplash

A clean and hygienic space is a crucial way to maintain a tranquil environment, so choose unobtrusive features that are made from easy-clean materials. A clear, glass backsplash will protect your walls from splashes and stains, whilst ensuring your wall design remains uninterrupted.

Discover clear glass splashbacks