Nicholas Anthony predicts the trends for 2007

The interiors trends for 2007: by Tony Nicholas, managing director of Nicholas Anthony.

Colour
Homeowners are becoming more inclined to experiment with colour. As a result, we will see colour becoming more prominent in the kitchen - not the subtle hues we’ve been used to but strong, dynamic colours like purple and burgundy which make a bold design statement. For those who still remain hesitant about this development, a compromise can be reached: around one third of the kitchen can take a vibrant colour without it becoming too overpowering. This works well particularly in the larger kitchen but even a smaller space can carry off the use of vibrant colours if it is carefully designed, incorporating colour into splashbacks or shelving for instance.

Dark wood
The trend for practical modern kitchens will continue but the stark minimalist style will be replaced by a greater degree of warmth, which will lead to an increase in dark, sumptuous wood such as rich walnut. Also becoming popular is emphasising the beauty of the grain to create a central focus to a contemporary or traditional kitchen. We’ll also see an increased interest in veneers which can be cut at different angles to create unusual grain structures or patterns, or to emphasise or eliminate specific features of natural solid wood such as rings or knots.

Materials and textures
Overall, the trend in kitchen design is all about mixing materials and textures. In the purple Classic Line kitchen, the luxuriant combination of rich purple cupboard doors look stunning when combined with a jet black composite stone worksurface and aluminium handles. In the Nut Tobacco kitchen, the rich contemporary walnut finish is complimented with a stunning blend of Polar White glass, stainless steel and white Cesarstone.

Tony Nicholas, MD, commented: “Be brave and bold when it comes to colour – don’t be daunted. Steer away from the impersonal minimalist look, and opt for warm, cosy kitchens where you can feel at home. With many styles on offer, choosing a new kitchen can be overwhelming but a good designer will steer you through the many decisions to be made, providing you with a kitchen that you’ll love for many years to come.”

Nicholas Anthony is a kitchen and bathroom specialist with showrooms in Ascot, Colchester, Knightsbridge and London W1. The company’s expert service includes complete design and installation of your kitchen and bathroom with advice on the best solution for your home and lifestyle. Nicholas Anthony kitchens retail from £15,000.

For more details on Nicholas Anthony, visit nicholas-anthony.co.uk.