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Looking back at another interesting year we’ve seen many varied changes in what people are looking for and how they view their home space and use of their kitchens. We don’t like to generalise here at Barnes and we’re very fortunate to have a fairly diverse set of clients and requests but there are a few things Kitchen and interior design that we have noticed, liked and that may influence interior designs in this coming year 2023.  Here are a few of our favourites:

Wonderful wood

We work with wood all day every day and have done for some thirty plus years however in the past year we’ve seen a resurgence of folk wanting to see more of it in its natural raw form. So its hold off with the paint and standby with the Osmo wood finish. As we aim for higher levels of home comfort and authenticity the want for wood is back with its warm character and tactility, whether its the floor the kitchen worktops or cabinetry. Wood works well with off-whites and many stone surfaces.

A long kitchen island with natural wood top and built in sinkSee more of the Totnes kitchen here

Nostalgia

We’ve noticed a definite swerve towards creating kitchen spaces that promote shared nostalgia and the positivity that it brings. A smattering of vintage items or family heirlooms brings that familiar and comforting sense, whether it’s an old furniture piece that has been restored or the revival of a picture or painting that had been retired, the desire to evoke positive memories at home is ever more popular. Add some grouped seating and share those romantic touches in your kitchen design.

A classic kitchen installed in a Dartmoor 16th Century stone building

See more of the timeless kitchen here

Sustainability in the kitchen

We are all of us faced daily with reminders that we need to be more selective in the way we do things in order to help preserve our planet. For many this has lead to some changes in the design of home space and particularly kitchen design. Our environmentally conscious decisions effect which products we select and whether we chose to upcycle or repurpose existing items. There’s a move towards timeless quality pieces that stand the test, last longer and minimise waste.

A large bright family kitchen with long oak table in the centre

See more of the classic coastal kitchen here

Multifunction Kitchen Islands

We’ve designed a myriad of kitchen islands over the years, in the past 12 months there’s been a move towards multifunction as the kitchen purpose diversifies and the space is used in different ways. The main shift in kitchen design is about being more socially focused and the island is back in the spotlight with larger oversized and sometimes split levels trending. Split levels help segregate the available space allowing your food prep to be kept separate from your sitting space but still close enough for conversation.

A kitchen island with seating for two

See more of the bold & beautiful kitchen here

Why not browse some more of the kitchens and other rooms that we have had the pleasure of working on over the past twelve months, ranging from family spaces, lounges, boot rooms and utility areas. If you’re keen to discuss any plans that you may have for updating, renovating or rebuilding your home we will be pleased to meet you, see your home and share our design dieas.

Happy 2023 to you all from The Barnes Team

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