When designing a kitchen, there are so many elements to keep in mind. It’s not just appliances, furnishings and colour schemes you need to think about – the materials used are critical too. By combining different materials you can achieve truly bespoke kitchen design; a space that’s simple and sophisticated yet highly personalised.
If you’re looking for a contemporary, designer-inspired kitchen, you’ll love this combination. While Corian and high gloss are both modern in style they come together perfectly in contemporary kitchens. Offering a sleek design and finish, Corian and high gloss kitchens work best in complementary colours like bright whites and soft greys.
Take a look at this stylish kitchen renovation to see how these fantastic materials come together.
Traditional kitchens are still a popular option and can be combined with modern materials for an up-to-date twist. Natural wood cupboards and furnishings can be teamed with stainless steel accessories and appliances for a stunning, on-trend finish.
In this traditional kitchen, designed for the Lockett family, our designer combined various natural materials with state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. Mirrored light shades were added too, as well as a mirror between the units for a timeless and practical finish.
High gloss is a great material choice for a modern kitchen but can look a little bit clinical on its own. To tone it down, we recommend teaming shiny high gloss furnishings with natural materials like oak. Natural materials help add depth to a high gloss kitchen. And whether you choose an oak table, oak cupboard rims or an oak floor – it’s completely up to you.
In this chic high gloss customer kitchen, we introduced silk grey oak to create contrast and depth throughout the kitchen space. Silver grey oak was used for the dining table, breakfast bar and a feature panel to complement the high gloss units.
Feeling all inspired? If these stylish combinations have got you in the mood for a new kitchen space, take a look at our designer kitchens. Whether you’re looking for something contemporary or a kitchen that’s more traditional in style, we’ve got the perfect design waiting for you.
What materials have you combined in your kitchen space? Tell us in the comments below or tweet us @ModernKitchens
AS SEEN ON GEORGE CLARKE’S BEAUTIFUL BUILDS: FROM DATED LAYOUT TO DREAM ENTERTAINING SPACE
When Katherine and Andrew purchased their property, they always knew a full renovation would follow.
With both the outdated kitchen and untouched garden requiring significant transformation, the project soon became part of Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds – it was an opportunity they felt perfectly aligned with their vision for the property.
While searching for a local kitchen specialist, Kitchen Design Centre immediately stood out thanks to its long-standing reputation, glowing customer reviews and welcoming showroom experience.
The brief focused on creating a sleek, contemporary kitchen that would feel open, social and highly functional, while complementing the wider architectural renovation of the home.
The finished design delivers a beautifully balanced space that combines clean lines with luxurious detailing.
One of the standout features is the striking worktop design. The waterfall edge peninsula creates a bold focal point within the room, while the continuation of the material across the side panels introduces a seamless, premium aesthetic.
Functionality was equally important throughout the design process, with carefully considered storage solutions and high-quality appliances helping to simplify everyday living. Among Katherine and Andrew’s favourite additions is the Neff oven, praised for both its versatility and pyrolytic self-cleaning function.
The completed result is a sophisticated contemporary space that completely transforms how the home looks, feels, and functions, perfectly reflecting Katherine and Andrew’s original vision from the moment they moved in.
More details in our bio
SUMMER JUST GOT EVEN BETTER FOR YOUR DREAM KITCHEN!
You don’t have to keep waiting for your dream kitchen. With flexible finance options on kitchens over £20,000, it’s ready when you are. Spread the cost of your kitchen plans and move forward in a way that works for you this summer.
With our exclusive Quooker offer, when you purchase any Quooker Tap and Tank system with a kitchen over £20,000, you’ll receive a FREE Quooker CUBE worth £1,250, plus free installation worth up to £384, and 4 free CO₂ cylinders worth £70. It’s everything you need to enjoy chilled, filtered, sparkling and boiling water straight from your tap.
And when you step into our showrooms, there are even more opportunities waiting for you, including exclusive savings on selected ex-display kitchens and up to 50% off selected stock appliances. Don’t miss this rare chance to secure something special, with design and value combined.
That said, like all great things, these summer offers are only available for a limited time — once they’re gone, they’re gone!
The kitchen isn’t just a place to cook — it’s the heart of the home.
At our Kitchen Design Centre, we believe your kitchen should be the centrepiece of your house, where style meets functionality and every moment matters. From morning coffees to family dinners and everything in between, your kitchen is where life happens.
That’s why we design spaces that bring people together — beautiful, practical, and tailored to you. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek modern look or a warm, classic feel, we’re here to help you create a kitchen that truly feels like home.
Visit us today and start designing the heart of your home.
Kitchen Design Centre is proud to feature on George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds which features Katherine and Andrew’s Manchester build this Thursday 11 June , 8pm, CH4
We can’t wait to watch it!
Who doesn’t love a peek into someone else’s kitchen?
Visit our showrooms to explore our stunning display kitchens in person. Pop in for a browse—we’ll have the kettle on, or you can try out our instant hot taps!
Book A Free Design Appointment
