Life Trade's Paul Berryman on the top 4 kitchen trends of 2026

With a new year around the corner, Paul Berryman, head of Life Trade, identifies his key style directions that are set to define kitchens in 2026.

This year we're going to see a renewed appreciation for natural materials, rich tonal contrasts and the growing desire to create homes that are both practical and sociable. Together, they signal a shift toward kitchens that balance timeless craftsmanship with contemporary living.

Here are Paul's top 4 2026 kitchen trends:

1 - Embrace the timeless nature of oak
Natural materials continue to take centre stage, bringing depth, warmth and authenticity to contemporary kitchen design. Among these, oak remains an enduring favourite. Its distinctive grain and tactile surface offers subtle character and a sense of true craftsmanship.

The recent addition of our new oak finish within our Mornington Shaker and Mornington Vale door designs provides even greater versatility, catering to customers seeking both traditional shaker kitchens and more modern, industrial-inspired designs. The rising preference for an organic finish reflects a broader design movement towards kitchens that feel softer and grounded.

2 - The rise of colourful kitchens
In 2026, the kitchen is set to become a more expressive and personalised space, with multi-tonal cabinetry leading the way. Dynamic and multi-dimensional, we’re seeing two and even three-tone schemes become the new standard for design-conscious customers as layering colours across cabinetry, islands and wall units helps to create and define zones.

Beyond aesthetics, multi-tonal kitchens also enhance functionality, with darker units concealing wear in high-traffic areas and lighter units feeling more open and maximising natural light. The combination of practical benefits and visual appeal explains why retailers and designers are increasingly moving towards mixed palettes rather than one-dimensional schemes.

3 - Make a statement with an integrated drinks cabinet
As homes continue to evolve into multifunctional hubs, we’re noticing an increased demand for elegant, purpose-built storage, designed specifically for hosting and entertaining. Blending effortlessly with surrounding cabinetry, an integrated drinks cabinet offers a refined and cohesive solution that elevates both form and function.

It provides a dedicated space for glassware, bottles and accessories, with options such as internal lighting and tailored shelving helping to enhance the user experience. Whether subtly concealed or highlighted with contrasting finishes, a drinks cabinet brings a sense of occasion to everyday living.

4 - Shaker remains in the spotlight
Over the past few years, sales of Shaker-style furniture have demonstrated a consistent and positive upward trajectory. This continued growth is part of a broader trend observed over the last five years, marked by a steady year-on-year increase. This doesn’t mean however that other styles aren’t in demand – but they have been reinvented.

We are observing a growing trend where both our customers and our own design teams are creatively integrating fluted and even slab doors into modern interpretations of Shaker designs. When combined with fluted doors, concrete-style worktops, and black hardware, it offers a fresh, innovative approach that expands the creative possibilities of the classic Shaker ethos.