Expert Kitchen Design Advice, from Claire Garner Design Studio

When should an interior designer get involved in a kitchen renovation?

Right from the start! Getting a designer involved early means every detail, from layout and materials to lighting and storage, is thoughtfully planned as part of a bigger picture. It’s the best way to avoid costly mistakes or last-minute changes that can throw a project off track.

A designer can also help strike that perfect balance between style and function, making sure your kitchen isn’t just beautiful but works seamlessly for your lifestyle. So, whether you're dreaming of a timeless shaker kitchen or something a little more bespoke, having an expert on board from day one can make all the difference!

Which layouts work best for a kitchen?

The best layout depends on the space available, but the most effective designs follow the ‘kitchen triangle’ principle—positioning the sink, hob and fridge in a triangular configuration to maximise efficiency. Generally speaking, U-shaped and L-shaped kitchens work well for larger spaces, while galley kitchens are ideal for narrow rooms. If space allows, I love incorporating an island—it not only provides additional prep space, seating, and storage but also creates a more sociable, family-friendly kitchen.

For small kitchens, opting for a single-wall or L-shaped layout can help open up the floor plan, making the space feel larger. I often recommend incorporating open shelving and light-reflective materials, such as high-gloss countertops or mirrored backsplashes, to enhance brightness and create the illusion of a larger space.

Can you update a kitchen without undertaking a full renovation?

A few small changes can make a big impact when updating your kitchen without a full renovation. Swapping out cabinet doors for classic shaker-style fronts and adding timeless brass or matte black handles can instantly refresh the space. Upgrading your countertops to a durable material like quartz not only elevates the look but also ensures they’ll stand the test of time. And don’t underestimate the power of good lighting—whether it’s stylish pendants over an island or under-cabinet LEDs, the right lighting can completely transform the feel of your kitchen. 

How do you create a relaxed and welcoming feel in an open-plan kitchen?

Making an open-plan kitchen feel inviting is all about creating a sense of flow while ensuring each area feels distinct and purposeful. I love using rugs, pendant lighting or subtle flooring variations to define different zones, while soft textures—like upholstered seating, curtains and natural materials help add warmth and comfort. 

Acoustics are also worth considering, as open-plan spaces can sometimes feel echoey. Adding soft furnishings, rugs or even upholstered dining chairs can help absorb sound, making the space feel more inviting and comfortable.

A few other things that work beautifully in open-plan kitchens:

✨ Using furniture, like a sofa or shelving unit, to subtly divide the kitchen, dining and living areas.

✨ Incorporating a kitchen island—not just for extra workspace, but as a natural boundary between zones.

✨ Choosing multifunctional furniture, like extendable dining tables or modular seating, to keep the space flexible for different needs.

✨ Layering different types of lighting to define each area—think task lighting for cooking, pendants over a dining table, and softer ambient lighting for the living space.

What are the key kitchen trends for 2025?

Sustainability is taking centre stage in kitchen design, with more people opting for reclaimed materials and eco-friendly finishes. I am also seeing a shift towards softer, more organic shapes—curved cabinetry and islands are becoming really popular, bringing a more relaxed, welcoming feel to the space. Mixing materials is another big trend, with natural stone, textured wood and matte finishes coming together to create a beautifully layered, sophisticated look. And let’s not forget storage, larders and pantries are making a strong comeback, not just for their practicality but also for the charm and character they add to a kitchen.

When it comes to colour, things are warming up! Earthy tones like terracotta, olive green and rich neutrals are making their way into kitchens, adding depth and a natural, grounded feel. Texture is also playing a huge role—think fluted wood cabinetry, handmade tiles and natural stone worktops that bring a real sense of craftsmanship and individuality. And speaking of individuality, personalisation is a huge focus, with more homeowners looking for bespoke storage solutions, unique tile designs, and artisanal details that make their kitchens feel truly their own.

What is the best approach to kitchen lighting?

Getting the lighting right in a kitchen can make all the difference—it’s not just about brightness, but about creating the perfect balance of function and atmosphere. The best approach is to layer different types of lighting so the space feels both practical and inviting.

Start with your ambient lighting, this is your general illumination, like recessed ceiling lights, to make sure the whole room is evenly lit. Then, add task lighting to brighten up work areas—under-cabinet LEDs are brilliant for this, as they keep your countertops well-lit for chopping and cooking. Finally, bring in some decorative lighting to add warmth and character—pendants over an island or dining table are a great way to create a focal point and make the space feel more inviting.

A common mistake people make is not thinking about where the lighting is placed. Task lighting should be positioned directly over work surfaces to avoid casting shadows (no one wants to be chopping in the dark!). Adding accent lighting, like wall sconces or open-shelf lighting, can also help bring in depth and a cosy feel. And don’t forget natural light! Keeping window treatments minimal will help daylight flow freely, making the space feel bright and airy all day long.

Where should appliances be positioned for optimal functionality?

Getting the placement of your kitchen appliances right can make a huge difference in how smoothly everything flows. Ideally, you want to create a layout that feels effortless to use, especially during busy mealtimes.

A good rule of thumb is to position the fridge somewhere easy to access—this way, grabbing ingredients as you start cooking is simple. The hob and oven work best when they’re more central, so everything is within easy reach while you’re cooking and when it comes to the dishwasher, keeping it near the sink just makes life easier.

If space allows, it’s also worth thinking about separating cooking and prep areas, especially in busy family households. This helps avoid traffic jams when multiple people are in the kitchen, making the whole space feel more efficient and enjoyable to use.

What are your top tips for designing a larder or pantry?

A well-thought-out larder or pantry can make a huge difference in keeping your kitchen organised and clutter-free. Floor-to-ceiling shelving is a great way to maximise every inch of space, while adjustable shelves and pull-out baskets help keep things flexible and easy to access. Clear storage containers are a game-changer for keeping ingredients tidy and visible—no more digging around for that lost bag of flour!

If you have the space, adding a small countertop inside the pantry is a brilliant way to store appliances like toasters and coffee machines out of sight but still within easy reach. And don’t forget about lighting, LED strips or motion-sensor lights can make a world of difference, making sure everything is easy to see at a glance.

Claire Garner's extensive knowledge and expertise uniquely positions her to provide invaluable advice and design insights for interior features. Please contact lauren@baytreepr.com to arrange expert comments