Autumnal Kitchen Décor Updates: From Butter Yellow Door Fronts to Pretty Protein-Rich Pick-Me-Ups
We spend a lot of time in the kitchen, the heart of our homes. It’s a space for cooking, gathering, and creating memories. If you’re looking to refresh your kitchen this autumn, there are plenty of easy updates that not only add visual interest but also pack a punch in terms of design.
Butter-Up Doors
Consider introducing butter yellow into your kitchen; it’s a soothing hue that can seamlessly fit into both classic and contemporary styles. This cheerful shade not only invites warmth but also complements metals like brass and copper beautifully, allowing them to shine.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, UK-based Olive & Barr offers stunning skinny Shaker kitchens starting at around €11,500, not including tax and delivery. This could be a fabulous way to add charm while updating your kitchen’s aesthetic.
It’s Hip to be Square
Brighten your kitchen with colored tiled countertops that are making a trendy comeback, reminiscent of the stylish 1980s. This retro vibe can refresh your space without requiring a huge investment. Look at Best Tiles, where you’ll find delightful zellige squares available for €110 per square meter, offering a rustic charm that’s both unique and timeless.
Add to this a reactive stripe platter for €34 and a glazed round platter for €27, both available at Marks and Spencer, and you’ll create a visually captivating culinary setting.
Contrast Island Colours
A kitchen island in a contrasting color can significantly enhance depth and interest. Mary Orr, creative director at McNally, notes, “An island in a contrasting colour adds real depth and interest to a kitchen.” For instance, the vert anglaise island shown here offers a sleek, satin-painted or textured finish, distinctive 150mm curved gables, and a slimline 17mm compact worktop. With approximately 5,000 shades to choose from, you can make a bold statement, with island prices starting at €15,000.
Let There Be Light
If your kitchen is on the smaller side, consider raising the ceiling and adding rooflights to invite ample natural light. Pair this architectural update with Swedish-style blonde oak veneer Sinarp units for a clean, modern look. The handleless design from Ikea comes at an affordable price, starting from €79 for a 60cm by 140cm door front, sure to transform any small kitchen into a brighter, more inviting space.
Cooking in Comfort
While tiled or concrete floors are practical, standing on such surfaces can be taxing. As autumn brings about cooler temperatures, consider adding a cozy rug underfoot. It elevates the aesthetic while providing comfort. The Provenance design in olive, sized at 120cm by 180cm, offers both style and functionality for €319 (excluding delivery), a collaboration between Geri Designs and Rugs.ie.
Pretty, Protein-Rich Pick-Me-Ups
Small updates can make everyday meals feel special. Consider the ikat pattern tableware by Eclectic by Carolyn Donnolly at Dunnes Stores. This color-rich collection features cereal bowls priced at €5 each, with matching mugs and egg cups available for the same or €6 for a set of two. Such details can add a cheerful touch to your breakfast routine.
Bring the Outdoors In
House plants are an excellent way to inject natural greenery and warmth into your kitchen. Designer Roisin Lafferty beautifully exemplifies this with the installation of a red Japanese maple tree in the kitchen of the River Suites at the Montenotte Hotel in Cork City. This striking feature showcases how an unexpected natural element can bring life to a kitchen while ensuring it feels inviting.