After a long hot summer in our gardens and outside spaces, come the autumn it’s a good time to re-look at our interiors. Once you’ve packed away the pizza oven and had your last barbeque, the kitchen will become the beating heart of your home again. If you’re thinking of a kitchen refresh this autumn, these are some of the key trends for AW 2022.

The new approach
Sustainability is one of the biggest interiors trends. Look at what you already have and go for a ‘tweakment’ rather than a full refurb. Think about repainting your existing units, putting on new door fronts or replacing your worktops with quartz or a composite. You’ll be amazed what a difference it will make and how much money you can save.

Introduce colour
A good way to update your kitchen is to change the colour of your units. I am a fan of shaker cabinets that can easily be repainted. Green is a continuing trend for kitchens – pair soft sage or olive green with soft plaster pink walls for a country look. If you want to introduce a bolder colour just paint some of the base units. I have painted mine a beautiful deep green-blue shade for a change of look. For the autumn, natural warmer colours will be trending so for inspiration search out ochre, mustard and rust schemes on Pinterest.

Handles and taps
Another easy way to upgrade your look is to switch up the handles on your kitchen cabinets. Brass is currently a popular choice and looks great with green. You don’t need to invest in new handles – my daughter spray-painted hers copper for an instant update. Review your power sockets and add some USB ports for your tech. Say goodbye to the kettle and invest in a boiling water tap – so much better than waiting for a kettle to boil for your morning cuppa.

Design and detail
It’s the details that make all the difference. Personalise your space by opting for open shelving or vintage style cupboards with glazed doors and display your favourite kitchen items. Fill the shelves with bright ceramics and coloured glassware, and add favourite artworks on the walls. On-trend washable rugs give an instant homely and lived-in look. My sister has a braided rug in her country kitchen and it looks so cosy. Check out Weaver Green for some lovely designs.

Must-have kitchen accessories
For a finishing touch, no modern kitchen is complete without a coffee maker – whether it’s a traditional Italian Moka pot or a top of the range Delonghi bean-to-cup machine. Search out original and unusual handmade pottery (check out Toast’s selection). Add wooden serving boards for nibbles and tapas style suppers (available from Trouva), and you will be guest ready.
Now your kitchen really will feel like the heart of your home – a welcoming living space that’s not just for cooking.