TAKE TWO

Kitchens that double down on colour and texture, whether that be bold contrasts or subtle blends, are all the more beautiful for it

- LINDA CLAYTON

1. ISLAND DREAMS

Focusing your deepest tone on the island is a great way to dial up the energy levels in a cosy country kitchen, like this one at Glebe House in rural East Devon. 'A tone-on-tone palette offers the ability to inject more personality into your kitchen, so don't be afraid to bring a bolder tone of your chosen colour into your scheme,' says Fred Horlock, design director at Neptune. Here, the wall cabinets are in Neptune's Burnt Sienna, a subtle hue that brings warmth to the space, while the deeper Burnham Red on the island is much more characterful, providing impact and contrast, while staying within the overall colour story. 'This combination balances charm and visual interest, creating a kitchen that feels both inviting and vibrant, adds Fred.

Henley kitchen in Burnt Sienna, white oak and Burnham Red, from £14,500, Neptune.

2. PRETTY IN PINK

The brief for this renovation was to make it feel more contemporary without losing its country kitchen identity. 'The two-tone pinks feel fresh and modern, reflecting the lightness in the floors but it's still undeniably classical at heart,' says interior designer Lolita Colenso. If you're worried about using dark pink, which can be divisive, Lolita suggests focusing on low-level furniture, like an island, which will be less impactful. 'I like to keep a two-tone palette bright by tying the scheme together using accessories,' she adds. 'If you use a lighter tone first, when adding the darker tone you will immediately see the contrast and can then decide how much further you'd like to take it.'

Bespoke kitchen in Farrow & Ball's Templeton Pink and Book Room Red, from £35,000, Lolita Colenso Design.

3. LIGHT AND DARK