If, like me, you want something a little more exciting than a cool white kitchen but you don’t want to go for a full-on explosion of colour, then this season’s trend for nicely natural furniture is the perfect solution. Designers are calling it New Neutrals and it works perfectly for both classic and contemporary styled cabinetry…

For a high gloss finish with a lustrous look, Second Nature has launched the sophisticated Avant Almond kitchen (www.sncollection.co.uk).

Avant Almond Kitchen

Graeme Smith, conceptual designer, explains its appeal:

“In the current economic climate, there is a definite shift towards longevity, less fad and fashion and more of an investment in quality and a look that will stand the test of time. The look of the new neutrals is deliberately understated, but part of the appeal is that you can inject a degree of character with natural timbers, contrasting colours and a mix of textures.”

I’d bring a touch of drama to the scheme with gloss black appliances, a statement cooker hood and a sparkly black granite worktop. What would you add?

If you prefer your kitchens with a classic twist, then check out the first design in a brand new National Trust kitchen collection from Parlour Farm (www.parlourfarm.com).

National Trust Kitchen Collection

This limited edition collection is called the Shrewsbury and was officially unveiled by the National Trust’s Director-General Dame Fiona Reynolds DBE. The first in a series of six designs, the Shrewsbury was inspired by the grand kitchens of Attingham Park House near Shrewsbury, crafted using FSC Maplewood and painted in Little Olive from Parlour Farm’s own eco-friendly paint range.

I love the heritage associated with this design and the fact that it’s a limited edition makes it even more special.

For me though, my favourite has to be the Kora kitchen by Cesar in a smoky-grey finish.

Kora kitchen by Cesar in a smoky-grey finish

Available from NGI Design (www.ngidesign.co.uk), it has a smooth, silk-effect laminate surface that oozes sophistication and understated appeal. I love the calm, tranquil feel that it creates and it would blend effortlessly from kitchen to diner to living room. It comes in a range of door widths and cabinet heights too, so you can customise it to suit your space.

Kitchen trends come and go but I have a feeling that this one will be around for some time…