Inside the Showroom with Studio Nest

We caught up with Marie-Louise from our Approved Retailer, Studio Nest, to hear what homeowners are looking for right now and the design details influencing their decisions.

Through conversations with homeowners, Studio Nest has seen growing demand for spaces that balance timeless style with practical everyday living.

What’s one design trend or feature that continues to be a firm favourite with homeowners?

Colours and Natural Finishes 

“One thing we’re noticing more and more in the showroom is homeowners wanting spaces that feel layered and personal rather than perfectly matched. Natural materials and timeless detailing continue to be firm favourites. From warm woodgrains and beaded shaker cabinetry to heritage inspired details, homeowners are drawn to designs that add character and feel as though they will stand the test of time.”

Neutral colour palettes remain popular, particularly when paired with deeper accent shades. Combinations such as Willow and Shell or Taupe Grey and Graphite create contrast while maintaining a warm, balanced aesthetic.

Natural timbers and woodgrain finishes are also becoming an important part of the overall scheme, often mixed with painted cabinetry to bring depth and texture into the room. Heritage inspired reds, greens and neutrals continue to resonate with homeowners, while more playful colours, such as pinks and yellows, are finding their place in pantries, boot rooms and other secondary spaces.

Cabinetry with character

When it comes to cabinetry, contemporary shaker styles such as Aldana remain a popular choice. For those seeking a modern interpretation of a classic look, Lawrenson offers elegant detailing, while Tavola appeals to homeowners looking for the warmth and character of a contemporary woodgrain finish.

Homeowners are also paying greater attention to the finishing touches that bring personality to a kitchen. Framed cabinetry, statement island panelling, bifold breakfast cupboards, open oak shelving and quartz shelves above the splashback all help create a space that feels considered and uniquely personal.  These details help create a space that feels curated and personal, while making everyday items easier to organise and access.

Finishing touches that make a difference

Fluted glass cabinetry with integrated lighting continues to grow in popularity, offering a subtle way to introduce ambience, particularly during the darker months. Living-finish brass hardware is another sought-after detail, bringing warmth and a softly aged quality to the overall design.

“It’s often the smaller details that make the design feel truly personal. Homeowners want features that reflect their style, but they are also thinking carefully about how the space will work for them every day.”

Practical finishing touches are also influencing decisions. Boiling water taps help reduce countertop clutter, while downdraft hobs give homeowners greater flexibility when planning islands and open spaces. Fluted Belfast sinks, quartz drip shelves and handleless push to open cabinetry demonstrate how functional details can also contribute to the overall look and feel of the room.

If you could describe what today’s homeowners are looking for in three words, what would they be?

Timeless
Homeowners are looking beyond passing trends, they want a home that still feels right five or ten years from now. They want colours, materials and cabinetry styles that will still feel right and continue to bring them joy for years to come.

Quality
Quality materials and thoughtful design are becoming increasingly important. Customers want to feel confident that every element has been carefully chosen and created to support everyday life.

Personal
Rather than simply recreating a particular look, homeowners want spaces tailored to their individual style, routines and priorities. Unique details allow them to create a room that reflects how they live now and how they may use the space in years to come.

“At the heart of it, homeowners want a space that feels personal to them. It should be beautifully designed and made to last, but it also needs to support the way they live and give them room to grow into it.”

Inspired to create a kitchen that feels truly yours?

Your local STORI retailer can help bring your ideas together, with thoughtful design and personal details that make your kitchen work beautifully for you. Find your nearest showroom here.