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STORI Announces Top Real Stories of 2025/26
After receiving hundreds of outstanding entries from across the UK & Ireland, the winners of the STORI Retailer Excellence Awards 20256/26 were celebrated at STORI’s first-ever in-person awards ceremony. Each project was carefully assessed by a panel of respected industry experts, who evaluated every entry for its design excellence, innovation, and skilful use of materials.
From bold dark palettes to warm heritage-inspired spaces, these five stunning kitchen projects showcase how thoughtful design can completely transform the heart of the home. Whether you’re planning a contemporary open-plan renovation or looking for timeless shaker inspiration, these real-life kitchens demonstrate how colour, texture and layout can work together beautifully.
A Statement in Dark Luxury by Exorna
Introducing our Overall Real Stori Winner – Exorna! This dramatic open-plan kitchen makes an instant impression with its rich Tavola slab cabinetry and sophisticated monochrome palette. The Hacienda Black finish creates a luxurious atmosphere while still feeling warm and inviting thanks to the soft upholstered seating and layered lighting.
The combination of handleless cabinetry and sleek architectural lines gives the space a refined contemporary aesthetic, while the oversized island effortlessly connects the kitchen to the dining and living areas. The result from Exorna (based in Coleraine) is a multifunctional space designed equally for entertaining and everyday family life.
Contemporary Elegance with Kitchen Flair
Combining deep Graphite cabinetry with warm wood textures, this Belgravia inframe kitchen delivers a sophisticated contemporary look with plenty of visual depth. Designed by Kitchen Flair, based in Preston, the contrast between the darker Graphite units, lighter Shell units, and rich timber framing introduces warmth while maintaining a sleek, modern feel.
The central island creates a practical workspace and casual dining area, while integrated appliances and symmetrical cabinetry enhance the streamlined appearance. Open shelving adds styling opportunities without disrupting the clean aesthetic. The result is a beautifully balanced kitchen that feels luxurious yet approachable.
Characterful Open-Plan Living with Creating Spaces
Blending traditional architectural features with contemporary styling, this stunning open-plan space is full of character and personality, with colour matched Aldana narrow shakercabinetry introducing warmth and softness.
Designed and fitted by Creating Spaces in West Yorkshire, the muted island acts as a subtle focal point, paired beautifully with brass hardware and natural textures throughout the room. Thoughtful zoning between the kitchen, hidden pantry, and living areas ensures the space feels cohesive while still serving different functions.
A Bold Take on Colour and Contrast by Kitchen Warehouse
For homeowners wanting to move beyond neutral palettes, this striking Madison shaker kitchen offers the perfect inspiration. Designed by Kitchen Warehouse, Yorkshire, they paired Vintage Pink cabinetry with a dramatic Slate Blue island, creating a sophisticated yet playful contrast that feels both modern and inviting.
Industrial-inspired detailing adds depth and character, while the island creates a natural social focal point within the room. The combination of soft tones with darker architectural features ensures the space feels balanced rather than overpowering.
This kitchen demonstrates how colour can be used confidently without compromising timelessness. By pairing muted tones with natural materials and clean-lined cabinetry, the design remains elegant and highly versatile.
Timeless Neutrals with a Contemporary Twist by Rever Kitchens
Soft neutral kitchens continue to dominate interior trends, designed by Rever Kitchens, West Sussex, this beautiful Belgravia inframe space demonstrates exactly why. Featuring elegant Porcelain cabinetry, timber accents and subtle brass detailing, the kitchen feels calm and timeless.
The island provides generous prep and seating space, creating a social hub at the centre of the room. Full-height cabinetry maximises storage without feeling imposing, and the clean-lined finishes allow the natural light to take centre stage.
The Beauty of Real Kitchen Design
What makes these kitchens so inspiring is their individuality. From bold contemporary schemes to timeless shaker styles, each project reflects the personality and lifestyle of the homeowners while showcasing exceptional attention to detail.
Across all five spaces, there’s a clear emphasis on combining functionality with beautiful design, through statement islands, layered lighting, clever storage solutions and confident colour palettes.
As seen throughout STORI’s celebrated “Top Real Stories” campaign, the best kitchen designs are the ones that feel personal, practical and truly lived in.
