Modern & Contemporary Kitchens

What Defines Contemporary Kitchen Design?

• Sleek, Minimalist Aesthetics: Contemporary kitchens embrace uncluttered surfaces, streamlined cabinetry, and sophisticated hardware that creates visual impact through simplicity rather than ornamentation.
• Innovative Materials: From quartz worktops with striking veining to concrete-effect surfaces and premium glass panels, contemporary kitchens showcase the latest in material innovation and engineering.
• Smart Integration: Modern technology seamlessly integrates into contemporary kitchen design, from touch-activated taps and app-controlled appliances to sophisticated lighting systems and hidden charging stations.
• Open-Plan Connectivity: Contemporary kitchens are designed to flow seamlessly with living spaces, creating unified environments perfect for entertaining and family life.

The Evolution of Contemporary Kitchen Design

Contemporary kitchen design emerged in the mid-20th century as part of the broader modernist movement that transformed residential architecture. The style gained momentum in the 1950s and 1960s, when designers began rejecting ornate traditional elements in favour of clean lines, functional layouts, and innovative materials.

The post-war era brought significant technological advances that enabled contemporary kitchen design to flourish. New materials like laminate surfaces, stainless steel appliances, and later, engineered stone worktops, allowed designers to create sleek, durable surfaces that complemented the minimalist aesthetic. The introduction of built-in appliances revolutionised kitchen layouts, enabling seamless integration.

Modern & Contemporary Kitchens to Last a Lifetime

At The Essex Kitchen Design Company, we are privileged to collaborate with two exceptional partners who bring decades of expertise and heritage to our bespoke kitchen designs.

Our British kitchen maker, established in 1864, has been crafting bespoke kitchens for over 150 years. Their unparalleled mastery combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, ensuring that each kitchen is not only tailored to our clients’ unique specifications but also built to the highest standards of quality and durability.

In addition to our British partner, we are proud suppliers of Rempp Küchen, a German kitchen manufacturer renowned for precision engineering, innovative design, and exceptional quality. With a heritage spanning nearly a century, Rempp combines cutting-edge technology with meticulous attention to detail.

Modern Materials and Innovative Surfaces

Our material selection focuses on surfaces that not only look stunning but also meet the demanding requirements of modern kitchen use.

• Engineered Quartz Worktops: Available in marble-effect patterns and solid colours, these surfaces offer exceptional durability while providing the sophisticated aesthetic that contemporary kitchen design requires.
• Architectural Glass Elements: From sleek glass splashbacks to integrated glass shelving, these elements add light and sophistication while maintaining the clean lines essential to contemporary design.
• Metal Accents: Stainless steel, brushed brass, and matte black metal elements provide industrial touches that enhance the modern aesthetic while offering practical benefits.
• Textural Contrasts: Rich solid wood, concrete-effect surfaces, and innovative composite materials add depth and visual interest while maintaining the sophisticated simplicity of contemporary design.

Contemporary Colour Palettes and Finishes

Contemporary kitchen design embraces both bold statements and sophisticated subtlety through carefully curated colour palettes that reflect current design trends. At The Essex Kitchen Design Company, we work with premium paint manufacturers to offer an extensive range of contemporary colours that define modern kitchen aesthetics.

Bold Contemporary Hues

Deep navy blue, forest green, and charcoal grey create dramatic statements when applied to sleek cabinetry. These colours work particularly well in contemporary designs when paired with contrasting light worktops or metallic accents.

Sophisticated Neutrals

Muted tones like sage green, dusty pink, and sophisticated greys provide fresh yet refined aesthetics that complement contemporary architecture and furnishings.

High-Performance Finishes

Hand-painted finishes using premium brands like Farrow & Ball and Little Greene ensure durability while providing the rich depth and quality that contemporary kitchen design demands.

The key to contemporary colour success lies in creating contrast and visual interest through strategic use of colour, texture, and finish quality.