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When you picture a high-end kitchen, you might imagine gleaming marble worktops, custom-made cabinetry, and designer lighting. But I’ll let you in on a little secret: you don’t always need a huge budget to create a kitchen that feels luxurious! Often, the small details, the clever finishes, and the thoughtful choices bring a real sense of quality to a space.
If you’re planning your new kitchen and want it to have that premium feel, here are some of the hidden details worth paying attention to.
One of the quickest ways to give your kitchen a high-end finish is by upgrading the handles, knobs, and pulls. Even a simple shaker cabinet can feel more special with a beautifully aged brass handle, a tactile matte black pull, or a sleek, contemporary bar handle. Choosing quality hardware instantly elevates the look and feel of the room, and because you don’t need masses of it, it’s a very cost-effective upgrade.
Don’t forget hinges and drawer runners too. Soft-close mechanisms are a little hidden luxury that you’ll appreciate every single day.
In many kitchens, lighting is an afterthought. If you want that showroom-quality finish, it’s all about layers. Think about a combination of task lighting (such as under-cabinet LEDs), ambient lighting (like pendant lights over an island), and even a few accent lights (perhaps a strip inside glass-fronted cabinets).
Layered lighting doesn’t just make your kitchen more practical; it adds depth, mood, and a true designer touch. Even something simple like warm-toned bulbs instead of harsh white can completely change the feel of your space.
Integrated appliances don’t just save space, they help your kitchen look calm, clean, and high-end. When your fridge, dishwasher, and even your bin are hidden behind beautiful cabinetry, it gives the whole room a more streamlined, custom feel.
If full integration isn’t an option, consider appliances with sleek, minimalist designs in neutral colours to keep the overall look cohesive.
Attention to storageLuxury isn’t just about what you see on the surface; it’s about how a space works. Well-planned storage is one of the key elements of a high-end kitchen. Think about deep pan drawers that glide smoothly, pull-out larders that make everything accessible, or hidden breakfast cupboards where you can tuck the toaster and kettle away.
Adding internal organisers, spice racks, and cutlery trays helps keep everything neat and easy to find, making your kitchen feel effortless and elegant.
While marble and quartz are classic luxury choices, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get the look. Many of the newer laminates and composite worktops beautifully mimic the appearance of natural stone but are much more affordable and easier to maintain.
Choosing a simple, clean-lined worktop with a slim profile edge can make your kitchen feel contemporary and high-end. Even small touches like matching your splashback to your worktop can add a feeling of cohesiveness and expense.
Finishing touchesIt’s often the little extras that pull the whole design together. A statement tap, a beautifully styled shelf, a well-chosen bar stool, all these small choices can help your kitchen feel complete. Consider a few curated accessories like a vase of fresh herbs or a stylish chopping board left on display to give your kitchen that effortless, welcoming feel.
You don't have to spend a fortune to create a kitchen that feels luxurious. By focusing on small details like beautiful handles, layered lighting, thoughtful storage, and seamless appliances, you can achieve that high-end feel whatever your budget. If you’re ready to start planning your dream kitchen with a luxury finish, our team would love to help you bring it to life.
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As a kitchen designer, I love creating a stunning space where life is easy and memories are made! If your kitchen needs upgrading, modernising or a complete renovation, let’s have a conversation and see what you could do with your space.
A new kitchen with a specialist design is more cost-effective than you may think – just get in touch with us today for a free in-store kitchen design consultation and we’ll show you how.
Emma Reed – Kitchen designer – 01792 712000
© 2025 Kitchens by Emma Reed Limited. Company number: 11451277. Registered office address: 1-2 Valley Way, Llansamlet, Swansea, United Kingdom, SA6 8QP.
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