Today’s kitchens aren’t the tucked-away functional spaces many of us grew up with. Instead, kitchens have shaken off their purely practical persona and are now busy hubs of the home. They are places where children do their homework, you and your family unwind in the evening, and invariably, where guests gather and chat before dinner. Over the next few pages we celebrate the new wave of kitchen designs that are multifunctional, fully versatile and warm and welcoming all at the same time.

Above: The Kungsbacka kitchen from Ikea has cabinets starting at Dh225.

The heart of the home in more ways than one, kitchens are now being integrated into the public spaces of the home, often with living, dining and kitchen zones all flowing seamlessly into one another. This sociable and friendly layout is perfect for busy family life, though practical places for food preparation are still needed. If you’re keen on embracing the new trend for open-plan living, then opt for a sleek, streamlined design with lots of concealed storage – and resist the temptation to clutter up your worktops with unsightly appliances and gadgets.

Siematic’s Urban collection is a versatile modular kitchen that combines open and closed elements, and vertical and horizontal components. 

Living and cooking sit side by side in the 041 – FCSQ kitchen by Meiwes: prices start from Dh108,000.
The deep blue tones of the Velvet Blue kitchen by Hacker create a relaxed and calming environment in which to cook and entertain. The rustic seating area is the perfect complement for this stylish scene: Prices start from Dh130,000.

3 of the best…Bar stools
From left to right: Black stool from Homes R Us, Dh229; Tig mesh bar stool from Crate & Barrel, Dh1,099; Mirage leather bar stool from Zen Interiors, Dh2,320.

Sleek Lines
The popularity of sleek, contemporary kitchens is growing day by day. The antithesis of open displays and ornate cabinetry, this trend focuses on the simplicity of good design. Door cabinets are smooth, uniform and handleless, and come in a variety of materials to suit all tastes, such as high gloss white laminate, solid wood or brushed metal. Enliven streamlined kitchens with dramatic touches, like oversized cooker hoods, statement pendant lights and beautiful natural worktops.

The European kitchens from Mahy Khoory focus on ergonomics, functionality and great design. This Swiss steel Alnoinox kitchen offers a linear look with an easy-to-care-for durable finish.

The horizontal and vertical lines of the handcrafted P’7350 by Studio F.A. Porsche for Poggenpohl gives this kitchen a striking contemporary effect.

The Minos collection in Polar White Laminate from Santos starts at Dh100,000 including appliances, worktops, sink and mixer.

The solid wood Heritage range designed by Iosa Ghini for Snaidero is a great choice for those seeking a balance between classic and contemporary looks: prices start from Dh125,000 (excluding appliances and worktops).