Interior designer Sophie Garland has created an inviting open-plan kitchen that balances sociability and function, redefining how cooking spaces can feel truly personal and lived-in.
- Use layered colors and mixed materials for warmth
- Integrate cozy elements like soft lampshades and comfortable seating
- Add personality with unique backsplash and collected decor
What happened
Sophie Garland, winner of Next in Design 2025, designed an open-plan kitchen that prioritizes sociability alongside everyday function. She treated the kitchen as an extension of the adjacent living room, aiming to create a space where people want to linger, not just cook. The kitchen features warm whites, muted pinks, and rich greens, combined with brass hardware and traditional cabinetry that feels like freestanding furniture.
A standout feature is the hand-painted backsplash mural, crafted with decorative artist Eliza Downes, which complements the green granite counters without overpowering the space. The kitchen island includes bookshelves and cozy armchair corners, inviting relaxation and social interaction within the room.
Why it feels good
This kitchen escapes the cold, hard look often associated with stone and metal by incorporating softer touches such as fabric lampshades, table lamps, curtains, and inviting seating areas. These elements soften the ambiance and make the space comfortable enough for more than just cooking tasks.
The intentional color scheme provides a warm, vibrant contrast without overwhelming the senses. By balancing lighter and darker cabinetry hues, the design creates visual interest and prevents the kitchen from feeling heavy or stark, making it a naturally welcoming environment.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those inspired by this approach, consider blending materials and colors you love to craft your own kitchen sanctuary. Small adjustments, like adding personal decorative pieces, mixed finishes, or cozy textiles, can make a big difference in how your kitchen feels on a daily basis.
Keep an eye on collaborations between interior designers and artists, as custom details—such as hand-painted murals or unique ceramics—can bring extraordinary personality to familiar spaces. Sophie Garland’s design is a great example of how creativity and thoughtful layering bring a kitchen to life.