The Art of Contrast: Mixed Media Kitchens
In today’s most considered homes, the kitchen is more than a place to cook—it’s a curated environment where craftsmanship, materiality, and personal expression converge. One of the most compelling design directions in luxury interiors is the rise of the mixed media kitchen: a space that blends contrasting materials and finishes to create depth, sophistication, and a sense of quiet confidence.
But beyond the surface, it’s the integrity of bespoke detailing—inside and out—that truly defines a kitchen of lasting value.
A Shift Toward Material Expression
Luxury today is less about opulence and more about intentionality. The most elegant kitchens are those that balance tactile richness with visual restraint—where honed marble meets brushed bronze, and fluted oak cabinetry sits beside seamless quartz islands.
“The luxury kitchen of 2025 is a study in balance—between warmth and precision, tradition and innovation.” – Bray & Scarff Design Team.
Mixed Media in Practice: Key Element
1. Contrasting Cabinetry Finishes
Pairing painted cabinetry in rich tones like Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue or Studio Green with natural timber or matte lacquered finishes creates a layered, furniture-like aesthetic.
2. Statement Stonework
Islands in granite or textured quartzite serve as sculptural centrepieces, often softened by timber breakfast bars or inset butcher blocks.
3. Mixed Metals with Purpose
Brass, aged bronze, and matte black are no longer competing—they’re coexisting. Layered metal finishes across taps, handles, and lighting create a collected, bespoke feel.
4. Architectural Detailing
Fluted panels, reeded glass, and slatted wood introduce subtle texture and shadow play, softening clean lines and adding a sense of craftsmanship.
Real-Life Example: A Refined Take on Mixed Media
One of our recent projects beautifully illustrates this philosophy. This bespoke kitchen features:
Dark blue in-frame cabinetry.
A sunken double belfast sink paired with a sleek induction cooktop
A granite worktop for understated luxury
Open oak shelving and detailed end panels on the island for warmth and contrast
This kitchen is a masterclass in balance: the cool sophistication of bold cabinetry is softened by natural timber, while the clean lines of the island are grounded by heritage-inspired detailing. It’s a space that feels both curated and comfortable—designed for modern living, yet rooted in craftsmanship.
“We wanted to create a kitchen that felt elegant but approachable—where every material had a purpose, and every detail told a story.” – Marc Smith, Founder.
Bespoke Detailing: Inside and Out
What truly elevates a bespoke kitchen is when the exterior design language is echoed within. When panel moulding, timber finishes, or colour tones continue inside the cabinetry, it reflects a level of design integrity that goes beyond aesthetics.
What This Reflects:
Design Cohesion: A kitchen designed as a whole, not in parts
Craftsmanship Without Compromise: Excellence that extends beyond what’s on show
Luxury in the Everyday: Beauty in the simple act of opening a cabinet
Intentional Living: A space curated with care and purpose
Timeless Elegance: Cabinetry that feels more like fine furniture than fitted joinery
“True luxury is found in the details—especially the ones you don’t expect.”
Final Thoughts
At Marc Smith, we believe that a kitchen should be as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside. Whether it’s the quiet contrast of mixed materials or the subtle echo of detailing within a drawer, every element is designed with purpose, precision, and personality.
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