Cat Olley

Latest articles by Cat Olley

7 tiled kitchen islands that are so much smarter than marble (but you've got to get the grouting right)

Tiled countertops have been slowly resurfacing (*coughs*) over the last few years. But could the kitchen island provide the ultimate compromise?

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  What type of kitchen handles are best? Designers explain how to get it right with the perfect shape, size and style

  Kitchen hardware can have a transformative effect on a kitchen, but too often it's an afterthought. We asked designers what type of kitchen handles are best

  By Cat Olley Published 21 May 23

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  Are kitchen islands outdated? Six experts decide on the biggest debate in design right now

  A kitchen island has long been a status symbol, but has it finally lost its luster? Top designers decide if it's still a priority for your decor

  By Cat Olley Published 8 May 23

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  Should I use handles or knobs on kitchen cupboards? Designers agree unanimously

  A kitchen isn't complete until the handles are on. Or should that be the knobs? We asked the experts to pick a horse in the hardware stakes

  By Cat Olley Last updated 4 May 23

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  What type of countertop lasts the longest? Every designer we asked mentioned the same material

  Gone off granite but don't trust yourself (or the kids) with notoriously high-maintenance marble? Designers agree on what could be the answer

  By Cat Olley Last updated 4 May 23

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  10 incredible split-level kitchen islands that prove this design trend the best way to have it all

  Who needs a dining table when a split level kitchen island can do it all? We've hand-picked ten ingenious projects from top designers, all with their own take on the trend

  By Cat Olley Published 14 February 23

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  10 key kitchen hardware trends for 2024: handles, hinges and pulls that update without a full renovation

  Who knew a contrast pull or brass backplate could transform the look and feel of a space? This crop of top designers explain the latest kitchen hardware trends

  By Cat Olley Published 31 January 23

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  10 unusual kitchen materials - beautiful new design trends set to level up your counters and cabinets

  Unusual kitchen materials, from pigmented concrete to recycled plastic are becoming loved by designers. Here's how to create a space that doesn't look like everyone else.

  By Cat Olley Published 14 January 23

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  Curved sofas have been THE design trend of the year and these perfect 10 examples show why and how to style them

  Within a wider shift towards softer lines and cocooning shapes, curved sofas have emerged as the new hero piece

  By Cat Olley Published 18 December 22

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  10 minimalist dining rooms where even breakfast would feel elegant, and how to recreate them

  Calm, chic and flexible, these clever minimalist dining rooms can do it all. We asked ten designers to reveal their tricks

  By Cat Olley Published 9 December 22

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  10 perfect waterfall countertops that make a strong case for this being the best kitchen island style

  You'll spot sleek waterfall countertops in plenty of designers' own homes, and for good reason. This is kitchen island style done right

  By Cat Olley Last updated 6 December 22

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  10 beautifully minimalist kitchens that will make you want to hide the microwave for good

  Calm, considered and blissfully clutter-free, these minimalist kitchens whisper rather than shout. Ten designers talk us through it

  By Cat Olley Last updated 30 November 22