10 Modern Kitchen Decor Ideas
Want to add some personality to the heart of your home? Take a look at our favourite decor ideas that are perfect for new build kitchens.
Moving into a new home is an exciting chapter in life, and one of the most important rooms to make your own is the kitchen. After all, it's not just a place to prepare meals; it’s where you entertain, connect, and gather with friends and family. But how do you make your new build kitchen feel personal, stylish, and full of character?
Luckily, a Persimmon kitchen gets you off to a great start. Our range of house styles includes kitchen layouts ideal for busy households, including open plan living, kitchen islands and utility rooms. Then, you can choose kitchen cabinet colours, worktops, tiles and more from our Finishing Touches options and upgrades. Finally it's the fun part - moving in and decorating your new space!
Making the heart of your home Insta-worthy doesn't need to involve expensive remodelling, luxury kitchenware or the latest technology. With a few simple, affordable changes, you can turn your kitchen into a space that reflects your personality and style.
Here are 10 modern kitchen decor ideas that will help you transform your new build kitchen.
1. Play with wall colours to set the mood
The easiest way to give your kitchen a fresh look is by changing the wall colour. Gone are the days when white walls were your only option. In fact, a modern kitchen benefits from a splash of colour, especially in tones that complement the cabinetry and flooring.
Consider soft pastel shades like sage green, powder blue, or muted blush to create a calming and inviting atmosphere. Alternatively, a rich navy blue or charcoal grey can bring depth and sophistication to the space. If you're feeling adventurous, try an accent wall to create a focal point. Or, to be truly on-trend you could go for a shade similar to Mocha Mousse, the Pantone colour of the year for 2025.
Tip: If you're undecided on colour, test samples on small sections of the wall before making a decision.
2. Add personality with cabinet colours
While neutral tones like white, grey, or wood-effect cabinets are popular in new build kitchens, don’t be afraid to play around with colour. Modern kitchen cabinets in a matte or gloss finish can add a pop of personality. Bold colours like deep teal, mustard yellow, or even terracotta are fantastic choices for making your kitchen stand out. If you’re hesitant to commit to a completely different colour, you could also think about adding coloured handles or knobs.
We offer a range of Finishing Touches options that can help you personalise your cabinets. Whether you want to add a subtle colour contrast or make a statement with your storage, these extras can elevate your kitchen design in a budget-friendly way.
Tip: Our community of Persimmon homeowners is full of inspiration. Head to our Instagram account or search the #Lovemypersimmonhome hashtag to see how others have styled their Finishing Touches cabinet choices.
3. Embrace the power of wall art
Wall art is a great way to inject personality into your kitchen without breaking the bank. From modern abstract prints to botanical illustrations, there's a wide variety of styles to choose from. Frame a set of prints or opt for a large statement piece above the dining area or breakfast bar.
If you prefer something a bit different, consider using metal wall sculptures or ceramic plates as wall art. The key is to choose pieces that match your overall kitchen style and colour palette while adding visual interest and texture.
Tip: Opt for kitchen wall art that’s easy to clean and maintain, as the environment can sometimes get a little messy!
4. Introduce natural elements with indoor plants
Plants are a fantastic, affordable way to introduce life and colour into your kitchen. They also promote a calm, relaxed environment, which is essential in a space that serves as the heart of the home. Try placing a few small plants on the windowsill or using larger leafy plants in stylish pots on the floor. You could also create a herb garden on the kitchen counter for easy access to fresh herbs while cooking.
When choosing plants, be mindful of the space available in your kitchen. Choose low-maintenance plants like spider plants, succulents, or snake plants that will thrive even with minimal care. It's also important to research pet and child-safe varieties, to avoid any mishaps!
5. Go for on-trend open shelving
Open shelving is a chic and practical way to add storage and style to your kitchen. It allows you to display beautiful crockery, glassware, and cookbooks, while also making your kitchen feel more spacious and inviting. You could choose contemporary floating shelves or more traditional brackets, depending on your preferred look.
To make the most of open shelving, curate your display with a mix of practical and decorative items. Think about displaying vibrant ceramic mugs, vintage glass jars, or a stylish set of spice jars. Your favourite recipe books and some artfully-placed greenery might also look at home there.
6. Give tiles and sinks a glow up
Bold tiles and splashbacks can instantly upgrade the look of your kitchen and add a modern touch. They not only protect the walls from splashes but also serve as a decorative feature. From clean subway tiles to slimline heritage tiles and modern splashbacks, you'll find a range of styles available as part of our Finishing Touches.
It's easy to overlook as just a functional feature, but your choice of sink can also add to your kitchen aesthetic. Classic stainless steel sinks, sleek granite sinks, minimalist undermounted sinks - all are available as upgrades, giving you full control when it comes to personalisation.
Tip: A mirrored backsplash can reflect light, making a smaller kitchen feel larger and more open.
7. Upgrade your lighting
Lighting is key to setting the mood in your kitchen. Modern, stylish lighting can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Consider installing pendant lights above the kitchen island or dining area to create a warm and inviting glow. Industrial-style metal pendants, glass globes, or even a set of coordinated LED spotlights can all add a sleek, modern touch.
To make your kitchen feel more spacious, try adding under-cabinet lighting (available through our Finishing Touches). This not only adds a soft glow but also highlights the texture of your countertops and gives your kitchen a contemporary edge.
Tip: Layer your lighting with a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting to create depth and visual interest.
8. Personalise with kitchen accessories
Kitchen accessories are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to bring personality to your space. Start by swapping out generic items for pieces that reflect your style. Think of items like colourful tea towels, fun oven mitts, and quirky utensil holders.
For a modern kitchen look, try adding metallic finishes, such as copper, brass, or matte black, through your accessories. A sleek set of canisters, a stylish fruit bowl, or a chic wooden chopping board can make all the difference. Don’t forget to add personal touches like a unique clock or a set of elegant glassware that fits the theme of your kitchen.
9. Incorporate a statement rug
A rug might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to kitchen decor, but adding one can transform the look of your space. Opt for a washable, durable rug that can handle kitchen traffic, and choose a design that complements your colour scheme. A bold patterned rug can break up a monotone kitchen, while a neutral rug adds warmth and texture.
If you have an open-plan kitchen, a rug can help define the space and create a cosy, homely atmosphere. Just be sure to select a rug that’s easy to clean, especially if you have kids or pets!
10. Mix and match styles
One of the most exciting aspects of modern kitchen design is the freedom to mix and match different styles. You don’t have to stick to one theme. If you love vintage aesthetics, pair modern cabinetry with a retro fridge or some classic kitchen accessories. Similarly, you can create an eclectic vibe by combining industrial elements like exposed metal with softer, rustic touches like wooden shelves or woven baskets.
By blending different design influences, you’ll create a kitchen that feels unique and filled with character - even in a brand new home. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colour, texture, and materials until you find a combination that feels true to you.
Incorporating these simple yet effective ideas into your new build kitchen is an affordable way to add personality and warmth to the space. Whether you’re choosing a bold wall colour, upgrading your lighting, or experimenting with modern accessories, every small change can make a big difference.
So go ahead—transform your kitchen into a stylish, modern haven that you and your family will love. The possibilities are endless, and the results will be a space that’s as functional as it is beautiful!
Showcase your style
We love seeing your interior ideas. Why not share your own kitchen decor photos on Instagram using #lovemypersimmonhome for a chance to win a £100 Next voucher. Visit our Facebook page for terms and conditions.
