Warm Woods & Cool Quartz

Planning a bespoke kitchen is exciting, but with so many options it can feel overwhelming.

One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is your material and colour choices, they don’t just shape how your kitchen looks, they also affect how it feels to live in and how easy it is to look after.

Currently, two finishes are growing in popularity: the natural warmth of wood and the sleek elegance of quartz worktops. Each one is beautiful in its own way, but when combined, they can transform your kitchen into something truly special.

The Charm of Warm Woods

Wood has long been a favourite in kitchen design, and it’s easy to understand why. Though its

form has evolved over the years, it continues to add warmth, character, and a timeless charm

that suits both modern and traditional homes.

There are many ways to incorporate wood into your bespoke kitchen, two popular options we

see at AESK are:

Real wood veneers:

Great for cabinet doors, shelving or statement pieces. Popular choices like oak, walnut and ash can be finished in lacquer or stain. Whether you love a soft matte look or something more polished, veneers showcase the natural grain of timber beautifully.

Wood-look laminate finishes:

Ideal for busy family kitchens. These finishes mimic the look and texture of real wood but are extra durable and low-maintenance. Available in everything from pale Scandi style shades to rich, dark tones, they offer plenty of style at an affordable price.

Wood is particularly effective in open-plan kitchens, where it helps soften large spaces,

introduce warmth, and create a seamless connection between the kitchen, dining, and living

areas. The outcome is a cozy, inviting atmosphere that truly makes the space the heart of your home.

The Appeal of Quartz

While wood brings warmth, quartz delivers a crisp, contemporary edge. It’s no surprise that quartz worktops are one of the most popular choices for new kitchens.

So, what exactly is quartz? Unlike natural stone, quartz is a man made surface created by blending ground quartz crystals with resin and pigments. The result is a durable, uniform material that’s designed for everyday use while still offering a striking and beautiful appearance.

Why homeowners love quartz:

Durable for everyday use: Built to handle busy family life and daily cooking.

Choice of finishes: From polished gloss to soft suede and matt textures.

Design versatility: Quartz can replicate the look of marble and concrete, create bold blocks of

colour, or provide a more subtle, understated finish.

Popular Quartz Trends for 2025:

1. Marble-look quartz: White with delicate veining for a luxury look.

2. Concrete-effect quartz: Industrial cool with a fresh twist.

3. Dark bold colours: Rich greys and charcoals for dramatic kitchens.

Why Wood and Quartz Work So Well Together

Wood and quartz couldn’t be more different - and that’s exactly why they work so well together in bespoke kitchen design.

Texture vs. smoothness: Natural timber grain looks incredible against the sleek surface of

quartz.

Warmth vs. coolness: Wood creates comfort and tactility, while quartz adds a modern, clean

feel.

Tradition vs. innovation: Together, they give your kitchen a style that feels both timeless and

contemporary.

It’s a practical combination too - a quartz island offers a durable prep surface, while a wood

breakfast bar or cabinetry adds a welcoming, relaxed touch for social spaces. In open-plan

layouts, this mix is particularly effective, helping the kitchen feel connected to your living area

while remaining functional.

Visit Our Kitchen Showroom in Lincoln

Between warm woods and cool quartz, there is no bad choice, only the right choice for your

design goals and lifestyle. The best custom kitchens in 2025 are all about material balance,

personal expression, and individuality.

If you’re working with a kitchen designer or planning a remodel, consider how both materials

can complement each other. Whether you’re going rustic, modern, or somewhere in between, a thoughtful material choice is the key to a kitchen that feels uniquely yours.

Looking for more inspiration?

We’d love to welcome you to our Lincoln kitchen showroom. Here you can see the latest displays, compare quartz styles side by side, and get a true feel for different finishes. Touch the materials, explore the colours, and start planning your dream kitchen with us.