If you’re ready to say goodbye to fitted cabinetry in favor of a more collected, character-rich setup, the unfitted kitchen trend might be for you. The idea is to forgo traditional cabinetry in favor of acquiring freestanding furniture. It’s not only a more flexible design strategy, but also one that speaks to the layered look that’s resonating with designers and homeowners alike. People are increasingly moving away from spaces that look like they were lifted from the showroom floor and instead are gravitating toward a look that appears to have been collected over time.
“There’s a growing desire for spaces that feel as though they’ve evolved organically, reflecting a person’s unique eye and interests,” says Steven Rodel, creative director at Guy Goodfellow. “Plus, people want to invest in quality pieces that are going to stand the test of time.”
For his own London flat, the designer recently added a carved sink, knowing he would swap it out and take it with him should he ever move, which is yet another theme at the heart of this trend. “ It’s about choosing design elements that are meant to last and move with you,” he explains.
Here, Rodel shares how to make the unfitted kitchen trend your own, one statement-worthy piece at a time.
Steven Rodel is the creative director at Guy Goodfellow, an interiors and architectural design firm based in London.
Kritsada Panichgul
One of the biggest benefits Rodel sees regarding this timeless trend is its flexibility, but it can also be a challenge. “Freestanding pieces can be a bit tricky in terms of fit since they’re not made to measure,” he says. “That’s part of the fun and can pivot you in various directions.”
Let your creativity take the reins, and you’ll soon be on your way to creating a custom space that never has to remain stagnant. “You can change things up, reconfigure, or repurpose elements as your needs or tastes evolve,” Rodel explains.
The interior designer shares his top four tips for getting in on the collected charm of the unfitted kitchen trend. Follow this advice and you’ll have a more personalized and flexible kitchen in no time.
For Rodel, getting this design trend right hinges on starting with a piece you love. He advises looking for furnishings like secretaries or armoires with special features that can add character to your space, with details such as glass doors, carved wood, or a painted finish.
“This is appealing to anyone wanting to create a kitchen that feels personal, collected, and layered over time,” Rodel says.
The beauty in the unfitted kitchen aesthetic is found in its collected look. To further the appeal, look for ways to incorporate mixed materials like wood, stone, and various metal finishes. Rodel says this strategy can build texture and interest, resulting in a more layered feel.
Brie Williams
When you’re building up your unfitted kitchen, Rodel suggests starting with one or two “standout” pieces; that might be a butcher’s block or a freestanding pantry. To add additional storage, he suggests using open shelving where you can create curated displays instead of opting for rows of upper cabinets.
“It’s about breaking up the uniformity without sacrificing function,” he says.
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to this kitchen design aesthetic. Instead, it’s all about building a space that you love, piece by piece, which, Rodel points out, doesn’t necessarily have to be a slow process. By designing the kitchen with the whole space in mind, you avoid the risk of living in an endless state of flux.
“See the fitted kitchen as a place to demonstrate freedom and self-expression—create a narrative and find beauty and interest in the mix,” the interior designer explains.
Move at your own pace, certainly, but ensure every step of the way results in a space you love to live in. With that in mind, you can’t go wrong.
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