Soft neutral tones are predicted to be popular in kitchens this year. "Rain Valley Cabin" in Makarora features Dezignatek thermoform and Prime Panels’ "art planked oak" rustic timber veneer, with Corian and stainless steel bench tops. The kitchen was... : Trending towards timber

Timber adds texture and colour to a Wānaka kitchen, designed by Hannah Withy of HM design, Wānaka. The bench-top materials include Corian, solid oak and 5mm plate stainless steel. PHOTO: SIMON LARKIN, LARKIN PHOTOGRAPHY : Trending towards timber

Kitchen designers say lighter tones are timeless. In this kitchen by Hannah Withy, of HM design, Wānaka, the cabinets are Dezignatek thermoform and Melamine and the bench top is Corian. PHOTO: SUPPLIED : Trending towards timber

Seamless bench tops and splashbacks continue to be popular. Kitchen designed by Carmen Hubber, of Hub Design, Queenstown. PHOTO: JOHN WILLIAMS : Trending towards timber