Emily Pointer of the Beautiful Kitchens blog says that while many people opt for the "safe" colours of white and cream when it comes to kitchen cabinets, those looking to be bolder can do so as long as they follow a number of rules.

She recommends pairing dark kitchen units in blues and purples with paler flooring and worktops to avoid the room feeling too small.

Ms Pointer also suggests steering clear of colourful appliances and accessories that might clash with bright units.

"Go for neutral, black or steel so that your units remain the focal point of the room," she advises.

Units in bright colours tend to be associated with contemporary kitchens, while traditional designs are more likely to make use of neutral decor.

However, a growing number of traditional kitchens now include cabinets painted in a range of colours picked to complement their country-style look.
 

This is according to Helen Green of the Terry's Fabrics blog, who says that simple decorating is the key to establishing this type of style in the home.

Fitted kitchens with walnut units is a "beautiful" way to achieve this look, she comments, adding that the room can then be further enhanced with cream floor tiles and wall decor, along with simple spotlights and stainless steel appliances.

"An island unit with the purpose of dining or a round dining table in matching wood finish will look sharp with brown leather upholstered barstools/dining chairs," Ms Green remarks.

She also recommends flooding the kitchen with as much natural light as possible, perhaps aided by white venetian blinds.

Walnut is a popular wood in interior design and is normally used to make furniture and veneers.
 

The IFA gadget fair - which runs until September 8th - is the biggest in the world and displays products for use around the home and outdoors.

Mark Prigg of the London Evening Standard notes that some of the highlights of the kitchen appliances on show this year include washing machines and fridges by Gorenje that are available in "an eye-watering range of colours".

Miele also impressed the writer with kitchen appliances that can be controlled using an iPhone, including coffee makers and washing machines. The collection will be launched later this year.

Other appliances for kitchens that are being showcased at IFA include a hi-tech cabinet by Climadiff that aids the wine ageing process and a new deep fat fryer from Philips that uses less oil for healthier food.

Speaking to ARAcontent, Rebecca Kolls of research company Iconoculture recommends investing in new gadgets that help to cut down on the number of objects taking up valuable worktop space.

These can include a power base that lets homeowners have all of their kitchen appliances in one place without cluttering up work surfaces.

Sink organisers can also be useful in eliminating the untidy look caused by having various items around the basin, such as washing up liquid, soap, sponges and dish brushes.

Meanwhile, Charlie Verhoog of US firm Home Supply & Lumber Center recommends coming up with a kitchen design that focuses on easy access between the cooker, sink and fridge and on utilising drawers that roll out rather than cabinets for large pans and dishes.

"That's a trend that's evolved over the last ten years," he comments.

Homeowners may also want to consider items such as rails and racks for additional storage. Traditional kitchens may benefit from glass-fronted cabinets that can store a variety of items while retaining the look of a country-style kitchen.

Diana Murphy, managing editor of Home Sweet Solutions, says in a column for WXOW that consumers need to decide between gas and electric-powered hobs.

Gas cookers are useful for those who do not want to wait for the element to heat up, while some electric hobs have induction features that use new technology to instantly warm pans while the cooker top remains cool to the touch.

When it comes to styles, Ms Murphy notes that homeowners can choose from hobs that slide into existing kitchen units and freestanding ones.

Alternatively, drop-in cookers "have controls on the front and a custom look similar to built-in [hobs], but with a strip of cabinetry along the bottom and may require modification of the cabinets for a proper fit", she comments.

According to consumer group Which?, range cookers that have up to six hobs and two ovens may be a suitable option for large family kitchens, while freestanding ones may be best for smaller rooms.
 

The Eco Bubble washing machine uses 70 per cent less energy than conventional appliances by using cool water while still cleaning at the same level as a 40 degree C wash.

It uses bubble-generating technology to dissolve the detergent in cold water and push air into the drum to create a foam at the start of the wash cycle.

The washing machine will be made available in the UK later this year in two versions - the 7 kg WF0704W7 and the 8 kg WF0804W8 models.

"If the Eco Bubble machine lives up to its claims, we'd certainly be impressed," commented Vivienne Fitzroy, washing machine expert for Which?.

Homeowners with small kitchens may want to invest in new slimline washing machines from Hoover and Candy that have been designed to slot into shallow spaces.

According to Which?, the new products are 40 cm deep but can still hold loads of up to 7 kg.

According to the Sun Herald, key features of modern kitchen units include self-closing drawers, sliding doors, glass shelving and glass-fronted cabinets.

Homeowners are also increasingly opting for having fewer overhead units and are selecting a range of different finishes, including high gloss, matte lacquer and textured surfaces.

When it comes to colour schemes, "warm neutrals" like walnut, slate, celadon, magnolia, sand and so-called greige are in fashion at the moment, the newspaper states.

High gloss units may be better suited to contemporary kitchens, while natural wood and textured cabinets might be best in traditional kitchens.

Candice Olson of Home and Garden Television recently recommended in a Deseret News article that using black in the kitchen can add a touch of style and sophistication.

This could include opting for black kitchen units or worktops and complementing these with lighter shades elsewhere in the room.
 

Speaking to the Detroit News, Wayne Weintraub of US firm Kurtis Kitchen and Bath Centers says it is important to begin thinking about a new kitchen design as soon as possible - especially if it is likely that things like cabinets will need to be specially ordered.

He also recommends sticking to a particular kitchen design once it has been drawn up, rather than making changes to it later on and risking delaying the completion of the project.

"People think if they decide to change from a single-bowl sink to a double sink that it won't affect the timeframes, but that little change impacts the plumbing and countertops," Mr Weintraub notes.

Rachael Liska of Fresh Home magazine recently advised in a Minneapolis Star Tribune article that consumers should give careful thought to the layout and storage options associated with their new kitchen.

They may also want to consider the availability of power points in the locations where appliances will go and the adequacy of the lighting they have chosen.
 

According to a Chico Enterprise-Record article by Sean Murphy of Build.com, consumers should bear in mind that problems may arise during the fitting of a new kitchen.

As such, it is "crucial" that these issues are planned for by ensuring work can continue on another part of the project even if other components are delayed, he explains.

Other things to do when planning a new kitchen design include making a list of all of the products needed to complete the job and considering little things such as kitchen accessories.

Mr Murphy adds: "Don't get in over your head before seeking help from a professional contractor. This is easier said than done and is something that's noticeable only after the fact."

It is also a good idea to tailor your new kitchen according to how you are likely to use it. For example, those who enjoy cooking a lot may want to focus on a high-quality cooker and oven and lots of storage, while those who want to entertain in their kitchen might benefit from installing an island unit and an integrated dining area.
 

Writing for the Deseret News, interior decorator and HGTV host Candice Olson notes that many people tend not to think of black when considering new kitchens.

"Used properly, however, it can provide a great anchor in a large room and bring a sense of sophistication and style to any space," she remarks.

Ms Olson gives the example of one property where she fitted black kitchen worktops to begin with, creating an "immediate" change.

She then set off the contemporary feel created by the black worktops with an aluminium backsplash and a black and burnt cream area rug in the dining part of the kitchen.

Last month, Helen Green of the Terry's Fabrics blog claimed that black kitchens are proving particularly popular at the moment and may be "here to stay".

She recommended using black high gloss kitchen units and balancing the dark colour with shades of white and grey to create the perfect black kitchen.

The Slovenian manufacturer's newest models use nearly half of the water and electricity utilised by washing machines made some 15 years ago and are 90 per cent recyclable.

They are also A+ rated in terms of energy consumption and A-rated for wash and spin performance.

Each machine features functions such as UseLogic technology to sense the purity of the water in each load, as well as an eco-friendly 30 degrees C wash option and a system designed to prevent detergent being wasted.

"These products allow the consumer to save money and protect the world's vital resources, while still achieving perfect wash results every time - it makes sense to buy green," said Ruth Ferguson, marketing manager at Gorenje.

A number of manufacturers have recently launched environmentally-friendly washing machines designed for the eco-conscious kitchen user, including AEG-Electrolux and Miele.

This is according to Museum of Modern Art curator Juliet Kinchin, who told the New York Times that kitchen design underwent a particular sea change during World War I.

She cited the example of Margarete Schutte-Lihotzky's Frankfurt kitchen, which the architect designed in the 1920s as part of a project to build more affordable housing in Frankfurt.

The kitchen featured storage bins for sugar and flour, as well as a pull-down ironing board, a chopping board work surface close to the window and a right-hand drawer for scraps.

"Since then, the kitchen seems to have gone from a modular, efficient place to one customised to various tastes, outfitted with computers, TVs and non-ergonomic tools," Ms Kinchin remarked.

Alexandra Lange of the School of Visual Arts recently noted in a post for the New York Times's Opinionator blog that kitchen design has also changed over the years to become more efficient, as seen in contemporary kitchens utilising integrated cabinets, worktops and appliances.

Helen Green of the Terry's Fabrics blog recommends using one of three colour palettes that suit the autumn season.

The first palette evokes thoughts of the harvest through shades of green, orange, red and gold, while the second uses browns and dark greens for a woodlands-inspired look.

"All shades of brown from taupe [and] chocolate to dark espresso will not only add warmth but sophistication when paired with green," Ms Green states.

Meanwhile, the third palette uses blue in conjunction with rich brown, red and gold to create the ideal style for tranquil spaces.

Another way of bringing autumn into the kitchen may be in the form of storage accessories such as rustic baskets for holding fruit and vegetables.

Autumnal design schemes might be particularly well-suited to traditional kitchens, which tend to rely on natural wood and neutral tones to create an almost old-fashioned look.

Speaking to the Portland Press Herald, Gilbert Miller of US-based Maine Custom Kitchens said that white is "by far the most popular" colour scheme for kitchens.

This is down to homeowners opting for a light, bright look that also helps to create a traditional feel akin to a cottage kitchen, he explained.

Other kitchen design trends include stone worktops with a honed or antique finish and contemporary-looking tiling.

"What I've been seeing in terms of new materials is getting away from the tumbled, a little more rustic, to more honed finishes," commented Theresa Tomczyk, sales manager and design consultant for Distinctive Tile & Design.

The colour white can work just as well in contemporary kitchens as in traditional ones.

In modern kitchens, 4Homes recommends teaming white colour schemes with open shelving for a sleek look.

This is according to Emily Pointer of Beautiful Kitchens, who notes in a blog post that an increasing number of people are choosing to incorporate their dining rooms into their kitchens.

She explains that this creates a more informal atmosphere and says that even small kitchens can include a dining area, perhaps in the form of a table that can be wheeled out of the way when not in use or a drop-leaf table that can be made smaller depending on the number of people using it.

"If you are blessed with a large kitchen then you're only limited to your imagination - and budget!" Ms Pointer states.

Last week, the expert came up with several kitchen design ideas suitable for small rooms.

Ms Pointer recommended using pale colours on the walls and glossy kitchen units to open up this part of the home, while glass splashbacks and polished granite worktops can also help to create the illusion of space.
 

According to a Homes-Extra.ca article by Scott McGillivray of the QMI Agency, kitchens tend to be closely examined by those looking to rent a home.

"Kitchens should be bright and spacious with a smart layout. Replacing old appliances with inexpensive and more efficient new ones also adds a lot of appeal," he comments.

Mr McGillivray adds that landlords should install a dishwasher where possible for extra appeal.

When done right, a kitchen renovation can result in a return on investment of between 75 and 100 per cent, he explains.

TV property expert Phil Spencer told the Telegraph last month that those looking to improve only one room in their properties should concentrate on updating their kitchen design, as this part of the residence has become something of a centrepiece for homeowners over the last few years.
 

This is according to Alexandra Lange of the School of Visual Arts, who says in a post for the New York Times's Opinionator blog that kitchen design first started changing centuries ago to make things easier for the cook.

Contemporary kitchens follow this trend by making use of features such as integrated kitchen units, worktops and appliances, including both modular and wall-mounted products.

These elements can be traced back to a cabinet launched during the early 20th century by the Hoosier Manufacturing Company, which came with several storage functions and cooking tools and "looked like a china hutch on steroids", Ms Lange comments.

She goes on to note that modern kitchens now recall those seen at the end of the 19th century, which had separate cookers and sinks along with island units.

Island units are currently seen by some designers as ideal for kitchens where a lot of socialising takes place.

Using the kitchen as a family room has risen in popularity over the years, leading to things such as sofas and TVs appearing in some kitchens.
 

The B98205M multifunction product has steam functions that can cook food more quickly while using less energy than a standard oven.

It also preserves nutrients in the food and offers a greater degree of control over surface textures.

This is because when water is turned into steam, it absorbs a large amount of energy that is transferred directly to the food when the steam condenses back into the water in the oven.

"Because steam has a higher density than dry air, it holds more energy. In practice, this means you can cook at lower temperatures than when using hot air," comments Sophie Davidson, product manager at Electrolux Major Appliances.

AEG-Electrolux recently launched its latest Lavamat washing machine for those looking to save money in their kitchens.

The L84950A3 product features an automatic load sensor function as well as a SuperEco energy-saving programme.

Homeowners have been increasingly looking to make their kitchens more versatile in recent years, to the extent when they can often rival living rooms as a place for relaxing.

However, Henrietta Thompson, interiors editor of Wallpaper magazine, explained in an interview with the Independent that the main role of the kitchen remains intact.

"Kitchens are for cooking in," she told the newspaper, going on to add: "A lot of designers forget this, because today a kitchen is also the hub of the home."

Ms Thompson also suggested that kitchens should have plenty of storage space, while also being hygienic, adaptable and "a pleasure to be in and a pleasure to use".

A number of experts have noted the trend of the kitchen becoming more of a space for socialising than seen in previous years.

For example, some kitchens now have TVs and island units to accommodate families who want to spend significant amounts of time in the room.

According to the Des Moines Register, the wide range of colours, sizes, patterns and textures available can give a kitchen an extra dimension.

With designs now developing into combinations of natural stones, metals, glass and ceramic, wall tiles should be viewed as "more than an easy-to-clean backsplash", it says.

One homeowner to have benefited from such a design is Annie Shelton, who decided to change the four-inch white tile backsplash in the property she bought from her parents.

Ms Shelton opted for chocolate-coloured glass alongside black, brown and grey-flecked marble and beige porcelain set out in various lengths of rectangle tile.

She told the news provider: "I wanted to do something that popped and that would add dimension and texture to the kitchen.

"I love it. It matches the granite [countertops] perfectly."

Earlier this week, Annalyn Andriyenko wrote in a Helium blog post that white and off-white, red and pink undertones and a selection of creams and yellow are three ideal colour schemes for a kitchen.