It doesn’t matter how many bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas a home has; there’s generally only one kitchen. And yet, it’s probably the most used space of any household.

Our favourite kitchens have perfected the balance between function and form. And to design the ‘perfect’ kitchen, you first need to determine your daily rituals.

For example, do you need a place to gather while preparing dinner, and helping with kids’ homework? Then consider a central island bench like the detailed design in interior decorator Lauren Egan’s kitchen. A luxurious pink travertine by CDK Stone delineates the functional area from the burgundy tiled benchtop, offering a designated space for casual dining and bar stools.

Similarly, art director Annie Portelli’s kitchen is not just for cooking. It features a full wall of timber joinery to create a clever work-from-home nook, peppered with personal items on the built-in ledge.

Or if your kitchen is more compact, why not adopt a streamlined, galley-style configuration like this stainless-steel and marble kitchen in designer Madeleine Wood’s Paddington terrace?

It’s equally important to pick materials that are durable yet beautiful. In this calming Art Deco renovation by Fowler and Ward, floor-to-ceiling timber joinery hides appliances and mess away from view at all times, paired with a robust terrazzo stone centrepiece. Create a similar statement bench the look with something like Llama by Fibonacci.

Most of all, our favourite kitchens don’t neglect the little details: carefully selected tapware, handles, and lighting. This coastal kitchen at Silvermoon Shack shows how it’s done, pairing a sculptural pendant with a contemporary mixer from Sussex and abstract art.

Whether you go for a colour-drenched look or something more pared-back, the real fun is in making your kitchen personal to you.

Want to see more? Visit The Design Directory to discover our top picks in flooring, furniture, lighting, tiles, paint and more!