When using texture in the kitchen, the main thing to remember is to use plenty of contrasting materials. A kitchen decorated entirely in one material quickly becomes boring, and can look rather strange. Mixing and matching looks far better and allows you greater freedom, particularly if you're keen to use high-maintenance materials such as leather or stone.

Firstly, think about the style you are aiming for. If you're hoping for a minimalist effect, stone and metal are ideal for looking sleek and pared-down. Colouring is also a factor. Minimalism tends to rely on starkly contrasting dark and light shades, so make sure that there's plenty of this in the room; for example, choose a lighter stone floor and darker metallic worktops.

Remember that you need to think carefully about where different textures will work best. Highly polished marble or metal probably won't work for the floor: they can be extremely slippery, particularly when wet. However, for worktops and parts of the kitchen you'll be cleaning regularly, you need to choose a suitably smooth and easy-clean material. Polished stone, ceramics or glass work best in these situations.

The best thing about using texture in the kitchen is it allows for more creative freedom. How about an accent wall of brightly coloured glass tiles, or using leather and fabric cushions in the seating area? For a look with plenty of history behind it, you could consider collecting driftwood and fashioning beams or tables out of it. Wood is an excellent way of warming a room and breaking up a neutral palette, and this is a creative way of adding personality to a room.

If you're planning to refurbish your kitchen completely, it may be a good idea to talk to a kitchen specialist to ensure that your chosen materials are suitable. Kitchens UK not only offers a free design and quotation but will also give advice on the best textures and shades to go for. This is particularly useful if you're using materials you're not familiar with.

Using different textures in the kitchen is the ideal way of getting an individual look – when you choose what materials you use and where they go, you can achieve a one-off room that is perfect for your needs.

Bespoke kitchens have become incredibly popular in recent years, and mixing your favourite materials and textures is a fantastic way of putting your own stamp on your kitchen. All you have to do is decide on the look you want and let your imagination run wild.