housands of homeowners say their kitchens are no longer fit for purpose, with limited space, a lack of storage, and inflexible layouts listed as the key pressure points.
Häfele – Homeowners say kitchens are no longer fit for modern life T
Homeowners expect their kitchens to work harder than ever, accommodating a growing range of daily tasks including cooking (84%), eating (48%), laundry (43%) and socialising (22%) according to new research from Häfele UK. However, 44% said they don’t have enough space to do everything comfortably; almost a third (29%) said a lack of storage is their biggest frustration in the kitchen, and 27% said a poor layout is their main concern. This disconnect with the heart of the home is having a negative impact. While a fifth (21%) said they actively dislike their kitchen, a quarter (26%) said if the biggest issue in their kitchen was resolved, it would greatly improve their quality of life. Looking at what homeowners seek in their kitchens, clean, tidy and clutter-free spaces were highlighted as the most important priority (52%), followed by functionality that works behind doors and drawers (40%). In addition, the most in- demand features include pantry or larder storage (32%), appliance garages (31%), boiling water taps (31%), smart lighting (30%) and built-in charging points (30%).
The insights have been shared as part of Häfele’s third Homes for Living report, which once again highlights the opportunities available to
kitchen designers, manufacturers and installers as customer priorities continue to shift. With the research also finding that almost a third (28%) of homeowners are planning a kitchen update within the next two years, the research signals how the trade could respond, with solutions aligned to changing expectations.
Rachel Tuckey, Chief Marketing and Product Officer at Häfele UK, said: “There is a clear shift in how value is being defined in kitchen design. Homeowners are now placing greater emphasis on spaces that feel organised, adaptable and capable of working harder for their needs. This, in turn, is elevating the role of storage, utility and concealed functionality within the design conversation. “This creates an opportunity for kitchen retailers, manufacturers and installers to move beyond product-led discussions and instead encourage customers to think more holistically about how
their home should perform to cater for their way of life.
“As more homeowners look set to invest in their kitchens over the next two years, those who can respond with practical, well-considered solutions stand to add real value.”
Häfele’s Homes for Living report can be found at
hafele.co.uk/homes-for-living
www.hafele.co.uk
42 BKU JUNE 2026
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