La cuisine

Carol O’Callaghan says the kitchen is the hub of any house so make sure the look works for you

Oak kitchens need not be chunky and heavy on the eye. Simple Shaker-style design, contemporary black surfaces and glazing detail make it thoroughly modern (Hamilton oak from €7,000 at O’Driscoll Kitchens)

Not in the market for a new kitchen? Be daring with your plain white units and try vibrant wall colour, blending rich and warm with cool and light (Dulux green 70GY 73/124, plum 78RR 06/137 €53.99 for 5ltrs at Pat McDonnell Paints, Woodies, Atlantic Homecare)