Inject a splash of colour into your kitchen units

Brightly-coloured kitchen units can be a good way of transforming a kitchen, according to one expert.

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.