Stuart Douglas On His Colour-Drenched Kitchen (& Secret Wine Cupboard)

In our new column, Staying In With, we ask the experts of interior design to tell us about their ultimate night in. Here, we speak to Stuart Douglas, retired footballer and TV presenter (as well as brother of fellow home expert Scarlette Douglas) about his favourite space: the kitchen, which he describes as ‘the heartbeat’ of his home.

Staying In With Stuart Douglas

What’s your favourite place to stay in, and why? 

It would be my kitchen – which I’d say is more than just a kitchen. It’s the heartbeat of my home and it’s designed to encourage social interaction, conversation and communication. It’s a great space to entertain in too. There’s a large island that’s big enough to fit four bar stools and there’s a relaxing area that fits a sofa and pouffe. This is the room where my family spend the majority of our time.

Is this a space you like to host guests in, or wind down in?

This is a multi-functional space and works for both winding down or hosting and entertaining. I have an official living room too – but if I’m honest I don’t use it that much (if I do it’s to escape the noise of the kids).

How have you set it up? 

It’s colour drenched Hague Blue from Farrow & Ball and the floorboards are painted black, so it’s a dark and sultry room that’s perfect for watching evening films. There’s also an open fireplace which, when lit, is the perfect area to relax and enjoy the open flames.

Tell us about a ‘wow’ feature that you love.

I have an under-stairs wine cupboard and integrated wine cooler. I think it’s just so modern and classy. I enjoy good wine and I love to host and entertain, so this works perfectly.

What was your best investment when decorating?

Gavi and Primitivo!

Is there anything on your wish list for the space?

I was given an air fryer as a gift a while ago – and at the time I was very anti air fryer. But it soon became a very useful addition to our kitchen and an appliance we regularly used. It recently broke so we’re currently on the look out for a new one. (I would never have thought that I’d say those words!)

What does the space say about your personal design style?

My design style is modern but bold. I hate bland areas and I think that it’s good to have an injection of your own personality. I’m fortunate enough to work with brilliant interior designers, so I’m always learning from them and using that knowledge in my own house.

Do you see the space changing much in the future?

Trends and styles are always changing. New and innovative products are being developed and becoming available to the public. The way you live in your home is also constantly changing, so the space will undoubtedly evolve too. Maybe we’ll be more daring and experimental with colours and furnishings in the future?

Do you prefer staying in or going out?

Staying in is the new going out for me. Sushi washed down with a full bodied red wine, in front of the fireplace whilst watching a film. Perfection!

How do you live a life in balance at home? 

There is no balance really! I just make sure that I enjoy everything that I do, from filming a show to renovating a property, or from being a dad to being a husband. I try to enjoy all aspects of my life, and I count my blessings that I’m in such a fortunate position to do so.

Anything in the pipeline you can tell us about?

My property prize draw, Keys or Coffee comes to a close on the 19 April 2026 at the Ideal Home Show, where the winner will be drawn live on stage.

Scarlette and myself have also started filming the second series of Can’t Sell Must Sell, and a new series of Celebrity Hunted (which we’re both in) will air on Channel 4 soon.

The Ideal Home Show is coming up – what’s the story there?

It’s the UK’s largest (and longest-running) home showcase. Scarlette and I will be giving all visitors our tips and honest advice about buying, renovating and selling property – as well as the pitfalls to watch out for and the ways to maximise the potential of your property. Make sure to swing by if you’re in town!