It’s official—kitchens aren’t just for cooking anymore. According to the latest National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) report, our kitchens are evolving into bigger, better, and more multi-functional spaces. This report, based on insights from over 600 professionals including designers, contractors, and manufacturers, gives us a clear peek into where kitchen trends are headed for the next three years. Some trends may look familiar, but a few new details will definitely surprise you.
Ready to see what’s cooking in the world of kitchen design? Let’s break it all down.
Table of Contents
Style
Transitional design still leads the pack. It’s the perfect blend of traditional charm and modern simplicity, and 72% of experts in the report say it’s not going anywhere. Coming in second is contemporary and minimalistic design at 60%, showing that clean lines and uncluttered layouts are still top of mind.
Surprisingly, farmhouse, cottage, and Mediterranean styles are fading into the background. While still loved in niche circles, their overall popularity is on a decline. So if you’ve been thinking of shiplap walls or rustic finishes, maybe hold off.
Colors
Neutral tones are still dominating kitchen color schemes. Think soft browns, greys, whites, and blacks. According to the report, a massive 96% of professionals expect these to stay top picks. But color isn’t completely out—greens and blues are making serious moves. Green is projected to rise in popularity for 86% of designers, while blue isn’t far behind at 78%.
Homeowners aren’t jumping into bold hues head-first. Instead, they’re introducing them through accent pieces like kitchen islands, backsplashes, or even wallpaper—small pops that still feel safe.
Cabinets
White oak cabinets are still the darling of kitchen design. Half of the survey respondents expect white oak to stay the leading choice, thanks to its warm, versatile look. But darker woods like walnut are gaining ground, coming in at 28%.
When it comes to style, sleek and modern is the vibe. European flat-panel cabinets are most preferred, with shaker style still holding onto second place. Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and panel-ready appliances that blend right in show that streamlined and seamless are the new standard.
Countertops
Quartz is still the undefeated champion of countertops. A solid 78% of industry pros named it the top choice—and for good reason. It offers the look of natural stone without the maintenance. Quartzite, the natural version, follows closely behind.
Granite, once a must-have, is losing steam with only 43% backing it. And marble? Still gorgeous, but only 26% of respondents think it’ll stay in demand due to its high maintenance.
Design-wise, matte or honed finishes in lighter tones are trending. Traditional edges are still common, but waterfall edges are getting plenty of love. And as for whether island countertops should match or contrast? The jury’s still out—56% say go bold with contrast, while 44% vote for a unified look.
Countertop Preference Table
| Material | Popularity (%) |
|---|---|
| Quartz | 78% |
| Quartzite | 64% |
| Granite | 43% |
| Marble | 26% |
Backsplashes
Ceramic and porcelain tile still rule the backsplash game, with 70% of professionals backing them. But solid surface backsplashes made from quartz or quartzite are catching up fast, at 64% and 61% respectively.
What’s behind this shift? Clean lines and less grout to deal with. Designers and homeowners alike are leaning into materials that extend the countertop up the wall, creating a seamless, easy-to-clean look that’s both sleek and practical.
Flooring
Wood flooring is far from out, but the details are changing. Homeowners want larger planks with minimal grout lines. It’s all about less upkeep and more visual flow.
Engineered wood is leading the pack, favored by 78% of professionals, while traditional hardwood is now second at 59%. As with other surfaces, warm neutrals and lighter wood tones are in demand for that inviting, natural feel.
Features
Kitchens are doing way more than just meal prep these days. The biggest lifestyle upgrade? Beverage bars and coffee stations. A huge 85% of designers say they’re becoming kitchen staples.
Other additions gaining popularity include pet feeding zones, mudrooms, eat-in dining spaces, and even home office nooks. These changes prove that the kitchen is becoming the true epicenter of the home—used for everything from sipping coffee to helping with homework.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most-wanted kitchen add-ons:
Lifestyle Feature Preference Table
| Feature | Popularity (%) |
|---|---|
| Beverage Stations | 85% |
| Pet Feeding Areas | Growing Trend |
| Attached Mudrooms | High Demand |
| Eat-in Kitchens | Popular Choice |
| Home Office/Study Areas | Increasingly Common |
The kitchen isn’t just a space—it’s becoming a lifestyle hub. With more homeowners using it for cooking, working, relaxing, and entertaining, every square inch counts. And while these trends won’t shift overnight, this gradual evolution makes kitchens feel more personal, practical, and downright beautiful.
FAQs
What is transitional kitchen design?
It’s a mix of traditional and modern kitchen styles.
Are white oak cabinets still trendy?
Yes, white oak remains a top cabinet material.
What color countertops are trending?
Light-colored countertops in matte finishes are in.
Which backsplash materials are popular?
Ceramic tile, quartz, and quartzite lead the trend.
Are beverage stations worth adding?
Yes, 85% of experts say they’re highly desirable.
