2023: What’s Trending in Kitchen Design?

From enhanced technology to warm colors and more multifunctional spaces, 2023 will be all about increasing convenience, comfort, and personal style in the kitchen.

Here are 6 kitchen design trends that will be big in 2023, according to our design experts.

The Return of warm woods

Our team of expert kitchen and bath designers agree – we are finally seeing a return of stained wood cabinetry in the kitchen.  And boy are we here for it!  Don’t get us wrong, these aren’t your honey oak cabinets from the 80s and 90s.  Wood cabinetry that is popular today has clean modern lines and more muted tones, like the white oak kitchen below.  Stained cabinetry adds warmth into a kitchen while bringing a timeless, and classic feel to a space.  Another perk to natural wood cabinets is that they pair well with any color countertop and most types of backsplashes.  They’re by far, one of the most versatile ways to create a kitchen design.

Unconventional Backsplashes

Who says a backsplash must be white tile? Backsplashes can be the perfect canvas for a creative and eye-catching statement in your kitchen and we’ll be seeing that more and more coming this year.  So, what will replace that classic white subway tile backsplash we’ve all known and loved?  Our guess is a sleek, large-scale slab backsplash that runs up from the countertop.  Whether you choose granite, quartz, quartzite or porcelain, this look makes a major eye-catching statement when taken around windows, range hoods or up to the ceiling.  There’s more than just fashion when it comes to slab backsplashes, they’re functional too.  By carrying the countertop up the backsplash, it provides a seamless look and is easier to clean – no grout lines to scrub!

Warmer colors for Cabinetry

Many of the cabinetry colors on our list of popular shades have been seen before.  While it’s not groundbreaking news here, we think this means the colors we predict seeing in 2023 have staying power, which helps our clients create a kitchen that is more timeless and classic. Regardless of your style, these colors will help set the stage for a beautiful and lasting design.

White Cabinetry

First and foremost, we have to start with white cabinetry, because as we all know, this trend is one with loads of staying power.  White cabinets have a clean, fresh  appearance that can brighten almost any kitchen.  White is the ultimate neutral and pairs well with nearly any color.  We do expect to see whites moving a bit warmer towards cream and ivory than stark white.

Black Cabinetry

Black Cabinetry is another color that has been showing up everywhere this year. Black cabinets are very sophisticated and can look modern or transitional in design depending on what they are paired with. White countertops will shine against black cabinetry, and we love pairing this look with champagne bronze or gold hardware.  Black cabinetry elevates any design to the next level.

Earth Tones

Earth Tones are an all-encompassing color trend for many hues and colors found in nature. This can include shades of green, as well as colors that call to mind mushrooms, tree bark, rivers or clay. Many of these colors are deep and rich, so they have some gravity and elegance to them that can let homeowners add colors to an otherwise understated design.  The use of earthy shades allows kitchens to have color without going too bold with said color.  Earth tones also work well together, so it’s possible to get a built-in color palette very quickly.

Gray

Another solid neutral is gray, which has also been around awhile, proving its staying power.  While gray cabinets can still be found in many shades, varying from light to nearly black, we expect to see the most popular gray cabinetry appearing a bit more saturated and warmer, compared to the cold greys of the past.

Dark Blue Greens

Dark Blue Green is showing up as an increasingly popular color for 2023 and our dream team is loving designing in this hue!  The dark blue green of today is a rich color that adds an immense sense of elegance to a design while still pairing well with many different shades.  Dark blue green looks great paired with white or golden countertops and blends nicely with many shades of natural wood flooring.

 

Functional Butler’s Pantry

Regardless of what you call it, a scullery or working pantry, the butler’s pantry is on the rise and expected to be very popular in 2023 and beyond.  These spaces can act as additional storage space for food, dedicated prep space, hidden coffee bars and so much more.  Concealed or secret butler pantries have been gaining popularity in kitchen design for years and there’s no shortage of design function you can incorporate into these spaces. Whatever your specific needs for your pantry area, we can design it.

Large island

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and there’s no surprise that the island is the heart of the kitchen.  More and more clients are expanding their islands to incorporate more than just your average prep space.  In the coming year, we predict larger and even double the size kitchen islands will be integrated to accommodate for larger spaces for entertaining and gathering.

 

Porcelain countertops

While marble, granite and quartzite have long been the most common materials for kitchen counters, new innovations have seen porcelain step into the arena. It makes sense – as substance, it’s hardwearing, durable and – just as importantly – quite beautiful to look at. Porcelain is a non-porous, scratch and stain resistant.  There is a significant array of colors, textures and patterns available making this product one to seriously consider for your next renovation.  You won’t be sorry considering this countertop option for your next remodel – it’s a product that will certainly stand the test of time.

So there you have it!  Our expert team’s opinions on the direction of kitchen design for the New Year.  As always though, it’s important to design your new kitchen around your taste, style and needs.  When you’re ready to get started, our dream team will be waiting for you!