The kitchen has undergone a significant transformation over recent years, with homeowners increasingly craving spaces filled with personality and character. This year, kitchen cabinet trends are more relevant than ever, leading many to seek out looks steeped in warmth rather than starkness. While there are several styles to embrace, it's equally important to recognize what has fallen out of favor, especially as we look forward to 2025.
Experts agree there are six outdated kitchen cabinet trends to avoid if you're aiming for a sleek, modern design. Out with the old and in with the renewed emphasis on warmth and individual flair!
1. All-white Cabinets
Once heralded as the pinnacle of kitchen fashion, all-white cabinetry is now considered outdated. Interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe warns, 'While timeless in theory, an entirely white kitchen can feel stark and lack depth.' Instead, she advises incorporating contrasting materials like wood for balance, creating spaces with warmth and texture.
2. Cabinet Skirts
Last year's trend of cabinet skirts, which added fabric-like finishes to cabinetry, has rapidly fallen out of style. Jayne Everett, creative designer at Naked Kitchens, mentions, 'The use of skirted designs is becoming outdated. It may look quaint, but is impractical.' Instead, she recommends choosing solid cabinet doors or opting for reeded glass panels for added visual interest.
3. Ultra-matte Cabinet Finishes
A glossy sheen on kitchen cabinets is making its return as ultra-matte finishes are becoming impractical. According to Lauren Gilberthorpe, 'This finish tends to show every fingerprint, making upkeep difficult.' A more glossy or lightly textured finish is encouraged to reflect light beautifully, enhancing the overall kitchen ambiance.
4. Full Run of Built-in Kitchen Cabinets
To inject character and uniqueness, homeowners are moving away from full-bodied built-in cabinets. Olivia Sauerwein of Wayfair notes, 'The DIY kitchen aesthetic is surging.' The trend now embraces freestanding pieces, allowing for eclectic arrangements with vintage or reclaimed furniture to flourish, promoting sustainability and creativity.
5. Non-integrated Appliances
Seamless design is outshining non-integrated appliances, which tend to clutter visual presentations. Lauren Gilberthorpe explains, 'A growing preference for seamless kitchens means fewer visible appliances.' Integrated cabinetry and smart design choices allow for hidden coffee makers and toasters, streamlining the kitchen's aesthetic.
6. Kitchen Cabinets All in the Same Color
Uniformity is becoming the enemy of creativity and personalization. Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport, states, 'The trend for perfectly matching kitchen cabinets is giving way to more personalized approaches.' Two-tone cabinets are increasingly popular, breaking the mold and adding visual interest to kitchens with contrasting colors and finishes.
Overall, the overarching theme for kitchen spaces moving forward is to choose designs infused with warmth and personality. By embracing freestanding furniture, playing with color combinations, and opting for textures, homeowners can create kitchens with enduring appeal. The shift is clear: let your kitchen reflect your unique style!