These kitchen trends in 2024 are going to help you stay ahead of the curve, especially if you're planning a remodel or are building your home from scratch. From new colors, finishes, shapes to textures and materials, experts reveal all that will be popular next year.
‘Kitchens will feel like another extension of the home; like a room, an additional living space within the house rather than a utilitarian place to prepare food in,’ says interior designer Joy Moyler. ‘This will see more refined materials, art, and antiques, move into the space as it becomes less focused on pure function.’
If you want to give a more on-trend direction to your modern kitchen design, then these 29 points are important to take note of.
1. Textured tiles
Glossy or matt, ridged or embossed, kitchen tiles will be doing a lot of heavy lifting in 2024, bringing texture to a room that always benefits from a point of contrast. It's a trend you can buy into even if you're averse to color. In fact, we'd say that it's crucial to make neutral spaces feel far more interesting with texture. Look closely in the image above, and you'll notice the glossy textured tiles, created using an old-fashioned press, after a double dose of detail.
'Creating that 'wow' factor in a kitchen is all about the materials you use and the finishes you choose to use those materials in,' says Katie Paulsen, interior designer at Maestri Studio. 'Are you utilizing honed or polished textures with your countertops and tiles? All these add layering to the space.'
2. Pared-back hardware
Last year kitchens featured gold islands, but 2024 is going to be all about a slightly more pared-back approach to kitchen metallics (except for the stainless steel kitchens!). Metallics will glint at us from the recessed handles of drawers and outline the edges of cabinetry. Contrasted with blackened oak cupboard fronts, and sleek concrete-style kitchen countertops, these additions will add an elevated look to the space.
'A unique mix of materials and textures for kitchen cabinet knobs are having their moment,' says Nadia Watts, founder of Nadia Watts Interior Design. 'Integrated pulls are sleek and functional and handleless cabinets are all the rage. Sleek, clean lines still rule with knobs and handles going incognito allowing simplicity to shine and the cabinetry to take center stage. On the flip side of the modern streamlined approach, vintage and antique styles are in, with distressed finishes and unique one-of-a-kind vintage inspired designs.'
'I think we are seeing a huge appreciation for hardware at the moment,' says Samantha Struck, founder of StruckSured Interiors. 'I think with the market shifts and people being a bit more budget conscious, we are seeing people save on the cabinets themselves but splurging on the hardware to elevate the result. As a rule of thumb, if you have to choose where to spend versus save, put the money into the items you physically touch and interact with (in this case, the hardware over the cabinets).'
3. Sculptural stone islands
Dramatically dark and veined stones continue to be a popular look for kitchens, but you can take it one step further by carving unique kitchen islands out of blocks of stone. The latest stone islands feature ribbed or fluted detailing and can lift a large apartment kitchen and fill it with personality.
When it comes to the choice of stone, kitchen design trends these days are favoring a mix of classic and contemporary styles. 'In terms of marble colors, the most popular choices are timeless white and light-colored marbles,' says Aparna Kaushik, founder & architect at Aparna Kaushik Design Group. ' White marble, such as Carrara or Calacatta, remains a top choice due to its elegant and clean appearance, which complements various kitchen designs. Light-colored marbles with subtle veining are also trending, as they add a touch of sophistication while maintaining a sense of simplicity. These marble colors create a bright and open feel in the kitchen, making them particularly popular for smaller spaces or those seeking a modern and fresh aesthetic.'
4. 'Butter yellow' kitchens
A few years ago, the fashion world was dressing like a 'stick of butter' in shades of soft yellow and cream. Now it looks like the dairy-inspired phenomenon is heading our way - and actually, we're pretty into it. A light buttery yellow kitchen is an ideal choice for the more contemporary-minded; particularly the kitchen, where it has just enough glow to stand out in a nice, sunny way.
'I think 2024 will be a mix of soft neutrals and rich earth colors,' says Shelagh Conway, principal and founder of Triple Heart Design. 'Think of the morning light at sunrise. Nature will continue to play a large role in home design from sustainability to creating the zen that can be achieved in the outdoors. Nature has a powerful rhythm!'
5. Color blocking
When it comes to kitchen color schemes, the latest trend is to go bold and experiment with color block. If your kitchen is part of an open plan space or is visually connected to the dining room or living room, consider a color block to give not only this space but even the rest of the home a big boost in personality.
'The inspiration for the color scheme came from the unique backsplash tile,' says Michael Wyrock, principal designer, Nistenhaus. 'This home is charming already with its architectural character, and the clients have a more playful design style, so it made sense to infuse the kitchen with color and pattern for a unique look.'
6. Wood flooring
When it comes to kitchen floors, interior designers are finding more and more that their clients want wood, where these spaces have been traditionally tiled for practical reasons.
'When we are working to resolve a problem for a brownstone interior design project or a minimalist loft, we also like making sure that our work will stand the test of time,' says Jarret Yoshida, a New York Brownstone interior designer. 'So for flooring, we always suggest natural oak wood kitchen flooring as being our overall winner for flexibility and style resilience. Timeless and light, a great oak floor makes a room feel open and airy. In particular, it doesn't have the reddish tones that cherry or mahogany do which can be a real challenge to complement when it comes to paint color or upholstery choices.'
7. Color in pantries
When it comes to kitchen pantry color ideas, there is a shift towards using darker tones, to fill this space with personality, while also cleverly hiding any stains or dents. The pantry is a generally hardworking space that witnesses a lot of use and abuse. Large boxes, heavy bags and more can cause this space to look a little dishevelled. But darker paint tones can hide these issues easily while giving the room a fresh look, always.
'Granite Peak' and 'Merlot' by Sherwin-Williams continue from the kitchen into this whimsical pantry,' says Benjamin Johnston, founder of Benjamin Johnston Design. 'An eye-catching and unexpected library ladder ties the color palette together seamlessly.'
8. Rounded islands
Tangram kitchen collection by Cesar
Why does a big or small kitchen island have to have a sharp corner? Answer: of course it doesn't. And designers are realising that actually rounded edges are more convivial, and conducive to friends and family sitting around their kitchen together. Plus, it creates extra circulation area in the room.
'Curves are so much more inviting than hard edges,' says the interior designer Bryan O'Sullivan. 'They soften a space.'
9. "Back kitchens"
The back kitchen trend or a scullery has been gaining popularity, especially since celebrities world over have embraced this concept too – most recently seen in Kris Jenner' home. This highly essential space hides all the clutter of the main kitchen. Think: dishes, linens, dry goods, appliances, groceries, hardware and more. In fact, for busy families, this space is used as part pantry, part prep kitchen and part storage space.
As the kitchen is becoming more and more a room to host parties and for friends to gather around, the need for this space has increased. 'People prefer not to have dirty dishes and mess on display while entertaining,' says Kashi Shikunova, director of interior design practise Yam Studios. 'It's essential to ensure that the scullery offers plenty of storage and workspace.' This space houses cleaning facilities such as a spacious sink and possibly a dishwasher, along with cooking equipment and a fridge, making it the perfect functional space.
10. Colorful taps
If you're wondering how to choose a kitchen faucet, it's time to go bold. It's natural to turn to muted color palettes, but that wouldn't be a Livingetc-approved trend without a little twist. It's the pop of a jewel-bright tone or a bright color on the faucet that gives a little jolt of energy a room like this really needs.
'Clients request a lot of brass and graphite/pewter faucets in their kitchens,' says Samantha. 'I don’t think these colors will ever go out of style so definitely a safe choice in the long run. '
11. Aged brass
When it comes to kitchen faucets trends, brass remains to be popular, but we're seeing unlacquered styles, allowed to naturally patina, come to the forefront.
'We still do a lot of aged brass in our projects,' says Samantha. 'From a lifecycle standpoint, I think people are still very interested in timelessness and want selections they know will last beyond one trend cycle.'
'Many designers suggest a living unlacquered brass finish,' says Bethany Adams, founder of Bethany Adams Interiors. 'It takes several months to go from shiny, polished brass, to that gorgeous aged look we all love, but it is worth the wait! Bonus – if polished brass becomes all the rage, you need only break out the Blue Magic (metal polishing cream) to stay on trend.'
12. Extra-large fridges
Ever wondered how do you design a kitchen that's better to cook in? The answer is always more storage, which should include the fridge. Super-size refrigerators are becoming the norm in new kitchen designs – that extra bit of space to store food for the whole family, meaning trips to the store can happen less frequently.
This is part of a general move towards the kitchen being more convenient.
'If you want to have an extra large fridge, we recommend making it a statement and owning it versus trying to hide it,' says Samantha. 'Do a fun color or some super unique hardware on it, but really highlight the presence of it.'
'With a paneled refrigerator it is easy to add large refrigeration units to any style of kitchen by disguising them in your cabinetry,' says Bethany. 'Paneling your appliances is especially useful if yours is a more modern style of kitchen. For a traditional style kitchen, you may actually want your appliances to stand out. Vintage style, large refrigeration units from companies like True Refrigeration or Big Chill come in a variety of colors and are styled to stand out in your traditional kitchen.'
13. 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 of best kitchen countertop material. It makes sense – as substance, it's hardwearing, durable and – just as importantly – quite beautiful to look at.
'Porcelain countertops offer a multitude of benefits that make them an ideal choice for kitchens,' says Aparna Kaushik, founder & architect at Aparna Kaushik Design Group. 'Their exceptional durability ensures they can withstand the rigors of daily kitchen activities, resisting chipping, scratching, and cracking. The non-porous nature of porcelain makes these countertops highly resistant to stains, spills, and the growth of bacteria, ensuring a hygienic and easy-to-clean surface for food preparation. Additionally, their heat resistance allows for direct placement of hot pots and pans without damage. Furthermore, their fade resistance ensures that they maintain their appearance over time, even with exposure to sunlight.'
14. Relaxing spaces
You've heard of the spa bathroom, but what about the spa kitchen? Yes, meditative materials are coming to the fore here which help create a serene, rustic kitchen that's the ideal place to cook and live in; a mood that is almost monastic.
'Our work has a spa-like quality to it I think,' says Noa Santos, the designer behind this particularly beautiful space. 'We use lots of natural stones and plasters, unintentionally developing this style that seems to resonate with people wanting a place they can go home to and feel calmed.'
15. Cabinets to the ceiling
While this is also another example of the curved island, what's particularly notable about this white kitchen is the way the cabinets run all the way up to the top of the ceiling.
'Unless you have a specific styling intention for the space between the tops of your cabinets and the ceiling, I think it’s always worth running units up to the top,' says Gabrielle Aker, owner and principal at Aker Interiors. 'When cabinets stop shy of the ceiling, the space above them either becomes a dust collector or causes visual chaos with a hodgepodge of rarely used kitchen items.'
16. Layers of black
On the surface, black kitchens can appear a daring, or even unwise, choice but cleverly executed, it can create an impact like no other color. This is part of the reason black kitchens are seeing a big rise in popularity this year.
‘We love designing kitchens for clients and, especially when part of an open floorplan, feel that kitchens need a bit of drama to hold their own,’ says designer Michael Del Piero. ‘Dramatic hues, such as black, are popular at the moment and certainly add a bit of moodiness to kitchens. When using black paint in an open floorplan, we – advise balancing the dark hue with something equally dramatic on the opposing wall – like a black-painted fireplace or similar.'
'It bookends the space, so to speak,' says Michael. 'In this kitchen, modern minimalism was the directive. We brought that inspiration to life with clean, flat-front cabinets and mod black concrete countertops. Black concrete provided a sleek look, where marble and granite would have dramatically changed the aesthetic of the space.’
17. Kitchen jewelry
Forget the understated cabinetry of the past. In the same way a beautiful outfit is incomplete without a considered piece of jewelry, a similar mood has made its way into our kitchens. Now kitchen cabinets and drawers look virtually incomplete without some kind of metallic adornment and require striking hardware to add personality and style.
The material of choice? Gold or at least gleaming brass like in this show-stopping kitchen by Heidi Caillier. 'Here, the brass knobs and handles are perfect partners for the moody cabinetry, while Studio Green by Farrow & Ball, helps bring the whole kitchen to life,' says Heidi. Just like in fashion, delicate pieces will have a bigger impact so stick to knobs, cup drawer pulls and slim bars to maintain a sophisticated look.
18. Black countertops
If adding layers of black is a little extreme for your kitchen tastes, another new way to incorporate black is to use it on both your countertop and your backsplash for an eye-catching look.
In this kitchen by Seattle-based Studio Laloc, founded by Lauren Lothrop Caron, rather than going with a lighter countertop, the dark cabinetry is given additional depth with the power pairing of a black countertop and kitchen backsplash.
‘The choice for the backsplash wasn't so much about being a dark color, but about being a living specimen that would age over time, chip, and resemble an old British scullery that would show wear and tear,’ says Lauren Lothrop Caron, founder of Studio Laloc. ‘The soapstone being a softer living finish becomes more beautiful with age, and the intent was to celebrate its natural beauty.’
19. Architectural pendants
While every aspect of the lighting is important, the lighting which goes over the island is an opportunity to have some fun and make a statement. For the last few years, the drop pendant – usually put up as a trio, has ruled the roost when it comes to kitchen island lighting. But this year we will see a sharper look which owes its design to striking architecture that makes a statement.
‘We selected these modern architectural pendants to complement the curves of the island and to offset the more traditional aspects of the kitchen design,’ says Georgina Cave, founder and creative director of Cave Interiors. ‘Creating a sculptural and unexpected design was key to the entire scheme.’
20. Copper mirrored backsplash
A mirrored backsplash is nothing new but now the reflective glass is moving towards a warmer, copper version for 2024. As well as helping bounce light around the kitchen, it instantly helps double the look of the space, which makes it the perfect solution for small kitchen layouts.
'Mirror creates the illusion of more space and light, so it’s ideal for a small kitchen or a dark kitchen that you want to brighten up,' says Nadia. 'It reflects both natural and artificial light so it will benefit even the darkest of kitchens. Mirror is easy to clean and low maintenance with no grout lines to worry about. It is also easy to install and can be cut into many shapes and sizes making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Mirror is also versatile in its design in that it goes with a variety of materials and surfaces. It is less expensive and easier to install than most tile backsplashes, offering a unique option that is also affordable.'
21. Pistachio green
As interior design turns collectively towards natural materials, forms and colors as a way to bring the soothing, grounding character of the outdoors into the home, the kitchen takes up a classic, timeless tone picked straight from the garden as a key color for 2024. Mint is an uplifting, zingy, yet subtle green shade, one that continues the kitchen’s movement toward soft pastel shades while echoing our desire to be close to nature. It's a move on from sage green kitchen ideas which have dominated for a while, a slightly zestier approach.
‘In times of economic and social uncertainty it’s natural for us to cocoon at home in the company of loves ones, and thus a comforting palette of colors found in will continue to grow in popularity,’ explains Rob Whitaker, creative director of Claybrook.
22. Textured surfaces
Texture may have been something we're used to in living room trends and bedrooms for years, but it's only recently we've seen it seep into kitchens.
'Rich wood species, such as walnut, cherry and oak are trending,' says Nadia. 'Bold wood grains and deep rich coloring bring the outdoors in. Matte surfaces are in and combine perfectly with colorful marble and natural surfaces.'
23. Freestanding multifunctional storage
As the needs of the kitchen changes, and it becomes more of a living space than ever before – multifunctional, flexible, free-standing furniture becomes an essential part of the design. Plus, bringing in these pieces is an easy way to adapt your space without having to start totally from scratch – no need to revamp your kitchen island here. This is also a nice way to mix and blend styles in your modern or industrial kitchen, bringing in pieces that contrast your cabinetry.
'As the kitchen increasingly becomes a living space in its own right, kitchen furniture design is changing to follow suit,' says designer Graeme Smith. 'Multi-functional furniture that blends the kitchen with the rest of the house will be more prominent in our kitchens going forwards. Stylish,stand-alone pieces such as dressers, glass cabinetry and wooden shelving will be key, rather than the standard, built-in concepts. Offering a practical yet decorative element, they offer the homeowner a chance to create a unique look through an accent color, or a mix of materials – and display their treasured items for a soft, homely feel.'
24. Kitchen wallpaper
Again, there seems to be a theme here of kitchen trends that treat this once purely practical space more like a living room. Wallpaper trends in the kitchen have been slowly gaining traction this year and we are seeing it increasingly. It's such a simple update you could even DIY in just a weekend. Plus, it's a low commitment way to experiment with color and pattern in the kitchen.
'Before adding kitchen wallpaper, there are several important considerations to remember to ensure a successful and visually appealing outcome,' says Aparna. 'First and foremost, consider the practicality of the wallpaper in a kitchen environment, where splashes, steam, and grease are common. Opt for washable and durable wallpaper materials that can withstand the demands of a kitchen. Next, one should think about the overall style and theme of the kitchen. Choose a wallpaper that complements the existing decor and enhances the desired ambiance.'
25. "Countersplashes"
Is there anything more stunning in a kitchen than a countersplash? A wall of interrupted stone or marble from counters to backsplashes adds an instant focal point to a kitchen adding beautiful natural textures and shapes - modern kitchen backsplashes just keep getting more graphic.
'One popular and versatile backsplash material for kitchens is quartz,' says Aparna. 'Quartz backsplashes, also a great alternative countertop. offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for many homeowners. Their durability and resistance to stains, heat, and moisture make them well-suited for the demands of kitchen environments. Additionally, quartz is relatively easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical option for busy kitchens. Their timeless appeal ensures they remain a classic choice that can elevate the overall look and feel of the kitchen while providing a protective and functional barrier against splatters and spills.'
26. Kitchen trees
House trees are becoming a more frequent feature on Pinterest and Instagram with homeowner's opting to grow full-sized trees within their kitchens. These add height, grandeur and charm to the interior. But if you prefer decorating with plants, it's essential to consider their adaptability to the kitchen environment.
'Some plant varieties thrive in these conditions and are well-suited for kitchen spaces,' says Aparna. 'Herbs are a popular choice for kitchen gardens due to their culinary uses and compact size. Basil, mint, parsley, and rosemary are excellent options that can be conveniently harvested for cooking. Succulents are another great choice as they require minimal care, tolerate dry air, and can add a touch of greenery to kitchen shelves or windowsills. Additionally, Aloe Vera is an excellent kitchen plant due to its medicinal properties and ability to thrive in warm and humid conditions.'
27. Sustainable design choices
Speaking of living more wholesome and sustainable lives, this is also having an impact on the materials we are now choosing to build our kitchens from, or decorate them with, like eco paints. Designer Hayley Robson predicts that: 'Materials will be purer and natural, rather than too polished or plastic. The concept of mixing materials will continue and we will see the trend for upcycling, reuse and hand-crafted pieces develop.'
'Much like fashion, we are conscious of our consumption; we will invest in craftsmanship, timeless and statement pieces - we’ll buy less stuff and make it last longer, with the clashing of styles resulting in a timeless aesthetic.'
28. 3D surfaces
Last year’s supremely popular fluted glass trend is moving into non-transparent materials for 2024 as we seek out new ways to enjoy surfaces with fluidity and vigour. While three-dimensional kitchen wall tiles often follow architectural and geometric forms, and on kitchen cabinetry the emerging shapes feel far more mellow.
'Ribbed and scalloped surfaces are so hot right now as designers continue to use flat door profiles for cabinet doors,' says Jane Lockhart, founder of Jane Lockhart Design. 'These new textures add depth and character to rooms while feeling modern. However, they are also a nod to historic shapes that never really go out of style, and this mix of modern and traditional makes for an amazing style contrast in one space.'
29. Colorful wood stains
Because wood can come in more than just various shades of brown. You can get all those lovely natural textures that come from raw wooden kitchen cabinets but opt for a colored stain for a bolder look - this is the same approach we're seeing in the world of colored concrete. 'I’ve started applying beautiful colored stains on wood,' says Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio. 'Stains allow you to celebrate the beauty of the wood grain while pushing it beyond its raw, natural state to enhance the overall beauty of the kitchen by adding rich texture.'
'So far, we’ve worked with greys, purples, violets, and pinks, but clients can have any color they want,' says Charlie. 'This chimes with increasing consumer demand for personalization in the kitchen; creating something unique to the individual.'
Color and texture? Ticks two of the biggest kitchen trends for 2024 at once.
What is the biggest kitchen trend for 2024?
2024 is going to be all about bold tones, tactile surfaces, and statement lighting. Kitchens will open up to more nature-inspired palettes of green, light blue, and grey. The trend of indoor herb gardens is on the rise and homeowners will be open to vertical planters, as well as natural materials for benchtops, backsplashes, and flooring.
What kitchen trends are going out of style in 2023?
In the coming year, there will be lesser demand for all-white or muted kitchens as homeowners are embracing more color in their homes. Painted kitchen cabinets and colored islands will be in demand. Plain white tiles too will be swapped for textured or 3D ones.
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