Kitchen Trends to Avoid in 2026

1.  Open Shelving Everywhere

Kitchen Photo from Wood Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry

For nearly a decade, open shelving dominated kitchen inspiration photos. It was budget-friendly, visually light, and fun to style. But after years of real life use, many homeowners have discovered the downside:

• Everything gets dusty
• Items are easy to knock over
• It’s hard to keep shelves picture-perfect
• Kids’ colorful plates and everyday dishes end up on display

While pretty in photos, open shelving requires constant maintenance. Most people prefer the practicality of closed storage especially in busy homes.

A better alternative:
Use open shelves sparingly. Pair a few decorative shelves with traditional cabinets so you can display favorite pieces without sacrificing function.

Kitchen Photo from Wellborn Cabinets

2.  All Black Hardware on White Shaker Cabinets

Thanks to the modern farmhouse trend, white shaker cabinets with matte black hardware were everywhere for almost 10 years. But this high-contrast formula is starting to feel predictable and dated.

Today’s kitchens lean toward softer whites, layered neutrals, natural wood tones, and warmer finishes.

Kitchen Photo from Wood Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry

If you love black hardware:
You can absolutely still use it! Just mix in warm woods, soft neutrals, or aged brass to give your kitchen a more modern, elevated look.

3.  Too Much Gray Everything

Gray was the go-to color for years gray cabinets, gray walls, gray flooring, gray countertops. But an all gray palette can feel sterile and uninviting, especially in a room that’s supposed to be the heart of the home.

Designers and homeowners are shifting toward warmer neutrals, greige, taupe, and earth-inspired hues that create a more welcoming space.

Kitchen Photo From Wellborn Cabinetry

Better alternatives:
Try warmer grays or greige tones such as:

• Sherwin Williams Gossamer Veil, Drift of Mist, Heron Plume or City Loft

These shades feel modern, layered, and versatile, and they play well with warm metals, natural textures, and wood cabinetry.

Gray flooring had a very long run, nearly a decade of popularity. But as design shifts toward natural, warm, and organic aesthetics, cool gray floors are quickly losing appeal.They tend to make spaces feel cold, especially when paired with white cabinets, gray countertops, and stainless appliances.

What’s trending now:

• Light natural oak
• Warm medium wood tones
• Soft, natural looking stains that add warmth and depth

These tones feel fresh, timeless, and pair well with everything

4. Glass Mosaic Backsplash Tile

Multicolored glass mosaic tiles were a huge trend in the 2010s, but they now feel dated and overly busy. The combination of shine, color mix, and small brick pattern has fallen out of favor for cleaner, quieter backsplash styles.

If you love glass:
Opt for a single-color glass subway tile. The shape and scale are timeless, and the solid color keeps the look elegant and fresh without overwhelming the space.  

                   Images from Home Depot

Timeless Kitchen Elements That Never Go Out of Style

While trends come and go, some choices consistently look beautiful year after year. These are worth investing in:

• Classic Subway Tile

First used in NYC subway stations in the early 1900s, this simple rectangular tile has remained a staple for over a century. Whether glossy, matte, handcrafted, or oversized, it always feels clean and timeless.

• White Cabinets

Although color and wood tones are becoming more popular, white cabinetry remains one of the most versatile and enduring choices. It brightens any space and pairs with virtually every style.

• Ceiling-Height Cabinets

If your budget allows, extending your cabinets to the ceiling adds a custom, high end look while maximizing storage. This detail never feels trendy, it feels intentional and luxurious.

Kitchen Photo by Wood Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry

Final Thoughts

A kitchen remodel is a major investment, so choosing finishes that stand the test of time is essential. Trends can be fun, but they’re best used in easy-to-change elements like lighting, hardware, rugs, or décor. When it comes to cabinets, flooring, countertops, and tile, classic always wins.

By avoiding the trends that are fading in 2025 and focusing on enduring design choices, you’ll create a kitchen that feels beautiful, functional, and timeless for years to come.

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