Top 30 Surprising Kitchen Design Trends (2024)

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Discover the latest kitchen design trends that will transform the heart of the home in 2024. From futuristic appliances to unconventional color palettes, this article explores unique ideas to create a cutting-edge and stylish kitchen that will serve your family and impress your guests!

I have renovated three full custom kitchens in the last 8 years. Now that we have moved once again, we are tackling another full kitchen remodel! You can view my kitchen design plans as we embark on the renovation into 2024.

Let’s see what kind of trends I’ll incorporate into my kitchen from the top 30 I’ve selected to share with you today.

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience.

Futuristic Appliances for a Smart Kitchen

As we journey through the world of kitchen design trends, it’s important to take a moment to explore the exciting realm of futuristic appliances.

In 2024, kitchens are no longer just spaces for cooking; they are smart, efficient, and seamlessly integrated hubs of technology. Imagine a kitchen where appliances are not only sleek and stylish but also intuitive and tech-savvy, transforming your cooking experience like never before.

Smart Refrigerators

One of the key highlights in this futuristic landscape is the rise of smart refrigerators.

These next-generation appliances are equipped with advanced sensors, touchscreens, and even voice recognition capabilities. Picture yourself standing in front of your fridge, asking it to suggest recipes based on the ingredients you have inside.

Or effortlessly managing your grocery list through a synchronized app that keeps you updated in real-time. With smart refrigerators, the possibilities are endless, making your kitchen a truly seamless and connected space.

Smart Ranges

Another trend that is taking the future by storm is the emergence of intelligent cooking ranges.

These high-tech marvels boast features like precision temperature control, recipe-guided cooking, and even autonomous cooking capabilities. With state-of-the-art sensors and automation, these appliances not only simplify your cooking process but also elevate it to a level of precision and convenience previously unimaginable.

Smart Dishwashers

Lastly, we can’t overlook the innovative strides made in the world of dishwashers.

Gone are the days of noisy, energy-hungry appliances. In 2024, dishwashers have become eco-friendly, silent, and smarter than ever.

With advanced water-saving technologies, improved filtration systems, and enhanced cleaning capabilities, these appliances not only take care of your dishes but also contribute to a sustainable kitchen. Now, dishwashers can automatically adjusts their water usage based on the load, ensuring optimal efficiency while minimizing waste.

These are just a few glimpses into the exciting world of futuristic appliances for a smart kitchen. With each passing year, technology continues to shape our lives, and the kitchen is no exception.

The Rise of Rich and Moody Color Palettes

Another trend that is gaining traction in kitchen design is the rise of dark, rich and moody color palettes.

While white kitchens have long been popular for their clean and bright aesthetic, 2024 is ushering in a shift towards bolder and more dramatic colors.

Dark and moody color palettes bring a sense of warmth, depth, and sophistication to the kitchen space. Imagine cabinets painted in rich navy blues, charcoal grays, or even black.

These darker hues create a striking contrast against lighter countertops or backsplashes, adding visual interest and a touch of luxury.

By incorporating dark colors into your kitchen design, you can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This trend is especially ideal for those who want to infuse a sense of elegance and personality into their kitchen.

It’s a departure from the traditional all-white kitchen, offering a refreshing change that can make a statement and become a focal point in the home.

Combating Dark Kitchens Feeling Dungeon-like

One cause for concern with darker colors is the risk of creating a dungeon feeling in the kitchen.

However, the use of dark colors doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing light. An effective way to balance the darkness is by incorporating ample lighting fixtures such as pendant lights or under-cabinet lighting that create a warm and welcoming ambiance.

Additionally, reflective surfaces like glossy tiles or metallic accents can help bounce light around the space, further enhancing its brightness.

Wood Cabinets v. Painted Cabinets

Another kitchen cabinet trend you’ll see rising in popularity is bringing back wood cabinetry.

Specifically, dark wood cabinetry.

Lightly stained white oak and grey toned woods had their time to shine. Now, once again dark woods are creating drama and charm in the kitchen.

The key to incorporating dark wood tones in your kitchen cabinetry is to stick to a neutral base. Avoid overly yellow or red wood tones. A nice medium walnut to rich espresso tones are on trend now.

You can see how I incorporated contrasting kitchen cabinetry and dark wood tones into my last kitchen remodel in this article.

Integrated Open Shelving: A Functional and Aesthetic Choice

The rise of dark and moody color palettes sets the stage for the next trend in kitchen design: integrated open shelving. By incorporating this functional and aesthetic choice, you can maximize storage and display your favorite kitchenware, seamlessly merging style and practicality in your dream kitchen.

Open shelving has gained significant popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. You can see my top pros and cons of upper cabinets versus open shelving in this article.

This design trend not only adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen, but it also offers practical benefits that can enhance your overall cooking and dining experience.

One of the main advantages of open shelving is its ability to maximize storage space. Unlike traditional closed cabinets, open shelving allows you to make the most of every inch, providing ample room for all your essential kitchen items.

From plates and glasses to cookbooks and decorative pieces, you can showcase your personal style while keeping everything within reach.

In addition to its functional aspect, open shelving brings a sense of airiness and openness to your kitchen. It can visually expand the space, making it appear larger and more inviting.

By removing the barrier of closed cabinets, you create a seamless flow between the various areas of your kitchen, encouraging interaction and fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both family gatherings and social events.

However, this 2024 kitchen design trend takes the standard open shelving to the next level by integrating it into the overall cabinet design. Gone are the days of floating shelves.

Now, open shelving is encapsulated by a custom kitchen cabinet shell that provides structure and seamless integration into the rest of the kitchen cabinetry.

Integrated Range Hoods or Range Alcoves

Statement range hoods have long been a kitchen design trend. However, integrated range hoods are becoming more and more popular.

These range hoods typically flow seamlessly into adjacent cabinetry or walls. This gives the appearance of one large wall with a range alcove.

Typically, within these alcoves there is shallow shelving for herbs and oils or small kitchen appliances.

The benefit of these integrated range hoods is that they provide the function without drawing attention to a utilitarian need. These can be designed in a very overstated or understated manner, depending on your preference!

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Materials

Now, as we move forward into the next trend in kitchen design, it’s important to consider the materials we use.

Sustainable and eco-friendly options have become increasingly popular. By incorporating these materials into our kitchen design, we can create a space that not only looks good but also makes a positive impact on the planet.

One popular choice for sustainable kitchen design is the use of reclaimed wood. Rather than sourcing new timber, reclaimed wood gives new life to old pieces, such as barn wood or salvaged lumber.

Not only does this reduce the demand for new wood, but it also adds a unique touch to the kitchen with its inherent character and history. Reclaimed wood can be used for anything from countertops and cabinets to flooring and accent pieces, providing a warm and rustic feel to the space.

Another sustainable material gaining traction in kitchen design is bamboo. Known for its rapid growth and renewability, bamboo is a highly sustainable alternative to traditional hardwood.

It can be used for cabinets, flooring, and even kitchen utensils, offering a sleek and modern look. Apart from its eco-friendly properties, bamboo is also durable and resistant to water and stains, making it an excellent choice for a busy kitchen.

Mixed Metals: Embrace the Beauty of Contrast

Mixed metals have become increasingly popular in interior design. The kitchen is the perfect place to experiment with this eye catching combination.

You can learn how I like to pair mixed metals in this article.

Rather than sticking to a single metal, homeowners are now embracing the idea of mixing different metallic finishes to create a visually stunning and interesting look. This trend allows for a playful combination of warm and cool tones, adding depth and character to the kitchen space.

One way to introduce mixed metals into your kitchen design is by incorporating a variety of metallic finishes in your hardware and fixtures.

For example, you can combine brass knobs and pulls with stainless steel appliances. Or, opt for a copper faucet paired with brushed nickel lighting fixtures. The key is to balance the different finishes, creating a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic.

Another way to embrace the beauty of mixed metals is through the use of statement pendant lights or chandeliers. These fixtures not only provide ample lighting but also serve as stunning focal points in the kitchen.

By selecting lights with different metal finishes, such as gold and silver or bronze and chrome, you can create a sense of contrast that adds visual interest to the space.

Statement Lighting Fixtures to Elevate Your Space

As we explore the beauty of mixed metals, the next section will delve into the importance of statement lighting fixtures in further enhancing your kitchen design.

Just as mixed metals add depth and personality, statement lighting fixtures have the power to elevate your space to new heights. They serve as both functional and decorative elements, illuminating your kitchen while adding a touch of style.

Statement lighting fixtures offer the opportunity to make a bold statement and become the centerpiece of your kitchen. Think of statement lighting like the jewelry of your kitchen.

Additionally, consider layering your lighting with a variety of pendants, sconces, and LED canned lights.

With the right lighting, you can highlight specific areas of your kitchen, such as a beautiful backsplash or a stunning countertop. It can create a focal point above a kitchen island or dining area, drawing attention and becoming a conversation starter.

Additionally, it can further enhance the textures and finishes you’ve chosen, creating a cohesive and visually appealing design.

Statement Kitchen Ceilings

When you plan your kitchen lighting, also consider adding a statement ceiling.

This can be anything from wood beams or tray ceilings to thin shiplap, wallpaper or bead board.

Highlighting the ceiling adds a high degree of interest on the “5th wall”. However, you need to plan for many of these design elements when considering where your lighting fixtures will be. So plan ahead!

Bold Backsplash Designs: From Patterns to Texture

Bold backsplash designs are making a splash in the world of kitchen design, offering homeowners an opportunity to infuse their space with personality and creativity.

Gone are the days of plain, monochromatic backsplashes that blend into the background. In 2024, it’s all about making a statement with your choice of backsplash.

Backsplash Pattern Play

One trend that is gaining traction is the use of intricate patterns.

From Moroccan-inspired handmade tiles to geometric shapes, homeowners are opting for bold and eye-catching designs that add visual interest to their kitchen. These patterns can be as subtle or as vibrant as you desire, allowing you to tailor the look to your personal style.

Textured Backsplashes

Texture is another element that is taking center stage in kitchen design.

In 2024, homeowners are embracing backsplashes with tactile surfaces that invite touch and create depth. From textured tiles and natural brick to embossed materials, the possibilities are endless.

A textured backsplash not only adds visual interest but also adds a sense of luxury and sophistication to the kitchen. When combined with the right lighting, the textures come alive, casting shadows and creating a captivating play of light and shadow.

Stone Slab Backsplashes

Similarly, bold full slab stone backsplashes are taking kitchen design trends by storm. The overstated veining of natural stone or quartz backsplashes creates a ton of drama, while remaining easy to clean and maintain.

When used strategically, a bold backsplash design can seamlessly integrate with the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. It can complement the colors and materials used in other areas, tying the entire space together.

Whether you opt for a patterned backsplash that echoes the colors of your cabinetry or a textured design that adds visual contrast, the result is a cohesive and visually appealing kitchen.

Integrating Nature: Indoor Gardens and Herb Walls

Indoor gardens and herb walls are another kitchen design trend that offers an exciting way to elevate your kitchen’s design.

Incorporating greenery into our living spaces has become increasingly popular. In the realm of kitchen design, this trend has manifested in the form of indoor gardens and herb walls, creating a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics.

Indoor gardens not only serve as a refreshing visual element, but they also bring the benefits of nature indoors. From small potted plants to vertical gardens covering entire walls, there are countless ways to incorporate greenery into your kitchen design.

One particularly popular iteration of this trend is herb walls.

With an herb wall, you can have an array of fresh herbs right at your fingertips, ready to enhance your culinary creations. Not only does this make cooking more convenient, but it also adds a delightful fragrance to your kitchen, making it an even more inviting space.

Natural Countertop Choices

Quartz countertops stole the show for years in kitchen design trends.

While I still absolutely love quartz countertops, natural stone options are becoming increasingly popular.

Granite, marble and soapstone have been long time popular stone choices for kitchen countertops. However, quartzite has topped the list in recent years as well.

These natural stone countertops are taking center stage due to their varied and unique veining, durability and timeless appearance. When you place quartz next to one of these natural stone options, it is easy to see that quartz is a manufactured stone.

However, that doesn’t mean that you should count quartz out just yet. It just means that a kitchen design trend you’ll see skyrocket is natural stone countertops. You can learn more about the pros and cons of quartz versus granite in this article if you are debating for your own kitchen remodel.

Additionally, black countertops are surging in kitchen design trends this year. White quartz stole the show for its bright aesthetic. However, black granites and soapstone are now chosen for their high contrast design.

Multifunctional Islands and Breakfast Bars

Another popular kitchen trend of 2024: multifunctional islands and breakfast bars.

Multifunctional islands and breakfast bars are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to serve multiple purposes within the kitchen space.

These islands and breakfast bars can be utilized as a food preparation area, providing a convenient workspace for chopping, mixing, and cooking. With ample countertop space and storage options, homeowners can easily store and access their cooking essentials.

Additionally, the height of these islands and breakfast bars can be adjusted to accommodate different seating arrangements, making them an ideal casual dining spot for quick meals or snacks.

This kitchen design trend is especially sought after in smaller homes that don’t offer the square footage for formal dining rooms. Conversely, they are popular in large open concept homes where the dining and kitchen spaces are integrated.

Butler’s Pantries and Sculleries

While many kitchens are replacing the dining room, we see that previously obsolete rooms are making a comeback!

Butler’s pantries and sculleries are surging in popularity. While many homes do not have the existing square footage to add these spaces on, new builds will be a great way to consider adding these small functional rooms.

Consider these spaces a way to have high function that is hidden. Or, design to the nines and use these as special rooms that show off your favorite collections or passions for food and drink.

Appliance Garages and Integrated Coffee or Cocktail Bars

While appliance garages and coffee bars have been a long-time kitchen design trend, we are tweaking the plan in 2024.

Previously, these spaces were tucked away and tiny additions to a kitchen design. Now, we see trends of large floor to ceiling appliance garages with high functioning storage.

We also see integrated coffee or cocktail bars becoming more visible and purposeful. These spaces used to take up a very small percentage of the kitchen footprint. More recently, we see cocktail or coffee bars becoming a generous workstation for preparing drinks of all kinds for family and friends.

New Kitchen Cabinetry Designs

Kitchen cabinetry has so many variations of design style.

From a very popular shaker cabinet to sleek and modern slab doors, we’ve seen it all.

However, upcoming kitchen design trends are highlighting new door profiles, rounded kitchen islands and even ornate designs within and extending seamlessly across door fronts.

Of course, these options are only available to those who can accommodate a custom kitchen. But, I think it’s certainly worth consideration to think outside the (literal) box of cabinetry design!

Furniture Style Cabinetry

In addition to cabinet door fronts and island shape, furniture style cabinetry is becoming more popular.

I plan to incorporate this into our upcoming kitchen design. This kitchen design trend takes custom cabinets and transforms them into integrated pieces that have the appearance of stand alone furniture.

Most look like hutches or stand alone pantries, but you can get creative with coffee bars or even range alcoves to achieve this look.

Conversely, we will also see an uptick in trend of using actual stand alone pieces of furniture in a custom kitchen design. I did this in our last kitchen with an antique cupboard I restored for $100!

Kitchen Design Trends & Foundational Finishes

We’ve covered many different aspects of a kitchen design. But what about the floors, layout, windows and appliance design?

Kitchen Flooring Trends

Flooring is having an identity crisis when it comes to an actual trend. We are seeing designers bring wood flooring throughout the entire home, kitchen included. We are also seeing a rise in organic stone flooring like marble tile, limestone or tumbled pavers.

Stone and wood alike are beautiful and durable options for a kitchen floor. However, your choice will greatly impact the overall look of the kitchen as a whole.

Wood flooring is a great option if you want the kitchen to flow with your wood flooring through the rest of the house. While stone floors make a statement and are highly durable. Wood floors are warm and cozy while stone floors are colder but can offer more movement.

It’s a win-win. You simply need to decide what’s best for your specific situation.

Kitchen Design Trends: Windows

Another kitchen design trend you’ll see more of is investing in statement windows. Substantial, decorative, and highly functional is the name of the game for kitchen windows.

When we remodeled our last kitchen, I added 17 feet of windows. This is a design element I will never regret! I’m trying my best to incorporate at least 10 feet of windows into our new kitchen design as well.

Think through how you want kitchen windows to function. It’s best to discuss with a window dealer to look at all your options.

• Slide sideways v. roll out v. push up
• Garage door style windows
• Window opening to outdoor bar seating
• Mullions v. solid glass
• Color
• Profile thickness

Kitchen Appliance Trends

While we already discussed smart kitchen appliances, there are a lot more decisions to be made.

For example, integrated kitchen appliances are panel ready to blend seamlessly with your kitchen cabinetry. Conversely, there are many bold and colorful designs available these days if you want them to make a statement.

Trending now are decorative artisan style ranges like Ilve, Wolf, Cafe and Zline. These have a more sophisticated and high-end look over traditional kitchen appliances.

Consider these types of appliances to be additional “jewelry” for your kitchen. Gone are the days of plain Jane appliances being the standard.

Upper Cabinet Return

For many years now open shelving has replaced upper cabinets. In the coming years we will see a resurgence of upper cabinetry.

However, this time around, we are taking it to the ceiling and tying it into surrounding pantries and openings for a more integrated look.

Personally, I still prefer no upper cabinets and am designing my new kitchen that way! But, no upper cabinets doesn’t have to mean lack of storage. Stay tuned for my new kitchen design in our new home!

Summary: Top 30 (2024) Kitchen Design Trends

Now that we’ve discussed these items in depth, here is a quick summary of the top 30 kitchen design trends of 2024.

1. Incorporating Smart Home technology
   • Bold appliances
2. Bold backsplashes
3. Full slab stone backsplash
4. Handmade tiles
5. High contrast cabinet pairings
6. Rich wood tones
7. Non-white kitchen cabinet colors
8. Statement ceilings
9. Layered lighting
   • Statement lighting, the jewelry of the kitchen
10. Eco-Friendly Design Ideas
11. Natural stone countertops over manufactured quartz
    • Black countertops
12. Integrated living walls and indoor gardens
13. Integrated range hoods
14. Mixed metals
15. The return of the butler’s pantry and sculleries
16. Kitchen island as the new dining table
17. Transitional style
18. Flat front, slab cabinets
19. Rounded island profiles
20. Oversized cabinet hardware
21. Integrated cabinet open shelving
22. Furniture style cabinetry
23. High textured surfaces (brick, leathered countertops, antiqued mirror)
24. Free standing furniture storage
25. Wallpaper
26. Wood v. Stone flooring
27. Large appliance garages
28. Integrated coffee or cocktail bars
29. Statement windows
30. The return of the upper cabinet

What Kitchen Design Trends are Going Out of Style?

Personally, I don’t like to talk about what’s not “on trend” or what is going out of style. I feel it leads to unnecessary discontentment or a “keeping up with the Joneses” attitude.

If you ask most designers they will say all white kitchens are going out of style. However, I personally still think there is a place for them. They are classic and timeless and I’ve loved my last two white kitchens.

So, rather than looking for reasons to dislike our spaces, I suggest we look for reasons to love them! On the other hand, if you really are in need of a kitchen renovation, I hope that these upcoming kitchen design trends have been helpful to you as you think through your options.

What’s Next For Kitchen Design Trends?

In conclusion, as we look to 2024, the kitchen design trends that will captivate and inspire are gaining popularity quickly.

From futuristic appliances that will elevate your culinary experience to the allure of dark and moody color palettes, each trend offers a unique opportunity to transform your kitchen into a space that is both functional and visually stunning.

As you embark on your own kitchen transformation, remember to incorporate your personal style and taste into the design, making it a reflection of who you are. That is what is most important, after all!

Need More Specific Design Help?

Daily I’m asked if I offer design services. While I’m not currently able to do so, I do have a fantastic recommendation for you if you’re looking for additional help.

Sarah is an interior designer who has spent countless hours teaching you how to practically design and decorate your home. She breaks these techniques down in easy to manage and understand capsules so you can learn at your own pace. Join the Elite Decorating Academy to learn the skills you need in home design today.

Thanks so much for stopping by Grace In My Space today! Make sure to subscribe to access all my free guides. Plus, you can follow along with me daily on Instagram and weekly on YouTube!

~Sarah