10 Kitchen Design Trends For 2025

Over the years, the kitchen has evolved from a primarily hardworking space into a gathering and entertaining hub as well. Formica countertops and linoleum flooring might be a thing of the past (for the better), but as a space that is so essential to Southern culture, the kitchen has—and always will—remain the heart of the home, no matter what cabinetry paint colors or kitchen islands trend is in.

While tradition will always ring true, these predictions from five Southern interior designers might get you to think out-of-the-box a little more, but I promise, it’s nothing too jarring—many of the trends even emphasize many aspects of current kitchen design trends we’ve been seeing for the past few years. Atlanta designer DuVäl Reynolds notes, “sustainable materials and personalized touches will continue to be in,” and that’s no grand surprise! Here are ten kitchen design trends interior designers say we’ll be seeing a lot more of in 2025.

Rich and Dramatic Paint Colors on Cabinetry

As homeowners become more confident with color, so does where they’re using it. “The use of a bold paint color on kitchen cabinetry is just a natural extension of the recent craving for hues that pack a punch,” explains Anna Still and Marguerite Johnson of Still Johnson in Birmingham, Alabama. As space that is not only used on a daily basis, but also often becomes an entertaining spot, why pack it with personality? “I think cabinet colors will be more saturated with jewel toned finishes, such as emerald, aubergine or ochre, and stone slabs will be darker and more colorful too,” says Christine Carney, the Director of Design for Blackberry Farm Design. “The kitchen is the heart of the house, so pump it up!”

Oversized Islands

“All spaces in the home, including the kitchen, are becoming multi-use,” says the Still Johnson designers. “From cooking and dining to homework and socializing, islands are growing to accommodate all our clients’ busy-life needs.” Dallas designer Jen Stevens of Fonde Interiors also notes the importance of the “purpose-driven islands” and their role in the kitchen and trend towards more freestanding prep-table pieces as an architectural statement. “Drawing inspiration from professional kitchens, these refined furniture pieces create both visual intrigue and a natural gathering point—transforming the functional heart of the kitchen into something more intimate and considered,” she says.

Warm Wood Tones

Reynolds says, “we can expect to see a return to darker wood tones and influences from English design.” If there is one place in the home that these trends especially ring true, it’s the kitchen. “As much as we love a light oak kitchen, we have started using a more golden finish on our oak cabinets,” adds the Still Johnson design duo. “We still like the natural beauty of wood cabinets, but try to richen the golden tones to satisfy our craving for warmth and depth in kitchens.”

Millwork Made to Look Like Furniture

Small details can go a long way in making your kitchen unique. “We are seeing custom kitchen storage pieces like islands and built-in cupboards made to look like bespoke pieces of furniture,” says Still Johnson. “To set them apart, the details of these pieces are different from the rest of the kitchen cabinetry in color, material, or millwork detail. It’s a great way to add to the kitchen the warmth of a furniture piece.”

Eat-In Kitchens

Though the kitchen island often doubles as a dining spot with counter-height seating, a few stools doesn’t necessarily constitute it as a true eat-in kitchen. “I’m also excited to see the return of the eat-in kitchens with fewer islands and more kitchen tables,” says Atlanta designer Mallory Mathison.

Vintage and Antique Pieces

While farmhouse tables and iron hinges on cabinetry are nothing new in the kitchen, vintage and antique elements are continuing to crop up and be used in even more aspects of the heart of the home. “I think there will be an additional push toward introducing vintage and antique finds into kitchens, whether it’s the hood, hardware, shelving brackets, or other elements,” says Reynolds.

Continued Emphasis on Secondary Workspaces

Having a secondary kitchen space dedicated to extra hard-working appliances, allows all the mess of entertaining and daily living to stay tucked away. “The practical luxury of scullery work kitchens continues to reshape modern home design,” says Stevens. “These secondary spaces move beyond the traditional butler’s pantry to become full prep and cleanup zones, allowing the main kitchen to maintain its aesthetic restraint while concealing the functional elements of serious cooking.”

More Color

“In 2025 I expect to see a lot of yellow cabinets and the return of blue and white in kitchens,” says Mathison. “I love the combination of Farrow and Ball Yellow Ground with delft tile backsplash!”

A Focus on Efficiency

As a room of the home that sees a lot of action, it’s important for it to function efficiently—not only in the layout, but also storage solutions and workspace. “Efficient uses of space are at the top of everyones’ lists—regardless of square footage,” notes Dallas, Texas, designer Lisa Henderson. “If there’s any space around the house that should be efficient, it’s the hardest-working room of all—the kitchen!”

More Mixed Metals

Say hello to some of our new favorite combinations—brushed brass, pewter, and bronze. “The evolution of metallics has matured beyond simple mixed metals into thoughtfully curated combinations that can coexist in carefully considered applications, adding subtle complexity rather than contrast,” says Stevens. “This sophisticated layering of finishes adds depth without overwhelming the space.”