Think you’re ready for a kitchen remodel? Pretty sure you’ve got your design nailed down? If you’ve included any of the following design trends, you may want to reconsider. Even the most well-meaning trends can fall out of favor. These are the kitchen trends going out of style in 2023 and beyond.
Or if you already know the trends, get started with our design team.
Lighting
Adding natural light or an assortment of light fixtures can make your kitchen shine bright. But as we all know, too much of a good thing (or choosing the wrong thing) turns bad pretty quickly.
Some lighting faux-pas to avoid in 2023 include:
- More than 2 pendants lights over an island
- Builder’s grade lighting fixtures
- Excessive recessed lighting
When you’re making a remodeling budget, it’s better to spend more on quality lighting. Modern downlights and pendants look great while emphasizing sustainability, so you’ll get high-quality lighting that can lower your energy bill.
If efficiency is a premium, don’t forget natural lighting. Used the right way, natural sunlight will illuminate your kitchen, warm your home, and provide mental health benefits through an abundant energy source.
The Color Gray
As minimalism began to gain steam a decade ago, the color gray began to take over many home kitchens. While warmer grays are still popular for a “neutral” kitchen look, cooler grays are seen as a bit oversaturated and on the way out.
Want something a bit warmer for your upcoming renovation? Go with:
- Beige
- Brown
- Tan
These colors and richer color schemes are set to become one of the go-to choices for the upcoming year.
Monochrome White
White kitchens are untouchable in design. There will always be space for the white kitchen. However, many designers are concerned that too much white can look flat and cheap, which makes them a kitchen trend to avoid in 2023—unless you make some modifications . . .
There are several ways to do all white without going overboard. Provide some context in color with accents or with an equal measure of another color. Color doesn’t have to be bold and bright, even another neutral color or metallic can help elevate white to a new level. You could also opt for adding texture to your white kitchen. Some texture gives a white kitchen depth and creates a richer design.
One of the best ways to balance your kitchen’s color scheme is through the cabinets. We recommend sampling your preferred color first so you know exactly what works before you buy.
Brass
Brass is another big trend that’s on the way out in 2023. What was once a popular feature on knobs, accents, and sink fixtures is now being replaced by:
- Brushed nickel
- Stainless steel
- Glass
- Copper
While choosing one of these four materials, don’t forget about your cabinets. Colors like blue and gray or a natural wooden look are the perfect addition to your kitchen.
Oversized Islands
A kitchen island is a popular style that’s not going away. But islands the size of an actual island are something you need to reconsider for 2023.
Choosing a double island or an island that’s way too large will restrict your movement and hamper the functionality of your kitchen. Instead, study your kitchen and build an island that reasonably sized for the right mixture of function and style.
For an even better result, some designers are reimagining the island altogether. If you want the island-style prep space that can act as a makeshift dining space, choose a vintage table of reasonable length and width instead.
Style Mismatch
The open floor plan continues to be in high demand. We may never go back to enclosed kitchens and living spaces separated from the rest of the house. An open floor plan requires some design planning though. The entire space has to feel like one cohesive whole.
Gone are the days when you can have a rustic kitchen in a mostly mid-century modern floor plan. Avoiding this design faux pas requires you to know what you like and being able to apply it throughout your open floor plan so you don’t end up with a mismatched kitchen.
That being said, spaces that look too homogenous are a step too far. It’s important to balance the cohesive look with small pieces of individualism for each room, but especially in the kitchen. A few easy upgrades include mixing up the hardware on your cabinetry, like the:
- Knobs
- Pulls
- Latches
Short Backsplashes
No more four-inch or 18 inch backsplashes. They don’t make sense functionally or stylistically. The trend is toward a full backsplash from the countertop to the bottom of your cabinets. Designers are also favoring continuing your backsplash material all the way up the wall. The full wall backsplash serves as an accent that can become the centerpiece of your kitchen design.
Getting rid of the four-inch backsplash may mean you need to reconsider your backsplash material. Many kitchens with the shorter backsplash use the same material as the countertop and that’s certainly doable for a taller backsplash too. Or you can opt for tile, glass, mirror, or other washable surface.
Now you’re equipped to conquer your remodel! With the knowledge of trends you should avoid in 2023 and what to do instead, you’re ready to create a kitchen that will stay relevant.
