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The kitchen is one of the most used spaces in the home, so it's only right that you'd want it to be an accurate reflection of your design aesthetic. It's where you prepare meals, gather with loved ones and maybe tackle homework with the kids, if your space allows. Even if a gut renovation isn't on your calendar, though, you can find inspiration in this rundown of the top kitchen trends for 2024, according to professional designers.
Whether you love the idea of going bold with color (green is trending, for instance) or prefer the warmth of wood tones, there's a kitchen design style out there for you that can be completed without a major overhaul to the space. You can introduce textured backsplash tiles for visual appeal, pull your kitchen together with herringbone flooring or incorporate brass accents for a sophisticated flair. If you don't want to break the bank, the design pros we consulted say upgrades can be as simple as carving out a coffee nook with a cart or showing off your favorite artwork (conversation pieces are always a good idea).
So, regardless of your lifestyle — whether you live solo, have a large family or enjoy entertaining regularly — don't think twice about experimenting with paint colors, cabinet choices, tiles, countertops, flooring, decorative accents and more, even if you have a small layout.
1
Coffee Corners
“A growing trend is the incorporation of dedicated coffee corners in breakfast areas: Homeowners are requesting coffee bars that can store coffee, tea, breakfast foods, fruit, cups, bowls and other essentials. This dedicated space allows for a convenient and stylish way to start the day." — Malka Helft, Think Chic Interiors
2
Brass Accents
“In 2024, we expect brass accents to continue trending in popularity. Versatile by nature, brass exudes a classic and timeless appeal that creates a sense of sophistication in both traditional and modern design environments. It also creates visual interest and contrast by allowing other key design elements and materials — such as marble or wood — to shine, making it a popular choice amongst our clientele.” — Paul Kropp, Bakes & Kropp
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3
Custom Hoods
“The trend of a custom hood — but at an affordable cost — is making its way into the kitchen. The hidden hood is really making a run for it and will continue because it gives people options on how to make that piece interesting and unique. It can be simple with different shaped drywall around it, and it can be designed with tile, metal or stone around it along with many other materials.” – Linda Hayslett, LH.Designs
4
Appliance Cabinets
“I foresee a trend of more appliance garages coming back. We've been doing appliance garages for a while now, and they are a great way to keep all of your small appliances accessible without the clutter.” — Jennifer Fisher, J. Fisher Interiors
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5
Layers of Color
“I’m team color, because it can add fun and the unexpected to a room. Color is another method to layer in a room, and layers gives depth to a space. This encompasses all design styles.” — Beth Diana Smith, Beth Diana Smith Interior Design
6
Herringbone Floors
“Herringbone is one of my favorite designs, which dates back to the ancient Roman Empire. The design has had a recent resurgence with designers and architects using it in everything from tile to textiles and I really love how it looks in a kitchen. For the kitchen in our New York City townhouse, we used herringbone for the hardwood floors to open up the space. Our kitchen is the heart of our home, and the floors really add to the warmth and coziness.” — Ashley Stark, Ashley Stark Home and STARK
RELATED: 9 Best Flooring Options for Your Home
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7
Shades of Green
“Green really is a hit in kitchen designs these days, and it's easy to see why. It's got that fresh, natural feel, reminding us of the great outdoors right in our homes. It can go from a calm sage to a snazzy emerald, fitting into all kinds of kitchen styles, whether you're going for a laid-back vibe or something super chic. Plus, it pairs well with various materials such as wood and unique metals.” — Marie Cloud, Indigo Pruitt
RELATED: Designers Have Spoken: Green Kitchens Are All the Rage Right Now
8
Freeform Islands
“A kitchen island does not have to conform to industry standards or conventional expectations. Instead, it can adapt to the room’s unique footprint and the surrounding space, transforming into an intriguing object as the focal point in the room and establishing a strong connection with the adjacent area. Working within oddly-shaped spaces can spark creativity and encourage the opportunity to break away from standard conventions.” – Philip Consalvo, PJCArchitecture
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9
3-D Tiles
“We have been absolutely loving heavily textured or 3D tiles lately. They add so much depth and interest to a room, and easily become a conversation piece.” – Jennifer Verruto, Blythe Interiors
RELATED: Best Places to Buy Tile for Every Budget
10
Artwork
“One trend that's making its way into the kitchen is artwork. People are seeing the kitchen as not only a utilitarian place to make food anymore. It's the heart of the home, so we are adding interesting, fun and conversational art pieces to the kitchen.” – Linda Hayslett, LH.Designs
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11
Organic Tones
“While warm, organic kitchens have been in style for a while now, there's a big increase in their popularity — exposed beams, light oak cabinetry, antique bronze hardware and zellige tile backsplashes are just a few examples. Instead of white cabinets mixed with wood cabinets, there is more of light wood combined with mid to dark wood tones being used, creating a warm, dynamic and timeless vibe. One of our favorites is white oak mixed with natural walnut!” – Jennifer Verruto, Blythe Interiors
12
Metal Kitchens
“One trend we think will gain significant traction in 2024 is metal kitchens. This concept integrates various metals in different sheens (matte versus polished versus patinated). This trend celebrates the blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, offering a fresh take on kitchen design. The introduction of these elements can transform an old kitchen into a modern and distinct space.” — Adam Hunter, Adam Hunter Studio
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13
Multifunctional Islands
“The kitchen island is evolving beyond a mere cooking and dining area; it is becoming a dynamic space that adapts to the diverse needs and activities of modern lifestyles. In some designs, we even incorporate more than one island to further enhance functionality and aesthetics, creating distinct zones within the kitchen for different purposes.” — Bahar Zaeem, RZ Interiors and National Kitchen & Bath Association
14
Beverage Centers
“Beverage centers are rising to the top of desired items to include in a kitchen. Beverage centers now include coffee/tea service, water dispensers, undercounter refrigeration and frozen goods storage for smoothies, shakes and acai bowls.” — Elizabeth Valentina, Nar Design Group and National Kitchen & Bath Association
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15
Shaker Cabinet Panels
“We’re seeing a lot of interest in 'Slim Shaker' cabinetry, which is somewhere in between a flat slab door and a traditional Shaker door. This transitional style features slimmer trim detailing for an elevated look.” – Philip Consalvo, PJCArchitecture
16
Custom Appliances
“From specialty handles on Monogram appliances to integrated controls on cabinet faces by Wolf, the kitchen is getting a facelift in the small details. Whether you want to match range controls to your plumbing selections, or go for a pop of color to contrast, custom options are expanding. Where appropriate, these subtle upgrades bring character and individualization into a room in the house that used to be sterile and standardized. No more!” — Brad Ramsey, Brad Ramsey Interiors
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17
Natural Wood
“We have observed a notable shift in the preference for natural wood, particularly the white oak wood species with its rift cut grains. This choice has become increasingly prevalent in modern home design trends, especially when used on cabinetry. The distinct rift cut grains of white oak add a touch of sophistication and a contemporary edge to the overall aesthetic.” — Shima Radfar, National Kitchen & Bath Association
18
Statement Wallpaper
“Next year, I expect to see more statement wallpaper taking over – less of the neutrals and more bold patterns and colors that will become the focal point of the space. This can be incorporated in a number of different design styles, which will make it an interesting trend to see across the industry. I love adding statement wallpaper within the kitchen; it can be so unexpected and when paired with classic stainless steel appliances, it lets the bold designs stand out.” — Hilary Matt, Hilary Matt Interiors, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove
Monique Valeris
Home Design Director
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."