According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s newly released 2024 Kitchen Trends Report, more and more homeowners are ditching their simple all-white kitchen cabinets for warm wood finishes, including walnut and white oak.
"We've seen a very noticeable transition from white kitchens to white oak cabinetry," says Sarah Robertson, founder and principal of Studio Dearborn. "The pushback from white has resulted in a drive toward warmer tones in the kitchen."
"Warm wood kitchens are instantly cozy, approachable and inviting," agrees Kelsey McGregor, founder of Kelsey Leigh Interiors, who refers to the style as "timeless."
But the trend doesn't stop with natural wood cabinetry: Designers are also incorporating wood ceiling beams, installing water-resistant wood floors and opting for wood countertops.
What's behind the kitchen trend?
For natural beauty, consider matching white oak cabinets with a darker wood countertop.
On the whole, designers say they're noticing that interior color palettes are warming up. "We've turned the dial warmer across the board, and that’s translated into the cabinetry and finishes in our kitchens," says McGregor.
"People are spending more time at home so they want it to feel intimate and cozy, and natural wood can quickly transform a space that is void of personality to one of warmth and hospitality," says Robertson.
Does that mean that all-white kitchens are on the outs? There's no denying that white kitchens are timeless — they look clean, bright and ensure your space will feel modern for years. On the downside, some say that white kitchens can lack texture, depth and intrigue. Wood kitchens, on the other hand, are more likely to exude warmth and can be more customizable to fit various lifestyles.
"The rich, natural beauty of wood cabinets and countertops gives a complexity and character to spaces that white can’t match," says Paul Grothouse, founder of Grothouse, a company that makes custom wood countertops.
Not only do wood cabinets look more natural and organic, but they typically appear newer for longer than painted cabinets. "Chips and scratches are inevitable with painted cabinets, and the upkeep can be more tedious," says McGregor. "When wood is scratched, there is less contrast from wood to wood, and the imperfection is easier to mend or hide."
What wood grains are best for kitchen cabinets?
According to MasterBrand Cabinets’ 2024 Trend Report, "the popularity of wood grain is on the rise, showcasing a growing appreciation for the organic beauty and texture of wood."
Designers say white oak is the most popular, but medium to dark tones are also popping up in kitchens — and walnut remains a fashionable choice, according to Robertson. White oak is a durable and long-lasting material for kitchen cabinets, although Robertson notes woods such as birch and alder are a more sustainable choice, since the trees grow faster.
To break up a space, take a note from designer Bria Hammel’s book and pair a warm wood center island with painted kitchen cabinets (here, a moody green hue).
"We're starting to use alder, as it stains nicely, has a nice grain pattern and it does well in both modern and traditional settings," adds interior design architect Julee Ireland. "It has a neutral tone and doesn't feel as heavy and dated like some of the other wood species out there." Designer Bria Hammel says she loves using white oak for classic coastal interiors, and alder or mahogany for moody, vintage-inspired spaces.
According to Houzz research, medium wood tones are the most popular among homeowners right now, with a growing interest in light wood over the last year. "Popular photos on Houzz suggest that two of the most common options are white oak for its light, airy appearance, and walnut, which supports a richer look that, when paired with flat-panel cabinetry, works well in a mid-century modern style," says Mitchell Parker, a senior editor at Houzz.
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
FAQs
Fluted Wood
What is the kitchen trend for 2024? ›
Minimalist and streamlined aesthetics
In addition to the emphasis on clean lines and clutter-free spaces, minimalist and streamlined design principles are playing a prominent role in kitchen trends for 2024.
What is the kitchen trend in 2025? ›
Generally speaking, earthy browns, dark green, and dark blue are expected to dominate kitchen colour palettes. These natural and calming tones create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. The colour palette for kitchens in 2025 will strike a balance between soothing neutrals and energetic accents.
What is the natural wood trend in kitchens in 2024? ›
Natural light wooden kitchens
The affinity for natural elements persists in 2024 but takes on a predominantly serene form, characterized by lighter wood types. The subdued tones are complemented by contrasting surfaces, stainless steel choices, and darker wood.
Are oak cabinets coming back in 2024? ›
Many design experts believe the current trend of natural wood is here to stay. Homeowners are looking for warmth and comfort from their kitchens. Oak, wood, and stone delivers that in spades.
What backsplash is in style in 2024? ›
Consider the Classics. First, classic tiles such as ceramic and porcelain tiles are looked at in 2024 as beauties that are timeless and never go out of style. Affordable and easy to install, these tiles are perfect for backsplash and they can feature a distinct color, unusual pattern, or anything else you desire.
What color cabinets are in for 2024? ›
Bold and Vibrant Hues
In 2024, rich colors like emerald and blueberry are expected to dominate kitchen cabinetry. When using such bright and vivid colors, it's important to strike the right balance.
What is the kitchen forecast for 2024? ›
Key Takeaways. 2024 kitchen and bath revenues are projected to total $173 billion in 2024, a decrease of 3 percent compared to last year at this time. New construction K&B spend is expected to decline 4% and remodeling spending is forecast to decline 2% in 2024.
What kitchen hardware is in style for 2024? ›
One of the standout trends for 2024 is the use of mixed metals. Combining different finishes like bronze, stainless steel, and black hardware can create a dynamic and visually interesting kitchen. Interior designers are increasingly favoring this approach to add depth and character to spaces.
What is the trend in backsplash for 2025? ›
Some moody kitchen backsplash ideas for 2024 and 2025 include backsplashes in dark, muted shades of blue, black, brown, and green; and natural stone backsplashes with distinctive veining to add drama and movement to your kitchen design.
Natural stone surfaces continue to be a top choice for homeowners in 2024, offering timeless beauty and durability. There are several trends involving natural stone countertops that are gaining popularity: Marble: Marble countertops are classic and elegant, adding a touch of luxury to any kitchen or bathroom.
Are cherry cabinets out of style in 2024? ›
As a matter of fact, we like using woods with some knots and imperfections, and we've been sticking with a very low sheen to give an aged feel to the wood. We are seeing darker versions of walnut and even cherry popping up as accents in kitchens, and with the right stain, they can feel both current and very authentic.
What color wood is in style in 2024? ›
Mid-Tones. We've talked about darker and lighter woods that are trending in 2024, but the hottest wood tone this year lands right in the middle. Not too dark and not too light, not too warm and not too cool, the mid-tone woods like ash, beech, walnut, and oak are winners in every design.
What are the best cabinet stains for 2024? ›
In 2024, moody blues and greens are stealing the spotlight. Deep navy, forest green, and rich emerald are becoming go-to choices for those seeking a sophisticated and luxurious vibe in their culinary space. These deep hues create a sense of drama and depth while adding a touch of elegance to any kitchen.
Is honey oak outdated? ›
While wood was once thought to be only for traditional design, contemporary trends have been mixing wood with other materials to create ultra modern kitchens. While honey oak can look dated, there are ways to add this rich material to your kitchen in a modern way.
Is golden oak outdated? ›
As we know, oak cabinet kitchens are nothing new. Many people think that oak kitchens are old and outdated. And yes, they've been popular since long ago because they're a heavy-duty durable material and because of their timeless appeal. But they're long from outdated.
What color countertops are in style in 2024? ›
One of top 2024 countertop trends embraces color and vibrancy in kitchen designs. Going for a bold, saturated countertop option is a stylish way to add more color and artistry to your kitchen. Particularly, emerald green countertops and other rich earth-toned slabs are a striking and unique choice.
What is the most popular decorating style for 2024? ›
Textures & Natural Elements
Boucle, fringe, rattan and other textures are expected to be extremely popular in 2024. This can extend to “geometrics, wood grains, faceted designs, patinaed textures, and unique curves,” according to prominent designer Stacy Garcia.
What is the trend in kitchen flooring in 2024? ›
IN: Warm Tile Tones
So do yourself a favor in 2024 and warm up your home with inviting hues of cream, beige, and lighter wood-effect tones. Whether you opt for ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tile, choosing warm tones for your flooring can create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere you'll love coming home to.
