Unexpected Kitchen Design Trends to Watch: A Look Ahead
As our kitchens continue to evolve as the heart of the home, designers and homeowners alike are exploring bold, unexpected ideas that bring fresh personality and function to this essential space. Shannon Tannehill, UDCP, Design Consultant at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio, shares her take on some of the most surprising kitchen trends emerging for 2025.
1. English-Style Kitchens with Moody Tones
A departure from the minimalism that’s been popular for years, English-style kitchens are making a comeback with their warm, dark wood cabinetry, rich color palettes, and classic detailing. “English kitchens bring a timeless charm that feels both elegant and inviting,” says Tannehill. “They’re perfect for homeowners who want a cozy, lived-in feel that still feels elevated.”
These kitchens often include elements like freestanding cabinetry, open shelving, and classic farmhouse sinks. Darker woods and traditional detailing add sophistication, while rich, moody colors like forest greens and navy blues bring depth. For those wanting a timeless look, English-style kitchens offer a beautiful blend of elegance and warmth.
2. Range Alcoves for a Touch of the Old-World
Range alcoves are another unexpected element popping up in kitchen design, adding a nostalgic, old-world charm to modern spaces. Built around the range, these alcoves create a recessed space that feels both functional and architecturally interesting. “A range alcove is like a little sanctuary for cooking,” explains Tannehill. “It frames the cooking area beautifully, making it feel like a special, dedicated space.”
With tiled backsplashes or arched designs, range alcoves bring character and depth to the kitchen. This feature is ideal for those who love to cook, as it creates a dedicated, cozy spot for meal prep, often paired with built-in spice shelves or decorative tiles for added personality.
3. Woven and Mesh Cabinet Fronts
Woven or mesh cabinet fronts are bringing texture and craftsmanship back into kitchen design. These unique cabinet fronts introduce a touch of the artisanal, blending traditional craftsmanship with a fresh, modern look. “We’re seeing clients drawn to the texture and interest these cabinet fronts add,” says Tannehill. “They make cabinets feel more dynamic and create visual breaks in a wall of cabinetry.”
Ideal for homeowners who want a bit of personality in their kitchen without going overboard, woven or mesh fronts are perfect for upper cabinets or standalone pantry units. The result is a light, airy feeling that complements both classic and contemporary designs.
4. Bold, Earthy Cabinet Colors
While neutrals have long dominated kitchens, 2025 is seeing a shift toward bold, earthy colors inspired by nature. Deep greens, rich blues, and terracotta tones are taking center stage, adding warmth and character to kitchen spaces. Tannehill shares, “These colors bring a grounding effect to the kitchen. They feel connected to nature and create a sense of calm.”
Using bold, earthy hues on cabinets adds depth and richness, which pairs beautifully with natural materials like wood or stone. For those looking to bring color into their kitchen without overpowering the space, earthy tones are an excellent option, offering a refreshing break from the classic white kitchen.
5. Two-Tone Cabinets for Depth and Dimension
Adding a creative twist, two-tone cabinets are becoming a popular choice for adding visual interest and dimension to kitchens. By combining different colors or materials on the upper and lower cabinets, homeowners can personalize their kitchen in a way that feels dynamic and cohesive. “Two-tone cabinets allow for more creative freedom,” Tannehill notes. “They’re a great way to introduce contrast without overwhelming the space.”
This trend can be as subtle or bold as you like. Some homeowners opt for soft contrasts, like white uppers with light wood lowers, while others go for high-contrast pairings such as deep green cabinets on the bottom with cream-colored cabinets on top. This style is versatile, allowing for endless customization to suit each homeowner’s taste.
6. Textured Finishes: Fluted and Ribbed Cabinet Doors
Textured cabinet finishes, like fluted or ribbed designs, add a tactile quality to kitchen cabinets that feels both custom and artisanal. These finishes bring a bit of the unexpected to a traditional cabinet face, elevating the overall design. “Textured finishes make cabinetry stand out without being too loud,” explains Tannehill. “They add a handcrafted feel that’s refined and modern.”
These details are subtle yet effective, offering a sophisticated way to add depth to cabinets. Fluted or ribbed cabinet doors can work with a variety of kitchen styles, from modern to traditional, giving the space a unique and personal touch.
7. Concealed Kitchens for a Minimalist Look
Minimalism is moving to the next level with concealed kitchens that hide appliances and storage behind flush cabinetry. This design approach gives the kitchen a sleek, unified appearance, making it blend seamlessly with the rest of the home. “Concealed kitchens offer a clean, uncluttered look,” says Tannehill. “They’re perfect for people who want a seamless space that doesn’t feel overly ‘kitchen-like.’”
By hiding appliances within cabinetry and using handleless doors, concealed kitchens create a minimalist, modern atmosphere that’s perfect for open-concept homes. They’re a practical choice for anyone looking to make the kitchen feel more like an integrated part of the home’s overall design.
8. Cool Metal Kitchens for a Modern, Industrial Edge
Metal is being reimagined as a key material in kitchen design, particularly stainless-steel finishes that offer an industrial yet sophisticated look. From countertops to cabinetry, metal elements bring a sleek, modern aesthetic that appeals to those who value durability and low-maintenance surfaces. “Metal kitchens are surprisingly versatile,” says Tannehill. “They offer a sleek, cool look that’s easy to maintain and feels effortlessly modern.”
Stainless steel, brushed nickel, and even aged brass finishes can bring a unique edge to kitchen design, pairing well with natural wood or stone elements. This trend is ideal for homeowners looking for a streamlined, hyper-modern vibe that’s also practical and easy to clean.
Looking Ahead: Crafting Kitchens That Feel Like Home
These unexpected kitchen trends for 2025 highlight the blending of traditional charm with innovative, personalized design. From earthy tones and textured finishes to high-tech concealment, these trends offer endless opportunities to create a kitchen that’s unique, functional, and future-ready. “Today’s kitchens are about creating a space that’s a true reflection of the homeowner,” Tannehill concludes. “It’s all about designing a kitchen that feels personal, comfortable, and capable of supporting our lives for years to come.”
Whether you’re planning a full remodel or simply gathering ideas, these emerging trends can help shape a kitchen that not only meets your needs today but also grows with you in the future.
Meet the Design Consultant
Pro facts – Shannon became a member of Team Cleary in 2021, bringing with her six years of experience in the remodeling industry. Before joining The Cleary Company, she worked extensively in tile sales. She also pursued studies in Interior Design at The Art Institute of Cincinnati.
Fun fact – She loves her hip-hop dance class!
Social Media – Follow her and her projects on Instagram @shannonindesign
What do you enjoy the most about working for TCC?
Being around other creative problem solvers and having events that cultivate our role in the community and with our vendors.
In August of 2024, Shannon was interviewed by Kitchen & Bath Design News to discuss a gorgeous historic home remodel project. Learn how “the house” became our client & how our amazing Production Team cared for its architectural integrity. Check it out!
Read more about Shannon and her NARI UDCP accreditation on our blog.
Ready to get planning started on your kitchen remodel project? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today by scheduling a call or completing a new project form.