We brought together trends that we are seeing popular across multiple design and home websites including Real Simple, House Beautiful, Delish, Builder and Elle Decor. Every year the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) releases its Kitchen Trends Report. These websites draw from that report as well as from popular designers about what you may see most in kitchens this year. 

You may be tempted to do a full overhaul on your kitchen and make it as "up-to-date" as possible, but be forewarned that not all trends are created equal and some may go out just as soon as they came in. Incorporate various elements to update without investing in a full remodel. 

Update and enhance your kitchen with some of these top trends.  

** Image in header is from Bakes & Kropp Fine Cabinetry

1. Large Communal Islands

Eating at the kitchen island is not necessary a recent development but designers are looking at making islands bigger, even more functional and unique. Real Simple conducted a poll and 56% of people indicated that they planned to add or maximize an existing island. Island designs are looking to include various shades, textures and layouts. Layouts would emphasize conversations so look at wraparound seating being more prevalent. 

2. Warmer Feel With Wood

We're not saying that the white kitchen is out (put down the paint brush), but we are starting to see a return to warmer woods. Delish took the advise of Bob Bakes of Bakes & Kropp (with a show room right in Cold Spring Harbor!) that modern designs with classic elements will be trending. As pointed out in the article this could be seen with matte wood shelving or panels incorporated into a kitchen with high gloss cabinets. Additionally Builder which incorporated stats from the National Kitchen & Bath Association's (NKBA) 2024 Kitchen Trends Report that 28% of people cited wood as a poplar trend as opposed to white which garnered 26%. 

3. Make a statement with your range hood

Boring range hoods are out - custom and decorative range hoods are in. Make a statement in your kitchen by playing with mixed materials or paint. House Beautiful cites HGTV star and designer Alison Victoria's hood as an example of the years trend. She stated;  "I wanted a hood unlike anything you've ever seen, one that's artistic and also functions properly," 

4. All about the beverage stations 

Real Simple cites the NKBA stats that 60% of tradespeople will be adding beverage stations into their design layouts for their customers. Beverage stations vary upon the customer but could be minimalist namely just cabinetry to hold your favorite drinks or one thats more elaborate with refrigeration, sink and more. Beverage stations would be updated to include coffee making as well as cocktails. Delish takes this trend up a notch by incorporating beverage areas into the primary bedroom for a hotel inspired retreat. 

5. Going Green 

Green is all in! 

Energy efficiency, built in recycling, and donation of older appliances are not only trendy but eco-conscious. 

Additionally, larger windows and access to the outdoors is a huge plus for your kitchen. Outdoor kitchens and living areas are also popular particularly creating space for herb growing for wellness and eating. 

With an ever growing desire to go green and be close to nature, it's not too surprising that the color green is having its moment. Green can be invited in in many different shades however muted or intense. Bring in green through paint, tile or even wallpaper.  

6. Gold

Warming of the kitchen space continues with the popularity of gold. Close to 50% of the respondents in the NKBA survey say that gold is the top choice this year. Matte, brushed or satin will be the top finishes. Popularity for gold will be seen in faucets, lighting and hardware.