Cabinetry remains a crucial part of any kitchen. Not only does it determine how much storage you have and how you’re able to organize your kitchen essentials, but it has a heavy influence on your kitchen’s overall design style. As we look ahead to a new year, we tapped designers for their thoughts on what’s next in kitchen cabinetry design. From stained glass panels to mixed materials, take a look at these kitchen cabinet trends that are expected to take off in 2023.
Dark Stained Wood
"I think we are finally seeing a return to dark stained wood cabinetry in the kitchen," says Studio Dearborn founder Sarah Robertson. " It works as a counterbalance to all the saturated colors in our interiors right now, lends a 'been here forever' vibe, and aligns with our yearnings for the comfort of our grandparents' home!"
See more of this kitchen by Studio Dearborn.
Stained-Glass Panels
“Stained glass cabinets were once a popular choice but fell out of favor in recent years,” says designer Margarita Bravo. “However, they are making a comeback as homeowners seek to add a touch of elegance to their kitchens.”
In a soft, monochromatic pink kitchen by Baxt Ingui Architects—designed for the 2022 Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse—custom cabinetry by Taffera Fine Building & Finishes and Ace Fabrications features leaded glass by Sunburst Studios.
Two-Toned Cabinets
Two-toned cabinets may not seem like an obvious choice, but they can bring depth, intrigue, and subtle variation into your kitchen. "Two-toned cabinets are gaining popularity as homeowners seek to add a touch of personality to their kitchens," Bravo says. "Black and white cabinets are a classic combination that can create a stunning look, while other popular choices include blue and white, grey and white, and even green and white."
Kitchen design by Nicole Hollis Studio.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Special Hardware
Unique kitchen cabinetry hardware will play a key role in kitchen personalization. Not only can it make your space unique, but it can amplify the design style you're after. For the kitchen of the Kingston Design Connection Showhouse in 2022, Hendley & Co tapped Modern Matter for exquisite hardware, including red geometric knobs and tortoise pulls.
Traditional Details
"Traditional details in the kitchen are back," Robertson says. "But unlike kitchens of decades ago, they are infused with lots of light from big windows and a mix of light and dark finishes—resulting in a bright, eclectic, and very personal space."
Interior design by Studio Dearborn.
Bold Colors
If you thought purple kitchens were bold, get ready for a greater color direction. "Bright yellows, oranges, and reds are all becoming more popular as homeowners look to add a pop of color to their kitchens," Bravo says. "This can be done with either accent cabinets or by painting the entire kitchen in a bold color or adding wallpaper to accent the room."
Kitchen design by Michelle Nussbaumer.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Natural Finishes
The warm, rustic look of cabinetry that emphasizes its wood grain creates an inviting atmosphere. "Although we've already seen a bit of this in 2022, we will see even more natural wood finishes in kitchens in 2023," designer Hilary Matt says.
She adds: "Whether incorporated into cabinetry, accessories, or flooring, the options are limitless! I love the look of natural wood on panel-ready appliances—like Sub-Zero Designer Series Refrigeration—which can add sophistication to your space, especially when paired with other materials like a patterned tile floor or a stone island."
Kitchen design by Alison Giese.
Warm Accents
"It is a great luxury to be able to entertain in your kitchen, and having a space where guests can feel comfortable and relaxed is incredibly important," says Anna Zaoui, co-founder of The Invisible Collection. "Using warm colors and different textures to create a special space within your kitchen area is a fantastic way to do this that can be achieved with cabinetry in painted wood with old fashioned handles in copper or old gold finish metal. A vintage addition will wrap it up, be it a pendant, chairs, or copper pans."
Kitchen design by Birgitte Pearce.
Mixed Materials
Mixed materials continue to gain popularity in everything from staircases to kitchen cabinetry. "Cabinets made from a combination of wood and metal are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a unique look that is both stylish and durable," Bravo says.
Kitchen design by Emil Dervish.
