Kitchen trends evolve quickly, and what once felt fresh can soon make a space feel outdated. As we move into 2025, designers are stepping away from trends that no longer serve modern lifestyles or aesthetics. Overly fussy details, impractical materials, and once-popular design choices are being swapped for more functional, timeless options. Whether it’s a shift toward warmer finishes or saying goodbye to certain color schemes, understanding these retiring trends can help homeowners create a kitchen that feels both stylish and enduring. Here are eight kitchen trends designers are ready to leave behind.

1. Open Shelving

Open shelving was once celebrated for its airy feel and ability to display stylish dishware, but in reality, it often leads to clutter and maintenance issues. Homeowners are finding that keeping shelves looking curated and dust-free is more work than it’s worth. As a result, closed cabinetry is making a strong comeback, offering concealed storage for a cleaner, more streamlined look. Glass-front cabinets and built-in organizers are emerging as a stylish alternative, allowing for a balance between display and functionality without the drawbacks of fully exposed shelving.

2. Oversized Kitchen Islands

Massive kitchen islands have been a staple in open-concept kitchens, but designers are now rethinking their practicality. While they offer ample workspace, oversized islands can dominate a room, making movement and workflow less efficient. In 2025, more homeowners are opting for smaller, more proportionate islands that allow for better circulation. Multi-functional islands with built-in storage, seating, and smart appliances are replacing purely decorative oversized slabs. This shift makes kitchens feel more open, practical, and suited to modern lifestyles.

3. All-White Kitchens

For years, all-white kitchens have been a go-to choice for their clean, timeless appeal. However, designers are now moving away from stark white spaces in favor of warmer, more inviting color palettes. White can often feel sterile and lacks the depth needed to create a cozy, lived-in atmosphere. Homeowners are increasingly incorporating rich wood tones, earthy hues, and even bold accent colors to add personality. While white elements will always have a place, layering in warmer materials like natural stone countertops and mixed metals can create a more dynamic and modern kitchen.

4. Industrial-Style Finishes

The industrial kitchen trend, characterized by exposed brick or concrete, metal fixtures, and raw wood, is taking a step back in 2025. While elements like matte black hardware and stainless steel still have their place, the overall aesthetic is being softened. Homeowners are leaning toward a more refined mix of organic textures, such as warm-toned woods, brushed metals, and softer color palettes. The shift away from harsh, factory-inspired design allows for a more comfortable and inviting kitchen space that feels elegant rather than overly utilitarian.

5. Statement Range Hoods

For a while, bold, oversized range hoods were a statement feature in many kitchens, designed to draw attention and add architectural interest. However, as kitchens become more streamlined, these elaborate hoods are being replaced with understated, built-in designs that blend seamlessly into the cabinetry. Integrated range hoods create a cleaner, more cohesive look without overpowering the space. This trend reflects a broader shift toward minimalism, where functionality and aesthetics work together to create a harmonious kitchen design.

6. Subway Tile Backsplashes

Subway tiles have been a kitchen staple for decades, offering a classic, versatile look. However, in 2025, designers are looking for fresh alternatives that bring more texture and dimension to the space. Homeowners are gravitating toward zellige tiles, natural stone backsplashes, and bold patterns that add character and uniqueness. Instead of the standard white subway tile, more kitchens are featuring handmade, imperfect tiles or slabs of marble and quartz for a more high-end and personalized feel.

7. Matching Cabinetry and Hardware

For years, matching cabinetry and hardware was the default approach to kitchen design, ensuring a cohesive look. However, 2025 is embracing a more curated, layered aesthetic. Mixing different hardware finishes—such as combining brass and black or nickel and bronze—adds depth and sophistication. Similarly, two-tone cabinetry is gaining popularity, with lower cabinets in darker shades and upper cabinets in lighter hues. This shift allows for more creativity and individuality while still maintaining a polished, intentional design.

8. Glossy Finishes

High-gloss cabinets and countertops have long been associated with sleek, modern kitchens. However, as design trends move toward a more natural and inviting feel, matte and textured surfaces are becoming the preferred choice. Matte finishes reduce glare, show fewer fingerprints, and offer a more understated elegance. Textured materials like honed stone, brushed metals, and wood-grain cabinetry add warmth and depth, making the kitchen feel more grounded and timeless rather than overly polished or artificial.

This article was created with the assistance of AI but thoroughly edited by a human being.