Dolly Parton's Terracotta Backsplash, Stone Countertops, and Wood Accents Prove That The 2000s Tuscan Kitchen is Back (With A Modern Twist)

Nostalgia is a powerful force. It revived the '80s, '90s, and now it's coming for 2000s design. When we think of the early 2000s, there is nothing more emblematic of the period than the warm woods, welcoming textures, and inviting hues of the Tuscan kitchen. Dolly Parton is the first harbinger of their return.

The singer purchased her classic Brentwood, Tennessee home in 1999, and has lived there ever since. Though much of the home is traditional, a recent Instagram post revealed that her Tuscan-style kitchen has major character.

It features a light terracotta backsplash, black finishes, and brown-veined countertops. Touches of wood through wooden cutting boards (like this beautiful acacia board from Crate + Barrel) bring a hint of the natural world into the space.

However, Dolly's kitchen is distinct from the Tuscan kitchens of our youth in one important aspect: instead of wooden cabinets, she has opted for all white upper kitchen cabinets. This transports the look into 2025 while maintaining the roots of what makes the look special.

The popularity of the look is far from limited to Dolly's home. 2025 takes on the Tuscan kitchen look will combine modern innovations in kitchen design with the storied, nostalgic look.

Mike Whitfield, luxury interior expert at LUSSO explains the interior design trend, stating: 'Although minimalist and modern aesthetics have dominated the design scene over the past decade, it is clear that a shift in perspective is happening. The romantic appeal of Tuscan design is creeping back into homes, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, as homeowners seek more grounded, soulful interiors that are layered and lived in.'

Recreate Dolly's Tuscan Kitchen Look at Home

So, what are the qualities of the Italian kitchen design style we will see going into the new year? As Dolly's kitchen shows, the look features a blend of materials with a warm neutral color palette.

Mike explains: 'Tuscan-style interiors are characterised by rich textures, weathered finishes, and a sun-drenched colour palette, embodying the rustic charm of countryside homes in Italy. What makes the Tuscan kitchen in particular so timeless is its ability to blend function with visual richness. Deep farmhouse-style sinks paired with arched kitchen taps, open wood shelving, and solid stone countertops are all examples of staple design choices that help to bring both authenticity and luxury to the forefront.'

Fortunately, recreating the look comes down to simply choosing the right materials. 'Natural materials play a crucial role in Tuscan kitchens,' advises Mike. 'Stone in particular is a defining feature, ageing beautifully and adding character over time, while warm terracotta or travertine tiles provide a sense of warmth that grounds the space in tradition. These are inherently social spaces, designed for gathering, breaking bread, and spending time with loved ones, so flow and layout are just as important as the materials chosen for such spaces.'

As nostalgia continues to shape our interiors, the homes of our youths become the blueprint for beautiful spaces. With Dolly Parton's approval, the Tuscan kitchen revival just might one of our favorite looks.