The Kitchen Trends Designers Say You Will Be Seeing Everywhere In 2026

Much like in the fashion world, the arrival of fall means forecasting. Designers, tastemakers, and industry experts look into their crystal balls and predict what's going to happen in the world of interior design trends for the year ahead. And what's going on in the kitchen is always one of the most anticipated rooms.

As a Kitchen Editor, I may be biased, but the evolution of kitchen ideas and the way we approach designing them always make trend forecasts some of the most exciting, and 2026 does not disappoint. Even though I research beautiful spaces and speak with designers on a daily basis, I am still left surprised by some of the new trends that come forward.

For 2026, all signs point to our cooking spaces continuing to become more livable rooms, with less focus on utility and more on designing the space you truly love, filled with unique, personality-focused features. And there are some curve balls in here, too, with unexpected shapes and materials coming to the forefront. Here's everything designers are anticipating for kitchen trends in the year ahead.

The most coveted kitchen trends for 2026

From colors and materials to new and emerging features, these are the kitchen trends designers say you will see everywhere in 2026, and they're perfect additions whether you are remodeling a kitchen or planning a few thoughtful refreshes.

1. Pass through windows

Kitchens are no longer rooms that are hidden behind closed doors. Instead, they are designed and decorated as livable rooms that connect to living and dining spaces. As such, pass-through windows between the kitchen and living room are set to be a big trend as an alternative to an open plan layout, as shown in this modern European home in Tennessee.

'It works almost like a framed view: it connects the kitchen to the adjoining spaces without fully going open plan, allowing light, sightlines, and conversation to flow freely while still giving each room a sense of definition,' says Lauren Sullivan, founder and curator of Well x Design.

'It’s practical, but it also creates an architectural moment that feels intentional rather than default. And from a functional standpoint, it’s incredibly helpful for entertaining – food and drinks can move seamlessly through the opening without breaking the flow of conversation.'

2. Curves, curves, and more curves

Softer, more organic designs are at the forefront of kitchen trends, so expect to see curves throughout spaces, both in classic and unexpected ways. This trend is about removing some of the hard edges typical of kitchens without compromising on function.

'Curved and flowing forms – from arches to curved or softly contoured islands – are softening rigid lines and creating a more inviting spatial rhythm,' says Lauren Tolles, founder of Maison Birmingham.

It's a trend that's already begun emerging, like in Shea McGee's recent project filled with curvaceous profiles. Think outside of the box by introducing a curved backsplash, rounded chairs, or even a circular window if you're undergoing a full remodel.

3. Glass-enclosed pantries

It's not unusual for pantries to be designed as rooms connected to the kitchen, yet hidden behind a door that can be shut away. But in 2026, the pantry is going to become a bigger part of the main kitchen.

'I believe one of the biggest kitchen trends we’ll see in 2026 is glass-enclosed pantries. They’ve been steadily gaining traction, and I anticipate them becoming a staple in new builds and remodels alike,' says Kailee Blalock, co-founder of House of Hive Design Co.

'The appeal of this trend is twofold. On a functional level, it creates a dedicated space to house all the practical, everyday necessities of a kitchen: food storage, small appliances, even prep counters, while keeping the main kitchen clean and uncluttered,' she explains.

She also notes that there are plenty of aesthetic benefits to this trend, too, elevating the look of something that is essentially a storage space. 'Instead of hiding everything behind a solid door, a glass-framed pantry turns storage into a design feature, showcasing thoughtful organization, beautiful shelving, and even styled elements like ceramics or glassware,' she continues.

'Ultimately, glass-enclosed pantries strike the perfect balance between practicality and presentation, making them a natural next step in the evolution of open-concept kitchen.'

A glass-enclosed pantry means your kitchen storage inside needs to be as pretty as it is practical. Joanna Gaines's Magnolia has a beautiful range of kitchen storage that can all be mixed and matched to your shelves work hard but look chic while doing so.

4. Embracing the countersplash

The kitchen backsplash is becoming a real area of interest when it comes to kitchen trends. It may be a functional element, but it opens up a lot of opportunities for a design moment. And 2026 is the year of the countersplash.

'Carrying the countertop material onto the backsplash creates a clean, continuous surface that feels calm and considered. It avoids unnecessary visual breaks, which helps the kitchen feel more refined and cohesive. The repetition of a single material also allows other design details, such as cabinetry or lighting, to stand out,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

The versatility is what makes this trend so appealing. A subtle stone in a minimalist kitchen feels calming and cohesive, but in a bolder kitchen, a heavily veined marble creates a focal point and a characterful detail.

5. Warm neutrals and earthy hues

As we look to the kitchen color palettes expected to dominate, neutrals will always have a place. But each year, the way designers decorate with them shifts, and this year it's a mix of warm shades and earthy hues.

'In terms of kitchen color trends, earthy neutrals, warm whites and beiges, soft greens, and grounding browns are replacing high-contrast blacks, grays, and cool whites, helping kitchens feel cozier and more connected to nature and the rest of the home,' says Lauren Tolles.

We continue to crave a connection to nature, and the kitchen, which usually leads out to the backyard, is the room where we seek that indoor/outdoor flow the most. If you are looking for paint recommendations, Farrow & Ball just launched a new paint finish, Flat Eggshell, which has been designed with hardworking spaces like kitchens in mind. They have some stunning earthy neutrals that are cult favorites like Drop Cloth, Jitney, and, of course, Dead Salmon.

6. Open shelving adorned with picture rails

In 2026, kitchen shelving is getting an elegant upgrade. Instead of minimal wooden pieces or even tonal designs, shelves will feature brass gallery rails that not only elevate the overall look, but keep the pieces you are storing extra safe.

This trend really focuses on small details that elevate something functional – much like kitchen cabinet hardware, a simple brass railing along the perimeter of your shelf acts as jewelry and gives your storage a more custom look.

You can buy gallery rails to add onto your existing shelves – this Traditional Gallery Rail from Rejuvenation is a chic option – or you can buy shelves ready-made with this elegant adornment. For extra storage, this Bar Cabinet from Anthropologie features a shelf with a gallery rail, while giving you plenty of extra cabinet space.

7. Broken-plan kitchen layouts

Is the reign of open-plan kitchens officially over? According to the biggest kitchen trends of 2026, designs are shifting back towards broken-plan layouts, favoring cozier, zoned spaces.

'More homeowners are pushing back against the dominance of fully open-concept kitchens, citing issues of noise, odors, and lack of visual privacy (especially relevant with more people working from home),' says Lauren Tolles.

'Instead, designers are turning to broken plan layouts – using architectural elements such as archways, glass partitions, partial enclosures, or even ceiling treatments such as beams or coffers, to subtly delineate cooking zones from living and dining areas,' she continues.

'Many are also reintroducing butler’s pantries, hidden sculleries, or prep kitchens, thus allowing the main kitchen to remain a more polished, social space while keeping mess in a more private area.'

8. Cozy eat-in areas in small kitchens

Kitchen island seating has reigned supreme for a while now, but in 2026, small kitchens will be embracing the return of eat-in areas – small but perfectly formed seating areas featuring bistro sets and space-saving banquettes.

'Having an eat-in area in a kitchen adds an opportunity for softness and personality in kitchen design, which can otherwise have a lot of hard surfaces. Whether it's adding a cushy banquette or a warm wood table surface, these areas can really cozy up the kitchen,' says interior designer Carrie Moore.

Susan Klimala of TKS Design Group agrees, adding that 'gathering around a table is one of the most meaningful rituals in a home. Even in smaller spaces, it’s important to have a designated spot to sit down, share a meal, or connect over coffee. It brings balance to a kitchen that otherwise might be purely task-driven.'

9. Rich shades of purple and red are making a return

It's been some time since shades like purple and red have been referred to as the colors of choice in interiors, but especially in kitchens. However, as colors continue to be inspired by nature, people are seeking more unique interpretations.

'Nature continues to be an inspiration in kitchen colors, as we see the use of greens, browns, and terra-cotta, now introducing deeper colors like deep burgundy or midnight purple, which are found in flowers and eggplants. These purple hues are making a comeback,' says Shae Wilder of BlueStar.

It's a tasteful, timeless take on this controversial hue – think less lilac-like purple and more rich burgundies, eggplant shades, and merlot kitchens. They feel chic, elevated, and a little bit less expected than the usual greens and browns.

Introducing these timeless purple hues to your kitchen doesn't require a full re-paint. Simply adding small features or decor to your existing space offers the perfect balance, like the light fixture in this design.

10. Layering natural textures and materials

As always, neutral kitchens will continue to remain a staple. However, there are different approaches to these muted hues each year, and 2026 is all about layering and natural texture.

When asked about this year's kitchen trends, Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens, notes that lighter kitchens will feel 'a little more minimal, with dull, gentle beiges and creams, old wood and concrete. Natural decorations such as dried foliage, raffia, and vintage cane furniture.'

'This look is simple and uncluttered, light stone flooring, or brick floors, handmade rugs, and a color palette that sticks to natural tones. No fancy lighting, something industrial or wispy and natural. Open shelves and beautifully crafted pottery and linens, this kitchen is like a summer vacation.'

11. Mirrored finishes

We use mirrors in almost every room of the home, not just for getting ready, but as a design feature that can brighten and elongate a room. And in 2026, expect to see plenty of mirrored finishes in kitchen schemes.

'Mirrored finishes are going to be huge in kitchens in the coming year. Besides being easy to clean and inexpensive to procure and install, mirrors have the added benefit of visually expanding a small space, or reflecting light in a dark one,' says interior designer Bethany Adams.

'We're utilizing mirrors in different materials and colors, such as a pink mirrored acrylic range hood, to bring unexpected sophistication and interest to kitchens,' she explains of the trend's versatility.

12. Embracing vintage, pre-loved, and thrifted pieces

The vintage kitchen is coming into its own this year, with thrifted finds and kitchenware of the past making a comeback. From vintage lighting and artwork to rich, inviting colors and materials, mixing old and new has never looked so chic.

'I am seeing and loving kitchens that have a bit more personality, using old prep tables, dark wood, textiles, paint effects, and more muted colours. Warm rich wood, a clever mix of old and new that feels gathered over time, rather than all bought in one go. This look is taking over from a brand new kitchen, it’s a way of mixing old and new and making your kitchen interesting, exciting and different,' says Helen Parker.

'It appears easy to achieve, although it actually takes some careful choices. People love sourcing vintage, one off or unusual things for their homes these days. The vintage home has become a much more enjoyable and personal way to make your home original.'

13. Quietly luxurious kitchens

Bringing a touch of luxury into a kitchen always brings with it a sense of longevity – and it's a term that's experienced many variations, from loud luxury to quiet. But it's the latter that is here to stay in the world of kitchens.

'We’ll see kitchens leaning into quiet luxury – timeless, neutral palettes paired with sustainable, high-quality materials that feel both practical and indulgent,' says interior designer Stacy Garcia.

'Homeowners are craving spaces that look beautiful but are also hardworking, with smart storage and energy-efficient appliances becoming must-haves. It’s less about showy trends and more about creating a kitchen that feels like a lasting investment in your lifestyle,' she continues.

The key to the success of this trend is not about flashy, expensive features, but about high-quality craftsmanship and materials that truly stand the test of time. 'The beauty of this movement is that it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and longevity – you get a kitchen that feels calming, inviting, and totally livable while still standing up to daily life,' says Stacy.

'It’s approachable luxury, where durable materials, warm tones, and thoughtful design choices make the space feel personal without being overwhelming. In the end, it’s all about creating a kitchen that makes cooking, gathering, and everyday living feel just a little more joyful.'

14. Fun, unexpected lighting

Your kitchen lighting is an opportunity to introduce a playful, expressive moment in what can easily feel like a very functional space. And surprising lighting moments are set to become a big trend.

'Fun, unexpected lighting will be a big player next year. I love when a kitchen has a playful moment that feels totally unique – it brings energy, interest, and personality without overpowering the space,' says interior designer Ashley Montgomery.

This doesn't necessarily mean you need to bring in large, sculptural pendants – it could be traditional picture lights above open shelving, sconces on the back of a door, or a statement floor lamp in an unused corner.

This trend is about thinking outside the box and having fun with your design.

15. Kitchens that don't look like kitchens

The desire for a kitchen that feels inviting, lived-in, and more sociable has led to a new trend that no one could have expected: kitchens that don't look like kitchens. And it's a look that's gaining momentum.

'A growing kitchen trend is the shift toward treating the kitchen as a true extension of the living space. Designers are moving away from walls of upper cabinets and visible appliances, opting instead for larger pantries, hidden storage, and sleek integrations that allow the kitchen to flow seamlessly into adjoining rooms,' says interior designer Jess Cooney.

'The result is spaces that feel more open, inviting, and tailored for entertaining. Whether we’re hosting friends or gathering with family, everyone inevitably ends up in the kitchen, so this trend embraces that reality rather than resisting it,' she explains.

If these kitchen trends are anything to go by, 2026 is set to be a dynamic, stylish year for our cooking spaces. Whether you experiment with lighting, play with natural textures, or introduce a trending feature (like a pass-through window or curvaceous island), there are so many ways to bring new life and character into your kitchen.