But Annie Meyers-Shyer has carved out a name for herself in the design world well beyond being the filmmaker’s daughter. She has built a devoted following around the renovation of her historic Los Angeles home – a project that has now become the subject of her debut book, chronicling the transformation from start to finish. At the heart of the home is a spacious kitchen designed to feel as though it has always belonged there.

Here, Annie takes us inside the kitchen remodel, sharing how she created a kitchen that feels true to the character of the historic property while balancing timeless design with the realities of modern family life.

The Inspiration

The renovation reimagined the kitchen as a much larger, more family-oriented room, balancing timeless style with functional details. Rather than serving purely as a cooking space, Annie wanted to add areas to sit, relax, and spend quality time, which was reflected in the initial brief for the new design.

'The biggest goal was to make the kitchen feel as though it had always been part of the house. Originally, it was much smaller, so as we expanded it to include a family room on one end and a breakfast room on the other, it was really important that everything felt cohesive,' she explains.

'We took our cues from the millwork and architecture found throughout the rest of the house and designed the kitchen to feel completely in keeping with its original character. I never wanted someone to walk in and immediately think, Oh, this is the new addition.'

The Color and Material Palette

The kitchen color and material palette was an important part of the redesign, setting the tone and style for the room – including the ceiling, which now features a high-gloss finish to bounce light and add dimension. With a large bay window at one end of the enlarged kitchen, sticking to a neutral palette kept the space open, airy, and bright.

'I always knew the family room and breakfast room would have white walls, and every time we experimented with another color in the kitchen, it broke up the flow between the spaces. Keeping everything white made the entire area feel connected and much larger. White also lets the architecture, natural light, and textures take center stage. It's calming, timeless, and gives me a beautiful neutral backdrop for flowers, food, all the things!'

Timeless style was considered throughout the redesign, evident through the materials chosen in the kitchen. From the natural wood tones in various areas of the space to the mix of aged finishes that give the hardware a sense of history, every detail benefited from meticulous attention to detail.

'Every faucet in the house is polished nickel. It's my favorite finish because it's timeless and incredibly forgiving. For the door and cabinet hardware, I chose oil-rubbed bronze. Rather than making everything match perfectly, I like having a few finishes that complement one another. It creates depth and makes the house feel as though it evolved over time, instead of being installed all at once. Limiting yourself to just a couple of finishes also helps everything feel intentional and cohesive.'

The Island

The kitchen island is the true centerpiece, designed to accommodate plenty of counter seating and ample prep space to keep the kitchen functional. It's no surprise that when asked about the standout feature, Annie immediately highlighted the island.

'At 12 feet long, it's the heart of the kitchen and where everyone naturally gathers. I was very intentional about including seating for five. We may only be a family of four, but I always wanted room for a friend to join us because that's how our house functions. It's where homework happens, conversations happen, and everyone inevitably ends up.'

'A large island can easily feel like one giant block sitting in the middle of a room, and I really wanted to avoid that. The open shelving lightens the visual weight and makes the island feel more like a beautiful piece of furniture than just cabinetry. I use it for cookbooks, baskets, serving pieces, and objects I actually love using. It's functional, but it also gives the island personality.'

The Details

It's the details that take a white kitchen to the next level – they make a scheme feel layered, personalized, and beautifully stylized. To balance decorative features and functionality, Annie used materiality to bring warmth and character to the design, starting with the banquette seating and the charming decor that elevated it.

'I have woven matchstick shades on many of the windows throughout the house because they instantly add warmth and texture without making a room feel heavy. They filter light beautifully. I'm naturally drawn to rattan, wicker, and other natural fibers. That said, I'm careful not to overdo it. Repeating natural materials throughout a home creates continuity, but using them thoughtfully keeps each room feeling special.'

'The banquette was actually my husband's idea from the very beginning. He envisioned our family gathering there, and it's become exactly that. We eat there almost every day, the kids do homework there, and sometimes we'll watch a game or a show together while we're eating. It's become one of the most used spots in the house. It's not the easiest thing to climb in and out of, but that's a trade-off I'd happily make because it's created such a cozy place for our family to spend time together.'

The project has been a labor of love – and it's every element of the kitchen combined that makes it feel special. 'One of my favorite compliments came from my mother-in-law, who previously owned the house. She recently asked me how much we had raised the kitchen ceiling – we didn't raise it at all. It's still an eight-foot ceiling, but I think the proportions, cabinetry, and overall design make it feel much taller. To me, that was the ultimate compliment because it meant the space felt transformed without losing its original character.'

Create the Look

Annie's debut book, This Oak House: A Renovation Story with Interiors to Inspire Your Own Home, is available for preorder now at Amazon and will be released on September 15th 2026.

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It's a kitchen color that ticks all the boxes – warm, creamy, and decidedly elegant, mushroom hues are key to creating an inviting kitchen that's actually timeless. And designers say it's a trend worth paying attention to.

Here's why mushroom kitchen colors are having a moment, why they work so well in this hardworking room, and the best ways to bring them into your design. And don't worry – these spaces prove just how enduring the look really is.

What are Mushroom Kitchen Colors?

Fungi might not seem like the most elegant point of inspiration, but mushroom colors are more appealing than you might think. Sitting in the mid-neutral palette, these shades are the neutral answer to the dirty kitchen color trend we've all been obsessed with recently.

'Mushroom paint colors are warmer neutrals that blend taupe, gray, and brown. They are muddy colors with an earthy warmth – they don’t fall as warm as a beige but aren’t quite brown either. Colors like Kingsport Gray HC-86, Thunder AF-685, and Inner Balance 1522 are a few colors I consider mushroom hues,' says Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore.

'Mushroom colors are definitely having a moment right now, but I actually think they’ve been around for a while,' adds interior designer Alexa Kingery. 'The beautiful part of using an earthy-mushroom tone is that it’s rooted in nature, and nature never goes out of style. Mushroom colors can vary from a soft, creamy, light beige to a muddy taupe or brown.'

Why They're Trending

Mushroom-inspired colors feel aligned with how kitchen design is being approached right now. They create a warm, inviting atmosphere that takes a kitchen beyond a purely functional zone and creates a timeless base you won't tire of.

'I think people are still recovering from the modern farmhouse epidemic where everything is harsh black hardware on stark white cabinets. Don’t get me wrong, at Alexa Kingery Interiors we still love a beautiful farmhouse aesthetic – we’re just doing it in much softer tones,' says Alexa.

'Overall, we are seeing people lean towards bringing warmer hues into their homes. Mushroom paint colors can be a great color palette staple,' Arianna agrees. 'For kitchens, in particular, people are no longer defaulting to white. Off-whites will always be a timeless choice for a kitchen, but this space also offers a great opportunity to bring in other hues, whether that is on the cabinets or walls.'

It's also a great palette if you want to bring warmth to your cooking space without leaning fully into the deeper browns that are proving popular. It's a neutral option that bridges the gap between pure whites and moodier tones, so it doesn't feel too different from the pared-back colors people are comfortable decorating with.

'People are definitely gravitating toward warmer, earthier palettes right now; going fully brown can feel a bit heavy or inadvertently lean into a retro 1970s look. Mushroom offers the perfect middle ground. It feels more intentional and characterful than falling back on a standard white or stark greige, providing a sophisticated warmth without overwhelming the space,' interior designer Pernille Lind explains.

In many ways, the appeal of mushroom kitchen colors reverts to nature as inspiration for our interiors, with shades that balance depth and interest with soft, timeless design. They feel layered yet still neutral, warmer yet not overwhelming. And their impact on a room, especially a kitchen where different finishes and materials come together, can't be ignored.

'When you use softer colors rooted in nature, it tends to make a room feel cozier, more inviting, and honestly… timeless. I truly think ever since the pandemic, people are simply craving comfort,' Alexa notes. 'In today’s economic and political climate, life can be hard enough. So instead of the cold and lifeless black and white, people are reintroducing beauty, color, and life back into their homes!'

How To Bring Mushroom Hues Into Your Kitchen

These warm neutrals are surprisingly easy to decorate with, especially in a kitchen. For a truly classic design, you can't go wrong with cabinets painted in mushroom hues with classic marble countertops – it's an elevated duo that never dates.

'One of our favourite colors for a kitchen, it seems to work wherever it goes, soft and warm yet light enough for even the darkest of corners,' says Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens. 'The classic combination of Carrara marble and mushroom paint is always perfect. It's almost a deVOL look in itself and has graced hundreds of our most coveted rooms.'

If you've gone for a deeper kitchen cabinet color, this warm neutral on the walls creates a subtle background. 'Consider lighter mushroom paint colors for the walls to pair with darker kitchen cabinets. They can help soften and brighten the kitchen if you choose a bolder cabinet color,' Arianna suggests.

It's a color palette that works beautifully alongside wooden kitchens, too, bringing out the warmth while providing a soft contrast. 'My tried-and-true way to incorporate mushroom colors into a kitchen is by using Accessible Beige by Sherwin-Williams alongside a rich medium-brown stained wood species,' says Alexa. 'If you’re feeling brave, you could go even richer with a color like Virtual Taupe by Sherwin-Williams.'

It's not just the main kitchen this color thrives in, either. 'It works exceptionally well on kitchen joinery, and applying it to secondary spaces, like pantries or breakfast nooks, instantly makes those areas feel cozier and more intimate,' adds Pernille, who also recommends warm mushroom tones for kitchen woodwork as 'an elegant way to anchor the room.'

Shop the Look

As far as neutral kitchens go, mushroom hues are a warm, elegant choice. It's a color that translates beautifully in kitchens of every style and size, and pairs seamlessly with the finishes and materials used throughout cooking spaces.

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It's easy to get carried away with the more aesthetic decisions, but the primary function of your pantry ideas is to create practical, usable storage – without that, even the most stylish pantry becomes another clutter zone.

The most successful designs balance style and practicality, and interior designers notice a few common pantry design mistakes that disrupt that balance. Here are the mistakes to avoid, and how you can fix them if they sound a bit too familiar.

1. Not Considering How You Need the Space to Function

The Mistake

A pantry design is only successful if it functions the way you need it to. Part of that is understanding how you live and use the space, but also whether you actually need a pantry, or whether your requirements are more aligned with a back kitchen. Start by noting the difference between a larder, pantry, and back kitchen, and which would add the most to your cooking space.

'There is currently a real trend for creating a back-of-house kitchen space, but we think this can sometimes muddy the purpose of the pantry. It needs to be designed either as a really good storage cupboard, or the space should be thought of more as a true back-of-house kitchen,' says Sophie Pringle, Founder of Pringle & Pringle.

'We are increasingly asked for a ‘pantry’ when what is really wanted is a back kitchen – somewhere to prepare food, house appliances, wash up and deal with the mess and overflow that comes with entertaining,' Anthony Earle, Creative Director at Artichoke, agrees. 'Trying to fit all of those functions into a small pantry can quickly make the room hot, cramped and rather impractical.'

The Fix

Before you start designing your pantry, determine how the space needs to function. If food storage is the priority, a pantry is the ideal solution, but if you want space for an extra sink, prep space, and large appliances, you'll need to plan for a larger back kitchen type of space.

If your needs align with a pantry, consider what you want to store and how you want to store it. Some items will need to be easily accessible, so storing them on open shelves within easy view will make day-to-day tasks more efficient.

'Think about the function first and design the space around how it will actually be used. Consider what you need to store, whether you want to hide small appliances, and how often you’ll be accessing the space, then make sure the layout, shelving and services are designed accordingly,' Sophie suggests.

2. Forgetting About Good Ventilation

The Mistake

A pantry is fundamentally a food storage solution, so airflow and maintaining conditions that keep food dry and fresh are really important. This isn't a storage closet, so don't treat it as such. Lack of ventilation encourages moisture build-up, which can cause food to go off (stagnant air becomes a breeding ground for mold), and can increase temperatures, leading to odors and stale food.

The Fix

The simplest fix is to add ventilation during the design process, whether it's wall vents or cutouts in your pantry doors to improve airflow. And location is key. 'Ideally, a really good pantry should also be positioned on an external wall, allowing for ventilation, particularly if it’s being used for food storage,' Sophie explains.

'Good airflow helps to keep the space cool and dry, which is important for storing food, and it is much easier to incorporate at the planning stage than to retrofit later. Ultimately, the pantry should be designed around function first, with the aesthetic details following from that.'

3. Choosing Quantity Over Quality of Storage

The Mistake

A pantry is a functional zone that should enhance a kitchen's flow and function, but successful storage is more about quality than quantity. Cramming in too many large shelves and hard-to-access cabinets will make finding and accessing the ingredients you need feel almost impossible.

'A common pantry design mistake, particularly in hard-working family kitchens where storage space is at a premium, is focusing exclusively on maximising the quantity of storage without thinking through the quality and types of storage that are going to both work well and look beautiful,' says Elizabeth Macfarlane of Macfarlane van der Heul

The Fix

Take the time to plan your pantry layout and the storage styles that make the most sense at each level. If you want to maximize height, you need to make sure you can actually reach the top shelves, so add a rolling ladder or fold-down step (this 3 Step Foldable Ladder from Amazon can be easily stashed away) to prevent baskets filled with ingredients you forget about and leave to go bad.

Take stock of what you need to access most regularly, and what you use only occasionally (such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, or seasonal supplies) so you can prioritize the most accessible areas. Cereal, pasta, flour, and snacks – the food you reach for every day – should be stored at eye level so it's easy to grab. And if it's on open shelving, consider decanting into prettier containers, like these Dark Wood Lidded Canisters from Target or Crate & Barrel's Montana Glass Jars, for a more elevated and organized pantry.

4. Making Pantry Shelves Too Deep

The Mistake

Pantry shelving is one of the most practical storage types, but deep shelves quickly become almost impossible to access. 'Deep, evenly spaced shelves may look efficient on paper, but they often create wasted space and make it difficult to see what is stored behind the first row of items. Things inevitably get pushed to the back and forgotten,' says interior designer Vanessa Katzen.

'Avoid overly deep upper shelves, as it gets very hard to see what is on them,' adds George Miller, Designer at Neptune. Reaching the back of the shelves becomes difficult, and you inevitably end up knocking the items at the front, causing nothing but chaos and more mess.

The Fix

Plan pantry shelving around the items you need to store on them, rather than the other way around. 'I prefer to design pantry storage in layers, with shallower shelving for everyday items and deeper storage reserved for larger appliances, serving pieces and bulk goods,' says Vanessa.

'Incorporating drawers or pull-outs at lower levels also makes the full depth much more accessible. I also vary shelf heights rather than spacing everything uniformly. The goal is not simply to fit as much as possible into the pantry, but to make everything easy to see, reach, and put away. When storage is designed around how you actually use it, you often need less space than you think.'

5. Adding Too Many Cabinet Doors

The Mistake

Your pantry isn't a kitchen, so the pros and cons of open shelving don't apply in the same way. A pantry is function first, and filling these small spaces with lots of cabinets makes accessibility difficult – trying to open different cabinet doors will not only make it tricky to find what you need, but it instantly intrudes on the small amount of walkway you have.

'The point of a pantry is to maximize function and storage for your kitchen in a hidden but easily accessible space. It's supposed to be hardworking, not make you work harder,' says Leah Hook, Founder and Principal Designer at Gray Oak Studio. 'You don't want to walk from your kitchen to a separate room and then have to open another series of doors or drawers to get what you need.'

The Fix

Open shelving at floor level can feel messy and a bit inconvenient, so it makes sense to add some closed storage. Consider what you want to store here – drawers maximize a deep space, allowing you to access items stored towards the back.

'A combination of drawers and open shelving can work really well, so that the things you use most are easy to reach and you can actually see what you have. I also like to keep some of the prettier everyday items on display rather than hiding absolutely everything away. And don’t be afraid to decorate it,' says interior designer Laura Stephens.

If you're storing additional appliances you don't use regularly or seasonal accessories, cabinetry probably makes more sense. But instead of filling your pantry with doors, swap them with a cabinet skirt – Lulu & Georgia's Painterly Stripe Linen fabric is a great option, or for a ready-to-hand design, try Etsy's Striped Cotton Cabinet Skirt. 'Curtained under-counter storage [is great] for hiding away bulkier and less attractive items – the curtain is economical, adds visual interest, and contrasts nicely with the cabinetry in the main kitchen,' adds Elizabeth.

6. Excluding Useable Countertop Space

The Mistake

Pantry designs often focus on storage – as they should. But with so much attention on shelving, drawers, and cabinets, it's easy to forget that a countertop has a use in these spaces, too. 'A pantry without counters is storage without further utility,' Leah explains.

'You want a landing surface to organize your equipment or food and stage your plans, especially during messy kitchen activities. When you pull down the bin of flour, you want a place to put it within arm's reach. You don't want to go back and forth to the kitchen counter when you need to place something down.'

The Fix

The fix is simple – add a countertop, even if it's just a small run along the shortest wall. 'We always encourage clients to design in a generous counter, which gives the pantry an invaluable working surface for unpacking groceries or preparing food,' Anthony says.

It's a detail that turns a simple storage space into a functional pantry. You can bring in the same materials and palette as the kitchen for continuity, or use it as an opportunity to add a different material that didn't make it into your main kitchen design. 'Whether you choose butcher block, stone, stainless steel, or tile, 24" deep countertops at waist height are critical to the overall use of the room,' Leah adds.

7. Overlooking Pantry Lighting

The Mistake

You can spend hours meticulously planning custom storage and a beautiful color scheme, but if you ignore pantry lighting, you won't be able to see any of it. Relying on a single overhead light casts shadows and fails to illuminate your actual storage.

'Make sure you consider lighting – shelves create a lot of shadows from a single overhead pendant and make it hard to see what is on them,' says George. Plus, a badly lit room instantly feels uninviting – a pantry becomes pointless if you don't want to enter it.

The Fix

Approach it like you would your kitchen lighting. An overhead light is fine, but layer it with lower-level lighting designed for each storage area. 'LED strip lighting can help you have light exactly where you need it,' says George. Try these Rechargeable Magnetic Motion Sensor Lights or Dimmable LED Strip Lights as a functional solution for open shelving that adds light without impeding function.

'We like to layer the lighting in a pantry the way we would in any other room,' says Elizabeth. 'A mix of task lighting in the form of directional downlights, ambient lighting built into the joinery, and decorative lighting.' Where there's space, cordless lamps, like this Beige and Gold Portable Counter Lamp from Amazon, are a great way to blend warmth and ambiance with functional lighting.

8. Not Thinking About How the Pantry Color Works With the Main Kitchen

The Mistake

Function is the priority in a pantry, but it should still feel like a beautiful space that adds something special to your kitchen. 'One of the biggest mistakes is treating the pantry as purely functional and forgetting that it is still part of your home. It’s very easy to fill a pantry with shelves and cupboards and end up with a rather cold, utilitarian space, when it can be a lovely opportunity to introduce color and personality,' says Laura.

The Fix

There are different routes you can take with your pantry design depending on how it reads with the rest of your kitchen scheme – choose a warm neutral color and let texture do the talking, such as wall paneling or decorative millwork. Alternatively, you can color-drench your pantry in a deeper hue as a small confidence zone in the corner of a more neutral kitchen. Try to keep it simple and avoid using too many different colors and patterns – the storage still needs to be easily seen.

'A pantry is a wonderful place to have a little fun with color because it’s often a smaller, more enclosed space. Beautiful joinery, a lovely paint color, and good lighting can make it feel like a considered room rather than an afterthought. The practical elements still need to work, of course, but there’s no reason a pantry can’t have the same sense of character and joy as the rest of the house,' says Laura.

9. Choosing Bold Design Over Function

The Mistake

Following on from color, too many busy patterns or different colors can make a small pantry feel chaotic. 'There is so much color going on with food, spices and herbs that this space is the most important for a well-considered color scheme. It can quickly feel busy and cluttered, so take your time. Don’t rush this area,' says Katherine Channell, Founder and Head Designer at Katherine Jane Design Studio.

The same applies to tiles – on the walls and floors. 'A pantry is one of those spaces where people can be tempted to over-design the floor because the footprint is small. A highly patterned tile, a contrasting border and a completely different material can all sound appealing in isolation, but combined with shelving, cabinetry, jars, bottles and all the visual activity of a working pantry, the room can very quickly become busy,' adds Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra.

The Fix

The easiest way to fix this pantry design mistake is to take a more pared-back approach. In a tiny space, avoid pattern altogether, but in a pantry that can handle it, keep the colors and patterns tonal so it feels calm and considered. 'My solution would be to come up with three or four colors max,' Katherine suggests. 'I love using warm tones for this area, accessorising with wood and then often a pop of color. This allows you to bring in wicker baskets, which are functional and beautiful.'

For the floors, take a more subtle approach. 'If the pantry sits directly off the kitchen, continuing the same material through both spaces is particularly effective,' says Grazzie. 'It makes the architecture feel calmer and more intentional, and it allows the pantry to feel like part of the kitchen rather than somewhere that has been decorated afterwards.'

10. Forgetting to Plan Electrical Outlets

The Mistake

A pantry has evolved from being a simple food storage space to a more functional food prep zone. For many people, this includes housing small appliances and often using them within the pantry to avoid cluttering kitchen surfaces. And forgetting to include electrical outlets will become an issue down the line – even if it's just to charge up cordless devices or plug in additional lighting.

The Fix

During the design process, when you're planning out where different storage needs to be located, plan for electrics. Ideally, one above the countertops within easy access, and another hidden within closed storage if required. Try to take an elevated appraoch – outlet switches make a difference, so choose stylish designs that fit into your scheme. Anthropologie's Isabella Bee Switch Plates and Merritt Enamel Switch Plates are stylish options.

A pantry is a wonderful feature to have in your kitchen, so make the most of the space by getting the design right. Start with the functional details, like storage styles and lighting schemes, then plan for the visual elements that give it character. 'Have fun and remember it’s not just storage,' Katherine adds. 'It’s an extension of your home, so treat it with importance!'

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But when it comes to being used in the kitchen, none of these prints seem to leave the softer rooms like living rooms and bedrooms. However, a quick glance at the fall kitchen collections of 2026 and you will notice that finally an animal print is coming to these hardworking spaces.

Cue tortoiseshell, the subtler animal-inspired pattern bringing a chic sort of coziness to kitchens this year. Its deep color scheme in various shades of brown feels instantly reminiscent of the season's aesthetic, and this fall trend is made for the kitchen. From striking tableware and serving trays to vintage-inspired lighting that feels reminiscent of an old-school speakeasy, these tortoiseshell kitchen pieces are the high-style, low-effort ways to get the look.

It's not always easy to bring print and pattern into your kitchen, especially without making major changes and spending a lot of money, which makes tortoiseshell pieces all the more appealing. It's subtle enough that it doesn't feel instantly trend-led, but rich enough to make an impact. Even just a decanter repurposed as a vase on your countertops can instantly add a stylish touch to your cooking space this fall. And if you want to bring it into other rooms, see our edit of tortoiseshell home decor finds, too.

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That was the brief for this New York brownstone dating back to the Victorian era, which had seen one too many renovations over the years, most recently a very minimalist design from the '90s. To achieve a more timeless, elevated look, the soulless open-plan layout needed to be reversed, and the color scheme swapped for something far more inviting.

With several unexpected details and the careful reintroduction of architectural features, this small kitchen is now a warm, inviting room that feels thoughtfully connected to the adjoining dining room without being completely open. It proves that not every home needs walls knocked down to feel bright, open, and full of natural light.

Decorate With Soft, Creamy Pinks For a Warm and Inviting Scheme

It's tempting to paint a small kitchen white to make it feel larger, but the wrong shade can instantly create a cold, clinical feel. Neutrals are a great choice, but to imbue a sense of warmth and timelessness, a very soft, pale pink was chosen here, drenched across the walls and cabinetry for a seamless, light-enhancing design.

'The kitchen is a soft pink which glows in the sunlight. It is a color I really like working with. All the ceilings in the house are white, tinged with pink. When sunlight or lamplight touches them, they emit a very happy glow,' explains David Nastasi, Founder of Swain Street & Co. But this very soft shade was chosen for reasons beyond weaving a color thread through the entire home.

'Lighting is a challenge in New York City row houses, which tend to be long and dark at the center,' he continues. 'We wanted to make the most of the natural and incandescent light we had – the pink warmly intensifies that light, even on rainy days, late afternoons, and nights. It's a kind color – everyone looks good in it, and it goes well with other colors.'

Add Architectural Interest With Arched Details

When an old home undergoes several remodels, it can slowly lose the original details and features that give the space character – something this kitchen was lacking. After stripping back the '90s minimalist decor, David used arched details throughout the kitchen to reintroduce a sense of period design – as though the last remodel was done no later than the Edwardian era.

'Taking a cue from Sir Edwin Lutyens (a Victorian-era English architect who specialized in traditional style), we added the tall arched doorways. The tall arches feel dramatic, but also serve a practical purpose, allowing light to reach the center of the house from the street and garden fronts,' he explains.

The architecture and the kitchen needed to speak to each other, so the curved features were carried into various elements of the design, from the open cabinet connected to the banquette seating to the gently rounded island profile. 'The rounded shape of the island softened the look in the room, it worked with the arches and very practically allows for easier circulation in a high-traffic and tight space.'

Embrace a Closed-Concept Layout Without Completely Dividing Rooms

One of the biggest pre-renovation problems with this space was its open-plan design. Each room felt dark, lacked its own identity, and felt unsuited to the old architecture, so reverting to a closed-concept layout became a priority. But to prevent the kitchen and dining room from feeling closed in and completely separated, David implemented a genius solution with double-sided glass cabinets.

'Neither the client nor I like open-plan living. We wanted the dining room to feel like a proper room and have its own aesthetic, which would be distinct from the kitchen on one side and the living room on the other. I separated the kitchen from the dining room with a double-sided glazed china cabinet. This cabinet allowed light to pass from the kitchen to the dining room,' he explains.

This striking addition does more than just let light through into the windowless dining room – it also creates storage for tableware that can be accessed from both rooms, making cleaning, food prep, and table dressing a more seamless process. 'Dishes can be put away in the kitchen and taken out to serve in the dining room. The cabinetry acts as a wall between the two spaces, and we use every inch available.'

The final perk? Moving away from open plan allowed each room to have its own palette. While the kitchen was all about a soft, light-enhancing pink, the dining room was about something far more daring. 'The acid green was my client's choice – I was not in favour of it to begin with, so we wrangled over it, and as she is the client and it was her dining room, I caved. I am so happy I did. We knew right away that it was an exciting color and would draw people into the room. We used a high-gloss wallpaper for the ceiling with an arabesque pattern, which added a note of whimsy.'

Make Space For Informal Dining With a Kitchen Nook

With a formal dining room just next door, it would be easy to overlook a more casual dining area in the kitchen. But these informal nooks have an entirely different function, becoming a place for morning rituals, kids' breakfasts, and even workstations for every member of the family. It's a classic case of understanding how you use a kitchen beyond cooking.

'My client wanted a space where her children could sit and do homework or have their dinner as she prepared meals for guests. She also wanted an overflow or kids' table when her guests brought their children. The adults could have dinner in the dining room and still keep an eye on the kids in the kitchen – a formal dining space for the grown-ups, and a more casual space for the children,' David describes.

The dining nook also encourages a greater connection with outdoor spaces used throughout the warmer months. A smaller table that's easy to move, it doubles as a buffet when the clients host. 'Beyond the kitchen table is a very large terrace – the island and the table also serve as staging areas or buffet space when parties happen outside.'

Quick Tips

• Be intentional with your color choices to enhance a small kitchen
• Consider ways your new kitchen can enhance historic architecture, rather than simply sit within it
• Know when your space thrives with a closed-concept layout – and don't be afraid to reverse open plan
• Think beyond solid walls – double sided cabinetry dividing a kitchen and dining room makes a visual and functional impact
• Never overlook informal dining areas – a banquette is always a good idea

This project feels like an ode to small kitchens, showcasing how a smaller footprint doesn't have to limit the design. From the soft color palette to the curved details and genius glazed cabinets dividing the rooms, it proves that the best choice for your kitchen is designing for your space, rather than following trending styles.

'Hopefully the design for the kitchen and dining room – and the rest of the project – proves that a traditionally designed space can be beautiful and functional and work very well for a modern lifestyle,' David notes. 'I am most proud that the house feels uniquely theirs, and we were able to fit in all the programmatic requirements the client desired with very minimal structural changes.'

Shop the Look

At Homes & Gardens, we believe a kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks. That’s the philosophy behind Dream Kitchens, our new series exploring the world’s most inspiring cook spaces. From clever layouts to the 'it' materials of 2026, we’re uncovering the design lessons tucked inside every home. Join us for an intimate look at the spaces that define modern living – and find the blueprints for your next big project.

That's right – designers and homeowners alike are increasingly choosing wood over painted finishes for their bathroom vanity ideas, bringing texture, warmth, and timeless appeal. And it's gearing up to be more than just a fleeting bathroom trend.

Here's why designers say wooden vanities are taking over painted designs, how to choose the right finish, and ways to ensure you create a timeless look. Plus, we've spent hours searching through the best places to buy bathroom vanities to bring you the most stylish designs – including some generous Labor Day Sale discounts.

Painted bathroom vanities have been popular for years thanks to their ability to bring color to a room. But this year, there has been a noticeable shift towards natural materials that feel grounded, tactile, and timeless.

'Wood brings a warmth and softness to a bathroom that can sometimes feel quite clinical, particularly when you’re working with lots of hard surfaces such as stone, tile, and porcelain. A wooden vanity introduces texture, character, and a more natural feel, helping the bathroom feel connected to the rest of the home rather than like a purely functional space,' says interior designer Rebecca Hughes.

'Bathrooms tend to have a lot of cold, hard finishes – tile, stone countertops, metal light fixtures, metal mirrors, plumbing fixtures, etc.,' adds interior designer Amy Peltier. 'The vanity is really one of the few places where you have an opportunity to bring in some warmth. A beautiful wood vanity can instantly soften all of those harder materials and make the entire bathroom feel warmer and more inviting.'

There's also a real versatility to the material that makes it so appealing. It works just as beautifully in a traditional bathroom as a modern one, while also fitting into neutral and colorful schemes. It's a sort of design chameleon that you can be sure will still feel stylish as your style changes.

'From a design perspective, wood is also incredibly versatile,' agrees interior designer Laura Hammett. 'Whether you opt for a richly toned timber for a more traditional feel, or a lighter, natural finish for something contemporary and understated, it can add a sense of craftsmanship and individuality to the room.'

But above all, wooden vanities create a warmer, more lived-in feel that takes your bathroom from purely functional to a place to unwind and carry out everyday rituals. By introducing wood, the room instantly feels more inviting and connected to the other spaces in your home.

'Wooden vanities are a lovely way to tie a bathroom in with the adjoining bedrooms, creating a natural flow while still giving the space its own character,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe, who says the wood type and tone are key. 'We’ll work with clients to choose a wood tone that captures the feel they’re after for their home, whether that’s a light Scandinavian-style oak or a rich antique mahogany, and carry it through into the bathroom for a more cohesive look.'

'The wood species also plays a huge role in the undertone of the finished color once stain is applied. Wood has so much natural variation, so you really want to look at all of those elements together rather than simply choosing a stain color you like,' Amy adds, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right type of wood for your design.

Practicality needs to be considered when introducing a wooden bathroom vanity to ensure it doesn't become damaged from the damp environment. 'We tend to use undermount sinks and recommend being mindful of splashes and cleaning products around the timber. A marble or quartz top is a great way to help protect the wood from stains and discoloration, while still keeping that lovely natural feel,' Lauren advises.

Ultimately, the shift towards wooden bathroom vanities is about embracing quality craftsmanship, warm, textured style, and prioritizing designs that feel truly timeless. 'People are looking for spaces with warmth, personality, and a sense of permanence, and wood lends itself beautifully to that,' Rebecca concludes. 'Painted [vanities] can certainly be timeless, but timber brings an element of depth and tactility that is difficult to replicate.'

Shop Wood Bathroom Vanities

Whether you're furnishing a sprawling space or searching for small bathroom vanity ideas that don't compromise on style, a wooden design is what interior designers continue to return to. It's a great way to bring a natural material into your design, especially if you want to embrace more wooden bathroom ideas.

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Blue-green hybrid kitchen cabinet colors are making waves, offering a more muted take on jewel tones. Think elegant teals, petrol blues, and smokier variations that feel less dark and heavy than navy. It's about retaining that classic feel while adding a more livable twist.

And designers say it's a color palette to have on your radar, especially for 2027, when these softer shades will be even more coveted. Here's why blue-green tones are replacing navy kitchen cabinets, and how to make them feel just as timeless and sophisticated.

What's Replacing Navy Blue Kitchen Cabinets?

Kitchen cabinet color trends have taken a clear direction this year. The favored shades are getting warmer and a bit more complex, creating spaces that feel layered and inviting. And the move away from navy and towards these blue-green hybrid colors is further evidence of that.

'These tones have a natural warmth to them and lend themselves beautifully to being paired with warmer colors and materials. Navy is a much cooler blue, whereas teal and smokier blue-greens have more depth and complexity, allowing you to create a warmer, more layered palette that feels incredibly inviting,' explains Melissa Hutley, Co-Founder of Hutley&Humm.

'I think there is a growing appetite for color that feels nuanced rather than stark,' agrees Sophie Pringle, Founder of Pringle & Pringle. 'Softer blue-greens can give you the depth you want from a darker kitchen, but they tend to sit more comfortably alongside warm woods, natural stone and aged metals, creating a scheme that feels layered and welcoming.'

The Appeal of Smokier Blue-Green Hues

The appeal of these smokier hues goes beyond the desire for something different. It's about confidence in decorating with less predictable colors – navy feels safe because it's been done so much, whereas these evolved colors feel slightly more expressive without being too daring. And they also encourage a more creative approach to color pairings, too.

'People are embracing color in all different ways in their homes and no longer want to play it safe with white backgrounds. We always believe it's important to add warmth to kitchens and cabinetry, and people feel more comfortable with color to do this, especially by not just adding warmth to homes in wood flooring, wood accents, or wood cabinetry,' explains Kelly Emerson, Senior Designer at Aidan Design.

There's also a subtlety to the switch. Navy and these smokier shades still sit in the same color family, but the tonal variations and undertones are what make them different. It's a classic case of cool-toned to warm, creating an atmosphere that feels calmer, softer, and more mood-led.

'My very first job was at a Taco Bell during its bright-turquoise years, and I lasted exactly one week. I've always blamed the drive-through, but I've never fully ruled out that unfortunate shade of blue-green. Knock the brightness out of that same color, though, and I might have lasted a second week,' says John Maloney McNamara of Coosa.

'In fact, take almost any color, add gray, or better yet a little black, and it stops being a color and starts being a mood. The blues I like have so much black in them that you aren't sure they're blue until the afternoon light hits, and there it is. They read as depth rather than decoration, and I think depth wears better.'

Above all, this palette feels truly timeless. 'Colors that tie into nature are the colors that we look to as timeless options. Kitchen cabinetry is often a splurge, so selecting a color that feels bold but will stand the test of time is important. We constantly pull inspiration from the landscape around a home; you can’t go wrong connecting a scheme to nature,' adds Sarah Fontanez of Pomme House.

Colors To Pair With Green-Blue Kitchen Cabinets

These blue-green shades are more versatile than you might expect. While navy is most commonly paired with white for a classic look, these smokier shades blend with a variety of colors and natural materials you typically find in a kitchen. It's what makes them so appealing.

'For me, it’s an absolute necessity that this shade be paired with a warm wood stain, or it can feel a bit juvenile. We used Minwax Provincial stain on our island to instantly elevate the blue-green perimeter colored cabinets. We found Farrow & Ball Inchrya Blue to be the perfect, muddy color,' says Cammie Malaga of CM Interiors.

'For the walls, I'd stay close to the cabinet color, just a shade or two lighter or darker, or, even better, use a handmade glazed terracotta tile in a saturated shade that echoes the cabinetry,' John suggests for a tonal look. 'No mosaic, no dramatic pattern. Let the whole room go a little richer rather than breaking it up with competing contrast. Commit to the mood. Nothing in the room should apologize for being deep.'

If you're feeling a bit bolder, more saturated shades pair beautifully with blue-green hues, adding persoanlity without taking away from the sophistication of the palette. 'Olive tones, or even an oxblood accent, can take the palette somewhere much more interesting than another safe neutral,' says interior designer Lauren Saab.

The Best Paint Colors, Recommended by Interior Designers

The success of green-blue kitchen cabinets lies in choosing paint shades and complementary colors that work. Testing samples is really important, as each paint will read differently depending on the light levels. Beyond that, it all depends on the shade that feels most at home in your kitchen.

'We're big fans of Sherwin-Williams Delft and Benjamin Moore New Providence Navy (don't let the name fool you). Both have a green underbase, so they pair well with natural stain colors and the warmth of wood,' says Gina Elkins of Studio Casa Vita.

'We also love Farrow & Ball Light Blue No. 22 because its underbase is gray-green; it handles light reflection beautifully as sunlight moves throughout a room in homes ranging from historic preservation to new construction.'

That gray undertone is something John always looks for in these smokier shades, as it adds depth to a design. 'The rule for me is black content. If a blue or blue-green feels too bright or too clean, it's probably not the one I'd choose for cabinetry. I want enough gray or black in it that the color changes with the light,' he explains.

If you prefer the emphasis on the blue-green hybrid, look to paint color with a green undertone. 'Farrow & Ball's Inchyra Blue is a beautiful smoky blue-green with a lot of dimension. It can lean more blue, green, or gray throughout the day, which is part of what makes it so interesting,' says Lauren.

'We love Farrow & Ball’s Chine Green, particularly when it’s paired with warm, pale straw tones and worn brass fittings, as we have done in this project [pictured above],' Melissa adds. 'It has enough depth to feel characterful without becoming too dominant, and the warmer surrounding tones really bring out its richness.'

While navy kitchen cabinets aren't going anywhere, these blue-green hybrid shades offer a more unique palette that offers warmth and sophistication. These hues are versatile, whether you prefer a more classic or colorful scheme, so they are a tatteful choice in schemes of every size and style.

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Designing the kitchen in this home required exactly that. Originally located in the basement, then moved to a small ground-floor room in the 50s, relocating the entire space made it easy to create a larger, more multi-purpose kitchen catered to the whole family.

With a thoughtful mix of materials, a careful balance of historic charm and modern design, and details inspired by the aesthetic of an old hotel bar, the kitchen has been reimagined into a hub for everyday life, whether it's family meals, morning rituals, or a place for four-legged friends to relax. And there are a few key features that make it work.

Add Modern Elegance With Slab-Front Cabinetry

A huge part of this remodel was swapping the formal dining room and kitchen, creating a larger, better-placed kitchen for the whole family to use and gather. But that also meant starting entirely from scratch while trying to balance the look of a new kitchen with the more historic bones.

'When moving the kitchen to the dining room, I didn’t want to try to pretend that the kitchen had always been there. The slab-door walnut cabinets for me were a purposeful modern touch to the space,' explains interior designer and homeowner Jess Cooney.

Instead of following every component of an original kitchen of her home's era, she took inspiration from luxury spaces that nailed the balance she was looking to strike. 'I wanted the new kitchen to feel a bit like a hotel bar. I loved the dark walnut element and the sophistication and element of surprise it brings. It grounds the large room well and still feels timeless in its modern flair.'

Take a Custom Approach to Open Kitchen Shelving

Thoughts of open kitchen shelving may conjure images of wall-mounted ledges or even miniature surfaces that add a finishing touch to a stone backsplash. But Jess wanted something more unique and statement-making, opting for a custom design that ignores the walls, instead sitting on the countertops and attaching to the kitchen ceiling.

'The open shelving was made locally by a metal worker for us. It was the other touch in the space meant to feel modern, fresh, and hotel-bar-like,' she explains. 'We played around with so many ideas for the back wall of the space and landed on the brass hammered tiles on the backsplash along with these shelves at each end. We decided not to put any shelves across to keep the space very clean.'

The shelves serve several purposes – they add a visually striking feature that helps to balance the room's proportions, while adding storage and display space in an unexpected way. It's a stylish example of introducing open kitchen storage in a way that feels intentional.

Elevate an Island Countertop With Decorative Edge Details

Certain details can make your entire design look and feel more elevated. And one that Jess has implemented on the island is a decorative kitchen countertop edge profile. From ogee to Dupont, introducing a more considered edge makes your surfaces look more custom and offers a nod to historical design, two things Jess was keen to add.

'The kitchen island was a detail that we wanted to feel more historic in nature. We added a good amount of detail to the base and the counter edge to give a rounded, soft historic feel as if you were in an old hotel bar. This visually balanced the straight, clean walnut slabs surrounding it. We added a brass rail on the bottom to call back to the tiles and to preserve the wood at the bottom that always gets a bit beat up over time.'

Remove the Formality with a Cozy Dining Banquette

As kitchens have evolved from purely functional to more lived-in rooms, the informal dining nook has become a must-have. Instead of a traditional dining table setup, a cozy banquette seat has been wrapped around the far end of the room, creating a dynamic layout and making use of the beautiful kitchen bay window.

'My family loves to sit in a banquette together. We had one in the previous kitchen, and we all piled into it together each night rather than using the formal dining room. I knew that I wanted to replicate this feature and to be able to sit in that sunny window with my morning tea,' Jess explains.

It's become more than just somewhere to eat, but a place to relax and enjoy everyday rituals. 'We still pile into that banquette most nights and even carry chairs from the dining room in to fit when we have guests because it’s so cozy and fun to be close together. It’s also my dog's perch most of the day. She suns herself there and watches for the mailman.'

Utilize Kitchen Alcoves For a Home Bar, Pantry, or Coffee Station

As it was once the formal dining room, the kitchen features an original fireplace, flanked by alcoves on each side. Instead of leaving them empty or leaning into the predictable shelving, Jess used them to create dedicated zones that enhance the main kitchen, both functionally and aesthetically.

'We love having a fireplace in the kitchen – we added a Stuv insert, and burn wood in there most of the winter,' she notes. 'On either side of the fireplace, there are deep alcoves. We made one into a food pantry with rollouts inside right off the island. The other, we made into a bar area on top and wood storage on the bottom. When we entertain, we open up the pocket doors and slide them back into the wall to entertain in the space.'

Pocket doors are really useful in this scenario, allowing the bar to be opened and closed as needed, without leaving huge doors obstructing the room when it's in use. It's these small but meaningful design decisions that take the design from standard to something far more custom and considered.

Quick Tips

• Don't be afraid to add modern kitchen design features in a historic property
• Consider more unique takes on open shelving that feel custom to your kitchen
• Add decorative edges to countertops, even if its just on the island
• Embrace banquettes for a more informal dining space
• Maximize kitchen alcoves, especially for curated stations

It's easy to get lost in period details and retaining character, but finding that balance between new and old, preserving history and designing for modern life, is key to creating a kitchen that you truly love. This design proves that quality materials, elevated finishes, and curated stations are the answer to a high-functioning space that feels at home in the architecture.

Shop the Look

At Homes & Gardens, we believe a kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks. That’s the philosophy behind Dream Kitchens, our new series exploring the world’s most inspiring cook spaces. From clever layouts to the 'it' materials of 2026, we’re uncovering the design lessons tucked inside every home. Join us for an intimate look at the spaces that define modern living – and find the blueprints for your next big project.

And nothing welcomes the season like refreshing your kitchen ideas, whether it's introducing new furniture you've been meaning to find for a while, replacing cracked dishes before hosting season begins, or a small refresh with unique hardware. Thankfully, Anthropologie's Labor Day Sale is filled with characterful finds to get your cooking space ready for the season ahead.

Warming colors, charming patterns, and dark wood tones that add a dose of heritage style to your kitchen are all features of the pieces currently discounted, with up to 40% off. It's an opportunity to get your hands on those coveted items you've had your eye on while they're discounted. And quite frankly, no one does unique, personality-filled kitchenware, decor, and storage quite like Anthro.

That's why we've curated an edit of the best kitchen finds in the Anthropologie Labor Day sale, so you can save time scrolling and get your hands on your favorites before they sell out. But be quick – they always go quickly.

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You don't need to go colorful – or even leave the neutral color family. For a white kitchen that ticks all the right boxes, interior designers say Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams is the tried and tested shade they always return to.

Described as soft and creamy, this off-white kitchen color is the answer to a light, pared-back scheme with just the right amount of warmth to feel approachable. And according to designers who use it regularly, it's also one of the most versatile. Here's why.

There's no other color that boasts as many shade variations as white, which makes choosing the right one for your kitchen an almost impossible task. Unless, of course, you turn to designers to help narrow down the selection. And if you're looking for a warm, off-white for your design, Alabaster is a Sherwin-Williams paint color worth considering.

'Alabaster is one of those whites that doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard to be white. It’s soft, warm, and creamy without leaning yellow, which makes it incredibly livable. It also has a little more depth than a true, crisp white, which is part of what makes it so versatile. It feels classic, but not overly traditional,' says Melissa Oholendt of Oho Interiors.

There are many reasons why this paint color works so well in kitchens. For Erin Conway of Kismet House, it's the lack of harshness that truly appeals. 'Kitchens need ample lighting for function, and Alabaster is the perfect white to ensure the bright space does not feel stark or blinding. The color offers a perfect backdrop to wood tones and painted cabinetry. It doesn’t chameleon into a different shade of white when being paired with other tones. It is what it is – warm white, always.'

It's that ability to pair tastefully with many of the materials and finishes typically found in a kitchen that makes it so favorable in this room. Some shades of white read differently depending on light or the colors it's paired with, but Alabaster remains true and cohesive in every space.

'Its versatility allows it to work across a variety of design styles, from traditional and farmhouse to modern and transitional, making it a timeless choice for the heart of the home,' explains Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams.

'Kitchens are gathering spaces, and Alabaster helps create a bright yet welcoming atmosphere without feeling stark or overly crisp. Its warmth complements both natural and artificial light, making it a dependable choice that feels fresh while remaining approachable and lived-in,' adds Emily.

Because of its ability to adapt to different spaces and styles, there are plenty of ways to introduce this warm neutral into your design. For many designers, cabinetry is the best place to start.

'I love Alabaster on kitchen cabinetry. Its gentle warmth softens a full wall of built-ins without ever veering yellow,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo, who also notes its appeal on kitchen walls. 'Or, opt for natural wood cabinets and take Alabaster across the walls and ceiling for a seamless, enveloping look that feels like a warm hug.'

'I particularly love Alabaster on ceilings, walls, and trim,' Melissa agrees. 'It can be beautiful when used throughout the kitchen to create a really cohesive, enveloping feel and create a perfect backdrop to most cabinetry color choices. It can act almost like a supporting character – it’s there, it makes everything else look better, but it doesn't need to steal the show.'

It's a popular paint color in color-drenched kitchens, as it's soft, warm, and quietly creates a palatable base for the other materials, whether it's a bold countertop, vibrant decor, or a more layered decorating approach. This decorating technique is also ideal in small kitchens, where surfaces covered in Alabaster help to create the illusion of a larger footprint.

'We typically color-drench our kitchens with Alabaster (using it on the ceilings, walls, and trim) and complement it with a slightly warmer, taupe cabinet,' explains interior designer Claire Zinnecker, who complements the shade's ability to sit alongside a variety of other hues. 'It works with almost every color. Greens, browns, pinks, and blacks, although I don't think it is the best for cooler tones and grays.'

Alabaster isn't favored because it's bold or revolutionary. It's loved because it's reliable and versatile in kitchens of every size, aesthetic, and function. Whether it's a busy family kitchen that has to shift from a cooking space to a homework zone, a modern scheme used for regular hosting, or a traditional kitchen that needs to honor historic architecture, Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams always feels warm, welcoming, and right at home. It proves the right shade of white is key to a successful and timeless kitchen.

Kitchen Colors to Pair With Alabaster

Shop Alabaster-Inspired Kitchen Finds

Whether you're redesigning your space or planning to update a white kitchen, Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams is the warmer shade you've been searching for. It's the perfect shade to create an inviting atmosphere in your cooking space – and even better for small white kitchen ideas.

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Equal parts practical and playful, a backsplash does far more than just shield walls from pasta sauce splatters (though we love it for that too). It provides the ideal canvas to experiment with color, texture, and personality without committing to bold cabinetry or pricey countertops.

To help you navigate your next design update, we asked leading kitchen designers to share the backsplash ideas they're leaving behind – and the elevated alternatives taking their place.

1. Subway Tiles in a Subway Tile Layout

We all remember when subway (or metro) tiles took over the design world. Throughout the 2010s, the style gained a cult following across bistros, cafes, and residential kitchens alike. But hyper-popular tile trends inevitably risk feeling dated down the line, and this is no exception.

'Subway tiles are a classic, but using them in the default horizontal brick-laid pattern has become very common and can feel a bit outdated,' says Isabella Pacelli, designer at Roundhouse.

Luckily, this classic icon isn't completely out of rotation. The easy fix? Lay them vertically instead. This simple orientation switch feels instantly modern, elongating the wall to create a sense of height – a cost-free upgrade with maximum impact.

2. Tiling Only Behind the Range or Sink

A backsplash can quickly feel odd or impulsive when isolated to a single spot. While tiled alcoves add cozy charm, tiling strictly above the range – without the depth of an alcove – can end up looking out of place.

'A backsplash starts to feel dated when it is treated as an afterthought or a 'feature' that breaks the visual flow,' explains Jayne Everett, co-founder and creative director of Naked Kitchens. 'For instance, bold tiling isolated strictly behind a range with no continuity elsewhere often disrupts the design's harmony.'

'Small areas of tiles are dated; large expanses of tiles are a much better way to create a unique and interesting room,' agrees Helen Parker, Creative Director at deVOL Kitchens. She recommends committing to a larger expanse of tile or stone across the cooking run: 'This feels more of a design choice than just a functional necessity.'

Going for a countersplash instead, continuing the stone or tile across the rest of the kitchen or even in a slim upstand or ledge, maintains visual flow, transforming a simple backsplash into an elevated design detail.

3. Choosing Trending Patterns and Colors

A bold design choice is always admirable, but overly busy patterns or harsh color clashes rarely stand the test of time. 'Tiles, like lighting, can be considered a way of injecting some wow into a kitchen, but this can often be a bad choice, as they can dominate and feel a bit too much,' says Helen. Her advice is to opt for low-key patterns while focusing on texture. 'Finding vintage tiles is a great option,' Helen notes. We'll second that.

Subtle vintage motifs, such as Delft tiling, offer gentle visual interest without overwhelming the space, striking the perfect middle ground between plain and patterned.

4. Not Creating Enough Contrast with Square Tiles

While square tiles have enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, designers are now stepping back to reevaluate the look. 'Plain square tiles can make your kitchen feel uninspired and dated,' says Isabella. 'Instead of this, designers are opting for more interesting shapes such as scallop or herringbone arrangements.'

Stepping away from basic square layouts is an easy way to break up the long, horizontal lines of modern cabinetry and countertops. Swapping for whimsical geometric shapes introduces easy charm and architectural interest, transforming a simple tile wall into a bespoke feature.

5. Going Too Plain

Steering clear of busy patterns doesn't mean playing it entirely safe. When it comes to backsplashes, there's a fine line between minimalist and sterile. 'Plain backsplash, such as plain stone and glass, can look dated and unconsidered,' Isabella explains. They lack the depth, texture, and intrigue that elevate everyday kitchens, leaving the space looking flat and uninspired.

If you prefer neutral kitchens, focus on adding dimension through tactile materials and interesting design choices. 'Instead, carrying the worktop up the wall with the addition of a stone shelf can really finish off a design and make it feel luxurious,' Isabella suggests. 'If you want to take it that much further, a ribbed stone backsplash can have an incredibly dramatic effect, and make your kitchen design stand out.'

Updating your backsplash doesn't necessarily require a complete kitchen overhaul, but choosing a thoughtful layout can instantly transform the entire room. By swapping out tired arrangements for more timeless choices, you can create a space that feels effortlessly warm, characterful, and styled to last. What could be better than that?

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The $45 EKTANDVINGE Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set will set the scene with its charming gingham print, grounding my room with a cozy, cabin-core feel – perfect for fall. I'll add softness and texture by layering throw pillow covers on top, like the corduroy ÅSVEIG Cushion Cover and the tufted SVARTPOPPEL Cushion Cover (each costing less than $15). Complementary decor details in fall color schemes like the PÄRLHÄGG Vase will enhance the room's aesthetic appeal, while ambient lighting like the $30 SOLKLINT Table Lamp creates the endlessly cozy mood.

For my fall bedroom refresh, I'm not focused solely on decorative details. In fact, I'm just as concerned about bedroom organization as I am coziness and comfort. Luckily, IKEA has no shortage of affordable and stylish storage ideas, including the versatile PAX BERGSBO Wardrobe, the sleek TONSTAD Cabinet, and the cute HEMMAFIXARE Case for underbed storage.

In just one shopping trip and one weekend of styling and switching, my cozy bedroom will be refreshed and neatly organized for fall – and I didn't have to spend a fortune to do so. You can do the same by shopping for everything you need for a fall bedroom refresh from IKEA below.

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Your space often doesn't need an entire overhaul, just a switch in mindset, a switch in the feeling it creates when you walk through the door. This can be done oh-so-subtly, through scent, lighting and layering, plus a few fall vignettes that really nod to the change in season.

'Every September the same box marked “Fall” comes up from the basement. Mini pumpkins, a faux eucalyptus garland draped over the mirror, a doormat that announces the season,' says designer Hallie Malitsky, founder of Hallie Rose Design. 'But for my entryway, instead of the very obvious fall statements, I transition the space through mood. Scent, light, and one vessel with something nodding to fall – that’s the perfect formula.'

1. Refresh The Scent

Making your entryway smell like fall is the easiest switch you can make, especially early on in the season. At this time of year, before you go full on with the spicy, baking-inspired scents, choose subtle fragrances that are just a little earthier than your usual summer scents. 'Scent is where most people go wrong, because they reach for a seasonal scent (achem pumpkin spice, I’m looking at you) instead of a feeling,' explains Hallie. 'No pumpkin, no spiced cider, please nothing that smells like the candle aisle. What I do change is the depth of the scent.'

Instead of the obvious fall candles, go for something comforting, but a little less generic, something that bridges the gap between ocean breeze and pumpkin spice. 'Late summer I want something lighter, greener and fresh smelling and as the air shifts to fall I move toward something moodier and woodier,' says Hallie. 'I absolutely love Adlan Fragrances for this reason, and the Crowd Pleaser is the scent I go back to year after year. Sandalwood and cardamom, warm and a little smoky. It doesn’t yell “Fall!” as much as it is an atmosphere.'

2. Soften the Lighting

Swapping out your entryway lighting for something softer and more ambient will create cozy warmth and homeliness that makes darker days feel welcome rather than dreary. 'Add a vintage or antique floor lamp,' advises Hallie. 'An entry is a room that people often forget to light properly beyond just an overhead fixture. A floor lamp or an antique table lamp is unexpected in an entry and can bring in light to soften the whole space.'

For something even simpler, interior designer Jessica Hobson suggests, 'Swap out a white lamp shade for something moodier. Opt for a dark printed pattern; this gives you instant drama and changes the whole vibe of your entry. I love Pooky Lighting for an amazing range of printed stocked shades that are both well-priced and of exceptional quality.'

3. Trade Fresh Flowers For Branches

Remove your summer flower display and replace it with something a little more seasonal, like calming eucalyptus (this Seeded Willow Eucalyptus Stem from Target would be ideal), or richly colored plants like Japanese maple, or a few stems of Chinese lanterns. Just ensure it looks organic, rather than overly curated.

'Trade the flowers for branches,' says Hallie. 'I go out to the yard and cut something architectural, not too leafy. A lot of clients are surprised that you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars at the flower market; you can go outside your door to a whole world of stunning branches. I always choose something with movement, so you see the shape as much as the foliage. Put in an antique vessel with some patina, and it’s a perfect welcoming nod to fall.'

'Bring in something from outside,' agrees interior designer Claire Zinnecker. 'I love bringing in seasonal cuttings (think branches, grasses or late summer blooms). An oversized wild arrangement in a beautiful vessel feels seasonal without feeling like your typical fall decor.'

4. Add Vintage Layers

Decorating with vintage isn't a seasonal ritual, but when designing a cozy entryway that comforts and invites, preloved pieces are one of the most impactful decor options you can choose. They bring an instant sense of nostalgia and charm that makes an entryway feel instantly more welcoming and lived-in.

A Persian rug invites warmth and story to a bare floor, as does a collection of vintage artwork hung on a wall. They also act as layers of texture that inject personality and contrast into a space. 'Warm up the palette with texture,' says Claire. 'I love to design with texture; it's an amazing way to create interest without always blowing the budget. Bringing in a vintage runner, a woven basket, or darker pottery can instantly shift the mood of a space.'

You needn't go overboard either; even bringing in a vintage tray to adorn your console table makes an entryway feel more lived-in and welcoming, or a brass catchall (such as this Pocket Change Brass Catchall from 1stDibs) for keys and trinkets.

5. Carry the Feeling Past the Door

Your entryway can set the tone of your home, but creating similar vignettes throughout your space will ensure the mood continues long past the front door.

'Carry the feeling past the door,' advises Hallie. 'Whatever you do in the entry, repeat one element of it again in the adjoining room. The same branches in a different vessel or the same candle lit on the coffee table stacked with your favorite coffee table books. The entry should be the opening line, not the whole story. A home that feels like the warmth of fall the moment you walk in is the one that people want to stay in. That never comes from decorating; it comes from the intentional moments you create with items that look like they’ve always been there.'

Late-Summer Entryway Picks

Your entryway is the natural place to start when switching your home from summer to fall. Start here with just a few simple switches after Labor Day, and gradually go more autumnal as the weeks go on – deepening the scents, adding more layers, and introducing a few fall motifs.

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Scalloped kitchenware has established itself as one of the most charming kitchen trends for fall. From wavy-rimmed cake stands and serving platters to subtle embroidered napkins, the playful motif brings quiet joy and elegance to everyday table settings. It's a signature detail Joanna has championed for years, and one she's woven heavily across both her latest Magnolia and Target fall drops.

Like all of the best decor, the silhouette has deep historic roots, dating back to medieval decor and taking its name from the French escalope (meaning shell). Mirroring the soft curves of a seashell, the shape strikes a perfect balance between delicate beauty and practical durability for a busy kitchen. By pairing the classic wave with warm, nostalgic autumnal hues and patterns, Joanna has transformed a heritage motif into an essential seasonal upgrade. In other words, it's the perfect fall kitchen decor.

Below, shop our curated edit of Joanna's best scalloped kitchenware to bring a little wave-rimmed charm to your space this season.

Far from a fleeting fad, the scalloped edge is a classic design accent with centuries of history behind it, making it a remarkably smart investment for the home. Bringing instant character to the table, it's the easiest way to give your kitchen a soft, considered update for fall and beyond.

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As one of the hardest-working features of your design, where you buy kitchen tiles needs careful consideration to find a style that suits your needs, kitchen, and budget. Whether you're looking for unique kitchen tiles to create a showstopping kitchen backsplash, something classic and durable for your floors, or a moody, glossy finish for a home bar, these are the places that are worth shopping. And to make it easier, we've categorized each retailer into luxury, affordable, and vintage, simplifying your search.

Design-Led and Luxury Kitchen Tiles

Tiles come in all different shapes and sizes, but if you ask designers for their top places to shop, one of these luxury retailers will probably be at the top of their list. They might sit at a higher price point, but the craftsmanship and design-led style of these tiles will instantly elevate your kitchen.

Fireclay Tile

Handmade in California, the Fireclay Tile store is dedicated to all things kitchen tiles. Ceramic, brick, glass, handmade, and mosaic tiles are Fireclay's main categories, with some beautiful designs to browse. Its handmade tiles feature unique patterns for an eye-catching kitchen feature, whereas the other options come in a wonderful array of colors and high-quality finishes.

The brand is also a favorite among interior designers, including Mollie Ranize, lead interior designer and founder of Dmar Interiors, Rebecca Ward, principal designer and founder of R Ward Design, and Dijana Savic-Jambert, co-founder of Maredi Design, noting the brand's reliability in offering 'outstanding and quality products that are durable and timeless,' as well as its B-Corp status and focus on sustainability.

Ann Sacks

Known for its tile and stone expertise, Ann Sacks is a brand synonymous with kitchen tiles. With a focus on timeless designs and natural materials, this is the place to shop for tiles if your aesthetic aligns with the Ann Sacks ethos. The brand is also known for its designer collaborations, including a range with Kelly Wearstler and two charming collections with Studio McGee.

Zia Tile

Specializing in 'handmade artisanal tile and stone from around the world,' there's not much you can't find at Zia Tile. From zellige and ceramics to marble and mosaics, the range of tiles on offer ensures you can create a timeless, personalized kitchen, whatever your design style. There are also handy installation guides for different tile materials, so you can ensure the installation and finish is seamless.

It's another brand designers always return to in their projects, including Abbie Naber, owner and principal designer of A.Naber Design and Luis Carmona, owner and interior designer at VERDE Interior Design, hailing Zia Tile as a go-to brand for versatility and tile designs that stand the test of time.

deVOL

Renowned for their timeless kitchen designs, deVOL is a huge source of inspiration for anyone wanting to create a classic scheme – but not everyone is aware that the brand sells handmade kitchen tiles that are the same high-quality standard as their cabinetry.

The kitchen tile range is small, but their options are beautiful. From classic white metro and subway tiles to their green glazed tiles and lace market collection, the handmade quality means every tile has a unique appeal. The more colorful options can offer a lovely vintage feel when paired with the right kitchen style, especially with the slight color variation.

Clé Tile

The entire ethos of Clé Tile focuses on artisanal design and timeless styles – it taps into the idea of buy well, buy once. The range of kitchen tiles is vast, but the brand is renowned for Moroccan zellige tiles, using ancient processes and techniques for an authentic look, and reimagined cement tiles that celebrate color and elegant style. If you love that more irregular finish, you'll love the kitchen tile range here.

Affordable But Always Stylish Kitchen Tiles

If you're sprucing up your kitchen on a tighter budget, there are plenty of brands and retailers that offer more affordable designs. And that doesn't mean compromising on style – there are plenty of timeless, elevated kitchen tiles to give your cooking space enduring appeal.

Wayfair

A one-stop shop for all things home improvement, Wayfair has an expectedly vast range of kitchen tiles. There is a variety of tile makers here, so you can really find the right shapes, colors, and finishes tailored to your kitchen's design style. There's something for every budget and aesthetic, from classic white metro tiles to unique mosaic patterns inspired by European designs.

Lowe's

With over 500 kitchen tiles, it's clear why Lowe's is a go-to retailer for kitchen improvements, featuring a vast and varied selection. Many of the top results are natural stone-style tiles, including marble-inspired designs and natural porcelain. You won't find the artisanal or decorative styles of luxury retailers, but there are lots of classic designs that are versatile for floor and wall use. Think marble-look slabs, classic brick-style designs, and tiles featuring a more organic finish for a patinated look.

Bedrosians

Even though Bedrosians is best known for its premium tiles, it also offers a generous range of more affordable designs, making it a great place for renovations of every budget. The Cloe ceramic tile collection is one of the brand's most coveted, but you can find ceramic, porcelain, and mosaic kitchen tiles throughout the categories. It's also family-owned, which always sweetens the deal.

Vintage and Reclaimed Kitchen Tiles

Vintage and reclaimed tiles have become increasingly coveted, bringing an old-world charm to kitchens, even in new renovations. From terracotta floor tiles once lining the floors of a historic house to original Delft tiles that add a daintily decorative motif, there are a few places worth keeping an eye out for.

Etsy

Etsy is a treasure trove of homeware finds, including beautiful kitchen tiles. From handmade pieces to vintage and reclaimed designs, you can find some beautifully unique options here. When it comes to vintage, it can be tricky to find enough of one type for a full backsplash, but there are plenty of one-of-a-kind tiles to include in your kitchen design, from vintage zellige to charming coastal scenes.

Online Marketplaces

We've all scoured Facebook Marketplace for sofas, dressers, and even old copper pots, but if you get the search terms right, you can find vintage tiles in abundance. Whether someone is renovating and wants to give part of their old design a new lease of life or a specialist antique expert is trying to shift old stock, you're more likely to find tile sets here.

Reclamation Specialists

If reclaimed tiles are more your style, it's time to get acquainted with your local reclamation yards and specialists. This is especially useful for terracotta flooring and encaustic tiles that aren't readily available in the US – they are more prominent in European countries like Spain and Italy. Make sure you take the time to look at all the reclaimed tiles on offer – just because they are stacked and stored together in the yard doesn't mean they are necessarily a matching set.

Shop On-Trend Yet Timeless Kitchen Tiles

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This year, swap your standard serveware for autumn-inspired styles like Williams Sonoma’s Essex Oval Platter or Michael’s Wood Pumpkin Tray. Kitchen linens are an easy seasonal switch, too – instead of neutral-toned napkins, tablecloths, and tea towels, opt for alternatives in fall colors like brown, green, and orange. And don’t forget to incorporate little details to make the room feel more like fall. Terrain’s Oak Leaf Serving Utensils and West Elm’s Pinecone Placecard Holders are easy upgrades to elevate your fall tablescapes. Shop our curated collection of fall kitchen decor below.

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It was the challenge faced in this home. The clients, restaurateurs who find much joy in hosting, wanted the open-plan kitchen to be functional, yet embody a very calm, restrained palette with just the right amount of warmth and texture to feel inviting.

With a unique layout, a focus on materiality, and an effortless approach to decor, this open-plan room has been reinvented as the heart of the home, boasting a kitchen that feels calm and considered, yet is filled with functional storage and surface space for the grandest occasions. It's a lesson in getting open-plan right.

Embrace an Earthy Palette For a Timeless Kitchen

A neutral kitchen needs warmth and layering to feel timeless and inviting, rather than flat and sterile. Wood is one of the most enduring materials to introduce, especially if the scheme features ceiling beams that deserve to be honored. In this design, wooden cabinets became the anchoring detail for the whole scheme, allowing the space to remain restrained and pared-back, yet still include contrast and visual interest.

'We wanted the palette to feel grounded in the natural world, with warm woods, soft stone, woven textures, and quiet, earthy tones creating a sense of ease. There is an abundance of natural light throughout the space, so these materials have a beautiful opportunity to shift and soften throughout the day. Rather than competing with that light, the restrained palette allows it to become part of the design. The result is a kitchen that feels bright and fresh, but still warm and inviting,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan.

Use a Contrasting Cabinet Style on the Island

In a large kitchen, especially an open-plan one, a contrasting island helps to add depth to the design. But instead of just playing with color, Marie opted for a mix of cabinet styles to give the island its own identity from the perimeter cabinets. It still feels cohesive, but adds a new layer of interest to the space.

'The contrast between the island and perimeter cabinetry was a subtle way to give the kitchen dimension without introducing a lot of visual noise. The more substantial, painted island grounds the room and gives it a furniture-like quality, while the lighter, natural wood cabinetry along the perimeter feels quiet and architectural,' she explains.

'Because the homeowners wanted restraint, we were very intentional about letting material and texture create the variation rather than relying on color. Together, the two finishes add warmth and depth while maintaining a very cohesive feeling.'

Install a Peninsula to Define an Open Plan Space

Kitchen zoning is key in a great room, especially when defining the cooking and lounging spaces. Often, the orientation leaves the island as the dividing feature, but a more creative approach was required in this design. The solution? A sleek peninsula that maximizes kitchen storage and counter space while creating a clean line between zones.

'We wanted the kitchen to feel connected to the living space without losing a sense of definition between the two rooms. The peninsula subtly establishes that boundary while also creating another place to gather, serve, or simply place a cup of coffee,' Marie recalls. 'It helps the kitchen feel like a destination within the larger room rather than one long, open expanse. For a family that entertains frequently, that distinction makes the space feel both more intimate and more functional.'

Scale Down a Backsplash to Blend Style and Function

Backsplash trends this year have favored the brave and expansive, from countersplash designs to mixed material schemes. But in a more pared-back scheme, a backsplash can quickly overwhelm. Instead of removing the backsplash entirely, a small tiled section behind the cooktop added just the right amount of protection.

'The decision to limit the backsplash was very much about restraint – we wanted to protect the quiet quality of the kitchen rather than cover every surface with pattern or material. Placing the tile only behind the cooktop gives that hardworking area a beautiful moment while keeping the rest of the kitchen clean and understated,' Marie explains.

And glossy zellige tiles became the perfect way to create a subtle wall feature. 'We chose the handmade, softly irregular tiles for their texture and variation, which bring a subtle sense of age and character to the otherwise restrained palette. They feel collected rather than overly new, which was important to the overall warmth of the space.'

Transform a Bay Window Into a Cozy Dining Nook

There's something a bit too formal about breakfast or a casual lunch on a grand eight-seater dining table. Such a large set-up can also change the entire vibe of an open room, which is why dining nooks are being chosen in their place, creating cozy, comfortable, and more intimate spaces. And in the design, a bay window was the perfect location.

'The bay window offered a natural opportunity to create a more intimate place to gather within the larger kitchen. We loved the idea of giving the family somewhere to linger over breakfast, a casual meal, or a glass of wine while taking advantage of the beautiful natural light and garden views,' Marie explains.

'The built-in seating makes the most of an otherwise underutilized area and softens the architecture with something that feels very comfortable and inviting. It also reinforces the idea that this kitchen is meant to be lived in, not simply used for cooking.'

Infuse Warmth and Collected Style With Thoughtful Decor

Decorative details are what take a new kitchen to a more personal level, adding layers, textures, and unique style. In line with the simplistic, pared-back look the clients were after, decorative details have been introduced through furniture, lighting, and kitchen essentials that double as display pieces.

'We approached those details much as we would in the rest of a home – looking for pieces that feel collected, tactile, and connected to the materials already present. The woven barstools, sculptural lighting, artwork, pottery, and vintage-feeling cutting boards each bring a different layer of texture without introducing unnecessary color or pattern,' she explains.

'I love when a kitchen has those small, personal details because they make the space feel like a room rather than a purely functional kitchen. Here, those elements help bring a little softness and soul to an otherwise very restrained design.'

Quick Tips

• Use an earthy palette for a neutral kitchen that feels visually interesting
• Mix cabinet styles for a more dynamic scheme
• Experiment with layout ideas for successful zoning
• Design a backsplash that works for your space, rather than following trends
• Utilize architectural features like a bay window for more intimate dining nooks
• Let decorative details bring character and charm

This elegant kitchen design proves that you don't need one standout feature to create a space that feels show-stopping. There's a subtlety to this space that lets materiality and texture do all the talking – it's about how each detail works together to blend style and function that makes it truly stand out.

'There isn't one element competing for attention – the natural light, warm wood ceiling, handmade tile, cabinetry, and furnishings all have room to breathe,' Marie finishes. 'The kitchen feels architectural and sophisticated, but at the same time incredibly comfortable and approachable, which was exactly right for these homeowners.'

Shop the Look

At Homes & Gardens, we believe a kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks. That’s the philosophy behind Dream Kitchens, our new series exploring the world’s most inspiring cook spaces. From clever layouts to the 'it' materials of 2026, we’re uncovering the design lessons tucked inside every home. Join us for an intimate look at the spaces that define modern living – and find the blueprints for your next big project.

It's an element often overlooked in shower ideas, but one that will transform your space from purely functional to truly luxurious and more purposeful. And designers say it's a feature worth adding, whether it's built-in or freestanding.

Here's why a shower bench is becoming the one feature you should never overlook, how to use them to add luxury, and the best buys if you need a freestanding option.

A bath was once considered non-negotiable in bathroom designs, but in recent years, showers have leveled up, bringing luxury and tranquility that fit seamlessly in schemes of every size. And part of that elevated look is the addition of a shower bench, creating a space to perch and lean on, as well as a more architectural feature.

'A shower bench is one of those elements that can be both highly practical and visually beautiful. It gives you a comfortable place to sit, makes everyday routines easier, and can also make the shower more accessible over time. From a design perspective, I love that it can become part of the architecture of the shower rather than simply an accessory,' says Nana Park of Nana & Nani Design.

In the past, shower benches were mainly added to help with access in later life (think plastic seats that fold up and down), and the designs focused purely on function. But now, we are seeing built-in benches made from beautiful stone, and even freestanding designs that bring a more organic detail. You still get the practical benefits, but they’re delivered more elegantly.

'A shower bench might seem like a small detail – until you have one. Most showers are designed around efficiency; you're in, you're out. A bench is one of those little architectural moments that makes a shower feel luxurious,' explains Sascha Lafleur, Co-founder at West of Main Design, noting its importance in creating a more wellness-led, hotel-inspired space.

'Suddenly there's somewhere to sit while the steam builds, somewhere to prop a foot, somewhere to set a bar of soap down instead of balancing it on a ledge. It's one of the few additions that's genuinely both sculptural and useful, and helps make showers accessible for all ages and stages of life.'

The luxury comes from the materials used. A shower bench should feel like a seamless addition to your wash space, rather than an afterthought. For a built-in design, Nana recommends avoiding contrasting materials and embracing a more integrated look to create something that feels part of the room's architecture.

'We’re seeing a shift away from the accent tiles and contrasting finishes that were once commonly used to define shower features. Now, there’s a move toward material continuity – carrying the same stone or tile across the walls and onto the bench. It creates a quieter, more seamless look and allows the bench to feel integrated into the architecture rather than treated as a separate feature,' says Sascha.

A built-in shower bench needs to be added during the renovation process, but if you aren't currently rethinking your entire bathroom design, you can still create a high-end look with freestanding pieces. In these cases, materiality is key, as is choosing a form that feels elevated, long-lasting, and in keeping with the rest of your shower design.

'A freestanding stool or bench is the easiest and most reversible option, and it can be genuinely beautiful rather than a compromise. If you’re low on space, you could even use a small marble side table. If you’re going freestanding, measure properly: leave the drain clear, and be sure to check the door swing,' Sascha advises.

'Solid teak is the classic material choice for good reason – its natural oils make it dimensionally stable in constant humidity, and it silvers beautifully rather than degrading. There’s a reason they use teak on boats!' says Justin. 'Beyond wood, powder-coated or marine-grade stainless steel is excellent if you want something more architectural. Natural stone or quartz are also great options. Whatever you choose, let it dry between uses and oil the wood once or twice a year.'

A freestanding shower bench doesn't have to be neutral. If you're adding it to a colorful bathroom, or even a neutral scheme in need of something more vibrant, certain materials can offer a bolder hue. 'I especially like sculptural, contemporary plastic or resin stools – something that feels more like a design object than a traditional shower seat. It can introduce color, shape and personality into an otherwise neutral bathroom, and because it’s lightweight, it can easily move in and out of the shower as needed,' Nana explains.

The key to a successful freestanding shower bench lies in the maintenance. For most materials, this means placement and cleaning. 'A teak bench can add needed warmth to a space. They will last longer if you keep them out of the way of the shower stream if there's space and squeegee them off when wet,' says interior designer Sarah Montgomery.

Shop Freestanding Shower Benches

A shower bench is a small but impactful addition to your bathroom, and one designers say is worth introducing. If you're buying a freestanding design, consider the materials and ensure they are suitable for use within a shower.

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With the 'ber months in sight, now is the perfect time to update your kitchen lighting to create a warm and cozy (yet still functional) space for fall. Here's how designers infuse much-needed warmth through small but impactful lighting changes.

Unlike other rooms in the home, your kitchen lighting needs to be functional for food prep, cooking, and cleaning. But it also needs to adapt for other uses, whether it's hosting, socializing, or even relaxing after a long day. With varied needs, your lighting scheme needs to work harder and be more versatile to avoid a cold, sterile atmosphere. And designers say there are a few key culprits causing harsh lighting.

'A kitchen can start to feel harsh when it relies too heavily on one type of lighting, especially bright overhead recessed lights. Cooler bulb temperatures, too many ceiling fixtures, and a lack of dimmers can make a space feel more clinical than inviting. Kitchens also have so many hard, reflective surfaces, so the wrong lighting can easily amplify that,' explains Kailee Blalock, Co-Founder of House of Hive Design Co.

'Most kitchens are lit entirely from the ceiling. Every source is overhead, so you get shadows under the wall cabinets, shadows on people’s faces, and a dark band around the perimeter of the room. The finishes can be beautiful, and the space still reads flat,' agrees Michael Winn, Owner and Principal at WINN Design + Build.

But more often than not, it's the bulbs that cause the most coldness in a kitchen, specifically the temperature. When we think of warm lighting, there's usually more of an orange glow than a white or blue one – a detail that depends on the bulb temperatures you introduce. 'A lot of kitchens get built with recessed lights at 3500K or 4000K, which is closer to office lighting than home lighting. Put that above a polished quartz counter, and all of it bounces straight back at you,' Michael explains.

'Bulbs rated high on the Kelvin scale (4000K to 5000K+) emit a stark, blue-toned light similar to commercial or office lighting. While high Kelvin ratings work well for intense task zones, in a residential kitchen they drain the warmth from cabinetry, wash out natural wood tones, and create unflattering shadows,' adds Shannon Kadwell, Kitchen and Bath Director at Anthony Wilder Design Build.

A lot of these details don't become obvious until you reach the darker, colder months, as you rely less on lighting during the summer when natural daylight does all the heavy lifting. But as soon as those darker evenings draw in, stark or underwhelming lighting will become glaringly obvious. For Pooky's Chief Creative Officer, Jo Plant, a successful kitchen lighting scheme ahead of fall is about a balance of function and ambiance. 'The key is to avoid treating kitchen lighting as purely functional; it should add atmosphere as well as provide practical illumination.'

5 Ways to Make Your Kitchen Lighting Warmer for Fall

The slow shift from summer to fall is one of the most noticeable in our homes, especially as evenings grow darker and light disappears much sooner. And as a functional and social space, your kitchen lighting is one of the first details you need to adapt for the season. 'As we move into fall, kitchen lighting becomes particularly important,' says Jo.

'As the days get shorter and natural light starts to fade earlier, a kitchen that felt bright and welcoming in summer can suddenly feel quite stark.' It's easy to give your kitchen lighting a warmer, cozier update for fall. It doesn't require a full replan, nor does it need to cost a fortune – the subtle changes are the most impactful. These are the 5 worth trying this year.

1. Switch to Warmer Bulb Temperatures

One of the key elements that makes your kitchen lighting feel harsh is using bulbs that are too bright and too cool-toned. As we head towards fall, swapping these harsher bulbs out for softer, warmer alternatives makes a huge difference to the atmosphere of your cooking space.

'To instantly soften the space, shift your bulbs down to a lower color temperature – specifically around 2400K to 2700K. A 2400K bulb delivers a rich, golden warmth that closely mimics the cozy glow of traditional incandescent bulbs,' Shannon explains. 'Swapping overhead recessed cans or under-cabinet task fixtures to this warmer range transforms the kitchen’s ambiance, making island seating and open-plan prep areas feel inviting as the days grow shorter.'

You can find light bulbs in this Kelvin range in most stores, including Amazon, for easy ordering and delivery. These LED Dimmable Edison Light Bulbs made from amber glass offer a warm white glow, while these A19 Vintage LED Edison Light Bulbs offer a more retro look.

2. Look to Lower-Height Lighting

The focus in a kitchen often lands on the ceiling fixtures, but taking the time to edit your lower-level lighting is often more impactful. It's the lights that sit below eye level, like cabinet lighting and lamps, that bring a warmer feel as fall approaches.

'The move most people skip is light below eye level. Undercabinet strips, a pair of sconces, even a small plug-in lamp at the end of a counter. Low light is what makes a kitchen feel like a room instead of a workspace,' says Michael.

If you're looking for easy, affordable changes, a countertop lamp is always a stylish addition. 'A great option is to add a lamp on the countertop that has a fun shade and keep it on through the winter. It feels really lovely to have a lamp lit during those darker afternoons and evenings and invites you into the space,' adds interior designer Jess Cooney.

3. Take Note of Bulb Types and Styles

While the temperature of the light bulbs you choose is an important factor to consider when swapping to warmer lighting for fall, so are the bulb types. It seems like such a minor detail, but one that changes the way light diffuses around the kitchen.

'As we transition into fall, swap out standard glass or exposed-bulb fixtures for LED filament 'Edison' bulbs. Modern LED Edison bulbs combine energy efficiency with classic aesthetic appeal, offering clear or amber-tinted glass and visible glowing filaments,' Shannon explains.

It's one of those details that instantly makes your kitchen lighting feel more considered and design-led. It's a bit like swapping out your outlet and switch plates for something more elevated. 'They emit a deep, cozy amber radiance that pairs beautifully with autumnal textures, rich cabinet finishes, and natural stone countertops,' she adds.

4. Consider Putting Kitchen Lighting on Dimmers

If there's one piece of advice designers always give, it's to put kitchen lighting on dimmers. It's the easiest and most effective way to take your lighting scheme from functional to ambient, bright to softly moody.

'Dimmers are another simple but transformative addition, allowing you to turn the brightness down as the evening progresses and instantly shift the mood from practical to atmospheric,' says Jo. Although this is a step to consider during a larger project, it's one experts say you won't regret. And for maximum impact, avoid putting every light in the kitchen on one switch.

'Our designers separate the ceiling lights from the pendants and the under-cabinet lighting so you can run the room at thirty percent on a Tuesday night without lighting it like you’re prepping Thanksgiving dinner. If you’re replacing fixtures anyway, look at dim-to-warm LEDs. They drop towards 2200K as you dim them, the way an incandescent used to,' Michael advises.

When the overhead lighting is on a dimmer, you can utilize different light sources throughout the day, and let decorative lighting take over. 'As the days get shorter, we naturally start relying less on bright overhead lighting and more on the decorative and ambient layers. We’ll dim the ceiling lights and let pendants, sconces, and other smaller fixtures create pockets of warmth throughout the room,' says Kailee.

'We love when a kitchen feels a little moodier in the fall! You still need functional task lighting when cooking, but the entire room doesn’t need to be illuminated at the same intensity.' If you do add dimmers, make sure to add elevated switch plates, like this Classic Toggle & Dimmer from Rejuvenation, or add autumnal color with Anthropologie's Merritt Enamel Switch Plate.

5. Create a Layered Approach

Fall conjures images of cozy interiors, and nothing brings that feeling to life quite like layered kitchen lighting. Categorize your various fixtures into task, ambient, and accent lighting, often referred to as the kitchen lighting rule of 3, to balance function and atmosphere, and remember to think beyond your typical ceiling lights.

'The easiest way to soften a kitchen is to introduce more layers of light. Rather than relying solely on ceiling spots or a central pendant, combine practical task lighting with softer, ambient sources. Wall lights, under-cabinet lighting and small table lamps can all help to create pockets of warmth and make the room feel more inviting,' says Jo.

'Layering is particularly effective at this time of year. Keep your brighter task lighting available for cooking and food preparation, but switch to softer pools of light when you’re entertaining or settling in for the evening. It’s these smaller, lower-level sources that create that lovely cocooning feeling we all crave as the nights draw in.'

Your kitchen walls are a great way to bring in a new layer of lighting – an area that is often overlooked. 'Any spot you can add a sconce really creates a soft enveloping feel in the evening when you are sitting and having a cup of tea at your breakfast table,' says Jess. But you can also look beyond the obvious kitchen fixtures and introduce softer lighting more typical of a living room or bedroom.

'Incorporating picture lighting above artwork helps to make spaces feel more intimate, warm, and personal,' says Kelly Emerson, Senior Designer at Aidan Design. 'Investing in unique table and floor lamps with warm shades and warm color temperature bulbs will certainly bring a fall refresh you’re looking for! Any chance to layer multiple sources of lighting will bring sophistication and mood.'

Taking a layered approach to kitchen lighting as we head towards fall works because it can be easily edited as seasons change, rather than being suitable for just one quarter of the year. 'One of our favorite things about a layered lighting plan is that you can change the feeling of the kitchen seasonally without actually changing the design. In summer, natural light can take the lead; in fall and winter, the warmer decorative lighting becomes much more noticeable and creates that cozy, intimate feeling,' Kailee notes.

While kitchen lighting is functional, it's also a decorative detail that can make or break the entire mood of the room. As fall approaches, it's all about coziness and warmth – two things the right lighting can create effortlessly.

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To help you master your bedroom color ideas and avoid making any color mistakes, designers reveal the five popular shades you may want to avoid in bedrooms, and the more timeless alternatives to use instead that lend a calm, cozy feel.

1. Energizing Reds – Go For Chocolate Browns

The last couple of years have given decorating with red a new lease of life. With the likes of the unexpected red theory, red feels once again modern and fresh, but you may want to think twice before painting your bedroom walls this color.

'We generally avoid red in a bedroom,' explains the Minneapolis-based interior designer Heather Peterson. 'It can be intense and activating, and we strive for a restful envelope in most bedrooms.'

'If you want the drama, consider a rich dark brown instead,' Heather advises. 'Think bittersweet chocolate, which can have a red undertone. This is just as strong as red and delivers warmth, but it is less charged. We especially like it paired with light neutrals for contrast and red-brown wood for some tonal interest.'

2. Sweet Pale Pinks – Opt For Muted Dusty Tones

Pale pink paints have been making a comeback in interiors, often working as a more colorful alternative to traditional neutrals. And while this warm shade works well in plenty of settings, the wrong tone can look dated in bedrooms.

'Pink is a popular color for bedrooms, but it is often the default choice for feminine nurseries,' says New York designer Luba Libarikian of Libarikian Interiors. 'We love pink, but if it is the wrong hue, it will feel like a bedroom for a young child, and not sophisticated enough for a grown-up bedroom.'

Instead of pale pinks, Luba points to earthy, dusty variations of pink, which offer a lot more depth. 'A muted pink is unisex; it’s a soft color that feels calming and is flattering in evening light,' she says. 'The pink undertones have to be desaturated a little, and it has to be light enough to feel soft and soothing.'

3. Cool Grays – Choose Light but Earthy Tones

Gray-blue paints have gained lots of momentum in the design world as a cool, modern take on decorating with neutrals. And while these cool shades can bring a crisp, refined feel to light and airy rooms, they can feel out of sync with the cozy feel we want to achieve in bedrooms. 'I would steer away from colors that feel too cool, particularly gray-blues,' says designer MK Smith Boykin of Charlotte-based Smith Interiors.

'In a bedroom, you want the palette to feel warm, inviting, and uplifting,' she adds. 'Cooler shades can make the space feel a little sterile or chilly, which isn't the feeling you want to wake up to – especially in the winter.'

To keep your bedroom feeling soft and welcoming, while maintaining a pared-back look, go for light, warm neutral paints. 'I often urge clients to use a creamy white,' suggests MK. 'It's much more timeless and welcoming. I also would love to see a warm cinnamon in a bedroom. This is cozy, warm, and timeless, and it pairs well with crisp bedding.'

4. Bright Whites – Pick a Soften Brightening Lilac

Decorating with white is a timeless choice, especially when aiming to make a room feel light and airy. And while in sun-drenched kitchens or open-plan spaces, white walls feel bright and breezy, white bedrooms can feel off-balance. 'We find that most people default to a cool white – a white paint color that has a cool undertone,' says designer Luba Libarikian. 'The problem with this type of color is that it only looks great in bright sunny rooms – most bedrooms don’t get enough light, and feel cold and unwelcoming.'

'White can feel a little too sterile and clinical – almost like a hospital room – when a bedroom should feel soothing, warm, and inviting,' adds Houston interior designer Lindsey Herod.

For something much softer and more inviting, Lindsey recommends exploring the world of lilac paints. 'It brings color and personality into a bedroom without overwhelming the space, and has a soft, calming quality that feels naturally suited to where we rest and recharge,' she says. 'It’s subtle enough to feel timeless, but still adds a sense of warmth, character, and joy – creating a room that feels soothing at night and uplifting in the morning.'

5. Rich Burgundy – Try a Fresh Yet Enveloping Blue

Few color trends have been as defining as burgundy of late, and while there's no denying the warm, sophisticated appeal of this decadent hue, some designers are swerving it in bedrooms. 'I love burgundy in dining rooms, libraries, and other spaces where you want richness and drama, but in a room intended for rest, it can carry more visual energy than people anticipate,' says designer Anu Jain of Atelier Oleana, based in San Francisco.

'Depending on the light, it can also shift from romantic and enveloping to feeling quite heavy,' she adds. 'A bedroom is one of the few places where I want the color to lower the volume rather than demand attention.'

To create a colorful look that feels more aligned with a bedroom context, consider going for a blue bedroom instead. 'Blue has an inherently restorative quality, but it still gives a bedroom far more atmosphere and personality than a conventional neutral,' says Anu.

Here, Anu used Farrow & Ball's Lulworth Blue, which she describes as 'a fresh mid-tone blue with a slightly formal, historic quality. It has enough clarity to feel uplifting during the day but becomes wonderfully soft and enveloping in lower evening light.'

The key to designing a bedroom color scheme that you won't soon tire of is to think about how you want the space to feel. Whether that's calm, cozy, or cocooning, the right wall color can totally transform the mood, so think of this before diving into the latest color trends.

With any of the paint colors mentioned here, make sure to sample shades at home first so you can see how the color looks at different times of day – you'd be surprised by how changing lighting completely alters the look.

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Which is exactly why choosing kitchen cabinets can feel so overwhelming. You’re not making one decision, you’re making dozens. Door styles, colors, materials, construction methods, storage solutions, hardware and finishes all demand attention. And then there’s the issue of achieving what you want within budget, which can be just as stressful, especially if you don’t have money to burn.

‘If I had to offer one piece of advice, it would be to learn the basics of cabinetry before you even think about style,’ says Rebecca Mahoney, principal designer at Robinwood Kitchens. ‘Taking some time to understand cabinet construction, materials, and the different levels of quality will help you make more informed decisions and feel more confident throughout the design process.’

Instead of tackling everything at once, this guide breaks the process into the decisions that really matter. We’ll explain what each option looks like, where it works best, what it’s likely to cost, and whether it’s a smart long-term investment, so you can nail down the best kitchen cabinet choice with confidence and make informed choices you won't regret.

1. Styles: How Cabinet Doors Shape the Look of Your Kitchen

Before you think about color or materials, decide on the cabinet style. Door profiles establish the personality of the kitchen more than almost any other element, making a space feel sleek and contemporary, warm and traditional, or somewhere comfortably in between.

When locking down the perfect cabinet style, professional designers invariably start with the architecture of the home. ‘The millwork and cabinetry should speak to the original architectural style of the home and make sense. You wouldn’t install modern flat panel cabinets in a traditional home,’ explains Gabriela Eisenhart, founder and creative director, Gabriela Eisenhart Interiors. ‘Far too often, I see kitchen renovations where the cabinetry feels completely disconnected from the rest of the house, which instantly dates your space.’

The good news is that you don’t need to memorize dozens of cabinet designs. Most kitchens fall into a handful of established styles, each with its own strengths. Here’s how to tell them apart and where each works best.

Shaker Cabinets: The Enduring All-Rounder

Simple, unfussy and remarkably versatile, Shaker cabinets have become the go-to style most of us will consider before all others. Defined by a flat center panel surrounded by a square-edged frame, they work equally well in traditional farmhouses, transitional homes and contemporary kitchens.

‘For me, inset Shaker-style cabinetry will always look good, and you can pair it with modern lighting and waterfall edges to make it lean more modern, or alternatively, design with very traditional fixtures and countertop details and make it super classic,’ says Elizabeth Valkovics, founding principal, Batten Court Design.

Slim Shaker doors have become increasingly popular in recent years. Featuring narrower frames than a classic Shaker door, they retain the familiar proportions while feeling lighter and more contemporary. They’re an excellent choice if you like the warmth of framed cabinetry but want to avoid a more overtly farmhouse look.

Best for: Transitional, farmhouse, Craftsman, Colonial and contemporary homes.

Slab Cabinets: Clean Lines with Contemporary Appeal

Slab, or flat-panel, cabinets are exactly what they sound like: a single flat surface with no frame or decorative detailing. The result is clean, architectural cabinetry that lets materials, color, and craftsmanship take center stage.

Because there are no grooves or moldings to catch dust, slab doors are also among the easiest styles to keep clean, making them particularly practical for busy households.

While they naturally complement contemporary architecture, slab doors are surprisingly adaptable. Timber veneers add warmth and texture, while painted finishes can soften what might otherwise feel overly minimalist.

Best for: Contemporary, modern, Scandinavian and mid-century homes.

Raised-Panel Cabinets: Traditional With Decorative Detail

Raised-panel cabinets are instantly recognizable by their raised center panel and profiled frame, often incorporating beaded detailing or decorative edge profiles. The additional depth creates stronger shadows, giving the cabinetry a richer, more traditional appearance.

They’re particularly well suited to larger kitchens and heritage homes, where their decorative detailing complements classic architectural features. In smaller kitchens, however, the extra visual detail can sometimes make the room feel busier.

For a timeless look, choose restrained profiles rather than highly ornate molding. Simpler raised-panel doors tend to age more gracefully than heavily embellished designs.

Best for: Traditional, Colonial, Georgian and French country homes.

Recessed-Panel Cabinets: A Softer Take on Classic Cabinetry

Recessed panel cabinets feature a center panel set below the surrounding frame, but unlike classic Shaker doors, they often incorporate a gently beveled or molded inside edge. The result is a softer, more traditional appearance that avoids the heavier detailing of raised-panel cabinetry.

This style works particularly well in transitional kitchens, sitting comfortably between contemporary simplicity and period character. It offers enough detailing to add warmth and depth, while remaining restrained enough to feel current for years to come.

Best for: Transitional, traditional, cottage and farmhouse kitchens.

Beadboard Cabinets: Relaxed Character Without Feeling Rustic

Beadboard doors are distinguished by a series of narrow vertical grooves that add texture without the weight of more ornate paneling. They’re often associated with cottage kitchens, but can work equally well in coastal, farmhouse and country-inspired interiors.

Because beadboard already introduces plenty of visual texture, it works well when used selectively. Many designers reserve it for an island, pantry or end panels rather than every cabinet in the room. ‘The joy of beadboard doors and paneling is that it can accommodate nearly any design style – it really works across modern, traditional, and rustic settings,’ says interior designer Cortney Bishop.

If you like the vertical texture of beadboard but want something more contemporary, consider reeded, ribbed or fluted cabinet doors instead. These designs use tighter grooves to create a crisp, architectural look that’s particularly well suited to modern kitchens. Cleaning will be fiddlier.

Best for: Cottage, coastal and farmhouse homes.

Inset vs. Overlay Cabinets: The Construction Detail That Changes the Look

Unlike the other styles in this guide, inset and overlay describe how the doors sit on the cabinet, rather than the design of the door itself.

Inset cabinets (also known as in-frame) sit flush within the cabinet frame, creating crisp, even gaps around every door and drawer front. The craftsmanship required makes them one of the most expensive cabinet options, but many homeowners value their furniture-like appearance.

Full-overlay cabinets (also known as lay-on) are now the industry standard. Doors cover almost the entire cabinet frame, producing cleaner lines, maximizing storage space and suiting both traditional and contemporary kitchens.

Partial-overlay cabinets, where more of the cabinet frame remains visible, were common in older kitchens but are now largely associated with dated builder-grade cabinetry. Unless you’re matching an existing kitchen, they’re rarely chosen for new remodels.

2. Colors: How to Choose Kitchen Cabinets That Work in Your Home

Kitchen color is often the most emotional cabinet decision, but it shouldn’t be an impulsive one. The shade you fall in love with on a tiny paint swatch can look completely different across an entire kitchen, influenced by natural light, ceiling height, surrounding finishes, and even the direction your windows face.

‘Cabinetry is usually the largest single surface in a kitchen, so its color does more to set the mood than the walls do,’ says Michael Winn, founder and principal, WINN Design + Build. 'Light colors reflect daylight and make a kitchen feel more open; darker colors absorb it and make the space feel more grounded and intimate. Neither is wrong, but you should decide which feeling you want before you fall in love with a shade.’

A successful cabinet color should complement your home’s architecture, work with your countertops and flooring, and still feel like the right choice years from now. No pressure then!

White and Off-White Cabinets: Bright, Timeless and Endlessly Adaptable

White kitchens have remained popular for decades because they provide an incredibly flexible backdrop. They bounce light around darker rooms, make compact kitchens feel more spacious, and pair comfortably with almost every countertop material, flooring choice, and hardware finish.

That doesn’t mean every white works everywhere. Cooler whites can appear crisp in bright, south-facing kitchens but may feel stark in rooms with limited natural light. Softer off-whites with warm undertones are often more forgiving, especially in more traditional settings like country and coastal homes, creating a relaxed feel while still keeping the space light and airy. Large paint samples viewed at different times of day are well worth the effort before making a final decision.

From a resale perspective, white and off-white cabinetry remain among the safest choices. Their neutrality won’t scare off the color-averse and allows future buyers to personalize the room through accessories and décor rather than undertaking an expensive remodel.

Natural Wood Cabinets: Bringing Warmth and Texture

Wood cabinetry has moved well beyond rustic kitchens. From pale oak to richly figured walnut, natural timber introduces warmth, texture and variation that painted finishes can’t replicate, helping contemporary kitchens feel more welcoming without relying on color.

Unlike painted cabinetry, wood also changes subtly over time as it develops a natural patina. That’s part of its appeal, but the species you choose makes a difference. Pale woods help maximize light in smaller rooms, while darker timbers create a richer, more cocooning atmosphere in larger spaces.

‘Many homeowners seek out natural hardwoods for durability, character and depth, but individual woods have their own characteristics. For example, Hickory and Oak are extremely dense woods that resist scratches and dents in high use kitchens,’ says Stephanie Pierce, director of design at MasterBrand Cabinets.

Natural wood is also remarkably versatile when it comes to coordinating finishes. It works equally well alongside natural stone, porcelain, concrete and terrazzo, making it one of the easiest cabinet finishes to design around. High-quality timber cabinetry also tends to perform well from a resale perspective because it feels authentic rather than trend-driven.

Navy and Deep Green Cabinets: Rich Color With Staying Power

If you’re ready to move beyond a neutral kitchen, navy and deep green remain among the safest color choices. Both introduce depth and personality without dominating the room, particularly when balanced with lighter countertops, backsplashes or flooring.

Lighting plays an especially important role with darker cabinetry. ‘The same green reads completely differently in a north-facing kitchen than in one flooded with afternoon sun,’ explains Michael Winn. ‘You’re also not choosing a color in isolation; it has to work with your countertops, flooring, and the rooms the kitchen opens into. Get a large sample, put it in the actual space, and live with it at different times of day before you commit.’

For resale, darker cabinet colors generally perform best when they’re grounded by timeless materials such as marble, quartzite, oak flooring or unlacquered brass, allowing the color to feel sophisticated rather than fashion-led.

Bold Colors or Neutrals: Which Is the Smarter Investment?

‘Whites, warm neutrals, natural wood tones, and muted greens and blues have real staying power – they’re all colors people don’t tire of. My rule with clients is to be more conservative with expensive fixed elements and take calculated risks on things that are cheaper to change,’ advises Michael. ‘So, keep the perimeter cabinets timeless and have fun with the island, a bar, or a butler’s pantry – a contained dose of a bold color, in a spot where repainting it someday won’t break your heart.’

If you’re planning to stay in your home for many years, choosing a color you genuinely love is often more important than designing exclusively for resale. For those thinking about future market appeal, softer greens, warm blues and earthy neutrals tend to have broader appeal than brighter yellows, reds or highly saturated shades.

3. Materials: What Kitchen Cabinets Are Made Of and Why It Matters

When people compare cabinet materials, they’re usually referring to the doors and drawer fronts – the parts you see and touch every day. These materials have the biggest influence on appearance, durability and cost. Behind them sits the cabinet box, or carcase, which plays an equally important role in how long your kitchen lasts.

‘Most people think the main decision is the door style that you can see, but it’s as much about the materials and construction you can’t see that will determine how long your kitchen will last,’ says Jen Baxter, founder of Baxter Hill Interiors. ‘Two quotes saying “wood cabinets” can describe completely different things. The box, the door, the drawer construction, and the finish are four separate material decisions, and cheap quotes usually skimp on the ones you can’t see.’

The best kitchens rarely rely on a single material throughout. Instead, manufacturers combine different materials where they perform best. A painted Shaker kitchen might feature MDF doors, plywood cabinet boxes and solid wood drawer boxes, while a natural oak kitchen may combine solid timber frames with veneered center panels for greater stability. Understanding the differences between materials and where each performs best will help you compare kitchens more confidently.

Solid Wood: A Premium Investment That Improves With Age

Solid wood remains the benchmark for luxury cabinetry thanks to its natural beauty, durability, and repairability. Every piece has its own grain pattern, and unlike manufactured materials, it can often be sanded and refinished several times over its lifetime.

However, even the finest kitchens aren’t usually made entirely from solid wood. Timber naturally expands and contracts as humidity changes, so manufacturers often reserve it for door frames, drawer fronts, or face frames, pairing it with more stable materials elsewhere.

Best for: Premium kitchens, painted and stained Shaker doors, traditional cabinetry

Wood Veneer: Real Timber With Greater Stability

Wood veneer consists of a thin layer of genuine hardwood – such as oak, walnut or ash – bonded to an engineered core. Depending on the manufacturer and door style, that core may be MDF, plywood or particleboard, usually chosen for its stability, price and manufacturing advantages.

Veneer offers the warmth, grain and character of solid timber while minimizing the movement that naturally occurs as wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity. ‘A wood veneer over a quality stable core gives you consistent grain with no seasonal movement,’ confirms Jen Baxter.

It’s widely used on contemporary slab doors, large panels and end panels, while many framed doors (like Shaker and recessed-panel) combine solid timber frames with veneered center panels to achieve the best balance of beauty, strength and stability.

Best for: Contemporary slab doors, premium Shaker kitchens, end panels and high-end cabinetry

MDF: Great for Painted Cabinet Doors

Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) has become the industry standard for painted cabinet doors because its smooth, uniform surface creates an exceptionally even finish. ‘Engineered materials have gotten far better. A high-quality MDF now makes for a smoother painted finish that’s less prone to cracking than solid wood,’ explains Jen.

Unlike timber, it won’t display grain beneath the paint (so don’t choose it if you want that look), but it is far less likely to expand or shrink with changes in humidity. High-quality moisture-resistant MDF (MR MDF) is extremely durable in normal kitchen conditions, although deep impacts are harder to repair than solid timber.

Best for: Painted Shaker, slab and contemporary doors.

Laminate, Melamine and Thermofoil: Practical, Low-Stress Options

These materials all create durable, easy-to-clean cabinet surfaces, but they aren’t quite the same thing.

Laminate is a decorative surface bonded to an engineered core and is valued for its durability and wide choice of colors and textures.

Melamine (technically thermally fused laminate, or TFL) is commonly used for cabinet interiors and many slab-style doors, offering a hard-wearing finish at an affordable price.

Thermofoil is a vinyl film that’s heat-fused over MDF to create a seamless, painted appearance without the cost of spray finishing.

While these finishes are generally less repairable than timber or painted cabinetry, they’re easy to maintain and can represent excellent value.

Best for: Budget and mid-range kitchens, contemporary slab doors

Plywood: Strong, Stable and Exceptionally Durable

Plywood is made by bonding thin layers of timber together with alternating grain directions, creating a material that’s exceptionally strong, dimensionally stable and highly resistant to warping. It’s widely regarded as one of the best materials for cabinet boxes, shelving and drawer construction.

If you’re comparing two kitchens that look similar on the outside, the quality of the plywood carcase – and whether veneered panels use a premium substrate – is often one of the biggest differences between them.

Best for: Veneered doors, premium cabinet boxes, shelving and drawer construction.

4. Understanding Cabinet Construction

A cabinet may look impressive from the outside, but many of the differences between budget and premium kitchens are hidden beneath the paint or behind the doors. From the way drawers are constructed to the quality of the hinges, these details influence how the kitchen feels to use every day, and how well it will perform over the next twenty years.

‘The joinery matters just as much as the materials,’ agrees Paul Kropp, Co-Founder & Chief Operations Officer, Bakes & Kropp. ‘Even the finest wood will fail if it isn’t assembled correctly. Traditional joinery techniques such as mortise-and-tenon face frames, epoxy-set cope-and-stick door construction, tongue-and-groove box-to-frame connections, and dado construction create cabinets that remain solid for decades.’

Doors and Drawer Fronts

Doors and drawer fronts are the most visible part of any kitchen, so they have the biggest influence on style and finish. Whether you choose a classic Shaker, recessed panel or minimalist slab door, pay attention to how it’s made as well as how it looks.

Well-made doors feel substantial, with crisp detailing, consistent paint finishes and perfectly matched grain on timber designs. Larger doors should remain flat over time, while painted finishes should resist cracking around joints and panel edges. Drawer fronts should align evenly, with consistent gaps throughout the kitchen.

Hinges and Hardware Quality

Cabinet doors are opened thousands of times over their lifetime, making hinge quality one of the best indicators of overall cabinet construction. Look for concealed, adjustable hinges from established manufacturers that allow doors to be fine-tuned long after installation. Premium hinges maintain smooth operation for decades and make it easy to realign doors should the house settle, or normal wear occur.

Quality drawer runners matter just as much. Full-extension runners allow drawers to open completely, giving access to every inch of storage, while heavier-duty runners are essential for wide pan drawers filled with cookware.

‘All-metal hardware made from stainless steel, brass, or other premium materials will perform the longest. Hardware is one of the most expensive parts of a cabinet, but it’s also one of the most crucial for long-term satisfaction,’ adds Paul.

Drawer Box Construction

Drawer boxes reveal a great deal about the overall quality of a kitchen. Budget kitchens often use particleboard or MDF drawer boxes with stapled or doweled joints. Better-quality kitchens typically feature solid wood or plywood drawer boxes with dovetail joints, which offer greater strength and are less likely to loosen over time.

Also consider the drawer base and weight rating. Deep pan drawers carrying stacks of dishes or cast-iron cookware require substantially stronger construction than shallow cutlery drawers.

Soft-close Mechanisms

Soft-close hinges and drawer runners have become standard on most mid-range and premium kitchens, but the quality of the mechanism still varies considerably. The best systems slow the door or drawer during the final few inches of travel, preventing slamming without feeling sluggish. Consistent, controlled movement is a sign of quality engineering, while cheaper mechanisms can become noisy or lose effectiveness over time. Push-to-open systems offer an alternative on handleless kitchens, allowing doors and drawers to open with gentle pressure while maintaining clean, uninterrupted lines. Again, quality mechanisms are essential to ensure the doors open when you want them to, without repeated pushing.

Handles or Handleless?

Cabinet hardware influences both appearance and everyday usability. Handles and knobs provide excellent grip and can easily be updated if tastes change, making them one of the simplest ways to refresh a kitchen. Longer pulls are often more comfortable on integrated appliances and wide pan drawers, while knobs suit smaller doors and more traditional cabinetry.

Handleless kitchens achieve a cleaner, more architectural appearance using recessed rails, integrated finger pulls or push-to-open mechanisms. It’s important that you try out handleless doors before you buy to ensure opening is easy – those with long nails can find they wreck a manicure! While they create a streamlined aesthetic, some systems require more frequent cleaning as fingers regularly touch the cabinet fronts.

5. Layout Decisions: How Cabinet Choices Shape the Way Your Kitchen Works

The way cabinets are arranged has just as much influence on how cabinetry functions as the materials or finishes you choose. ‘Nobody remembers the finish of a kitchen if they end up flustered every time they cook,’ says Theo Jones, Director of Fynn Architects. ‘Your layout needs to make sense for how you actually cook. People often forget about door swings and the clearance drawers need to pull out fully, and you don’t want an oven too near a corner, where it’s awkward to open and access.’

The best layouts make everyday tasks easier by putting storage where it’s needed most, making awkward spaces work harder and balancing practicality with a sense of openness. Rather than asking how many cabinets you can fit into a room, focus on choosing the right cabinets for the job and arranging them in a way that will support how you cook, entertain and live.

Finding the Right Balance Between Upper and Lower Cabinets

More cabinets don’t automatically mean more usable storage. Filling every available wall with upper cabinets can make a kitchen feel enclosed, while removing them altogether may leave you short of space for everyday essentials. ‘Upper cabinets are practical but start to dominate a space, so in more generous rooms we try to avoid them,’ says Theo.

Instead, think about where different items are used. Everyday dishes and glasses belong close to the dishwasher, while less frequently used items can move into taller pantry cabinets or lower drawers. Many contemporary kitchens deliberately reduce the number of upper cabinets, relying on full-height storage and deep drawers to create a lighter, more spacious feel without sacrificing capacity.

Best for: Homeowners looking to balance generous storage with an open, uncluttered kitchen.

Should You Choose Glazed Cabinets?

Glass-front cabinets can soften long runs of solid cabinetry while providing an opportunity to display glassware, ceramics, or decorative pieces. They work particularly well around coffee stations, dining areas or dresser-style elevations where the contents contribute to the overall design.

However, they demand more discipline than solid doors. Everyday groceries, mismatched mugs and plastic containers rarely make attractive displays, so glazed cabinets are best reserved for items you genuinely want to showcase.

Best for: Displaying collections while breaking up large expanses of cabinetry.

Is a Pantry a Better Investment Than More Wall Cabinets?

If space allows, a well-designed pantry often delivers more useful storage than simply adding extra upper cabinets around the room. ‘You almost always need some full-height cabinets for the pantry and refrigerator. Decide where they’re going early, and typically group them together at one end of the kitchen,’ advises Theo.

Full-height pantry cabinets can accommodate dry goods, small appliances, serving pieces and bulk shopping in one organized location. Internal drawers, pull-out shelves and door-mounted storage make everything easier to see and access while reducing clutter elsewhere in the kitchen.

Best for: Busy households that want to keep work surfaces clear and everyday storage organized.

Making Every Inch of an Island Work Harder

An island offers some of the most valuable storage in the kitchen, but every side doesn’t need to perform the same job. The working side is ideal for cookware, dishes, recycling or food preparation tools, while the seating side may be better left open for comfortable legroom or fitted with shallow cabinets for placemats, table linens and entertaining essentials.

Wide drawers are often more practical than multiple cupboards, particularly for heavy pots and pans. When planning island storage, don’t just think about capacity. Consider how easily drawers and doors will open when people are seated or moving through the space.

Best for: Creating storage that’s both generous and easy to access.

Making Awkward Corners Work Harder

Corner cabinets have long been one of the biggest frustrations in kitchen design, but modern storage solutions have transformed how these spaces can be used. LeMans shelves, blind-corner pull-outs and rotating carousel systems all improve access to deep corners. ‘Pull-out corner storage is a must. You never want to lose that corner space every kitchen has,’ recommends Theo.

Your kitchen designer will discuss the best corner mechanism for the job, but quality construction is crucial. With many moving parts, these systems can fail under pressure. Look for products that come with a decent warranty.

Best for: Recovering usable storage without sacrificing accessibility.

Open Shelving or Closed Storage?

Open kitchen shelving creates an airy, relaxed look and keeps frequently used items within easy reach, but it also exposes everything to dust, grease, and daily clutter. Closed cabinets provide greater flexibility, protect contents and make it easier to maintain a tidy appearance. For that reason, many designers now recommend combining both approaches: rely on closed storage for the majority of kitchen essentials, then introduce a limited amount of open shelving for everyday crockery, cookbooks or decorative objects.

Best for: Homeowners who want to combine practical storage with opportunities for display.

6. Budget: What Really Drives Cabinet Costs?

Kitchen cabinets can vary enormously in price, but the biggest differences are rarely down to appearance alone. Materials, construction methods, finishes and installation all influence cost, often more than the door style itself. ‘As a general guideline, cabinetry should represent approximately 10–15% of the total construction cost of a new home, or 30–40% of a kitchen remodel budget,’ says Paul Kropp.

A good rule of thumb: if your appliance budget is larger than your cabinetry budget, your priorities are probably out of balance. ‘Appliances will eventually be replaced. Well-built cabinetry should still be serving the home beautifully decades later,’ explains Paul. Understanding where your money is going will help you invest where it matters most and avoid paying for features that add little long-term value.

Material choice: Premium materials inevitably cost more, but the most expensive option isn’t always the smartest. Solid timber remains the benchmark for furniture making, yet engineered materials such as high-grade plywood and MDF often outperform it in kitchens, where changes in temperature and humidity demand greater stability.

Instead of asking ’What’s the best material?’ ask ’Is the right material being used in the right place?’ A plywood cabinet box, with painted MDF or timber veneered doors often represent an excellent combination of durability, appearance and value.

Custom, semi-custom or stock: Stock cabinets are manufactured in fixed sizes and offer the quickest, most affordable route to a new kitchen. ‘This option is great for young families, or for the individual that would like to stretch their budget,’ says Carin Elle Mead, Founder of C. Elle Design Studio. You can also buy inexpensive stock cabinet boxes and have them strengthened by your builder or buy high quality custom boxes and fit inexpensive doors. Many successful Ikea hacks use this principle.

Semi-custom ranges increase your choice of sizes, colors and storage options. ‘These offer great flexibility without the cost of fully custom cabinetry. Cabinet showrooms offer a vast selection in this category,’ adds Carin. ‘Custom-built cabinets are an excellent choice for homeowners with an unlimited budget to invest in them. This selection offers unlimited design possibilities and storage solutions.’ Although bespoke kitchens command a higher initial investment, they often deliver better long-term value by:

• Making full use of awkward spaces

• Reducing filler panels and wasted storage

• Allowing appliances to be integrated more seamlessly

• Lasting a lot longer before replacement is required

Hardware quality: Hinges and drawer runners are opened and closed thousands of times every year, making them one of the smartest places to invest. Quality hardware delivers smoother operation, higher load capacities and more precise adjustment, while replacement parts are often available decades later should anything eventually wear out. If you are balancing your budget, always focus on moving parts over inert components.

Finish complexity: Paint color alone has little impact on cost, but specialist finishes require considerably more craftsmanship. High-end paint brands can also add serious dollar to your final bill – if you need to save, consider color-matching paint services and accept the depth of color may not be as good. Timber veneers need careful grain selection and matching, metallic finishes demand specialist application, while hand-painted cabinetry involves multiple coats and sanding between each layer to achieve a flawless result. If you’re working to a budget, consider reserving premium finishes for an island or feature wall rather than every cabinet.

Installation costs: Even beautifully made cabinetry can disappoint if it’s poorly installed. Experienced installers will spend time levelling cabinets, scribing them to uneven walls and ensuring every reveal and gap is perfectly consistent. ‘My top tip is that well-built, well-installed cabinets can last decades. You may find that inexpensive options often require repairs or replacement much sooner. When considering your budget, consider your future investments also,’ says Carin Elle.

Where to invest

• Cabinet construction

• Drawer runners and hinges

• Professional installation

• Worktops used every day

Where you can save

• Highly decorative finishes throughout

• Internal accessories you’ll rarely use

• Designer paint brands with expensive price tags

7. Timeless vs Trend-Driven Design