Upon entering a kitchen, a quick glance at the cabinets can instantly reveal whether the space feels outdated — you can often pinpoint when it was last updated. Just like other aspects of interior design, kitchen cabinet color trends are constantly evolving. While it’s essential to choose what you love, having a reference can be beneficial if you’re torn between options, renovating a rental, or simply passionate about design. This guide serves as that reference, inspired by insights from several kitchen design experts I had the pleasure of speaking with.
The Latest Kitchen Cabinet Color Trends for 2024
Credit: Alicia Macias
1. Stained Cabinetry
“Stained cabinetry is certainly trending at the moment,” says Cheyenne Ely, owner and principal designer at Cheyenne Paige Interiors in The Woodlands, Texas. “It’s more forgiving when it comes to scuffs and spills.” Additionally, stain accentuates the natural knots and grains of the wood, offering a depth and texture that paint simply can’t provide.
2. Moody Green
Bynn Esmond, founder and principal designer of her eponymous design firm in San Carlos, California, notes that “homeowners are seeking greater depth, mood, and mystery in their kitchens.” They also crave tranquility and a connection to nature, which makes dark green a natural choice. “The right shade can transform a space into one that is beautifully warm, inviting, and intriguing,” she adds.
3. Warm Neutrals
Ely explains that clients typically explore two paths when considering warm neutrals: white or greige/putty. “These options are not only more forgiving from a practical perspective, but they also foster a sense of coziness and comfort that many kitchens require, especially with stainless steel appliances,” she says. Additionally, Sarah Anderson, founder of Chansaerae Designs in Washington, D.C., adds that “it allows for a departure from the dominance of all-white kitchens.”
Kitchen Cabinet Color Trends That Are Phasing Out in 2024
1. Pure White
The debate over all-white kitchens continues, and it’s likely to persist. “Regardless of trends, homeowners are shifting away from pure white kitchens for practical reasons,” Ely explains. “Clients with large families, young children, or those who often entertain find white kitchens challenging to maintain.” Even those who still choose white kitchens are looking to add more character through vibrant accents or warmer neutrals. Some homeowners also prefer two-tone cabinets to better conceal dirt, which brings me to…
2. Monochromatic Color Schemes
Ely refers to situations where all the perimeter cabinets and the island share the same color. “In some kitchens, a monochromatic color scheme can make the space feel dull and uninspired,” she notes. “Choosing a different cabinet color might seem like an unnecessary design choice, but it actually presents an opportunity to create cohesion throughout the home.” While it may seem counterintuitive, a two-tone kitchen allows you to coordinate your island with your front door, adjacent rooms, or even your decor.
3. Gray
Although Ely considers “millennial gray” to be out of favor, she does have a suggestion for those still drawn to this hue: “Accessible Beige” by Sherwin Williams. “It’s an excellent neutral beige with gray undertones that can adapt to both cool and warm tones based on the surrounding design elements,” she explains. Just remember to test a swatch first! Paint can appear significantly different, even on walls within the same room, depending on the lighting.
4. Dark Wood
While stained cabinetry has generally seen a resurgence, Anderson notes that not all shades are enjoying the same revival. “Some people continue to use woods like dark cherry, but the majority are leaning towards lighter options,” she explains. This trend is understandable: lighter woods showcase the natural beauty of the material and help make the kitchen—typically comprised of 80% cabinets—feel more spacious.