Are White Kitchens Really Out Of Style?
As styles change and trends go in and out of favor, do white kitchens go out of style? In this post, we will discuss this question and lend some helpful ideas for keeping a white kitchen updated and fresh.
Say it ain’t so! If you read certain articles on websites not to be mentioned here, they say that white kitchens are out of style. I have an all-white kitchen. Actually, I’ve had two. One a farmhouse kitchen and one a more contemporary. I proudly consider myself a white kitchen enthusiast. But let’s get to the bottom of this: Are white kitchens truly out of style?
In this post, I’m sharing our kitchen during different seasons and holidays.
Timeless Style
White kitchens have been around for decades, even before they became a trendy choice. In fact, I’ve had a white kitchen for over 28 years! While they may no longer be the hottest trend, they are far from being outdated. White kitchens have stood the test of time and have earned their status as a classic choice.
There are countless reasons why I adore white kitchens, but one of the most practical is their ability to remain fresh and stylish for years. Kitchen renovations can be costly, so it’s nice to know that a white kitchen won’t scream, “Oh, was is so 2015″or any other bygone year.
A well-maintained white kitchen is truly timeless.
Even The Pros Don’t Agree
I’ve been doing lots of research on what the pros have to say about white kitchen design trends, and they don’t agree. Some say the white kitchen look is still going strong, and some say not so much!
Some claim state that white kitchens are still going strong, while others argue that people are craving something new after years of white kitchen dominance. It’s only natural for our desire for new to influence our preferences, even in kitchen design.
A Quick Look Back At Recent Kitchen Trends
But let’s not forget that just because other kitchen styles like blue, two-toned, moody, gray, or dark neutrals kitchens might be having their moment in the spotlight, this doesn’t mean they will ever achieve the status of a classic. Who knows? They might end up fading away like Tuscan kitchens or golden oak cabinets.
Very few designs can rival the timeless appeal of the white kitchen.
What Makes A White Kitchen Defy Current Trends
White kitchens create a bright and airy ambiance, making even the smallest kitchens feel more spacious. And the best part? White goes with everything! You can easily introduce a pop of color, neutral shades, or different textures. White pairs beautifully with various wood tones and metal finishes, allowing for endless design possibilities.
Painting Our Kitchen Cabinets White
When we moved into the Tanglewood House, we had a kitchen full of contemporary shaker cherry cabinets. I loved the style of the cabinets because they complimented the style of our home, but not the color. So we painted the cabinets in our open kitchen white, the same color as the rest of our open home.
Here’s the before…
And the after…
We decided to use a white backsplash and white quartz countertop. The white kitchen palette keeps our kitchen in line with the rest of our home. Although my kitchen is my favorite room, I did not want to call attention to it from the other rooms in our home.
Does A White Kitchen Show Dirt?
Yes, that is the short answer. But why wouldn’t we want to clean up any dirt, spills, stains, or marks, regardless of the color of our kitchen?
How To Update A White Kitchen Ideas
Here are some ideas if you want to update your white kitchen. These ideas would also work for any kitchen too.
Add Art
One of the easiest ways to warm up and update a kitchen is with art. Art is so popular right now. Especially in the kitchen. Hang art on a wall or put a pretty picture on a stand on a countertop. Choose what you love and enjoy living with art in the kitchen.
Display A Collection
Collections add warmth and personality to a kitchen. Display things like wooden cutting boards or a crock of wooden spoons on a counter. Do you have a collection of cookbooks you love? Then don’t hide them away. Cookbooks were meant to live in your kitchen!
Other things to display in a white kitchen (or any other):
- bowls (especially if they are different colors of white)
- platters and plates on a wall
- egg cups
- pitchers
- crock of rolling pins
- soup tureens
- large clear canister-type jars
- baskets
Change Out The Hardware
Updating the cabinet hardware is a simple and effective method to give your white kitchen a fresh look. Replace those outdated knobs with timeless or even more trendy options to make a significant impact. Investing in new hardware is worthwhile, considering the updated difference it can make.
Introducing a mix of metals in your kitchen brings an updated element to white cabinets. Opt for brass or gold hardware while keeping stainless steel appliances. Or, consider hanging a brushed nickel pendant light above a sink that features a stainless steel faucet.
Choose a primary metal color and incorporate a few additional metal finishes to create an on-trend look.
Change Out A Backsplash Or Countertop
If you feel your kitchen needs a major update but not a makeover, changing the backsplash or countertop can breathe new life into the space. Stick with timeless choices to ensure long-lasting style.
Our backsplash is Calacutta Oro in a classic basketweave pattern
Wallpaper
Around 15 years ago, I made a firm promise to myself that I would never endure the tedious task of chipping and scraping wallpaper off the walls of our home again. However, as they say, never say never! Surprisingly, we have decided to embrace wallpaper once more and hang wallpaper in our kitchen. I’m currently eyeing a tone-on-tone print in warm neutrals.
Wallpaper can be an economical way of revitalizing and introducing depth to a white kitchen. Right now, I’m in the process of selecting peel and stick, ensuring easy removal if I ever desire a change in the future.
Lighting Fixtures
Pendant lamps have gained immense popularity in kitchen design, and they have the ability to elevate the overall look of a kitchen to a more updated level.
Consider incorporating a statement lighting fixture if feasible, as they can truly make a striking impact.
Also, think about placing a small lamp on your countertop. When turned on during the evening hours, they will create a warm pool of light in your kitchen.
Add A Rug
Bring color and pattern into a white kitchen by adding a fun rug. It will add visual interest and color to a white palette.
Choose one that can be thrown in the washing machine and dryer and has a non-skid backing.
Use Wooden Items
Incorporating wooden accents is a wonderful way to add warmth to a white kitchen. Consider showcasing cutting boards and wooden spoons, adding wooden shelving, or incorporating upholstered barstools with wooden legs.
Add a wooden table or island to your kitchen for an instant focal point. This timeless look instantly grabs attention and can be achieved economically. If space is limited, explore the option of a butcher block on wheels or a small vintage table, introducing a wooden element into your kitchen.
Use Accent Colors
Enhancing a white kitchen with an accent color is another very easy update. One of the advantages of a classic white kitchen is the way it works with virtually any color or combination of colors.
Injecting an accent color into your white kitchen can give you a fresh new look. Depending on the season, you can introduce a touch of color that adds a hint to the season at hand.
Beautiful Classic White
White kitchens are timeless and go beyond trends. They possess an inherent classic appeal. The white color scheme has a remarkable ability to create an illusion of spaciousness, making the kitchen feel larger and more inviting.
Now, back to the question at hand, are white kitchens out of style?
It’s important to consider that design trends can vary over time. However, white kitchens have proven their staying power by consistently remaining popular throughout the years. They serve as a canvas that effortlessly adapts as tends change, and as our personal preferences do too.
So what do you think? Are white kitchens really out of style? I’d like to hear your thoughts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color is your kitchen?
Our kitchen, like the rest of our home, is painted Simply White by Benjamin Moore. The finish is semi-gloss.
What is the most popular kitchen cabinet color this year?
White is still the most popular kitchen color this year, but warm neutral is predicted to overtake white as the most on-trend color in the future.
What is the most timeless kitchen cabinet color?
White is the most timeless kitchen cabinet color. and because it is a timeless classic will probably stay in style.
Are two-toned cabinet colors still in style?
Yes, two-toned kitchen cabinets are still in style. This cabinet treatment allows you to mix and match colors in your kitchen,
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Kitchens are getting closed and dark
Sidekix Media on UnsplashA beautifully designed kitchen is essential for several reasons. Primarily, it is the space where we spend the most amount of time with family, cooking, eating, or even working. It's also important to keep in mind that the right kitchen can add to the resale value of a home.
While all-white and farmhouse-style kitchens have been popular for almost too many years now (blame the pandemic or supply chains for this one), homeowners, designers, and developers are finally starting to see kitchen styles evolve. Elements that were once “must haves” have become “no mores.” Here are twelve kitchen design trends going away in 2023, according to experts and interior designers.
All-White Kitchens
All white kitchens are over
Simona Sergi on UnsplashLos Angles real estate broker Lori Levine Harris of Brock and Lori tells me, “All white everything is on its way out. For the past decade, we’ve been seeing white walls, white tile, and Carrera marble. People are tired of these muted palettes, and designers are bringing in color— which we love.”
Most designers also agree that white-on-white kitchens will look dated in 2023. So what color will be the new white? There isn’t just one answer here. Alice Arterberry and Barrett Cooke of Arterberry Cooke believe the newest kitchens will have two or three contrasting, complementary shades. “Monochromatic kitchens lack depth and visual interest. Complementary hues in a kitchen can elevate the area while still being timeless.”
Interior designer Kirsten Blazek of a1000xBetter sees dark wood cabinetry making a comeback. “For many years now white oak cabinets were dominating kitchen design but I think that era is ending and we are going to start seeing more saturated palettes in kitchen design. The correct darker brown cabinet is timeless and can be mixed with so many other fantastic finishes.”
Open Kitchens
Open kitchens are closed
Simona Sergi on UnsplashOpen floor plans and particularly open kitchens are controversial topics in the design world right now. While it’s a practical choice for some, many homeowners have grown tired of this design choice in a post-pandemic world. Harris’ clients have been asking to close up their kitchen walls. “Especially for families, people no longer want to see dirty dishes and boxes of cereal while they eat dinner or entertain. We have clients with open floor plans who are building walls to separate their kitchens from their dining rooms. This more traditional style is coming back with the kitchen, dining room, and sitting room all compartmentalized. It allows you to curate a unique space.”
Matte Black Hardware
Matte black hardware is so 2022
Sidekix Media on UnspalshWhile matte black hardware was everywhere in 2022, expect to see less of it in 2023. “We have the flippers to thank for this one. Matte black hardware never really appealed to me but I do understand that for some they appreciate matte black’s minimalist nature and darker tones when opting for a more handsome look,” says interior designer Sara Weichel of Swike.
So what’s a good alternative? Weichel recommends considering oil-rubbed bronze for a more updated look. She also predicts we will see more polished nickel and chrome in the coming year.
Upper Cabinetry
Upper Cabinets are done
R ARCHITECTURE on UnsplashThe days of standard closed upper cabinets are starting to dwindle and will be replaced by open shelving. Sapna Aggarwal of Bungalowe tells me, “Upper cabinets are going away. Beautifully styled open shelving is here to stay. Doing away with upper cabinets is a great way to save money and create an opportunity to show off your personality by creating beautifully styled vignettes.”
But doing this right also means keeping it edited and uncluttered. “Our clients are very into hiding everything from dishes to appliances. Gone are the days of ceramics and cookbooks on display —the minimal, uncluttered look is in. Cookbooks belong in the pantry and appliances are hidden by cabinetry to obtain a zen, uncluttered look,” says Harris.
Faux Finishes
Faux marble is going away in 2023
Roam in Color on Unsplash2023 is all about keeping it real in the kitchen, according to Lauren Cherkas, President and Chief Sales Officer of Artistic Tile. “Faux anything [such as quartz that looks like marble] is definitely a kitchen trend going away for the luxury consumer in 2023. For the discerning client, natural stone for floors, countertops, and backsplash is the only way to go. It is a classic look for the kitchen that transcends trends.”
Cherkas also believes these finishes will serve homeowners better in the long run. “With its longevity, it is also a sustainable choice. With minimal maintenance, it can outlast much of the other elements in a kitchen.”
Herringbone Backsplashes
Kitchens won't look like this next year
gettyHerringbone backsplashes fell back into favor around the time herringbone flooring did a few years ago, but according to Christopher Peacock, founder and CEO of Christopher Peacock, this style’s days are numbered. “Herringbone patterns are good for a floor, but not so much for a backsplash as it can get too busy, and you need a large area to appreciate it fully.”
Carrera Marble
Carrera marble is overdone
gettyThis is another hot topic because Carrera marble, while beautiful and beloved by almost everybody, has become almost annoyingly omnipresent. So, in 2023, we’re likely to see a lot less of it. Peacock thinks homeowners can do better. “I believe Carrera is overused and classic Carrera has changed so much now it’s hard to find a good slab. It’s not for me, unless I can find a nice piece that has a lot of white in it. There are so many white marbles, but they are super expensive, so Carrera can be good for a budget, but it’s not considered as beautiful as other white marbles out there.”
Appliances Over The Range
Move the microwave
gettyInstalling a microwave over the range has been the standard for years, but now that standard is changing. “Just say no to putting appliances over the range. Making a fabulous design feature out of the space above your range far outweighs the utilitarian trend of using that area to house an appliance. Some people might say it's a shame not to claim this upper cabinet section for added storage or for an appliance,” says Tamarra Younis of Union Of The Art Interiors.
Contemporary Aesthetics
We'll see less contemporary kitchens in 2023
gettyHGTV star and interior designer Francesca Grace of Francesca Grace Home shares organic kitchen aesthetics are beginning to look dated. “As a maximalist, I tend to stay away from neutral palettes and I think we're going to be seeing a lot more color in the kitchen in 2023. Think lots of rich colored hues, like dark greens, blacks, and blues, even merlot colored cabinets, with countertops with more character, like beautifully veined marble.”
Farmhouse-Style Kitchens
Farmhouse kitchens are finally going away
gettyLive, laugh, and love that farmhouse-style kitchens will no longer be on-trend in 2023 “We've all seen them over and over again and it's time this style gets a revamp, which can be easily done. This is a trend that has started to become basic. We want to see more character and personality in a kitchen and I think we'll be seeing a lot of that in the future,” says Grace.
Tile Backsplashes
Say bye to tile
gettyArterberry and Cooke tell me that patterned tile backsplashes are beginning to become less preferable. “Patterned or mosaic wall tile can create a busy aesthetic and look dysfunctional. Opt for a solid slab stone to match the countertops for a calm, simple look. You can also have fun with cabinetry paint colors [instead].”
Cold, Ultra Modern Designs
Cold kitchens are starting to warm up
gettyRenata Vasconez and Samantha Gallacher, co-founders IG Workshop predict cold modern elements such as glossy finishes and sharp edges will be replaced by warmer, cozier styles. “Kitchens are now cozier and warmer, designers are staying away from glossy finishes and sharp edges. We are looking at curved islands, wood tones, and interesting use of textures. Honed and leathered stones are replacing the glossy slabs, and more daring colors have been incorporated in the designs.”