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The 2025 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study is here, and it’s packed with inspiration for anyone looking to refresh or renovate their kitchen. The recently released 2025 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study reveals fascinating insights into how homeowners are designing their dream kitchens. The study covers key elements such as layouts, colors, materials, and spending habits, offering a snapshot of what’s hot in kitchen design this year.
From bold design choices to practical upgrades, these trends are stylish and achievable for most homeowners. These trends also show that kitchens in 2025 are all about making the most of available space, blending timeless design elements with modern features, and creating a personalized hub for cooking, entertaining, and gathering.
Whether you’re planning a full renovation or a few small updates, these ideas can help you create a kitchen that feels fresh, functional, and on-trend. Here are the trends you’ll want to replicate:
1. Black Countertops for a Bold Statement
Move over, white! While white remains the most popular choice for kitchen countertops, black is quickly becoming a favorite for homeowners looking to add drama and sophistication.
- Main countertops: 8% of homeowners are choosing black.
- Kitchen islands: Nearly 1 in 5 (18%) opt for black countertops as a contrasting feature.
Black countertops pair beautifully with natural wood cabinets, white walls, or metallic accents for a striking and modern look.
How to incorporate it:
- Use black countertops on your island for a striking focal point.
- Pair black countertops with warm wood cabinets or metallic accents to balance the boldness.
2. Glass-Front Cabinets to Showcase Your Style
Glass-front cabinets are the most popular type of accent cabinet, with 36% of homeowners opting for this style. These cabinets offer a sleek way to display items like glassware, decorative dishes, or cookbooks. Glass-front cabinets, in particular, are the top choice for adding visual interest while displaying your favorite items.
What to display:
- Glassware
- Decorative bowls
- Colorful dishware
- Cookbooks
How to incorporate it:
- Replace solid cabinet doors with glass fronts in a few key areas, such as above the sink or next to the range.
- Add interior cabinet lighting to enhance the display.
3. Vinyl Flooring for Style and Practicality
Vinyl or resilient flooring is now the most popular option for kitchens, chosen by 22% of homeowners. It’s affordable, durable, and available in a wide variety of styles that mimic hardwood or tile.
Why it’s popular:
- Water-resistant and easy to clean.
- Comes in styles that replicate wood, stone, or patterned tiles.
- Softer underfoot than tile or hardwood.
How to incorporate it:
- Consider textured or patterned vinyl to add character and depth to your kitchen.
- Opt for vinyl planks that mimic natural wood or stone for a high-end look at a fraction of the cost.
- Look for luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) in patterns that complement your kitchen’s color palette.
4. Two-Tone Cabinets for Depth and Personality
Two-tone cabinets continue to trend, with homeowners mixing different colors or finishes to add depth to their kitchens. A popular combo is pairing white upper cabinets with darker lower cabinets or a bold island.
How to replicate it: If a full renovation isn’t in your plans, consider painting your island a contrasting color or using adhesive cabinet wraps for a budget-friendly update.
5. Small Luxuries: Scented Candles and Mood Lighting
Creating a cozy atmosphere is just as important as choosing the right materials. Soft, warm lighting and seasonal scented candles are simple ways to elevate your kitchen’s ambiance.
How to replicate it:
- Replace harsh overhead bulbs with warm-toned LEDs.
- Add pendant lights or under-cabinet lighting for a layered effect.
- Choose candles in scents like citrus, vanilla, or lavender to match the mood.
6. Open Shelving for a Minimalist Touch
Open shelving has staying power in 2025, offering a chance to showcase beautiful items while keeping your space feeling light and airy.
What to display:
- Matching dishware
- Potted herbs or small plants
- Decorative jars and canisters
How to replicate it: Remove the doors from a few upper cabinets to create open shelving, or install a standalone set of shelves on an empty wall.
7. Bold Backsplashes to Add Personality
Backsplashes are reaching new heights—literally. 67% of homeowners extend their backsplashes to cabinets or range hoods, and 12% take it all the way to the ceiling. Bold slab backsplashes, such as marble or quartz, are also on the rise (24%).
Backsplashes are no longer just functional—they’re a canvas for self-expression. Bold patterns, colorful tiles, and even peel-and-stick options are trending.
Popular choices:
- Moroccan-inspired tiles
- Geometric patterns
- Subway tiles in unexpected colors like green or navy
How to incorporate it:
- For a budget-friendly option, try peel-and-stick tiles in eye-catching designs.
- Choose tiles or slabs with bold patterns or rich textures to make your backsplash the centerpiece of your kitchen.
8. Personalized Kitchens with a DIY Touch
Incorporating personal touches is key in 2025. Whether it’s a DIY coffee bar, custom cabinet pulls, or a curated gallery wall, homeowners are making their kitchens truly their own.
How to replicate it:
- Add a chalkboard wall for notes and recipes.
- DIY cabinet hardware with unique materials like leather or painted wood.
- Display family photos or artwork in stylish frames.
9. Traditional Style Makes a Comeback
While transitional design still leads (25%), traditional kitchens are gaining ground, rising to 14% in popularity. This trend embraces classic details like raised-panel cabinets, crown molding, and warm wood finishes.
How to incorporate it:
- Add classic touches like beadboard panels or farmhouse sinks.
- Use warm, neutral tones such as beige, cream, and soft wood stains.
10. Specialty Features Elevate Ovens
Kitchen appliances are getting smarter, with 63% of homeowners opting for ovens with specialty features like phone-controlled monitors, remote timers, and automated cooking modes.
How to incorporate it:
- Upgrade to a smart oven for added convenience and precise cooking.
- Explore other smart appliances, like refrigerators with touchscreens or voice-activated assistants.
With these 2025 kitchen trends, creating a stylish, functional, and personalized kitchen is easier than ever. Whether you go bold with black countertops or simply add glass-front cabinets, these ideas are practical and achievable for any budget. Which trend will you try first?
Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.