Photo: Wren Kitchens
The hottest kitchen trends for 2026
If you’re looking for a new kitchen in 2026, this is the perfect guide for you.
We’ve consulted the experts and got the inside track on the biggest kitchen trends for 2026.
Even if you’re not planning a major kitchen overhaul, there are still some lovely ideas in here for a smaller kitchen refresh.
1. Warm colours
Over the last few years, comfort and cosiness in the kitchen has become increasingly more popular, and the colours we are using in the space are reflecting that.
As kitchens are increasingly used as the social hub at the home, a space to reconnect after a long day and countless other things, it’s important that the it feels warm and inviting.
Oliver Grigson, kitchen designer at Et Lorem explains: “The neutral colour palette has become one of the most sought-after design schemes in today’s home.
“Not only creating properties with broad appeal, but also living spaces that are rich in detail, inherently calm, and discreetly personal.
“The most popular neutral tones in 2026 for the UK kitchen space include a return to warm whites and taupe, mocha shades with subtle notes of coffee and cream, and earthy tones such as muted green or cosy orange hues that give the look of unglazed, bare plaster.”
It isn’t just our walls that are lending themselves more to the warmer tones though, brands are reporting a surge in colourful appliances.
“This is a big change from the classic black and white that typically dominates kitchen appliances.
Joe Howes, head of data and marketing at Sirius Buying Group explains: “It is fair to say that the appliance industry has embraced the world of colour with a vast selection of new and innovative appliances sporting a new shade or finish option this year.
“The stand-out colours for the 2026 kitchen are embracing an earthier colour palette with muted shades in olive and sage, warm browns like mocha, greige and taupe, through to jewel tones in deep red, blue, green, and purple.”
2. Freestanding furniture
We are predicting a surge in freestanding furniture as one of the key kitchen trends for 2026.
Our kitchens are moving away from the uniformed, fitted look (just like other parts of the home) and are instead becoming more relaxed, layered and lived in.
Think separate kitchen islands with unique bar stools, freestanding cupboards and sideboards and more. It’s a more laid back style, but one that fits with the aforementioned growing trend towards a relaxed ‘hub of the home’.
Kate Palmer, creative director of The Painted Furniture Company adds: “Freestanding furniture is becoming increasingly important in creating that sense of ease.
“Pieces such as dressers, freestanding cupboards and sideboards bring warmth and character, breaking up long runs of cabinetry and helping kitchens feel more like welcoming rooms rather than purely functional spaces.
“These elements also offer a more flexible way of living.
“A dresser can become a focal point for everyday ceramics and glassware, a sideboard works beautifully for adaptable storage or informal serving, and a freestanding cupboard or pantry can evolve as needs change over time.
“Together, they support a more thoughtful approach to kitchen design, one that values individuality and longevity.
“t reflects a growing desire for kitchens that feel personal, where furniture looks chosen and loved, not simply installed.”
3. Natural materials
Alongside warm colours in walls and appliances, the use of natural materials in kitchens is also paving the way in 2026.
It’s all about going back to nature, using quality raw materials to give the space a refreshed, refined look whilst keeping it personal to the occupant.
Joe Howes, Head of Data and Marketing at Sirius Buying Group adds: “As personalisation drives the design conversation, the modern kitchen space will go back to nature in 2026, erring towards a pared back natural style with quality raw materials, vertical groove design elements, and minimalist cabinets complementing the latest built-in appliances.
“In contrast, the traditional kitchen space will centre around in-frame and painted Shaker-style doors in pastel, earthy shades with metallic design elements, and heritage style appliances being used to anchor the scheme.”
It isn’t just kitchens that are embracing the natural material trend though, it seems like the rest of the home is, too, as Steve Larkin, kitchen expert and CEO of Kitchen Door Hub reports.
“Natural materials are emerging as a major trend around the whole home in 2026, not just kitchens, as part of the move towards warmth, sustainability and making a home feel more lived in.
“In kitchens, people are choosing to use natural wood finishes instead of painted wood or high gloss, and using real stone for worktops because of the unique texture it provides.
“This trend is often paired with warm colours, as when combined together they can bring a feeling of nature into the home.”
4. Patterns and Texture
Texture is another big trend lending itself to kitchens this year, just like in other parts of the home.
Adding texture to worktops, cupboards, wallpapers,
What were the kitchen trends in 2025?
This year it’s all about calming colours, think greens and blues, and the kitchen becoming a zone of calmness in what can be a chaotic household.
We’re also predicting a big push on sustainability with the use of eco-friendly materials and longevity in designs.
Design wise, everything is on the table it seems as we see statement splashbacks, textured units and brass hardware growing in popularity.
At the same time, we’re also seeing nostalgiacore creeping into kitchens, alongside a more futuristic way of cooking as smart appliances have never been so in demand.
1. Calming colours
The kitchen is stereotypically the heart of the home.
It sees the hustle and bustle of morning coffee, breakfast runs, makeshift remote offices, homework piles, the dinner rush, and more.
As more of us use our kitchens as a dual space, be that an extra office, dining room, living room or play room – a calmer feel has never been so needed.
This year earthy tones such as green and blue are the colours of choice for kitchens. Emma-Louise Braham, product design expert at Bushboard comments: “Earthy tones will continue to dominate, including deep greens, warm browns, and rich blues, creating a calming and grounded atmosphere.
“There will be a push towards modern designs and an increased emphasis on sleek, minimalist aesthetics that prioritise clean lines and open spaces.
“These colours create an uncluttered environment that offers versatility and timelessness, allowing for easy integration with other styles.”
2. Smart appliances
Smart tech has solidified its position in our homes, and the kitchen is no exception.
From instant hot water taps, to smart sound and lighting, our kitchens are now a hub of new technology.
While home coffee machines, ice dispensers and air fryers became kitchen staples in the 2010s, we’re now seeing a focus on the smart tech behind the basics.
Whether its a fridge that can tell us what’s inside without the need to open, lights that switch on as you walk into the room, or a tap that instantly gives you water ideal for your morning tea.
The latter is now one of the most popular kitchen gadgets, with 90% of kitchen renovations now including a boiling hot water tap.
- Qettle signature modern boiling water tap, from £795 – buy here
3. Talking texture
We’ve seen textured fixtures make their way into our bathrooms this year, and even creeping into décor in bedrooms and other parts of the home, so it makes sense for it to be trending in the kitchen, too.
“Adding depth, dimension, and a tactile quality to spaces.
Texture in your kitchen can be decorative plaster finishes, textured wallpapers, and thoughtful details like panelling are making a strong comeback.
“Richard Burbidge decorative mouldings offer a quick and easy way to embrace this trend, bringing a sophisticated, tactile element to walls and ceilings and allowing homeowners to effortlessly elevate their interiors.
4. Bold as brass
While we might be going calmer in our paintwork in our kitchen 2025 trends, brass is firmly cementing its bold stamp on our fixtures.
Brass is timeless and will look great with almost any colour combination or kitchen design.
It looks stunning in taps and cupboard handles, and adds a touch of zing to your design.
Ziggy Kulig, CEO at GRAFF, explains: “Brassware is an easy way to introduce softer tones, organic shapes and textural detailing to the kitchen.
“Gold tones in particular are enduringly popular, thanks to their versatility and timeless nature.
“To make a kitchen feel more inviting, opting for a brushed gold or Olive Bronze can give a softer look than a polished finish.
“Ensure a cohesive aesthetic by using the same finish throughout the brassware and accessories.”
5. Nostalgia
While we might be looking forward in a lot of our kitchen design inspirations, we are also reminiscing on some of our favourite old-school kitchen trends – so much so that they are making a comeback.
Think open door pantries where Nana kept the best jam, retro tiling, and our personal favourite: curtains over cabinets in the kitchen.
Nostalgiacore really has us gripped, but a lot of the time, the old ideas are the best so it’s definitely something we’re embracing across the home.
6. Sustainability in style
Sustainability has been at the heart of renovation projects for a number of years now.
While trends come and go, you won’t realistically be undertaking kitchen renovations year in, year out to keep up with the latest trends.
This means structural changes tend to be more subtle, and trends tend to stay in fashion for longer.
Materials used are also more eco-friendly where possible, and there is a lean towards using second-hand materials for projects – or even repurposing old worktop or tiles for a different project.
It’s not only the kitchen design that is taking a turn for sustainability though.
Apps like Too Good To Go, Olio and countless others are helping us to curb our food waste and shop and eat more sustainably.
7. Bold splashbacks
Paul Richardson, kitchen stylist at Wren Kitchens, says we are going to see people become more experimental and expressive with their backsplashes to add subtle colour, texture and personality to their kitchens.
“Backsplashes are no longer an afterthought and are an easy and affordable way to lift a space or make a subtle move away from plain, neutral kitchens
“Plain tiles in a grid pattern are a practical and attractive choice for kitchen splashbacks.
“Classic options include white bevelled-edge tiles with dark grout or black tiles with white grout.”
“Mirrored tiles not only offer durability and hygiene but also enhance brightness and create a sense of space by reflecting light.
“They work particularly well near underlit cupboards.
“For a dynamic look, herringbone or chevron patterns, created by laying rectangular tiles diagonally, add energy and a distinctive design inspired by fish skeletons,” Paul shares.
- Shaker Chelsea Ermine Mushroom Matt & Forest Green Matt – browse kitchens here
What were the kitchen trends in 2024?
According to Richard Davonport, Managing Director at Davonport, kitchens continued to be the room that leads the latest interior trends, with other rooms following suit.
“In 2024, we didn’t see revolutionary trends, but rather more subtle ideas that brought both functionality and style in equal measure,” he adds.
Discover which trends lit up our kitchens last year, and incorporate them into your kitchen renovations for 2025.
Oversized handles
Oversized handles add a bold and modern look to the kitchen, while offering a convenient grip for cabinet doors and drawers.
Whether made from sleek metals to textured woods, substantial handles provide homeowners with endless possibilities to make a statement in their kitchen design.
Pot fillers
Pot fillers have rapidly gained popularity, especially in large kitchens.
These convenient fixtures let you fill pots and pans directly on the hob, so you don’t need to carry heavy pans from the sink.
Expect pot fillers to make a splash in UK kitchens in 2024, combining functionality and style. Available in various finishes and styles, they’ll seamlessly integrate into your kitchen’s design.
Back kitchens
Back kitchens are smaller rooms, often located behind the main kitchen.
They’re a functional extension of the main cooking space, offering a separate area for prep work, storage and smaller appliances.
This trend is ideal for those wanting a minimalist and clean design, or if you want the kitchen to be the social hub of the home.
Make sure your back kitchen has a large sink, fridge, and cooking and prep space to maximise its functionality.
Backsplash updates
Slab backsplashes are going to be a big kitchen trend in 2024.
“These seamless, continuous backsplashes create a sleek and modern look,” Davenport says.
“Whether it’s a marble slab or a more budget-friendly porcelain/quartz alternative, the use of a single material for both countertop and backsplash add an elegant and timeless touch to the kitchen.”
For those after a bit more glamour and shine, go for a metallic splashback.
Copper, brass and stainless steel are all popular choices and create a stunning focal point in the kitchen.
“These reflective surfaces not only catch the eye but also bounce light around the room, making your kitchen feel more spacious and inviting.
“They work particularly well in smaller kitchens but look just as good in large spaces,” explains Davenport.
Warmer colours
According to Davenport, reds, purples and rich browns will be popular in our kitchens in 2024.
If you’re not brave enough to use these vibrant hues throughout the kitchen, they work well as a powerful contrast to understated neutrals.
Davenport adds: “The natural place to use contrasting colours is to paint your kitchen island a different colour.
“Or, for something a little different, paint your floor-to-ceiling cabinets and wall cabinets one colour, while your base cabinets a different shade.”
Black is back
Opting for cabinets in an inky black will give a high-end look and feel to your kitchen.
“Sleek and stylish, like a little black dress, it’s a design that will never go out of fashion,” says Naked Kitchens.
“Paired with woods such as oak or walnut and layered with brass or copper detailing, this scheme delivers a wealth of understated luxury and warmth.”
Think pink
If you prefer something a little lighter and brighter, pink is a versatile choice and can instil a sense of calm. It’s the perfect shade to create a stress-free cooking environment.
“Soft pink shades pair particularly well with natural finishes such as pale woods and rattan accessories,” Naked Kitchens advises.
A twist on the traditional
Islands are still one of the most coveted elements for any new kitchen.
But there’s been a design evolution, and the latest designs offer display shelving and eye-catching split-level counter tops.
There’s also a great opportunity to be creative with different finishes and mixed materials for a premium look.
While the traditional shaker kitchen remains a popular choice for period homes, adding in contrasting elements will elevate their look and feel.
Naked Kitchens says, “Bold unexpected colour is a great way of highlighting design detail whilst display cabinets and open shelving in unexpected materials and finishes offer a contemporary twist to a classic design.”
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