Keep your design timeless: Kitchen cabinet trends to avoid

by Jodie Franklin 09/24/2023

If you’re trying to keep your home’s style as timeless as possible, it might help to know which kitchen cabinet trends to avoid. The kitchen is one of the most frequently updated or renovated rooms of the home, which might mean your last update relied on trends that have fallen behind.

Whether you intend to sell your home and want to impress potential buyers, or are just interested in giving your kitchen more staying power, here is a quick guide to some trends you should reconsider:

Completely open shelving

Open shelving has been among some of the most popular recent kitchen trends, but experts warn against completely doing away with cabinet doors. While practical for some kitchen layouts and sizes, open shelving doesn’t work for everyone - in fact, it can be impractical for both storage and privacy.

With completely open shelving, everything is on display, while traditional kitchen cabinets can hide clutter with ease.

Dark color schemes

Dark paint colors, countertops and kitchen cabinets are a trend that can make your space feel cramped. While some dark color schemes work well in moderation, dark painted cabinets might turn off potential buyers who prefer a more open and airy feel to the kitchen. Instead, consider neutral tones that highlight the natural beauty of the space.

Ornate details

When it comes to timeless design, less is more. If you have cabinets with ornate embellishments, it might be time to scrap them in favor of contemporary cabinetry with clean lines.

Embellishments show their age quicker and can require more extensive upkeep, depending on the materials used. Save yourself the hassle and give your kitchen space longevity by avoiding ornate cabinets.

There are many kitchen trends homeowners might try along the way to refresh their living space. Some other trends might include hanging pot racks, granite countertops, task lighting or an all-white kitchen approach.

No matter what the trends say, your kitchen design is your personal choice. However, it might help to keep these cabinet tips in mind for your next renovation.

About the Author
Author

Jodie Franklin

I love helping people find their dream home or sell their house in order to achieve their next goals. I have been working hard for my clients for over 18 years throughout southeast Michigan. I have experienced every kind of transaction there is. 

Helping my community and being involved is extremely important to me. I am Past President of the Michigan Ability Partners board, which helps Veterans and people with disabilities reach independent, self-supported, and satisfying lives. I have also been a member of the City of Milan Tax Review Board and Zoning Board, and involved in Milan Main Street. I have been a major sponsor of events for Michigan Ability Partners, Aid in Milan, Milan Main Street, and many more organizations that work to make our communities better. 

I was 2018 President of the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors, Realtor of the year in 2016 for AAABOR and nominee for Michigan Realtor of the Year. I serve on many committees with the local board, state board and was a member of the Housing Opportunity Committee for the National Association of Realtors (2018-19). I am currently serving my second term as a Michigan Realtors Board of Directors. 

I have liked in Milan for over 20 years and enjoy living here with my husband Cliff, son Evan, and dog Rosie.