Alena Capra, CAFÉ Designer in Residence, on 2026 Kitchen Design Trends
Central to a home’s design and the hub of entertainment, the kitchen is core to homeowners‘ expression of personal style. As homeowners consider a kitchen revamp or refresh in the new year, CAFÉ™ Designer in Residence Alena Capra uncovers the top kitchen trends guiding consumers’ design inspiration boards in 2026.
Statement Appliances
In 2026, the kitchen continues to evolve as a space for self-expression, where appliances are no longer just functional – they’re foundational to the design story. Matte white finishes are gaining momentum, offering a soft, modern alternative to stainless steel that feels both fresh and enduring. This shift is part of a broader movement toward personalization, where customizable appliances invite homeowners to curate a space that reflects their unique style. From coordinating with lighting and hardware to harmonizing with surrounding furnishings, these choices create a layered, intentional look. Even countertop appliances are stepping into the spotlight, designed to complement their larger counterparts and contribute to a cohesive, considered aesthetic.
Details That Define
Hardware is having a moment, and it’s all about the mix. Brushed brass, matte black, gunmetal, and champagne bronze are being layered like jewelry, adding richness and dimension to kitchen spaces. Copper and stainless steel are also in the rotation, creating unexpected pairings that feel curated rather than coordinated. But it’s not just about the metals, painted finishes are stepping in to add contrast and visual interest, with warm neutrals anchoring the palette and deeper, moodier tones like forest green, navy, and rich merlot making bold statements. Some kitchens are dialing it back, opting for sleek channel pulls or handle-free cabinetry, often accented with metallic trims or integrated lighting for a clean, contemporary edge. Whether bold or barely there, hardware and color are proving they’re more than just finishing touches – they’re central to the story.
Function Meets Flow
The open-concept kitchen remains the go-to for creating fluid, connected living spaces. But behind the scenes, a new layer is emerging: the “work kitchen” or “scullery.” These tucked-away prep zones are designed to handle the hustle, keeping the main kitchen pristine and photo-ready. Large islands continue to anchor the space with both function and flair, while features like appliance garages and dedicated coffee stations are becoming must-haves for those who value both style and efficiency. Built-in banquettes are also making waves, offering cozy, space-savvy seating that doubles as a design moment. Upholstered in rich textures or bold hues, they bring softness and personality to kitchens of every size. At the same time, flexible living spaces are gaining momentum. Homeowners are prioritizing areas that serve multiple functions, especially those that support family life and entertaining. Secondary prep zones like pantries, sculleries, and “dirty kitchens” are rising to the top of wish lists, and they’re being thoughtfully designed and fully outfitted to reflect their growing importance. From dish drawers and beverage centers to wine refrigerators and countertop essentials, CAFÉ delivers everything needed to transform a pantry or scullery into a dream-worthy extension of the kitchen. These additions enhance workflow and contribute to the overall aesthetic, ensuring every corner – visible or tucked away – is as beautiful as it is practical.
Smart Tech, Smarter Kitchens
Kitchen tech is stepping up in a big way, with appliances doing more than ever to streamline daily routines. Refrigeration is leading the charge, offering features that feel almost futuristic, such as convertible drawers that shift between fridge, freezer or wine storage with a tap, auto-fill water pitchers built right in, and instant hot water dispensers that make waiting a thing of the past. These upgrades aren’t just about convenience, they’re reshaping how we interact with the kitchen, turning it into a space that’s as intuitive as it is functional. Over-the-air updates that add new features to connected products as software updates enable appliances to evolve with client preferences and get better over time. These updates ensure that the appliances continue to improve long after installation, adapting to changing needs and unlocking new capabilities to keep the kitchen experience fresh, responsive and ahead of the curve.
Surface Statements
Countertops and backsplashes are embracing personality. Natural stone continues to hold its place as a design staple, but it’s no longer just about subtle neutrals. While quartzites like Taj Mahal still reign for their quiet elegance, there’s a noticeable shift toward stones that speak louder, like saturated blues, earthy greens, deep merlot, and warm rust tones. These bolder surfaces are making their way into kitchens with confidence, adding drama and personality in equal measure. Classic marbles haven’t lost their charm either. Calacatta Viola, with its striking veining and soft color play, is showing up in modern spaces with a fresh sense of sophistication. Meanwhile, engineered quartz remains a reliable favorite for its durability and uniformity, and porcelain slabs are quickly climbing the ranks as a sleek, low-maintenance contender. Backsplashes are getting the full treatment too. For those craving contrast, elongated brick-style tiles in unexpected finishes and hues are adding texture and depth. Integrated shelving made from the same surface material is also gaining traction, turning everyday storage into a design moment.
—Alena Capra, 2024 KBB Person of the Year and CAFÉ™ Designer in Residence
