Isn’t it funny how history tends to repeat itself? Trends may become dated after some time, but they always make their way back to the beginning of the cycle eventually. That doesn’t necessarily mean they look the way they once did, though. The beauty of trends is in the way they help evolve our style, allowing us to question what we like and why (and have fun doing so). Going into 2024, these are the old-school kitchen trends that are making a major comeback—and how to incorporate them into your own kitchen, whether you’re on a budget or money is no object.
JANET MESIC MACKIE
Natural Wood Tones
Painted cabinets are still considered classic, but Chandler Helms, founder of her namesake interior design firm in Austin, Texas, is getting far more requests for wood-stained cabinets nowadays. The goal, she says, is to bring warmth and coziness to this central part of the house.
“If you don’t want to refinish your kitchen cabinets, you can bring this warmth into your kitchen in other ways. Think about installing floating shelves in a natural wood tone, or mix in wood accents with your kitchen table, pantry door, or barstools,” she adds.
Bold Stone Countertops
According to Katy Kindred, interior designer and co-founder of Kindred Studio in Charlotte, North Carolina, “white-on-white with Carrera marble is starting to fade, making way for countertops with new colors and textures.” This helps create a richer, more exciting, and distinct kitchen.
Laura Botelho, founder of her namesake design firm in Dallas, Texas, agrees, saying that “granite has been modernized and seems to have shifted from the speckled look to a more organic style with the same reliable qualities.”
Eat-In Kitchens
Formal dining rooms and open-concept spaces have long been the norm, but in 2024, Botelho says informal breakfast nooks will be much more popular. Think cozy corners, natural light, and built-in bench seating. “This trend blends convenience and comfort, and allows you to enjoy your meals right in the heart of your home,” she explains. If this isn’t doable for your space, consider layering in stain-resistant textiles (curtains, cushions, and pillows) to make it feel more warm and welcoming.
Antique Details
Right now, Cathlyn Davis, founder of her namesake interior design firm in Austin, Texas, is noticing her clients gravitate towards not-so-new details in their new kitchens. “The use of antiques is coming back, whether it be an old butcher block used as an island or ornate vintage hardware on cabinets,” she says. Treasures such as copper pots and original artwork (Kindred’s personal favorite) are contributing to the trend as well.
Curves
Straight, clean lines are easy on the eye—but some people are getting bored of them. “Today, we’re seeing a comeback of arches and curves in kitchens,” Botelho says. “This look can be achieved with doorways, curved kitchen islands, arched cabinetry, a round breakfast nook table, or even curved back barstools.” This creates a more dynamic space that allows for the eye to travel more, while at the same time softening the room overall.