Kitchen Design Trends for 2026

With 2026 just around the corner, it’s clear that kitchens are taking a softer, more soulful turn.

Gone are the days of super-sleek minimalism — the modern kitchen is becoming a warmer, more textured and inviting space that feels truly lived-in.
 
If you’re planning a renovation or simply dreaming about your future kitchen, here are four key trends to keep on your radar.

Smooth, glossy cabinets had their time in the spotlight, but 2026 is all about texture you can actually feel.

We’re seeing a shift toward tactile details: fluted timber, ribbed or grooved surfaces, softly curved corners, and reeded glass. These elements add depth, dimension, and a real sense of character to your kitchen.

You don’t need to go all in to try it out — even a fluted island or a textured splashback can make a big impact.

Design tip: Want a simple update? Add a ribbed or grooved panel to your island or larder – it’s an easy way to bring texture in without a full remodel.

Think mid-tone timbers, soft clay and sand tones, and accents of terracotta, olive, and warm beige. It’s a shift toward colours and textures inspired by nature — and it works beautifully in both modern and traditional settings.

You’ll also see more mixing of materials: painted cabinets alongside timber accents, or a stone worktop paired with a warm oak island.

Design tip: Pair oak or walnut finishes with muted greens, creams, or sandy tones for a kitchen that feels cosy and timeless.

With open-plan living here to stay, more homeowners want kitchens that blend effortlessly into the background — especially in multi-use spaces.

That’s where the invisible kitchen comes in. This trend conceals appliances behind cabinetry, removes handles for a sleeker look, and utilises clever lighting and design to make the kitchen feel like an extension of the living area, rather than a separate space.

Flush hobs, hidden extractor fans, and push-to-open cabinets all help create a sense of calm and flow.

Design tip: Opt for integrated appliances and matching cabinet fronts to create a seamless look that doesn’t disrupt your space.

Tiles are taking a backseat in 2026. Instead, we’re seeing large slab backsplashes — where the same material used for the worktop continues up the wall.

It’s a sleek, luxurious look that feels high-end without being too showy. Whether you go for quartz, marble, or sintered stone, this approach puts the natural beauty of your surfaces on display.

Design tip: Want to go one step further? Wrap the same material around your island in a waterfall style for a polished, designer-style finish.

The kitchens of 2026 are all about balance — combining clean lines with warm materials, and simplicity with soul.

It’s about creating a space that’s not just stylish, but also comfortable, calming, and connected to our day-to-day lives.
 
Whether you’re planning a full renovation or just gathering ideas, these trends are a great starting point. And if you ever need help bringing your vision to life, you know where to find us.