Are white cabinets still in?

Crisp white cabinets and grey walls make this white kitchen coffee nook an all-around classic style in this small space. (

Interior Design by Carla Bast | Carla Bast Design

)

Pros & Cons of an All-White Kitchen Look 

Over the course of the past few years, we’ve all spent more time than ever before in our homes. And that means that some of the most popular design choices for design in recent times have been called into question. Is the fiddle leaf fig really still the “it” plant? Are graphic floor tiles really for me? And of course, the big one: Are all-white kitchens timeless or trendy? It’s an important question to ask, especially if you are thinking of future potential buyers.

So today, we’re diving into the world of kitchen design because this last question has been circulating quite a lot recently in my world as an interior designer. After all, the general color trend has been moving into warmer and more saturated-color territory. So, you may be thinking that white kitchens are totally trendy. But the truth is that they’ve been around since the 1920s and 1930s (in fact, white was the only color offered at that time!). So, it’s not really a surprise that white kitchens do still remain popular in a traditional kitchen or a more modern style kitchen. A 1920s-era kitchen offered little in the way of color; white walls, white cabinetry, and white backsplashes were the norm.

Whichever way you lean, it’s definitely a hot debate, and you won’t want to miss it. Read on – and you be the judge!

RELATED: 9 Modern Kitchen Design Ideas with Honey Oak Cabinets

A 1920s-era kitchen offered little in the way of color; white walls, white cabinetry, and white backsplashes were the norm.

Whichever way you lean, it’s definitely a hot debate, and you won’t want to miss it. Read on – it’s your turn to be the judge!

RELATED: Modern Countertop Colors for Honey Oak Kitchens

Argument #1: White Kitchens are Totally Timeless

When it comes to the “timeless” stance on white kitchens, practicality reigns supreme. Typically, opting for a neutral palette as your base in your home is actually the smartest choice for a classic look and timeless kitchen. No ultra-permanent commitments to a whimsical wallpaper or a shockingly-bold floor tile. No frustration at having to re-paint your cabinets yet again as soon as the latest mint/sage/blue/pink (or fill in the blank) color trend shifts. Neutrality is the key to timeless white kitchens.

RELATED: 23 Best Gray Paint Colors for Cabinets by Sherwin Williams

White Kitchens are Easy to Re-Style

White is, arguably, a classic color. And by using it as a base, you can easily change up your style via all of the surrounding kitchen decor. Tired of a too-traditional look? Update your hardware pulls or light fixtures. Ready to make red your color pop du jour? Pick up a few ceramic bowls and a new teakettle to re-style your kitchen. The possibilities never end. White simply allows you to play with your room’s aesthetic. And for people who get tired of trends easily, it’s a safe bet for your own kitchen.

This bright white kitchen is balanced with a warm wood floor and rattan stools.

White Kitchens are Crisp & Clean

Beyond the functional elements of classic white kitchens, they’re also beloved simply because of their crisp and clean appearance. Ever walk into a too-bold or cluttered kitchen? Automatically feel closed in or unsure where to stand? All-white kitchens feel inherently collected and visually simple. No matter what type of spread or cooking mess is out in full view on the counter, a white bright kitchen manages to seem intentional and show-stopping.

With accents of antique bronze in the cabinet hardware pulls and light fixtures, this warm and inviting white kitchen offers timeless appeal. (Interior Design by Carla Bast | Carla Bast Design)The creamy whites in this renovated kitchen pair perfectly with a mix of greys, brushed nickel pendant lights, stainless steel appliances, and streamlined engineered wood flooring. (Interior Design by Carla Bast | Carla Bast Design)

Argument #2: White Kitchens are OUT

Then again, the camp that believes that white kitchens are a trend that’s heading out the door has some solid points in its column, too. Not only are we seeing a bucking of the typical all-white look, but we’re seeing more and more of its exact opposite in very different ways with bold colors in the kitchen.  And while that can feel trendy, it seems that it’s actually a reflection of more and more people embracing their personal styles and an overall vibe of comfort.

Practicality

To bring it back to the question of practicality, too, white kitchens are, admittedly, more prone to scuffs and dirt. And if you’ve got kiddos, you know exactly what we mean. Darker cabinets do tend to hide the more pressing stains and fingertip smudges. 

Families with kids can attest to the challenges of maintaining a white kitchen. It’s a playground for stains and smudges, which seem to appear out of nowhere. Spaghetti sauce splatters, juice spills, and colorful food crumbs can turn a white countertop or backsplash into a canvas of chaos. This constant battle to keep white surfaces clean can be both time-consuming and frustrating.

In contrast, darker cabinets in a stained wood have a distinct advantage in concealing these everyday messes. They act as natural camouflage for stains and fingertip smudges, making them far less conspicuous than they would be on a white background. The ability to hide these imperfections not only reduces the visual stress of constantly having to clean but also extends the time between deep cleanings, which is a practical consideration for busy households. If you have a busy kitchen island in your space, using a dark stained wood or a paint color in the darker tones will add an accent color and will stay “cleaner”  than a white kitchen island.

RELATED: How to Determine Your Kitchen Remodeling Budget

Ready for Something New

Beyond this, though, white hit a major stride a few years back. This means it’s a wave that people have been riding ever since. You know the look – white walls and cabinets paired with brushed brass hardware and subway tile backsplashes. And while it’s actually quite a stylish look, it’s definitely one you see just about everywhere you go – including commercial spaces. So the whole white and neutral kitchen look seems to feel, well, a little tired overall. It does beg the question whether or not the look actually brings people joy, or just feels like a repetition of a Pinterest-popular trend. 

While white still makes an appearance in this open kitchen via the countertops, white tiles, and wall paint, the deep charcoal cabinetry anchors the room in a saturated color that feels fresh and different (yet still neutral). (Interior Design by Carla Bast | Carla Bast Design)

RELATED: Best Greige Paint Colors

Using a dark-stained wood for the cabinets in this kitchen allows it to bring a warm and inviting aesthetic to the space, moving away from the

bright and stark whites

of recent years. (

Interior Design by Carla Bast | Carla Bast Design

)

A hint of white in the white subway tiles and countertops keeps this kitchenette feeling bright, yet the black cabinetry gives it a modern and trend-setting twist. Open shelving gives it a touch of texture and warmth. (Interior Design by Carla Bast | Carla Bast Design)

Argument #3: There IS a Middle Ground

But just because white kitchens are being argued over these days, it doesn’t mean you have to either ditch them completely or fight to the bitter end over their value. In fact, there is a happy middle ground that is easily achievable. As far as the color white itself, there are endless variations. And if you love the simplicity and crispness of a white kitchen, but are ready for something a little different than we’ve typically seen, simply stick to those creamy and warm whites instead. That way, you get a soft and neutral white as your base, but your kitchen feels undoubtedly less bright. This allows you to change with the trends in a simple, yet impactful, way. 

Warm It Up

Another great way to keep your white kitchen while adding some warmth and color is to simply update your decor pieces. Bring in hints of wood or woven elements for an inviting and contrasting look. And don’t be afraid to pepper in a few hints of color here and there. You’d be surprised at how something as simple as a new piece of artwork, rug, or a vase filled with flowers can totally transform your space and break up the white kitchen cabinets.

Matte black hardware pulls add a layer of contrast to this bright white kitchen, infusing modern style into the space. (Interior Design: Carla Bast | Carla Bast Design)

RELATED: Simply White vs Chantilly Lace – Comparing Two Top White Paint Colors

White lower and upper cabinets surround the perimeter of this open kitchen, yet paired with a charcoal island and strategically-placed wood accents, it feels balanced and colorful, avoiding the typical white kitchen look popularized in recent times. (Interior Design by Carla Bast | Carla Bast Design)

RELATED: White Kitchen Ideas for Your Home Remodel

White Kitchen Trends and 2024’s Vibrant Color Palette

Kitchen design trends evolve with each passing year, and 2024 promises an exciting blend of timeless elegance and vibrant color.

Timeless elements like shaker-style cabinets, white marble countertops, and hardwood flooring maintain their popularity, but with a modern twist. Smart appliances and innovative storage solutions seamlessly integrate with classic aesthetics, ensuring both form and function are met with sophistication.

What sets this year apart is the infusion of vibrant color. This colorful injection adds energy to the kitchen style, encouraging personal expression and customization for each homeowner.

In 2024 kitchen design trends deliver the best of both worlds – a classic, elegant foundation enhanced by modern conveniences and a burst of lively colors. The kitchen remains the heart of the home, now more inviting and functional than ever.

Let’s explore the forecasted colors for kitchens in 2024!

White kitchen designs have long been celebrated for their classic and versatile appeal. Their ability to create a canvas of serenity and sophistication is unmatched. In 2024, the white kitchen trend is set to continue, with modern updates and innovative twists that make this perennial favorite even more captivating.

Mixing and Matching Textures

Textures play a vital role in 2024’s white kitchen trend. The interplay of matte and glossy finishes, open shelves of wood, and natural stone countertops adds depth and visual interest. These textures create a multi-dimensional ambiance in your kitchen, making it a true standout.

2024’s Forecasted Kitchen Colors

While white remains a dominant choice, 2024 brings a burst of vibrant colors to kitchen design. Whether you infuse color in your cabinetry or through accents, here are the forecasted shades that are set to bring personality into your kitchen:

1. Ocean Blue

Ocean blue is making waves in kitchen design and is one of my favorite color choices in a kitchen renovation. This rich, calming hue can be incorporated through cabinetry, backsplashes, or even accent walls. It brings the tranquility of the sea into your kitchen, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

2. Earthy Greens

Earthy greens are perfect for those who want a nature-inspired kitchen remodel. From muted sage to deep forest green, these tones evoke a sense of freshness and balance. You can introduce these colors through cabinets or décor items for a revitalizing touch. Make sure you add ample light fixtures even if you have natural light.

Kitchen Rendering with a mix of shaker cabinets in white and sage green. A warm wood floor, and butcherblock top add texture and interest to this open space.

3. Warm Terracotta

Terracotta adds warmth and depth to any kitchen. It’s a timeless and earthy color that can be incorporated into tiles, countertops, or even small appliances. The warm, rustic feel of terracotta brings coziness to your kitchen space.

4. Soft Pastels

Soft pastels like blush pink, pale lavender, and misty blue are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and elegance to your kitchen. These shades work well as accents through accessories, backsplashes, or small appliances, infusing a sense of playfulness and serenity.

5. Warm Metallics

Warm metallics like brass and copper will continue to make their mark as accent colors in 2024. They add a touch of luxury and sophistication to kitchens, whether through light fixtures, cabinet handles, range hoods, or cookware.

Incorporating these colors into your kitchen design can revitalize and personalize your space, creating a welcoming and on-trend environment.

So, what’s your verdict? Are white kitchens still fabulous enough to rave about for years to come? Or are you firmly convinced that it’s time to shelf the trend? Let us know your vote in the comments below!

Last Updated on February 26, 2024

Yup, I said what I said, and it’s not just because my kitchen is white. White kitchens will never go out of style; they’re just not trending hard like the beige and green cabinets. So if you’re about to jump into a kitchen remodel and you’re wondering if you should really purchase those white kitchen cabinets, I got ya! Here are 7 white kitchen ideas that bring in the home decor trends of 2023.

7 White Kitchen Ideas

1. Kitchen Countertops

If you’re looking at new countertops and have existing white cabinets, look at quartz (which I’m partial to) in a color or mix it up with a butcher block. I stepped out of my comfort zone with Clairidge quartz from Cambria. The browns and golden veining really warmed up my space the kitchen island is now the statement piece in my all-white kitchen.

RELATED: Sharing a behind the scenes look at how we built the floating stone shelf. Take a peek!

2. Wood Elements

Wood, wood, and more wood – it was everywhere at High Point Market. To add this trend to my kitchen, I’m thinking about adding fluted wood to a wall in the kitchen. Wood brings warmth to your space and the fluted look also adds a sculptural element. Another way to add in wood is with ceiling beams. Even if they’re faux wood beams, the wood will warm up your room and add an architectural element. If you want to dip a toe in the water, try layering antique cutting boards against the backsplash. The more patina and texture it will add. This is the wall I’d like to add fluting to.

3. Unique Hardware – Pulls and Knobs

One thing I’m constantly asked is, “Where did you find the brass pulls?” Buster + Punch was the only hardware company that had a backplate long enough to fully cover the existing holes in my cabinets. After an exhaustive search, we realized that unless we wanted to replace or refinish the existing cabinets, we had no choice but to purchase these. Yes cost a pretty penny, and I had to pull from my flooring budget to get them, but they really added the old razzle-dazzle to my all-white kitchen. I have zero regrets.

Close-up Of Buster & Punch Hardware

4. Reeded Glass In Cabinets

Reeded glass in the cabinet doors is one thing still left on the punch list for our kitchen makeover. We have 3 existing doors with rippled glass that I don’t love, but I do like that you can see through to the contents inside. The reeding adds a modern element to the cabinetry and breaks up the white in the kitchen. This is also a way to add color to your kitchen without commitment. Add glasses a pop of color or wooden bowls for warmth. If you really want to get bold, wallpaper or paint the inside of your cabinets. It’s a fun surprise for guests, much like my wallpapered closet.

Buster & Punch Brass Hardware on White Kitchen Cabinets

My backlighting is turned off in the photo above, but add some LED light strips to show it off – especially if you create a fun design element.

5. Get Creative With Kitchen Tile

Tile is a great way to bring color and texture into white kitchens. You don’t have to use the tile on the entire backsplash either – use a bold graphic tile over a focal point like the oven. If you already have a backsplash, think outside the box and add tile to a wall. Zellige tiles are flattened and shaped by hand, and they come in a multitude of colors. Using tiles like this will not only add color to white kitchens but also texture.

6. Add Statement Lighting In The Kitchen

If you have a white kitchen that you’d like to update but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on, look at swapping out your lighting. Lighting is the jewelry of any room, and a couple of new fixtures can jazz up a space. In my home decor trends for 2022 post, I shared that cane furniture was trending hard at High Point Market. These cane pendants (below) would be gorgeous in any white kitchen.

HUdson Valley Lighting Showroom

7. Paint Your Kitchen Walls

Don’t ever underestimate the power of paint. Whether you’re painting the walls or the cabinets, paint is a very simple and affordable way to add color to your kitchen. Originally, I wanted beige/mushroom colored cabinetry, but new cabinets were not in the budget. To stay on budget, I chose to keep my existing cabinets, but now I’m looking to add a beige color paint. This way, my white kitchen cabinets will still pop.

White Kitchens Will Always Be Timeless

Don’t let anyone tell you white kitchens are out because they’re never going out of style. They’re classic and timeless — add too expensive to change once you’re sick of the trend. Instead, think of alternative ways to update your space. Let me know in the comments if you have other ideas on how you updated your white kitchen.

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