What Are the Latest Trends in Kitchen Remodeling?
Kitchen design is constantly evolving, and staying current with trends can help ensure your remodel feels fresh for years to come. As Chicago’s premier kitchen and bath showroom, Revive Studio keeps a pulse on what’s happening in kitchen design both locally and nationally. Whether you’re planning a remodel in Skokie, Wilmette, or anywhere in the Chicago area, these trends are shaping how homeowners approach their kitchen renovations in 2025.
Top Kitchen Design Trends for 2025
1. Mixed Metals and Finishes
Gone are the days of matching every metal finish in your kitchen. Today’s trend embraces intentional mixing of metals to create depth and visual interest.
Popular Combinations:
- Brushed brass cabinet hardware with matte black faucets
- Polished chrome fixtures with oil-rubbed bronze lighting
- Stainless steel appliances with gold or copper accents
Why It Works: Mixed metals add personality and prevent your kitchen from looking too matchy or sterile. The key is choosing two or three finishes maximum and repeating them throughout the space for cohesion.
2. Two-Toned Cabinetry
Single-color cabinets are giving way to sophisticated two-tone designs that add dimension and define different kitchen zones.
Common Approaches:
- Dark lower cabinets (navy, charcoal, forest green) with white or cream uppers
- Natural wood island with painted perimeter cabinets
- Bold color on the island contrasting with neutral perimeter cabinets
“Two-toned cabinetry allows homeowners to embrace bolder colors without overwhelming the space. We’re seeing incredible results with deep blues and greens paired with warm whites,” says Ohad Gibli, President and Lead Designer at Revive Studio.
3. Integrated and Hidden Appliances
The seamless, built-in look is increasingly popular as homeowners seek cleaner, more streamlined kitchen aesthetics.
Popular Options:
- Panel-ready refrigerators that match cabinetry
- Concealed range hoods disguised as cabinets
- Integrated dishwashers with cabinet fronts
- Hidden coffee stations and appliance garages
Benefits: Creates a cohesive, custom look while maintaining functionality. Perfect for open-concept spaces where the kitchen is visible from living areas.
4. Statement Backsplashes
Backsplashes have evolved from purely functional elements to focal points that define the kitchen’s personality.
Trending Styles:
- Floor-to-ceiling tile coverage
- Bold geometric patterns
- Natural stone slabs with dramatic veining
- Textured or 3D tiles
- Zellige or handmade artisan tiles
- Contrasting grout colors for added interest
5. Smart Kitchen Technology
Technology integration continues to expand beyond smart appliances to create truly connected kitchens.
Hot Tech Features:
- Touchless faucets with voice activation
- Smart refrigerators with inventory tracking
- Induction cooktops with precise temperature control
- Integrated charging stations and USB ports
- Under-cabinet lighting with app control
- Smart ventilation systems that activate automatically
6. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials
Environmental consciousness is driving material choices as homeowners seek sustainable options without sacrificing style.
Popular Eco-Friendly Choices:
- Recycled glass countertops
- Reclaimed or sustainably sourced wood
- Low-VOC paints and finishes
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
- Water-saving faucets and fixtures
- Bamboo or cork flooring
Kitchen Color Trends
Popular Cabinet Colors for 2025
| Color Category | Specific Shades | Best Paired With |
|---|---|---|
| Deep Blues | Navy, Midnight Blue, Cobalt | Brass hardware, white countertops |
| Rich Greens | Forest, Sage, Emerald | Natural wood, marble countertops |
| Warm Neutrals | Greige, Warm White, Cream | Black accents, natural stone |
| Bold Darks | Charcoal, Black, Deep Brown | Light countertops, mixed metals |
| Natural Wood | Walnut, White Oak, Natural Maple | White or neutral cabinets |
Countertop Color Trends
Gaining Popularity:
- Warm-toned quartz with subtle veining
- Dramatic dark countertops (especially on islands)
- Quartzite with natural movement and variation
- Terrazzo making a comeback
- Concrete-look surfaces
Declining:
- Solid white with no movement
- Busy granite patterns
- Overly uniform quartz patterns
Material and Finish Trends
Countertop Materials
What’s Hot:
- Quartzite – Natural beauty with durability approaching granite
- Porcelain Slabs – Thin, large-format options with marble looks
- Textured Quartz – Moving away from polished to matte and leathered finishes
- Integrated Sinks – Seamless countertop-to-sink transitions
What’s Declining:
- Basic builder-grade granite
- Overly busy patterns
- Traditional tile countertops
Flooring Trends
Popular Choices:
- Wide-plank hardwood or engineered flooring
- Large-format tile (12×24 or larger)
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) with realistic wood looks
- Textured or matte-finish tiles instead of glossy
- Patterned cement tiles for personality
Hardware and Fixtures
Trending Finishes:
- Unlacquered brass (develops natural patina)
- Matte black (remaining strong)
- Brushed or satin nickel (timeless choice)
- Mixed metallics intentionally combined
Popular Styles:
- Longer cabinet pulls (6-12 inches)
- Minimal or no upper cabinet hardware
- Statement range hoods as focal points
- Bridge-style or commercial-inspired faucets
Layout and Design Trends
Open Shelving Evolution
Open shelving continues evolving with more thoughtful, curated approaches:
- Strategic open shelving mixed with closed cabinets
- Integrated lighting to highlight displays
- Shelving in specific zones (coffee bar, cookbook display)
- Metal or wood shelves for added texture
Kitchen Islands as Multi-Functional Hubs
Islands are getting larger and more complex:
- Seating for 4+ people
- Multiple levels for dining and prep
- Integrated storage including wine fridges and drawers
- Built-in outlets and appliances
- Contrasting materials from perimeter cabinets
The Working Pantry
Dedicated pantry spaces are becoming essential:
- Walk-in pantries with organization systems
- Butler’s pantries for appliance storage
- Floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets
- Pull-out pantry solutions for smaller kitchens
Lighting Trends
Key Trends:
- Layered Lighting – Combining ambient, task, and accent lighting
- Statement Pendants – Bold fixtures over islands (often oversized)
- Under-Cabinet LED – Nearly universal in modern kitchens
- Toe-Kick Lighting – Subtle illumination for safety and ambiance
- Decorative Sconces – Adding character on open walls
Chicago-Specific Trends
In the Chicago market, we’re seeing some regional preferences:
Local Favorites:
- Emphasis on natural light to combat winter months
- Durable materials that withstand heavy use (Chicago families cook!)
- Storage solutions for pantry staples (snow days require preparation)
- Mudroom integration or back-entry connections to kitchens
- Warming drawers popular for entertaining
- Focus on cozy, gathered seating areas
Trend Comparison: Passing Fads vs. Lasting Design
| Lasting Trends (Safe Investment) | Proceed with Caution |
|---|---|
| Two-tone cabinetry | Ultra-modern minimalism |
| Mixed metals (tastefully done) | Extremely bold all-over color |
| Smart technology integration | Trendy geometric backsplash patterns |
| Quality natural materials | Industrial-only aesthetics |
| Efficient storage solutions | Open shelving everywhere |
| Neutral base with personality accents | Matching everything perfectly |
How to Incorporate Trends Without Dating Your Kitchen
Not every trend belongs in every kitchen. Here’s how to stay current without creating a time capsule:
1. Use Trends as Accents Incorporate trendy colors or patterns in easily changeable elements like backsplashes, hardware, or lighting rather than expensive cabinetry.
2. Balance Trendy with Timeless Pair trending elements with classic choices. For example, trendy green cabinets on an island with timeless white perimeter cabinets.
3. Consider Your Home’s Architecture A 1920s Chicago bungalow might look odd with ultra-modern trends. Honor your home’s character while updating thoughtfully.
4. Think Long-Term Will you love that bold pattern in five years? Ten years? Choose based on longevity, not Instagram.
5. Prioritize Function Over Trends A well-designed, functional kitchen never goes out of style. Trends should enhance, not compromise, usability.
The Revive Studio Approach to Trends
At Revive Studio, we help Chicago area homeowners navigate trends thoughtfully. Our showroom on North Halsted Street features the latest materials, finishes, and styles so you can see and touch samples before committing. Our complimentary 3D design service lets you visualize how trends will work in your specific space.
We believe the best kitchens blend current trends with timeless design principles, creating spaces that feel fresh today and remain beautiful for years to come. Whether you’re drawn to bold colors, smart technology, or sustainable materials, we’ll help you incorporate trends that match your lifestyle and home.
Making Trends Work for Your Budget
Not all trends require major investment. Here’s how to embrace current styles at different budget levels:
Budget-Friendly ($5,000-$15,000):
- Update hardware to mixed metals
- Add a trendy backsplash
- Paint existing cabinets in a current color
- Upgrade lighting fixtures
Mid-Range ($15,000-$40,000):
- Two-tone cabinet painting or refacing
- New countertops in trending materials
- Smart appliance upgrades
- Statement lighting and fixtures
High-End ($40,000+):
- Complete cabinetry replacement with trending colors/styles
- Premium natural stone countertops
- Integrated appliances
- Full smart home kitchen integration
- Custom storage solutions
Ready to Embrace Current Kitchen Trends?
Visit Revive Studio’s showroom to explore the latest in kitchen design. Our team stays current with emerging trends while respecting timeless design principles. With our complete kitchen remodel capabilities in just 2-3 weeks and complimentary 3D design service, we make it easy to create a kitchen that’s both trendy and timeless.
Contact us at (773) 207-8558 or stop by our showroom at 2837 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657. Let’s create a kitchen that reflects your style and stands the test of time.
For full-service installation, our sister company Revive 360 Renovations handles everything from demolition to final touches.
Revive Studio – Where Design & Functionality Meet Bringing Chicago Kitchens into the Future
