Over the years, kitchen cabinet trends have gone back and forth between ultra traditional and ultra modern.
Heavily detailed doors and darker finishes have been popular, followed by a long stretch of white Shaker kitchen cabinets.
“Some of these trends hold up better than others once people actually live with them,” says John Dean, owner of Dean Cabinetry in Manchester, CT.
In 2026, homeowners are gravitating toward kitchen cabinets that feel more personal and aren’t overly trendy.
If you plan to upgrade your cabinets this year, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the latest trends while still focusing on options that reflect your unique lifestyle and personality.
What’s hot for 2026 when it comes to kitchen cabinets
In 2026, we’re turning the page on white.
"After nearly a decade as the top homeowner preference, the desire for white finishes is dropping and we're marking a shift away from the all-white kitchen era. This transition is making room for colors, textures and finishes that reflect individual style," says Stephanie Pierce, director of design and trends at MasterBrand Cabinets in Jasper, IN.
Here’s a snapshot and the latest and greatest kitchen cabinet trends for this year:
Warmer color palettes
Softer whites, creams, greiges, and warmer wood tones are replacing stark white. “These colors feel easier to live with long term,” says Dean.
Natural wood finishes
Light to medium wood tones are making a comeback. They're being used to add warmth and break up painted cabinetry—often on islands or accent areas.
Closed cabinetry, with open shelving used sparingly
Most homeowners prefer the storage and visual calm that comes with closed cabinets. “Despite this, a bit of open shelving is worth exploring as it can serve as an attractive accent in your kitchen,” explains Dean.
Bold colors
Homeowners are also embracing boldness through deep inky blues, and earthy and sage greens, according to Pierce. "Dusty pinks and rich, dramatic reds are gaining momentum, and this interest is expected to broaden in the coming years," explains Pierce.
Simple, classic door styles
Shaker doors and clean slab styles continue to be popular. “These look great, work in many different types of homes, and don’t feel dated,” says Dean.
How tariffs will impact kitchen cabinet projects
As of October 2025, a 25% tariff applies to all imported kitchen cabinets and vanities. While a 50% hike was planned for January 2026, it will be delayed until at least January 2027. This is positive news for homeowners and suppliers as it gives both parties time to plan and adjust.
If you want to upgrade your cabinets in the near future, rest assured that to stay competitive, importers and retailers will likely absorb some of the 50% increase rather than shift the entire burden on you.
“However, a kitchen remodel is already a significant investment, and with lumber and labor costs continuing to rise, further hikes could cause you to delay or cancel your kitchen cabinet projects altogether,” says Dean.
If you want to make things happen, Dean recommends you plan your project as soon as possible. Also, work with a cabinet supplier that offers flexibility through a range of options, including imported, domestic, and custom cabinetry.
Tips to decide on the ideal cabinets
The best way to home in on ideal cabinets for your kitchen is to focus on your lifestyle.
“Think about how you live—your entertaining style, which meals will be highlighted in your kitchen—not just what’s 'trendy' or looks good online,” says Dean.
Consider storage needs, workflow, and how long you plan to stay in the home. Then, choose a door style and color you won’t get tired of quickly.
If you’re still unsure of what type of cabinets you’d like, don’t be afraid to work with a designer. They can help you narrow down your options and determine the best cabinets for your unique situation and budget.
“Remember, trends come and go, but well-built cabinets paired with a functional kitchen layout will always be a good decision,” says Dean.
Article By Anna Baluch for Realtor.com
