For years, white kitchens dominated remodel trends—but that era is officially shifting. Homeowners are increasingly embracing warmth and texture, with wood cabinetry emerging as the top choice in recent kitchen renovations. According to recent homeowner remodeling surveys, wood tones have now surpassed white as the most selected cabinet finish, signaling a broader move toward more natural, layered interiors.
Medium-toned wood cabinets are leading the charge, offering a balance between warmth and versatility. Light wood finishes are close behind, bringing an airy, organic feel to kitchens, while darker woods remain a more selective choice for homeowners looking to make a bold statement. Although white cabinets have slipped from the top spot, they’re far from disappearing—off-white and classic white finishes continue to play a major role in modern kitchens.
Color is also evolving in subtler ways. While most homeowners still prefer neutral palettes, green has emerged as the most popular color choice among those opting for painted cabinets, edging out gray. Blue, black, beige, and greige appear less frequently, reflecting a preference for timeless materials over trend-forward hues.
Another design trend holding strong is the use of contrasting upper and lower cabinets, often referred to as the “tuxedo kitchen.” In these designs, lighter finishes—especially white and off-white—remain popular for upper cabinets, helping kitchens feel open and bright. Lower cabinets, however, are trending darker, with wood finishes and rich colors like blue and green adding depth and visual interest.
Wood’s influence extends beyond cabinetry as well. Kitchen islands are increasingly becoming focal points, and many homeowners are choosing a different material for island countertops than for the rest of the kitchen. Wood and butcher block surfaces have surged in popularity for islands, adding warmth and character, while engineered quartz continues to dominate main countertop selections for its durability and low maintenance.
Overall, the rise of wood reflects a growing desire for kitchens that feel lived-in, personal, and connected to natural materials. As homeowners move away from stark, all-white spaces, kitchens are becoming more expressive—blending function with texture, contrast, and timeless design.