Is 2023 going to be the year you finally update your kitchen? After the last two years, we believe a good refresh in this space is much deserved – be it a whole new kitchen or just a few new stylish accessories. To help you pick out the best on-trend pieces and styles, we have asked the experts, trawled social media, and picked out some of our own favorite new looks. Every worthy bit of inspiration we've encountered for revamping your kitchen has been compiled into one handy gallery below.
As you'll see, there is no shortage of kitchen ideas if you're itching for a new look. No matter what your style preferences are or the size of kitchen you're working with, the following best kitchen design trends will appeal to a wide range of people and really help you plan your makeover (be it big or small).
1. Open shelving
Pinterest's much anticipated trend report showed that searches for kitchen shelving was up 130% towards the end of this year. This is a pretty big sign that the popularity of this pretty but practical storage solution is set to continue as a kitchen trend for 2023. We are hardly surprised. Mixing open shelves into your kitchen layout brings in a bit of extra personality and interest to the space.
2. Layers of texture
Layer on those textures in your kitchen. This could be something as small as stacking up your wooden chopping boards or as large as installing an island with a finish that contrasts with your kitchen cabinets.
'With all that has occurred recently, clients have become very aware of the connection to the space they live,' says Melissa Klink, creative director at Harvey Jones. 'From this need to bond with our homes, we are seeing a revived sense of layering. Clients are layering up on texture and adding personal touches through surface treatments, soft goods and styling accents. Layering texture is a great way to showcase personal style and ensure the room has a richness to it.'
3. Dark and moody kitchens
We've always been fans of a black kitchen, but recently, we have been seeing them everywhere. These deeper, more dramatic shades seem more popular and accessible than ever. For a fresh look, keep walls and countertops light. If you're after a more cocoon-like room, match the walls to the cabinets and add in copper accents.
4. Two-toned kitchens
Two-tone kitchens have been all over Instagram lately. We love the fresh, colorful look they bring to a kitchen. You could go with a more classic look, which entails contrasting your island with your kitchen cabinets, or you could pick different colors for your upper and lower cabinets. Think outside the box too. Try choosing two different hues for your walls and floors or go for a bold backsplash – the combinations are endless.
5. Pops of color
We have tried and tested painting kitchen cabinets ourselves and can confirm it's completely possible to DIY. It completely changes the look of your kitchen, so anyone looking for a budget-friendly kitchen update in 2023 should give it a go.
'Kitchens can be costly investments and aren’t easily interchangeable, using paint to add a splash of color to walls, cabinet fronts, tiles, or shelving unit is not only cost-effective but also allows for a unique burst of creativity and personality to be injected with ease,' explains Helen Shaw, the Benjamin Moore UK director. 'We’ve seen a significant rise in sales of paint for these types of jobs and interestingly the darker hues have been most popular, especially deep blues and greens.'
6. Clever pantry storage
The Home Edit, Marie Kondo, speed cleaning videos: Our love of storage is going strong into 2023. Pantries are on everyone's kitchen wish list and are fast becoming must-haves in a kitchen redesign. And you know what, you actually don't need acres of space to add one to your kitchen. Pantry cupboards, hidden organizers and other clever pantry storage ideas are proof.
7. Slab backsplashes
Want to add something special to your kitchen design? A slab backsplash (or splashback) is a massive kitchen trend for 2023 and can make a real statement in any sized space.
'Slab splashbacks are a great trend to give instant wow factor,' explains Harvey Jones' creative director Melissa Klink. 'Because the application isn't being used as the main worktop, this opens up a variety of other options like specialized marble and porous stone.'
8. Freestanding wooden cabinetry
Freestanding kitchens have long been associated with more traditional kitchens but for 2023, they are having a contemporary glow up. Many kitchens nowadays have multiple uses, whether that's a workspace, living space, or entertaining hub. To work for all of these situations, a neutral (but cozy) backdrop is best.
9. Vintage finds
We're loving the eclectic mix in this kitchen. The combination of natural colors and warm textures create an inviting environment. Mixing vintage pieces and reclaimed industrial furniture into a new kitchen is the perfect way to add character to your space, plus it makes the area more flexible as you can move pieces around.
10. Colored glassware
A little bit retro and a yes a little bit kitsch, but colored glassware is back and looks so gorgeous as a collection in an open cabinet or on shelving. You can pick up new pieces on Anthropologie (opens in new tab), but the best are the vintage bits you'll find on Etsy (opens in new tab) and eBay (opens in new tab). Group them by shade or create a gradient effect for a real stunning display in your kitchen.
11. Hidden hoods
Extractor fans ain't pretty and never have been, but they are essential in most kitchens. For 2023, you can expect to see concealed hoods and downdraft extractors popping up as big trends in kitchen design. Turning your extractor hood into a design feature is on trend too – complementing it with a marble slab or covering it in a classic molding will better blend it into your kitchen.
12. Copper cookware
Again, copper cookware is another Pinterest kitchen trend this year that saw quite an uptick in popularity. This is such an easy trend you can bring into your current space too. Simply get yourself a kitchen rail (opens in new tab) and hang up your collection of copper pots to create a gorgeous feature.
13. Multi-faceted kitchen islands
Redesigning your kitchen in 2023? Why not scrap the cabinets and just go for a massive kitchen island. This can work wonderfully in an open plan kitchen or if you are tight on space. Islands are often big enough to fit most appliances with room for additional storage and create an open, social space. You can always bring in a separate hutch or rack if you need extra space.
14. Marble kitchens
Ah marble kitchens, so luxurious, so sophisticated, and actually so achievable if you use faux marble materials rather than the real thing. Or just choose a portion of your kitchen to add marble, like the top of an island, a backsplash, or a section of your worktop.
15. Muted color schemes
Forget gray, 2023 is all about muted colors – like sage greens, plaster pinks, and pale terracottas. These kinds of dusty hues are everywhere at the moment and we love how they look in this slightly retro kitchen. Copy this kitchen trend by painting your cabinets two different colors, (you could even add another shade for the kickback). To keep the end result subtle, choose colors that have similar tones.
16. Warm marble
Not only are marble kitchens trending, but a particular tone of marble is seeing a big rise in popularity. The cooler more contemporary tones of white marble are being replaced with their warmer-toned counterparts. These cozier shades look great with wicker, copper, and wood finishes.
You can marry two wood tones together too. Try blonde wood with a darker shade for depth and paint your walls in a creamy hue to bring the scheme together.
17. Fresh Scandi whites
Although it might be dull for some, others will find that sleek white cabinets with matching countertops are a minimalist dream! There’s nothing cleaner on the eye than a handleless or flat slab design and when teamed with a clear glass backsplash and blonde wood flooring, it ticks all the Scandi style boxes.
18. Pretty plaster pinks
‘The warm shade of pink works flawlessly in a kitchen setting, presenting a subtle addition that evokes a sense of calmness and serenity, while also adding style and personality,’ says Ben Burbidge, managing director of Kitchen Makers (opens in new tab).
An all-encompassing look is not for everyone, but if you love it, the result will be a warm and welcoming space.
19. Golden hardware
On a budget? Give your kitchen a new lease of life without breaking the bank through a hardware update.
‘For those looking to transform their kitchen in a more eco-conscious way, look to small updates, which can have a huge impact while making the space feel brand new,' says Lucy Pascall, director of Pushka Home. 'Select handles in a contrasting finish or knurled design to give a new lease of life to your cabinetry without the need for a full renovation.'
20. Curved corners and a touch of luxe
Black may seem too dark for a kitchen, but soften it with curved corners and it will take on a new appeal. You can infuse this shapely trend into your kitchen through accessories too – luxe bar stools with fringe and pendant lights with globe elements add a sense of glamour and hint of the 1920s too.
21. Scarlet red
Bright red for a kitchen may sound intimidating, but scarlet is not that kind of color. It is more of a warming shade that’s easy on the eye and plays well with other colors. Scarlet has softer undertones and looks great with Shaker-inspired cabinetry. Use the red as much or as little as you like, but be brave as the results will be stunning.
22. Earthy and organic textures
Organic textures will always give us a sense of peace and they work in both contemporary and traditional kitchens.
‘Bringing a touch of the outside in through raw materials and nature-inspired designs promises to instantly uplift a kitchen and connect us to our surroundings,' explains Mor Krisher, head of design at Caesarstone. 'Choosing a worktop that incorporates these earthy tones and textures will instantly create a cozy environment that links you with the natural world.’
23. Pale floor-to-ceiling tiles
This is a trend we’re starting to see more often, and it works on several levels. For example, it will lighten a dark kitchen instantly while making it feel more spacious.
‘Pale porcelain slab tiles are extremely versatile and can be used as splashbacks, countertops and even kitchen cabinetry,' says Jo Oliver, director of The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse. 'Using the same tiles throughout the kitchen will enhance the feeling of space by creating a modern continuous look.’
24. Prep kitchens
Unfamiliar with the concept of a prep kitchen? Well, if you adore entertaining and do it rather often, you’ll love this idea:
‘We are seeing an uptick in adding prep kitchens, back kitchens or sculleries to homes we are designing,' says Brad Ramsey, principal designer and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors. 'Since the main kitchen is typically created to flow seamlessly with the main house decor, the addition of a prep kitchen gives a space where you can add a little extra character or style while also being able to close it off when needed.'
Brad notes that the aim of this prep kitchen was to create that cozy 'farmhouse feel' without infringing on workspace: 'So, we went with classic white subway tiles, two-tone cabinets, and wood accents. The space is complete with a sliding barn door that allows it to be closed off and hidden when the need arises.'
25. Plain and simple
For lovers of pared back style, this natural wood trend is for you. It works well with the ‘modern warehouse’ look that’s fast replacing the now classic industrial style. Mix this look with contemporary hardware to give it a modern edge.
Dave Young, founder of Husk (opens in new tab) kitchens says: “Wood is a timeless way to bring nature into the home and we’ve updated the classic Oak look with this on-trend V groove finish. The grain of the Oak pairs well with Plank’s (opens in new tab) antique brass hardware and together they provide subtle texture to this contemporary kitchen.
26. Double kitchen islands
‘Double islands are still on the rise,' notes Lindye Galloway, founder and chief creative officer of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop. 'It’s helpful to have separate spaces for food preparation and entertaining without forcing guests to be in a distant room. The second island provides a lovely area for guests to gather around and graze from appetizers or have drinks without being tied to the dining table.'
This doesn’t mean you suddenly need to opt for two full-sized islands – two half ones will do the trick in the same way. They work particularly well in an open plan space. If you’re clever, you can use one as a table as Lindye has done here.
What kitchen colors are in for 2023?
'We’re seeing a resurgence in the popularity of raw plaster, and with that has come a demand for a finish that mimics the appearance of fresh plaster,' says Ben Burbidge, managing director of Kitchen Makers. 'Plaster is the perfect shade of pink, one that transports me back to past holidays in the Mediterranean. In the kitchen, our new plaster color can be paired with white for a softer look, or contrasted with darker colors for a more striking appearance.'
More colors that will begin appearing come 2023? ‘Dark green, earthy tones, deeper neutrals such as mushroom shades,' advises Rebecca Nokes, head of design & brand creative at John Lewis of Hungerford. 'Blue is really out! And lots of Scandi-inspired designs so lots of white and then accented with wooden elements such as dining tables or pieces of freestanding furniture.'
Other deeper, warmer tones are gaining traction too. ‘English Red is a rich pigmented tone that reminds me of the floor tiles from my father’s cottage from the 1900s – a beautiful powerful color that we wanted to bring back to life,’ says Ben.
What color makes a small kitchen look bigger?
‘You want to go light and go "cool" light that reflects the light so a soft cool gray works really well, uplighting your ceilings can make the space feel larger and the use of a stylish mirror will also help increase the feeling of space,' says Rebecca Nokes, head of design & brand creative at John Lewis of Hungerford.
