Top Kitchen Trends for 2021

As we start our new remodel, we are deep into planning each room. And since the kitchen is probably the most important room, we are putting a lot of focus there. As we plan what the look and feel will be, I thought it would be helpful to take a look at what kitchen trends will be hot in 2021.

Following trends will help you create an updated look, but it’s also very important to make the space your own. Just because something looks cool and is trending, doesn’t necessarily mean you should necessarily go with it for your design.

Although trends normally are things that will come and go. Most of what is trending for 2021 are things that you are going to want to think about incorporating. Many are based on usability due to so many people being home in 2020. The future of this new year definitely includes a kitchen with more function and a place your family can gather.

Large or Multiple Islands

I have always loved a big island in a kitchen and totally understand why this is a going trend for this year. I think most families got to enjoy their homes a little more this past year and of course, where in your house do most family members gather? If you are anything like us, we stay in the kitchen!

From food prepping to card games, and hopefully, some entertainment in 2021, a large island or even multiple islands are very beneficial. Although this requires a bigger kitchen, I even think we may see smaller kitchens opt for a larger or multiple islands over a dining area to save room.

Functional Pantry

I don’t feel like it’s much of a surprise, but another 2021 kitchen trend is making sure to add in a functional pantry. When I say functional, I’m not necessarily meaning big. A functional pantry is one that serves the purpose of housing and storing food items in one place. This basically takes the place of having several cabinets and houses it all in one organized place.

Did you notice I said organized? With a functional pantry, organization is key. Whether big or small, whichever you have room for or fits your needs, your pantry should be all about organized storage. This storage will allow for less upper cabinetry in the kitchen and more room for open shelving that you can style and have fun with.

Plaster Hoods

As we planned our kitchen design for our build in 2020, we knew a plaster range hood was a must-have! That being said, Henry had the hardest time finding information on how to build one for our kitchen. So, what did he do? He figured it out and wrote his own plaster hood tutorial.

We are now seeing more and more plaster hoods being incorporating into new kitchen builds and remodels. Could this be because of Henry’s tutorial? Maybe, but I truly foresee the sleek, textured design of plaster hoods becoming more and more popular in 2021!

Wood Elements

Stained wood elements have been popular in kitchens over the past few years, and it doesn’t look like this trend is going anywhere. Since painted cabinets have replaced stained cabinets in most kitchens, people have been finding ways to add in some warmth.

There are several ways to do this, one of my favorites is a stained wood panty door. It creates an interesting focal point, especially in an all white kitchen.

Another way to bring in the warmth of wood is in the form of stained wood beams. They aren’t just making an appearance in family rooms and hallways. We will start to see many more of them added into kitchen designs for this year. What better way to add warmth and character to a kitchen than wood beams. This especially looks great with white and painted cabinetry.

English Inspired

English inspired kitchens are truly on the rise and a big trend for 2021. Top designers have been on to this look for a while, but it will become more mainstream this year. There is a new show on Magnolia Network that features deVOL Kitchens which will lead to many more people discovering this amazing look. When we were designing our current kitchen we borrowed several ideas from deVOL.

An English kitchen focuses more on functionality rather than show. It’s a kitchen that keeps things simple and more natural. Most English kitchens incorporate pieces that look more like furniture. Colors are those that are found in the English landscape like desaturated greens, grays, and mushroom. Touches of antique brass, reclaimed hardware, and lighter wood tones are all ways to incorporate this look.

Shop This Look