No trend can remain popular forever. Regarding interior design, this is especially true in kitchens. If you've designed your kitchen based on popular trends—or are looking for inspiration for fresh changes—here are some trends gradually going out of style:
Tile countertops have been a popular trend for a long time. However, one major disadvantage is they require constant maintenance because of grout stains and chip damage. If you have tile countertops, consider replacing them with a more updated and easy-to-maintain material such as concrete or butcher block.
Metallic finishes are great in moderation. However, shiny brass accents can make a kitchen seem dated. Search for cabinet hardware like knobs, handles and drawer pulls. If you want to replace them while still keeping a metallic finish, go for brushed nickel or stainless steel.
A common way to save space in smaller kitchens is to install a microwave directly over the range. While convenient, this can come with some disadvantages, including dating the whole aesthetic of your kitchen. Instead, place your microwave in a custom-build alcove over the counter.
Speckled granite countertops have been a mainstay of kitchen design for decades. Granite is still a great choice for countertop materials as it's strong and easy to maintain. But speckled, high-contrast varieties in particular are losing their trend appeal. Try swapping them for a more subtle granite color or for something new like quartz, concrete or butcher block.
Another space-saving trend on its way out is the hanging pot rack. With so many new and innovative storage options, you can forego the hanging rack approach and tuck away your pots and pans. Cabinet rollouts or Lazy Susans are perfect for maximizing cabinet space and work especially well for storing your cookware.
Even if you are working from home more these days, it might be best to get rid of your kitchen desk. Kitchen desks and miniature workspaces are falling out of style in favor of more efficient use of space like pantries or dedicated food prep counters.
If you need ideas for ways to update your kitchen and give it a long-lasting style, these are great places to focus on. With the right balance of trendy and timeless, you can keep your kitchen stylish for decades.
Lana Harris is a Chicago native who is a second-generation real estate professional. She was introduced to real estate at a very young age while attending open houses with her mother who is a broker. She honed her skills assisting in property searches (back in the thick, Multiple Listing Service book days,) and using map reading skills to help plan property tour sequencing. Lana’s love of working with people and delivering strong customer service led her to the retail sector, where she developed her management skills at MC Sports, Ann Taylor, and Adidas. She and her husband moved to Utah in 2008 to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, and she began her real estate career here in 2015. Most recently, she was a VP of sales for a large team; she thrives on challenges and is determined to overcome obstacles to achieve results for her clients. Lana and her husband enjoy their three large dogs, skiing, camping and paddleboarding.
