Kitchen Trends : What’s In, What’s Out 2025

In 2025, kitchens are evolving beyond function — they’ve become the heart of the home and a showcase of personal style.

The latest insights from the Houzz 2025 Kitchen Trends Study reveal a shift toward warmer, more personalized designs, bigger layouts, smarter appliances, and premium finishes.

But knowing what’s trending isn’t enough. In this guide, we’ll break down what’s in, what’s out, and how you can apply these trends to your own kitchen remodel.

Why 2025 Marks a Kitchen Style Reset

One of the most surprising findings from the Houzz 2025 Kitchen Trends Report is the comeback of traditional kitchen style:

1. Traditional kitchens have risen +5% YoY and now make up 14% of all remodels.Transitional kitchens remain the leader at 25%.

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1. Modern and contemporary designs hold steady at 12% and 11%

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1. Farmhouse kitchens continue to decline, dropping to 7%.

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Expert Insight:

“After years of sleek minimalism dominating kitchen design, homeowners are returning to timeless comfort. Traditional kitchens are making a comeback — but this time, we’re seeing modern finishes layered on classic frameworks,”

says Ethan Brooks, senior interior designer.

Pro Tip:

Blend shaker-style cabinets with brushed brass hardware and warm neutrals for a balanced, transitional aesthetic.

Budgets Are Rising — But Spending Smarter

The Houzz report shows that kitchen remodeling costs have reached record highs:

1. The top 10% of spenders invest $180,000+ on luxury remodels.
2. Median spend sits at $60,000, meaning high-end renovators are spending 3x more.
3. For larger kitchens over 250 sq. ft., the top 10% spend $200,000+.

But there’s a growing divide: while affluent homeowners push for premium finishes and smart appliances, mid-range renovators are focusing on high-impact upgrades:

1. Swapping outdated backsplashes for bold statement tiles
2. Upgrading under-cabinet lighting
3. Investing in smarter, energy-efficient appliances

Design Tip:

Before starting, map out your layout digitally using a free floor plan creator to see where to splurge and where to save.

Bigger Kitchens, Smaller Dining Rooms

Space optimization is shaping how kitchens look in 2025.

According to Houzz data:

1. 35% of homeowners are expanding their kitchen footprint.
2. 29% repurpose formal dining rooms.
3. 12% downsize living rooms.
4. 18% build home extensions for larger kitchens.

Expert Insight:

“We’re seeing homeowners prioritize multi-functional kitchens over formal dining spaces,” says designer Sarah Thompson.

“Walk-in pantries, oversized islands, and hidden storage are replacing traditional layouts.”

For designers, this means rethinking flow, lighting, and social interaction inside the kitchen. Tools like a free 3D room planner help you test different layouts before construction begins.

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Backsplashes Go Bold & Bigger

Backsplashes are no longer an afterthought — they’re statement pieces in 2025 kitchen design:

1. 67% of homeowners extend backsplashes all the way up to cabinets or range hoods.
2. 12% stretch them up to the ceiling.
3. Over 75% choose tile for its versatility and durability.

Trending Materials & Styles:

1. Matte subway tiles → clean, minimalist appeal
2. Textured natural stone → rustic yet elegant
3. High-contrast mosaics → a bold personality upgrade

Pro Tip:

For compact kitchens, extend backsplashes vertically to create the illusion of taller ceilings and larger spaces.

Tile Shapes & Patterns Homeowners Love

Based on the Houzz report, rectangular tiles dominate:

1. 68% → classic rectangular subway tiles
2. 4% → hexagon tiles for modern accents
3. 3% → diamond patterns
4. 1% → octagonal styles

Preferred patterns:

1. Horizontal brick layout → 38%
2. Horizontal stack → 15%
3. Herringbone → 7%
4. Vertical stack → 7%
5. Mosaic tiles → 5%

Homeowners are leaning toward clean lines, but subtle accents like hexagonal patterns are gaining traction in luxury projects.

Smart Appliances Lead the Way

According to the Houzz 2025 Kitchen Study, technology is reshaping how we cook and live:

1. 65% of homeowners choose advanced-feature microwaves.
2. 63% upgrade to refrigerators with integrated freezers.
3. 63% adopt smart ovens.
4. 46% pick faucets with specialty features.

Most Popular Appliance Functions:

1. Sensor reheat (43%)
2. Automated cooking modes (30%)
3. Oven-microwave hybrid functionality (21%)
4. Safety control locks across appliances (up to 30%)

Design Insight:

Kitchens are moving toward efficiency-driven layouts, where technology supports healthier, faster, and safer cooking experiences.

What’s In vs. What’s Out (Quick Snapshot)

The 2025 kitchen design landscape reflects a desire for comfort, personality, and functionality.

From traditional styles making a comeback to tech-powered upgrades, homeowners are designing spaces that are as practical as they are beautiful.

Whether you’re planning a remodel or exploring new layouts, start by visualizing your ideas in 2D and 3D using a free floor plan planner.

It helps you test layouts, materials, and color palettes — all before touching a single cabinet.