At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we’ve had the pleasure of helping countless homeowners across Birmingham, AL, breathe new life into their kitchens. One of the most impactful ways to transform a kitchen space is through the cabinetry—and keeping up with current kitchen cabinet trends ensures a fresh, functional, and stylish result. In this post, we’ll explore what’s in style right now, what’s becoming outdated, and what timeless options still reign supreme. We’ll also offer insight into complementary features like backsplashes and flooring. Whether you’re preparing for a full remodel or considering a simple upgrade, this guide will help you make confident design decisions.
What is in style right now for kitchen cabinets?
Current kitchen cabinet trends are leaning toward personality, warmth, and function. In 2025, homeowners are gravitating toward a mix of natural materials, bold accents, and integrated design features. Slab and flat-panel cabinet doors with minimal hardware are gaining popularity for their sleek, contemporary appeal. At the same time, homeowners are embracing warm wood tones like walnut and white oak, which bring natural beauty and a grounded feel to kitchen spaces. Two-tone cabinetry is also thriving—think deep navy or forest green lowers paired with creamy upper cabinets. Matte finishes, integrated lighting, and clever storage solutions like pull-out shelves and hidden drawers are not only in vogue but also enhance everyday usability.
What is outdated in kitchen cabinets?
While trends evolve, some choices are quickly showing their age. Ornate and overly decorative cabinet doors, such as raised-panel styles with heavy trim, are on the decline. Likewise, glossy finishes and traditional cherry wood cabinetry—once staples in high-end kitchens—are now seen as dated. Pure white everything (cabinets, countertops, and walls) is also giving way to more layered, lived-in looks that blend different textures and tones. Thermofoil cabinetry, known for its budget-friendliness but prone to peeling, is losing favor as homeowners prioritize long-term durability. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we guide clients away from these fading trends and toward more timeless, updated designs.
Are wood cabinets coming back in 2025?
Absolutely—wood cabinets are not just making a comeback, they’re becoming one of the defining current kitchen cabinet trends! Natural wood finishes offer warmth, character, and texture that paint alone can’t provide. While previous decades favored heavily stained or reddish finishes, today’s wood cabinetry highlights lighter, more neutral tones like white oak, rift-cut oak, and even natural walnut. These woods work beautifully in modern, transitional, and even traditional kitchens when paired with clean lines and minimal detailing. The key is in the finish—matte or lightly sealed to preserve the natural grain without overwhelming the space. In Birmingham homes, we’re seeing a renewed interest in earth-inspired materials, and wood cabinets fit perfectly into that palette.
What kitchen cabinet never goes out of style?
Shaker-style cabinets continue to be the gold standard for timeless kitchen design. Known for their clean lines, recessed center panels, and simple form, Shaker cabinets effortlessly bridge the gap between classic and contemporary aesthetics. Whether painted in a soft neutral, a bold jewel tone, or finished in natural wood, this style adapts beautifully to a range of kitchen designs. Shaker cabinets have remained popular for over a century because of their versatility—they suit farmhouse, transitional, modern, and traditional kitchens alike. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we often recommend Shaker cabinets to homeowners who want a look that will endure for decades, even as trends come and go.
Should backsplashes be lighter or darker than cabinets?
The relationship between cabinets and backsplashes is all about balance and contrast. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but generally, we advise homeowners to use the backsplash to complement or subtly contrast their cabinetry. For instance, if you have dark cabinets, a lighter backsplash—such as white subway tile, marble, or light ceramic—can add brightness and prevent the space from feeling closed in. Conversely, with light cabinets, a slightly darker backsplash adds dimension and visual interest. A popular modern approach is to use the same material for the backsplash and countertop, creating a seamless and cohesive look. Ultimately, the decision depends on the kitchen’s size, lighting, and the overall mood you want to create.
Should kitchen flooring be lighter or darker than cabinets?
When selecting kitchen flooring, the goal is to achieve harmony with the cabinetry—not necessarily match or contrast exactly. Both lighter and darker flooring can work, depending on the effect you’re after. Lighter floors, such as white oak or light-toned tile, can make the kitchen feel open and airy, especially when paired with darker cabinets. This combination can prevent the room from feeling too heavy or closed-in. On the other hand, darker floors offer rich contrast and grounding in spaces with light or mid-tone cabinets. One key rule we follow at Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is to ensure there’s enough contrast between the cabinets and flooring to avoid a monochromatic or flat look. Layering tones and textures ensures a dynamic, thoughtfully designed kitchen.
Kitchen cabinetry plays a starring role in the heart of your home, and staying informed on current kitchen cabinet trends helps ensure your remodel feels fresh and functional. From the resurgence of warm wood tones to the enduring appeal of Shaker-style doors, today’s trends offer a wealth of options for every taste and budget. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we take pride in helping Birmingham homeowners create kitchens that reflect their unique style while standing the test of time. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel and want expert guidance on cabinetry, design, and layout, we’d love to partner with you to bring your vision to life.
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a full service general construction firm and remodeling contractor operating in the Birmingham metro and Jefferson and Shelby County areas and surrounding communities, including Birmingham, Helena, Chelsea, Mountain Brook, Hoover, Homewood, Montevallo, Alabaster, Vestavia Hills, and Pelham, with over 30 years of servicing our valued clients. Offering full service suite of general remodeling, design and build services. Our specialties include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exterior renovations, interior renovations, painting, and more!
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