Whether it's a classic or modern kitchen, it's easy to waste time and end up with a space that's past its peak without proper consideration and attention to the interior.
The important thing to learn from the outdated kitchen cabinet trends we've observed is to avoid purely temporary “trends” altogether. But what if it's a not-so-obvious or very common design feature that makes your kitchen cabinets look tired? As a result, it ends up having a negative decorative impact on the entire space. Is not it?
Of course, whether your kitchen reflects your style is a determining factor in whether it remains a fresh and inspiring place. Start here and re-evaluate your cooking space often.
What can instantly determine the age of your kitchen cabinets?
Experts recommend doing this every 10 years. “After 10 years, we often see clients whose personal style and tastes have changed and they want to go in a different direction,” says Amy Youngblood, founder of Amy Youngblood Interiors.
“For example, as we get older, we have several clients who want a more modern, clean look.” Note that you still run the risk of looking outdated.
Amy Youngblood works with you to create beautiful interiors that embrace your personal tastes and lifestyle. Amy and her design team strive to exceed the expectations of our customers when they use our services to improve and enhance their commercial and residential spaces. Their customers shape them. Incorporating them into your life creates beautifully transformed spaces using high-end technical design tools, proven creative processes, and project management. But most importantly, good vision, communication and service.
Amy Youngblood Interiors has extensive experience in the Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio markets, as well as northern Kentucky. They have completed both residential and commercial design projects in Chicago, Illinois, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
1. Cabinet is too short
(Image credit: Future)
Especially in a small kitchen space, clever use of wall space can create the illusion of more height and space. Youngblood explains that lowering cabinet heights too low can make your kitchen look outdated:
“The first thing that might be causing your cabinets to look outdated is that they aren't tall enough to reach the ceiling. Short cabinets will look outdated and make the ceiling feel lower.”
To avoid this, take advantage of the length of your walls and choose the sleekest, tallest cabinets possible. They add elegance and give you the opportunity to style your cookware for a more curated display that is period-appropriate.
2.Gap in the soffit
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
Also known as a dust collector.
“Obviously, the gap between the top of the cabinet and the ceiling is just a dust collector,” Youngblood continues. Especially the “soffit gap” does not add any benefit to the style of the kitchen.
Leah Huisken, interior designer at Forge & Bow, explains: “Soffit gaps were once a common feature in many kitchens, but homeowners have discovered that they are a place to collect dust and decorative items.
“Sending cabinets all the way to the ceiling creates a sense of height and continuity, eliminates awkward gaps, and provides a seamless visual appeal.” A stylish way to fill awkward soffit gaps creates a sense of space. This includes adding trim of the same or contrasting color to create visual interest and continuity where needed.
Another solution is to add a higher top. Depending on the kitchen design you're working with, there are ways to make your space more modern and functional. Note that this doesn't mean adding any decorations… “Gone are the days of adding decorations to the tops of cabinets!” Youngblood exclaims.
Leah completed her degree in Interior Design with a specialization in Kitchen Design in 2021 from an NKBA accredited school. With a foundation in designing and selling custom cabinetry, she has honed her skills in intricate kitchen and bathroom design. Her career has evolved into a passion for custom home design, driven by the belief that living in spaces that reflect her soul brings deep fulfillment.
3. Color doesn't last long
(Image credit: Future/Jan Baldwin)
Color and finish are very influential, especially in kitchen spaces where the cabinets are the main line of sight for family and guests. “The choice of colors and finishes you use is important to avoid looking dated in the future,” says Elizabeth Sherwin, her creative director at Naked Kitchens. “Textured and rustic finishes will continue to be popular, alongside ‘new neutrals’ and nature-inspired color palettes, as homeowners crave a calming haven.”
White, neutrals, and colors close to nature all work well in a timeless kitchen. “Choosing white and neutral color schemes creates an open, airy feel that is livable and will stand the test of time,” continues Sherwin. “But be careful when choosing shades. Pure white can look drab and clinical, so consider the shades and materials used elsewhere in the room to soften the look. .”
Of course, pops of color are allowed, but Heusken warns that some colors and shades in kitchen cabinets should be avoided for longevity. “Warm tones are being embraced, but too much orange or gold stains can quickly look dated. Choose warm, muted colors that complement your kitchen's overall palette. .”
Lovers of white kitchens should be careful to incorporate warm elements for a more inviting finish. “Neutral colors are timeless, but avoid overly cool and bleak hues. Choose warm neutrals to create a calm and inviting kitchen atmosphere.”
Elizabeth Sherwin is the creative director of Naked Kitchens, based in Norfolk, England, specializing in bespoke kitchens designed to stand the test of time.
4. Shabby texture
(Image credit: Future / Richard Powers)
The lived-in look and highlighted finishes are truly finished, says a dusty Huisken. “This look was popular on cabinets for a season, but it can easily smudge and look dated. When it comes to cabinet finishes, stick to a more customized approach.”
For truly modern and timeless appeal, consider glossy or fluted glass.
Huisken points out how refinishing or resurfacing cabinets can give them new life. “This is a budget-friendly option that allows for either new paint or new door or drawer fronts without requiring a completely new design.”
Anything with dents or damage doesn't look good. For a long-lasting modern look, refresh it at all costs.
5. Old door styles and hardware
(Image credit: Future / Brent Darby)
Replacing your kitchen cabinet door fronts and hardware is an easy way to refresh your kitchen cabinets without painting, but you need to make sure you're replacing them with the correct style. Avoid overly decorative details and choose something more streamlined and clean.
“Another thing that can tell the age of a cabinet is the style and hardware of the doors. The detailed style and hardware of the doors is also outdated. I always tell my clients that if they don't want to modernize, at least “I recommend keeping the door style and hardware somewhat simple,” Youngblood recommends. This can also make your kitchen cabinets look more expensive.
“When it comes to the cabinets themselves, highly decorative or glazed door styles are very out.”
FAQ
What are the oldest examples of kitchens?
Youngblood shares the look of a particularly dated kitchen. “The combination of reddish wood and brightly colored granite countertops, especially black granite tops, is the most dated look you'll see in a kitchen.” Avoid this at all costs.
“Outdated and discolored hardware, synthetic wood veneers, and small defects such as scratches, dents, and chips are all things that can be considered “outdated.'' ”
How can I quickly update my kitchen cabinets?
Organize your kitchen cabinets according to flow and look for small edits that can make a big difference.
Painting is a classic way to add charm to your kitchen cabinets without having to completely remodel your kitchen. Huisken recommends some smarter ways to modernize your space. “You can easily change the cabinet hardware and add a new metal finish to change the overall look.” Provided the design is contemporary. Focusing on surrounding finishes can also have a positive impact on cabinetry, and “simply updating surrounding finishes like countertops and backsplashes can brighten up existing areas that previously felt outdated and dark. can breathe new life into your wooden cabinets.”
For those with a little more design energy and flexibility, Youngblood says larger edits work well. “If on a budget, many clients can use the same footprint as their existing kitchen and simply replace the cabinetry with minor modifications.” A more functional workflow that doesn't impact moving plumbing or electrical. details etc. Also, if your ceiling height is more standard, 8 to 9 feet, we recommend installing the upper cabinets all the way to the ceiling, even if you want decorative moldings.
“If you can't afford new cabinets, we recommend painting them a classic neutral to match your existing countertops and replacing the hardware.”
What are the kitchen cabinet style trends for 2024?
Hausken believes that European-style cabinetry will be particularly trendy next year. “Frameless cabinets maximize space and eliminate exposure between doors and drawer fronts.”
In addition to pops of bright colors that express individuality, we will also see an increase in neutral, earthy tones. “Think a butler’s pantry or a coffee nook – a saturation moment!”
There has been some discussion about the hardware, but watch this space for 2024, which could see a mix of finishes. “Next year, you'll see designers break away from uniformity by incorporating mixed hardware finishes on cabinets, which add a touch of eclecticism.” It's not just the hardware, Sherwin says. Masu. “In 2024, we expect more people to continue experimenting with material and finish combinations.” A beautiful combination is to combine natural materials such as wood or walnut with painted finishes on cabinet fronts. The contrast adds interest and creates a truly eye-catching look. ”
We put craftsmanship at the center of our kitchen design plans and hide as much clutter as possible so that an invisible kitchen aesthetic remains in our space, Huisken continues. “Accessibility and convenience will continue to be a priority, so we will see more creative solutions for hiding appliances inside cabinets to maintain an organized space.”
Plus, we're always going to say yes to upper cabinets. “Upper cabinets will be back in 2024. The lack of functional storage, especially tableware, quickly put an end to the “no upper cabinets” trend. The difference is that there are full-height, counter-to-ceiling cabinets in key locations, maximizing storage space, counter space, and open walls for shelves and windows. ”
“Everyone is focused on quality,” Sherwin says. “Stylish kitchen design is all about beauty and sustainability.'' Carefully chosen hardware, long-lasting colors, and a style that doesn't clutter in any way make it easy to update your kitchen cabinets with the latest can be kept in condition.
