5 Kitchen Trends for 2026, According to Interior Designer Alinda Morris
Interior design is about more than what looks good today — it’s about creating spaces that feel intentional, livable, and lasting. We sat down with interior designer Alinda Morris, known for her thoughtful, layered approach to interiors, to talk specifically about what’s ahead for kitchens. From materials to finishes, Alinda shared the five kitchen trends she sees shaping design in 2026 — all rooted in warmth, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal.
Here’s what homeowners and designers should be paying attention to.
1. Color and Finish: Warm, Earthy Tones Take Center Stage
Warm grays, taupe and whites; think Pantone Color of the Year 2026 (PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer), a soft airy off-white with a balance of both warm beige/yellow and cool gray undertones making it versatile with warmer, more grounding palettes. In 2026 kitchens, Alinda sees a strong shift toward rich wood tones and earthy neutrals.
Expect to see:
Deep wood finishes like walnut and espresso
Warm hues such as caramel, cream, and sun-bleached terracotta
Softer, more natural finishes that feel inviting rather than overly polished
These tones create kitchens that feel cozy, grounded, and connected to nature — spaces that invite people to gather and linger.
2. Organic Shapes in Cabinets, Built-Ins, and Islands
Hard lines are softening across kitchen design. According to Alinda, organic shapes and curved details are becoming a defining feature.
This shows up through:
Arches and rounded cabinet details
Curved kitchen islands
Softer silhouettes in built-ins and millwork
These elements bring a sense of movement and warmth to kitchens, balancing structure with approachability and helping spaces feel more relaxed and human.
3. Traditional Details Make a Thoughtful Return
There’s a renewed appreciation for classic craftsmanship. Alinda notes a resurgence of traditional design elements, reinterpreted for modern living.
Key details include:
Inset cabinetry
Furniture-style legs on islands
Detailed hardware such as cup pulls and ornate knobs
Corbels, glass cabinet inserts, and layered molding and trim
Rather than feeling old-fashioned, these details emphasize symmetry, texture, and warmth, grounding kitchens in a sense of history while still feeling current.
4. Contrasting Cabinet Finishes
Monochromatic kitchens are being replaced with more intentional contrast. One combination Alinda loves is black painted cabinetry paired with lighter wood elements.
Popular pairings include:
Black cabinets with white rift oak shelving
Wood islands combined with darker perimeter cabinetry
Coordinating wood trim to tie contrasting finishes together
This layered approach adds depth and visual interest, making kitchens feel curated rather than flat.
5. Custom Kitchen Hoods with an Artisanal Feel
Custom hoods are no longer just functional — they’re becoming a focal point. Alinda highlights a move toward handcrafted, artisanal hood designs that celebrate honest materials.
These designs often feature:
Plaster, stone, or metal finishes
Subtle imperfections that reflect handwork
A soulful, less overly polished aesthetic
The result is a kitchen that feels personal, grounded, and thoughtfully designed — not mass-produced.
Designing Kitchens with Longevity in Mind
Across all five trends, a clear theme emerges: warmth, craftsmanship, and intention. Rather than chasing fleeting styles, 2026 kitchen design is about creating spaces that support daily life while aging beautifully over time.
Alinda Morris brings a client-centered approach to interior design, helping homeowners make thoughtful choices that balance beauty and function. To see more of her work or learn about her design services, visit alindamorrisinteriordesign.com or @alindamorrisinteriordesign on instagram.
Walnut Kitchen Photo by Kara Mercer Photography Interior Design by Alinda Morris Interior Design