Designing a Kitchen That's Timeless and Trendless

When it comes to thinking about redesigning your kitchen, it’s easy to fall in love with the latest and greatest trends. Especially in an era of Pinterest and social media swipe, there’s no lack of beautiful inspiration to get you excited about a waterfall countertop or stunning statement marble.

While we love a good trend forecast, we also love thinking about a kitchen remodel as something that stands the test of time: an investment that’s, dare we say, trendless. We don’t mean boring—in fact, we mean anything but. When we talk about a trendless, or timeless kitchen, we mean a space that’s designed with a true understanding of your needs and personal style, and doesn’t get caught up with of-the-moment “shoulds.”

Before any project begins, like a kitchen overhaul or update, it’s important to have an understanding of how long you’re going to be in your current home. If it’s for only a few years, easy resale value may be a priority. If it’s your forever home, allow yourself to consider what would truly spark joy. But regardless of your situation, knowing your needs is the first step. How will you move around the space? Will an open floor plan be more conducive to quick-breakfast-mornings with the kids or is it important to have a more closed off kitchen area, away from communal spaces?

When considering different design elements, it's also important to think about what you need your kitchen to accomplish, beyond its utilitarian purpose. Does it need to be a calming, respite? Or is it a space that needs to inspire energy (especially as you prepare your first cup of coffee)? These considerations, that go deeper than the visuals you’re drawn to, will help you dial in color, texture, and layout in a way that transcends trends.

Once you have a clear picture of your needs, start thinking about foundational elements of your kitchen onto which you can layer more trendy, dramatic finishes. Color is a great place to start, not only with your walls but also with your cabinets.

“Going with white or an off-white as the main color is definitely trend-proof and timeless,” says Marsh K&B designer Meredith Allen. “It’s a color that is easily accented. And the accents can change over time without having to re-do everything.”

If you want something other than white, choosing cabinets in a bolder color can still feel timeless. Start by looking at hues that may have started off as a trend, but have demonstrated real staying power. Take soft greens for example. While Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog may have been the color of the year in 2022, it quickly became an instant classic.

Once cabinet color and kitchen layout have been decided, it’s time to layer on accents and elements that can feel more trend-forward. Wall color, cabinet hardware, and artwork is an easy, low-risk way to try out different colors and textures.

“You can always change your runners, towels, and cookie jars to refresh your space with different colors,” says Marsh K&B designer Morgan Smith.

At the end of the day, the difference between a trendy and timeless kitchen is the thought and focus placed on what you truly love and need. With that as your north star, the kitchen you create will last the test of time. At Marsh K&B, we’ve seen trends come and go, but what’s remained consistent is our commitment to service and quality. Stop by one of our four showrooms and see how we can take your vision from dream to Beautifully Done.