Kitchen Cabinet Trends 2025-2026: What California Luxury Homeowners Are Choosing

1. Warm Neutrals Are Dominating

The stark white kitchen is evolving into something warmer, more inviting. Think creamy whites, soft beiges, and warm grays with brown undertones. These aren't your builder-grade beige cabinets from the 90s—these are sophisticated, carefully calibrated neutrals that create a sense of warmth without feeling dated.

2. Deep, Sophisticated Greens

Forest green, sage, and deep olive are everywhere—and they're stunning. These colors bring the California landscape inside, creating kitchens that feel grounded and connected to nature. We're seeing this especially in:

• • Coastal homes: Sage and soft green reminiscent of coastal vegetation
• • Wine country estates: Deep forest green and olive that echo vineyard landscapes
• • Mountain retreats: Rich evergreen tones that bring the outdoors in

3. Navy and Deep Blue Are Here to Stay

Navy kitchen islands have graduated from trend to classic. We're seeing navy used as an accent (island only) or in two-tone kitchens, paired with warm whites or natural wood tones. It's sophisticated, timeless, and photographs beautifully—which matters to homeowners whether they admit it or not.

Particularly popular in: San Francisco, Palo Alto, and Los Angeles projects where homeowners want something distinctive but not trendy.

4. Two-Tone Kitchens Are Evolving

Two-tone kitchens aren't new, but how they're being executed is changing. Instead of the stark contrast of white uppers with dark lowers, we're seeing more nuanced approaches:

• • Tonal variations: Light gray perimeter with charcoal island
• • Wood and paint: Natural walnut on lowers, painted uppers
• • Adjacent colors: Sage perimeter with forest green island
• • Material mixing: Painted cabinets with natural wood open shelving

5. Black Cabinets (When Done Right)

All-black kitchens are rare, but black accents are increasingly common. Black lower cabinets with light uppers, black islands, or black pantry doors create dramatic focal points. The key is balance—black needs to be anchored with plenty of natural light, light countertops, and thoughtful lighting design.

We've completed three all-black kitchens in the last year—all in homes with massive windows and exceptional natural light. Without that, black can make a kitchen feel cave-like.

Mixed Metals Are Fully Accepted

Gone are the days when everything had to match. It's now perfectly acceptable (even preferred) to mix brass hardware with stainless appliances, or bronze pulls with chrome faucets. The key is intentionality—it should look curated, not confused.

Unlacquered Brass Is Everywhere

This "living finish" that patinas over time has become the go-to for luxury kitchens. Yes, it changes color. That's the point. It adds character and warmth that shiny chrome never could.

Larger, More Substantial Hardware

Tiny knobs and dainty pulls are out. Substantial hardware that feels good in your hand is in. We're talking 6-12 inch pulls on drawers, oversized knobs, and hardware that makes a statement.

Integrated Handles & Touch-to-Open

For ultra-modern kitchens, integrated handles (routed into the door) or touch-to-open mechanisms create completely clean lines. This works best in slab-door kitchens with a minimalist aesthetic.