Because timeless design doesn't have to be boring!
Cabinetry is the unifying design thread in every kitchen. We get it if you want to play it safe with all-white, Shaker-style cabinets, but there is some room for innovation. Whether you are undergoing a kitchen renovation or just looking for an easy-to-accomplish DIY project, we've gathered up some inspiration that will have your friends oohing and aahing at your next dinner party. And, while white farmhouse kitchens will never go out of style, we think these ideas will freshen up your cooking space *and* feel right at home next to your collection of ironstone!
Feeling inspired to take your kitchen reno plans to the next level? Try updating your kitchen lighting for a low-lift project with big impact. You can also check out the other kitchen trends we're loving this year to make sure your space is up to snuff.
1
Traditional Aesthetic
What was old is new again, and classic details are having a moment in 2023. Earlier this year, Pinterest identified the "Hipstoric Home" aesthetic as one of the hottest search terms of the year. "These searches are helping people combine vintage—often inherited—pieces with their modern styles," they said. Of course, we have always been fans of integrating antiques into design, so bringing that to the kitchen feels like a no-brainer. Built-in step-back cabinetry, shown here, has especially been a favorite look all over social media as of late. Not only does it feel more like furniture than regular cabinetry, but it also provides a fun space to show off your collection of antique ironstone!
2
Repurposed Cabinetry
You've undoubtedly seen repurposed kitchen islands, but what about whole cabinets made from salvaged materials? Take a page from this Virginia homeowner's style playbook and integrate more time-worn pieces into your next kitchen project. We love that this look is perfectly patinaed and eco-friendly.
3
Furniture-Inspired Details
We're dubbing 2023 the year of "The Return to Pretty." In tandem with a revitalization of the more traditional aesthetic, fanciful details have returned to the kitchen. If you're undergoing a kitchen renovation, talk with your cabinet maker about adding in things like pedestal foot brackets and built-in plate racks, like Country Living's own design director did in her recent kitchen renovation, to get the look.
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4
Green Cabinets
Dusty shades of green are everywhere right now. In fact, the National Kitchen and Bath Association said that they’re seeing more people searching for ways to integrate warm, earthy tones into their kitchens for a more organic feel. (These are painted Russian Olive by Behr!)
RELATED: Our Favorite Green Kitchen Cabinet Ideas to Update the Heart of Your Home
5
Ribbed Glass Fronts
Love the look of glass-front cabinets but hate the organizational hurdle of making them both usable and pretty? Then, look no further than our favorite cabinet hack of 2023: ribbed (or rippled) glass fronts! Not only does this type of glass add architectural interest, it also means your cabinets don't *always* have to be perfectly styled.
6
Skirted Lower Cabinetry
Want to give your cabinets a quick, budget-friendly refresh? Try skirting them! Not only does this save money (because a few yards of fabric are a whole heck-of-a-lot cheaper than all-new cabinets) but it's totally on trend with the soft, more romantic style we're seeing everywhere these days. Just be sure to pick a skirt made from performance fabric if you're installing near a cook space!
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7
Unlacquered Brass Hardware
Brass hardware is the perfect finishing touch to your cabinets, and you'd be hard-pressed to find a kitchen it doesn't work in. Want to take the look to the next level? Try going for unlacquered brass pieces that will patina naturally with age to get a totally custom look.
8
Decorative Cutouts
Looking for a way to make your standard kitchen cabinets feel a little more special? We love the decorative cutout trend and think you will too. Bringing this small detail to life makes for an easy DIY project — all you need is a drill and a sander — but larger, more detailed projects should be done by a professional cabinet maker.
9
Aesthetic Accessories
Open shelving is here to stay, and people are finding ways to reinvent the look and feel of them. One top trend on our radar: treating kitchen shelves just like the ones in your living room. Old oil paintings and ceramic jugs feel at home next to your collection of mason jars and flea market finery. This year, we're all about integrating some of our more aesthetic pieces into the space where we spend most of our time!
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10
Cabinet-less Kitchen Rail
If you love the no-cabinet look but wish your walls were a bit more hardworking, allow us to introduce you to the Brits’ favorite design detail: the kitchen rail! These small-but-mighty rods are great if you want an airier kitchen but still need the functionality of easily accessible pots, pans, gadgets, or gizmos.
Anna Logan
Senior Homes & Style Editor
Anna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she covers design and decorating trends, home features, and gift guides. She also produces home features and styles content for the print magazine. When she isn’t working, can often be found digging around antique shops for the perfect find. Follow her adventures on Instagram!
