Kitchen design is changing fast in 2025. Based on the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s latest research, 76% of designers say green will dominate kitchens this year, while all-white and all-gray kitchens are officially out. Homeowners are choosing personality over perfection, with warm wood tones, rounded cabinets, and breakfast nooks making a major comeback.
This guide covers the current kitchen trends backed by real data from NKBA’s 2025 Kitchen Trends Report and Houzz’s study of 1,620 homeowners. You will see that Kitchen Trends 2025 prioritize authentic materials, hidden function, and architectural depth, moving decisively away from sterile, all-white designs. After completing 200+ kitchen projects in San Diego, we’ve seen these trends work beautifully in our coastal climate.
Table of Contents
1. Rounded and Curved Cabinets
Rounded cabinets are the biggest kitchen trend of 2025. Soft, curved corners on islands and lower cabinets create a welcoming feel that works with any style.
Why It Works: Sharp corners feel harsh. Rounded edges soften the space and improve flow. In San Diego’s open-concept homes, curved cabinets help define the kitchen without blocking sightlines.
Style Versatility: This trend fits modern, traditional, and transitional kitchens. Pair glossy rounded cabinets with natural wood for a contemporary look. Or choose painted rounds with marble counters for classic elegance.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Custom rounded lower cabinets: $18,000-$28,000
- Rounded island only: $8,500-$14,000
- Semi-custom with curved corners: $12,000-$19,000
Expert Tip: Rounded cabinets actually don’t lose storage space. Most dishes and bowls are round, so curves follow the natural shape of what you store.
2. Breakfast Nooks and Integrated Dining
According to Houzz data, breakfast nooks appeared in 8% more kitchen listings in 2025. Families want gathered spaces where everyone can sit together.
The Appeal: Built-in banquette seating with storage underneath maximizes space. These cozy nooks became essential during work-from-home years and stayed popular.
San Diego Advantage: Our mild weather makes breakfast nooks perfect near patio doors. You get indoor comfort with outdoor views year-round.
Design Options:
- L-shaped banquettes with round tables
- Window-side benches with custom cushions
- Corner nooks with storage drawers below
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Custom built-in banquette: $4,500-$8,200
- Nook with storage drawers: $6,000-$10,500
- Complete nook with table: $8,500-$14,000
3. Scullery and Butler's Pantries
The Victorian-era scullery is back. These prep kitchens hide mess while you entertain. Houzz reports an 8% increase in scullery mentions in 2025 kitchen plans.
What Is It? A scullery is a second, smaller kitchen behind your main space. It’s where you prep, store small appliances, and clean up without cluttering your showpiece kitchen.
Perfect For:
- Serious home cooks
- Frequent entertainers
- Multi-generational homes
- Kosher kitchens
Must-Have Features:
- Secondary sink
- Extra counter space
- Appliance storage (coffee makers, mixers)
- Walk-in pantry access
- Closed door to hide mess
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Basic scullery conversion: $15,000-$25,000
- Full scullery addition: $35,000-$65,000
- Butler’s pantry (smaller): $8,000-$18,000
4. Concealed Kitchens
Concealed storage is trending for good reason. Handleless cabinets with push-to-open mechanisms create clean lines while hiding clutter.
What Makes It Work: Integrated appliances blend into cabinetry. Pocket doors hide pantries. Retractable countertops reveal prep spaces only when needed.
Best Applications:
- Panel-ready refrigerators
- Hidden dishwasher drawers
- Appliance garages with lift doors
- Slide-out coffee stations
This trend suits San Diego’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle. When kitchen doors open to patios, a clean aesthetic flows better.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Panel-ready refrigerator install: $4,500-$7,500
- Concealed appliance garage: $2,800-$5,200
- Full handleless cabinet system: Add 15-20% to cabinet cost
5. Classic Tile Shapes and Patterns
Traditional tile patterns are back, but with fresh twists. Subway tiles, herringbone, and hexagons dominate the latest kitchen trends.
Popular Patterns:
- Herringbone wood-look tile floors
- Vertical subway tile backsplashes
- Geometric accent walls
- Zellige handmade tiles
Why They’re Trending: These patterns add texture without overwhelming. They work in both modern and traditional kitchens.
Color Shift: While white subway tiles remain popular, colored versions in sage green, dusty blue, and terracotta are gaining ground.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Herringbone floor tile (materials + install): $18-$32/sq ft
- Zellige tile backsplash: $35-$65/sq ft
- Classic subway tile: $12-$22/sq ft
6. Traditional Style Returns
The NKBA reports 47% of designers see 1950s-inspired minimalism returning. But this isn’t your grandmother’s kitchen. Modern traditional blends vintage charm with current functionality.
Key Elements:
- Shaker cabinets with updated colors
- Farmhouse sinks (apron-front)
- Vintage-inspired hardware
- Plaster range hoods
- Open dish storage
Modern Twists:
- Pair Shaker cabinets with quartz counters
- Add induction cooktops to traditional ranges
- Use farmhouse sinks in navy or green
San Diego Note: Traditional style works beautifully in our Spanish Colonial and Craftsman homes. It respects architectural history while adding modern convenience.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Shaker cabinet system (full kitchen): $22,000-$42,000
- Farmhouse sink: $800-$2,500
- Traditional plaster hood: $3,500-$7,500
7. Backsplash Coverage Expands
Full-height backsplashes are a major kitchen design trend for 2025. Instead of stopping at 18 inches, take your backsplash to the ceiling.
Benefits:
- Easier cleaning (no grease on painted walls)
- Visual impact (creates focal wall)
- Better protection near cooking zones
Material Choices:
- Natural stone slabs
- Large-format porcelain
- Zellige tiles (textured)
- Marble book-matched
According to NKBA, 67% of designers prefer mixed-material backsplashes. Try combining marble with zellige tiles or pairing stone with wood accents.
Trending Kitchen Colors for Backsplashes:
- Forest green
- Deep navy
- Warm terracotta
- Butter yellow (1970s revival)
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Full-height stone backsplash: $4,500-$9,500
- Mixed material design: $5,200-$11,000
- Zellige to ceiling: $6,500-$13,000
8. Natural Stone Designs
Natural stone countertops are having a moment. Marble, quartzite, and granite offer unique veining that quartz can’t replicate.
Why Stone is Winning:
- Each slab is one-of-a-kind
- Heat resistant for San Diego outdoor kitchens
- Improves with age (develops patina)
- Higher resale value
Popular Choices:
- Calacatta marble (dramatic veining)
- Quartzite (durability of granite, look of marble)
- Soapstone (dark, moody)
- Taj Mahal quartzite (soft whites)
Care Reality: Natural stone needs sealing 1-2 times yearly. But honed finishes hide wear better than polished.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Marble countertops (installed): $85-$165/sq ft
- Quartzite countertops: $95-$185/sq ft
- Granite (premium): $70-$130/sq ft
- Waterfall island edge: Add $1,200-$2,400
9. Dark Cabinetry Adds Drama
Dark kitchen cabinets are surging in 2025. Navy, forest green, charcoal, and black create sophisticated, cozy spaces.
Color Trends:
- Navy blue: 63% of designers report demand
- Forest green: Part of nature-inspired palette shift
- Charcoal gray: Warmer than stark gray
- Deep burgundy: For statement islands
Design Balance: Pair dark cabinets with light countertops and good lighting. In San Diego’s sunny climate, dark cabinets won’t make spaces feel cave-like.
Hardware Choice: Brass and aged bronze look stunning against dark colors. Matte black hardware creates a tonal, modern look.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Full kitchen in dark paint: Add $2,500-$4,500 to cabinet cost
- Two-tone kitchen (dark lowers, light uppers): Standard pricing
- Custom dark stain: $28,000-$48,000 (full kitchen)
10. Warm Wood Tones and Colored Stains
Natural wood is back, but with colorful stains. Green-stained oak, blue-washed maple, and honey-toned walnut are replacing cool grays.
The Shift: Homeowners want warmth. According to NKBA, 56% of designers see brown tones trending, part of the 1970s retro revival.
Application Ideas:
- Green-stained upper cabinets with painted lowers
- Natural wood islands with painted perimeter
- Warm wood open shelving
San Diego Benefit: Wood tones complement our Spanish and Mediterranean architecture. They also soften modern designs.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Custom wood cabinets (stained): $32,000-$58,000
- Colorful wood stain upgrade: Add $3,500-$6,500
- Wood open shelving: $800-$2,200 per wall
11. Open Shelving (Done Right)
Open shelves remain popular in updated kitchens, but the approach is changing. Mix open and closed storage for a balanced look.
Best Practices:
- Limit open shelves to 20-30% of storage
- Use for display items you love
- Keep daily dishes in closed cabinets
- Choose thick wood shelves (2-3 inches)
Styles That Work:
- Floating wood shelves in organic modern kitchens
- Metal brackets for industrial looks
- Built-in with decorative corbels for traditional
San Diego Dust Warning: Our dry climate means open shelves need weekly dusting. Use them for items you rotate frequently.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Custom wood floating shelves: $350-$750 per shelf
- Open shelving system (3-4 shelves): $1,800-$3,500
- Built-in with trim details: $2,500-$5,200
12. Reeding and Fluted Details
Vertical grooves (reeding) add texture to flat surfaces. This detail works on cabinet doors, islands, and even range hoods.
Where to Use It:
- Island base (wood reeding)
- Cabinet drawer fronts
- Range hood paneling
- Support posts and columns
Style Flexibility: Reeding fits modern, traditional, and transitional kitchens. Wide grooves feel contemporary. Narrow fluting reads traditional.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Reeded island front: $2,200-$4,500
- Fluted cabinet doors (full kitchen): Add $4,500-$8,500
- Custom reeded hood: $5,500-$9,500
13. Statement Lighting Takes Center Stage
The NKBA reports 84% of designers say lighting has become a standout kitchen feature. Oversized pendants, sculptural sconces, and mixed metals dominate.
Trending Styles:
- Oversized dome pendants (20+ inches)
- Linear chandeliers over islands
- Mixed metal finishes (brass + black)
- Vintage-inspired Edison bulbs
Layered Lighting Plan:
- Task lighting (under-cabinet LED)
- Ambient lighting (recessed cans)
- Accent lighting (pendants, sconces)
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Designer pendant lights (3): $1,800-$4,500
- Under-cabinet LED system: $800-$1,800
- Recessed lighting (full kitchen): $2,200-$4,200
14. Colorful Window Trim
Paint your window frames a bold color for instant personality. This simple update makes a big impact in white or neutral kitchens.
Popular Colors:
- Forest green matching cabinetry
- Navy blue for coastal feel
- Butter yellow for retro vibes
- Sage green for organic modern
Best Application: Works great when window trim matches cabinet color or backsplash tile. Creates visual flow.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- DIY paint project: $50-$150 in materials
- Professional painting: $400-$900
- With trim replacement: $1,200-$2,500
15. Hyperminimalist Designs
Clean, uncluttered kitchens appeal to buyers and daily users. But 2025 minimalism feels warmer than past versions.
Key Features:
- Handleless cabinets (push-to-open)
- Integrated appliances
- Hidden storage solutions
- Neutral color palettes with warmth
- Natural materials (wood, stone)
Not Sterile: Today’s minimalism includes texture through wood grains, stone veining, and tactile finishes. It’s calm but not cold.
Real Cost (San Diego):
- Handleless cabinet system: Add 12-18% to cabinet cost
- Integrated appliance package: $15,000-$32,000
- Complete minimalist remodel: $75,000-$145,000
What's OUT in Kitchen Trends 2025
Before we look at new kitchen trends, here’s what designers are moving away from:
- All-White Kitchens – The sterile white kitchen is fading. Only 12% of homeowners now choose all-white spaces, down from 38% in 2020.
- All-Gray Kitchens – Millennial gray has lost its appeal. Designers report clients want warmer, more inviting colors.
- Ultra-Minimalist Designs – Cold, impersonal kitchens are out. Homeowners want spaces that feel lived-in and welcoming.
- Matching Everything – The days of perfectly matched finishes are over. Mix-and-match is the new rule.
- Stainless Steel Overload – While quality stainless appliances remain popular, the all-stainless look feels dated.
Real Kitchen Remodel Costs in San Diego (2025)
Minor Remodel: $25,000-$45,000
- Cabinet refacing or painting
- New countertops
- Updated backsplash
- Hardware and fixtures
Mid-Range Remodel: $60,000-$95,000 (Median)
- New semi-custom cabinets
- Quartz or granite counters
- New appliances (mid-tier)
- Updated lighting and flooring
High-End Remodel: $120,000-$180,000+
- Custom cabinetry
- Natural stone counters
- Professional appliances
- Structural changes
- Designer fixtures
San Diego Factors:
- Labor costs are 15-20% higher than national average
- Permits: $1,200-$3,500
- Coastal zone restrictions may apply
- HOA approvals can delay timelines
How to Choose the Right Trends
- Consider Longevity: Will you love it in 10 years? Rounded cabinets, natural stone, and warm wood have staying power.
- Match Your Home: Spanish Colonial homes suit warm colors and natural materials. Mid-century moderns look great with retro 1970s elements.
- Budget Wisely: Prioritize what matters most. Splurge on cabinets and counters (you touch them daily). Save on trendy items like colorful window trim (easy to change).
- Climate Matters: In San Diego, choose materials that handle sun exposure and occasional humidity.
- Resale Value: According to Houzz, kitchen remodels return 75-85% of investment in San Diego. Neutral bases with personality accents appeal to most buyers.
Looking for Kitchen Remodelers in San Diego?
After 23 years in business and 200+ completed projects, San Diego Home Remodeling brings these kitchen trends 2025 to life in homes across the county. We understand how San Diego’s climate, architecture, and lifestyle affect kitchen design. From La Jolla’s coastal properties to Rancho Santa Fe estates, we’ve created kitchens that blend current trends with timeless functionality.
Our kitchen remodeling services in San Diego cover every style and budget. Whether you want rounded cabinets, a breakfast nook addition, or a complete remodel with natural stone and custom cabinetry, we handle the entire process. We’re licensed, insured, and hold an A+ BBB rating.
San Diego Home Remodeling provides:
- Free in-home consultations
- Detailed 3D renderings
- Transparent pricing (no hidden fees)
- Licensed contractors and plumbers
- Permit handling and HOA coordination
- 5-year workmanship warranty
Ready to transform your kitchen? Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s discuss which trends work best for your home, budget, and lifestyle. Call (619) 206 7590 or visit our showroom in La Jolla to see materials and finishes in person.
Conclusion
The kitchen trends 2025 reflect a clear shift toward personality, warmth, and functionality. Rounded cabinets, breakfast nooks, and natural stone dominate, while all-white and ultra-minimalist kitchens fade away. According to NKBA data, 76% of designers see green as the top color, with browns and blues close behind.
For San Diego homeowners, these trends offer exciting opportunities. Our climate supports indoor-outdoor kitchens year-round. Our architectural styles pair beautifully with both modern and traditional trends. And our strong real estate market means smart kitchen investments pay off.
Choose trends with longevity. Mix your personal style with practical function. And work with experienced professionals who understand San Diego’s unique requirements. Your kitchen should serve you well for 15-20 years, so invest in quality and timeless appeal with just enough trend to feel current.
FAQs
What are the top three kitchen trends for 2025 according to industry experts?
The top kitchen trends 2025 are: 1) The Integrated/Concealed Kitchen (hiding appliances and clutter), 2) The use of Dark Cabinetry (Deep Greens, Navy, Charcoal), and 3) Full-Slab Backsplashes (extending counter material to the ceiling).
Are all-white kitchens considered “out” in 2025?
Yes, the popularity of the all-white white kitchen is declining. The current kitchen trends are shifting toward warmer, more authentic spaces. White still works well on perimeter cabinets, but it is now complemented by rich wood tones, dark accent colors, and textured materials to avoid a sterile look.
How much should I budget for a kitchen remodel based on 2025 trends?
A mid-range updated kitchen remodel typically costs between $\$40,000$ and $\$75,000$. A high-end project incorporating elements like full-slab backsplashes, premium Quartzite stone, and fully integrated appliances often starts at $\$90,000$ and can exceed $\$150,000$, depending on size and material choice. Labor generally accounts for 30-40% of the total budget.
What is the most popular cabinet color besides white for 2025?
Based on the NKBA and other reports, Forest Green and Navy Blue are the most popular alternative cabinet colors. These shades reflect a move toward nature-inspired palettes and add sophistication, especially when used on the kitchen island or lower cabinets.
What tile pattern is replacing the classic subway tile in 2025 kitchen designs?
While oversized subway tile is still in favor, the vertical stack pattern is gaining significant popularity. This simple, modern arrangement of rectangular tiles creates height and a clean aesthetic, making it one of the top new kitchen trends for tile.
