The kitchen is the hardest working room in the house and central to everything we care about… but what if it could be so much more, combining function with forward-thinking flair?
Especially if you're looking to upgrade your kitchen in the new year, redesign the layout or think about a new coat of paint to inspire dinner parties and spruce up your tablescape.
“Whether you want your kitchen to be modern and bold or an inviting, intimate space, there is a style to suit every taste and preference,” says Harriet Goodacre, style consultant and brand communications manager at Topps Tiles.
Here's what's hot as we focus on the latest trends for 2025…
“What do Scandinavia and Japan have in common? Despite miles [and miles] Together, both regions have mastered the art of simplicity,” says Goodacre. “Japan is known for its functionality, while Scandinavia is synonymous with minimalism. Combine them and you create a modern, uncluttered style rooted in nature.”
She says this will have an impact in 2025 as we focus on creating spaces that are modern and uncomplicated in appearance. “Japandi-inspired kitchens feature clean lines, natural materials and colors to create a warm and grounded kitchen space,” notes Goodacre.
“Wood is a standout feature of this design, with dark walnut tones and lighter oak on the cabinets. Combine with ceramic, porcelain and stone to create a calm yet minimalist look inspired by nature.”
The idea is to create a space of calm. The less clutter, the better. “Kitchens with smart storage solutions and cabinets with sliding doors or handleless designs allow you to maintain the simplicity of Japandi without sacrificing the functionality that a good kitchen needs.”
Tiles are also central to this trend. “Something that is simple and doesn’t compete for attention with the rest of the kitchen, but still looks stylish and special.
“Consider a marble or marble-effect tile with a subtle grain to add a touch of luxury, and make sure you use the same tiles on both the walls and floor for a consistent look,” suggests Goodacre.
For example, pair this look with gold faucets or a statement lamp to add an extra touch of luxury to your Japandi-inspired kitchen, she adds.
If minimalism isn't your style, but boldness and expressiveness are, then a kitchen that uses deep, moody colors to stand out could be just the thing for you, suggests Goodacre.
“Our kitchens are often the space we use to entertain and impress our guests, so it's understandable that some people want more than just their cooking skills to cause drama,” points out Goodacre.
“Against this background, we expect more expressive kitchens that reflect the current color trend. “It's about using deep, bold colors like forest green and smoky charcoal or deep black to create a kitchen that's elegant and dramatic,” she says.
If you're coloring your walls, tiles and furniture a bold, statement color, choosing a contrasting countertop or tiled splashback in a lighter color creates an instant focal point, says Goodacre.
“Break up the room and at the same time stand out visually.”
“But don't be afraid to play with more than just color, because adding texture also adds to the boldness of expressive kitchens,” she continues. “Choosing tiles with a glossy finish to match matt cabinets and walls creates a contrast that catches the eye.”
“With 2024 being the year we focus more on our well-being, it makes sense that calming tones that bring nature into the home have been incorporated into the interior design,” notes Goodacre.
“Neutral and warm tones are versatile, timeless and allow homeowners to fulfill their desire for a calm, warming space.”
You can choose from the usual rich creams, shells and caramels, all of which stand the test of time and remain popular in kitchen spaces, according to Goodacre. “Or play with a more modern take on neutrals, which we call 'new neutrals.'
These include shades like light blue, very soft lilacs and pinks, and warmer, earthy terracotta tones, she says.
“By using Scandinavian wood-style paneling on cabinets or earthy pink tiles, you can create a very modern but inviting-looking kitchen inspired by natural materials and colors.”
Looeeze Grossman, founder and CEO of The Used Kitchen Company, says, “Homeowners are increasingly embracing advanced technology in their homes and this trend is expected to continue through 2025 and beyond.”
“From smart speakers connected to smart lighting and small appliances to touch-sensor bins and full-featured smart appliances with connected apps, kitchens are becoming even more integrated with smart technology.”
These advances not only make your kitchen run more effectively, says Grossman, but also promote energy efficiency, helping to reduce long-term operating costs.
In addition to comfort and efficiency, intelligent technology also increases safety in the kitchen. “Features like remote-controlled cooktops and refrigerators that alert you when burners are left on or doors are left open are particularly beneficial for busy households with small children,” Grossman points out.
“Painted kitchens have seen another resurgence throughout 2024, a trend that shows no signs of abating as we enter the new year,” notes Grossman.
“From bold colors like pink and green to timeless neutrals, homeowners are choosing kitchens with a mix of colors that reflect their own style and add a bit of personality to a kitchen.”
Earthy greens and warm blues combined with neutral creams and whites are definitely on trend this year, says Grossman, as people opt for warmer, cozier environments.
“Paired with natural materials like stone countertops and wood accents, painted kitchens create a harmonious and balanced aesthetic.”
Grossman adds, “A fresh coat of paint can transform a kitchen and breathe new life into a tired space without the need for a complete renovation.”
“Whether you want to repaint cabinets, walls, or even smaller details like trim and doors, the right color combination can redefine the look of your kitchen.”