The start of every year brings optimism and enthusiasm for creating not just spaces we love but lives we love. That’s what makes being in this industry so fulfilling. We have the privilege of connecting with people, bringing their dreams to life, and working with talented builders, subcontractors, and vendors to make it all happen. While trends are fun and inspiring, the most important thing is designing spaces that feel timeless and personal to each homeowner.

With that said&hellips;let’s explore some of the design elements and trends that we are seeing take the stage for 2025!

Creams and Browns: The Power of Neutral Warmth

Move over bright white cabinetry! This year, we’re embracing cozy and versatile creams and browns, with Mocha Mousse as the color of the year. These warm neutrals create a welcoming, timeless feel while still allowing for pops of bold color in accents like islands, vanities, art or rugs. If you’re leaning into a modern or contemporary style, bright whites are GREAT, but the shift to warmer tones is here for traditional and transitional spaces.

A Rise in Wood Cabinetry

Wood cabinetry is making a strong comeback, blending modern and rustic styles. Real woods like rift and quartersawn oak or alder are favorites for their natural beauty, especially in medium to light tones. For a budget-friendly and durable option, textured laminates are stepping up as a fantastic alternative. These laminates often mimic real wood so well that they are hard to distinguish. Plus, they’re ideal for slab door styles. A little behind the scenes…. Our cabinet installers are excited about the rise in wood cabinets too. Why? Because it is so much easier to touch up those pin holes.

Lighting as a Design Statement

Lighting is no longer just functional–it is a design feature in its own right. Think of lighting in layers:

• Ambient lighting sets the overall mood.
• Task lighting focuses on specific areas for functionality.
• Decorative lighting adds personality and flair.
• Overhead lighting ties the whole room together.

Linear lighting integrated into ceilings and walls is a sleek trend to watch, and SMART lighting technology is becoming a must-have. Motion-activated toe-kick lights, voice-controlled systems, and undercabinet lighting are just a few ways to incorporate tech into your design. Every kitchen should have undercabinet lighting—trust me on this one!

From Accent Walls to Feature Walls

Accent walls are evolving into feature walls, and the possibilities are endless. Reeded panels, bold wallpaper, and decorative tile are just a few ways to create a striking focal point in any room. This trend is about making spaces pop and adding layers of texture, interest and luxe. Bye, bye boring drywall.

Color Bathing: A Bold New Trend

Ready to go bold? Color bathing is all about drenching an entire space in one hue—walls, ceilings, trim, and sometimes even floors. This trend works best in rooms where you want to make a statement, like libraries, powder baths, or entertainment spaces. It’s dramatic, cohesive, and undeniably stylish.

Shower Slabs: Luxury in the Bathroom

Shower slabs are the future of luxury bathrooms. This trend has been growing in Europe for years and is finally making its way into Midwest America. New products like Dekton .8mm and Wilsonart Wetwall are game changers, offering sleek designs without grout lines (who likes cleaning those, anyway?). As these materials gain traction, their quality improves, and more contractors are learning to install them. A big consideration on both the design and install side the niches, shelves and benches.

Stay Tuned for More!

There’s always more to discover, and I can’t wait to share the latest and greatest from KBIS in February. Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated. Let’s make 2025 a year of stunning designs and meaningful connections!