Top Kitchen Design Trends for 2023: A Comprehensive Guide

Collage of modern kitchen designs with text overlay: "Top Kitchen Remodel Trends 2023: A Comprehensive Guide" by Fine Home Contracting.

About the Author: David Perrotti

Dave has over 20 years of experience in the construction industry, is a Bestselling Home Improvement Author on Amazon, and constantly seeks to reinvent the remodeling industry. As a veteran of the Army and Air Force, Dave operates his business, Fine Home Contracting, on the core army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.

As the busiest room in any home, the kitchen deserves to stay on top design-wise. As we 2023 speeds by, it’s a great time to look back at the exciting new design trends from the past year that can help transform your kitchen into a stylish and efficient space for cooking, entertaining, or simply spending time with loved ones. Whether you’re doing a full kitchen remodel or just looking to update certain elements, being aware of the latest innovations in layout, colors, materials, lighting and more can ensure your kitchen renovation feels fresh, functional and on-trend. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top kitchen design trends for 2023 with tips to inspire your own Connecticut home projects.

Layout and Floor Plan

Floor Plan Rendering

A kitchen’s layout and floor plan sets the stage for the entire space. As you draw up initial plans for your floorplan layout, we recommend careful planning of workflow and zones for maximum efficiency. Throughout 2023, we’ve seen a continuing trend towards expanded, airy kitchens with open floorplans. It’s not surprising one of our most common inquiries this year has been removing walls to expand the footprint of existing rooms, especially considering the drastic impact opening up a space can have on your home’s functionality, aesthetics, and traffic flow.

Colors and Materials

A display of various colored and textured construction material samples, perfect for a kitchen backsplash, arranged on a round white table.
Selection of materials and finishes
A small white robot figurine is placed against a wall of rectangular tiles in shades of grey, white, and blue arranged in a geometric ceramic vs natural stone pattern.

The colors and materials selected for cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, floors and walls significantly impact the vibe and functionality of a kitchen. Trends throughout 2023 have learned towards natural surfaces and natural motifs, as well as a definitive increase in the use of color. As the calm, neutral tones of the past few years have become commonplace, many point to the number of rooms painted “Flipper Grey” as a key hint that both warm, welcoming colors, as well as cool natural tints and pastels are back in style.

Cabinetry

Kitchen featuring White Shaker cabinets, courtesy of iStock Photo

Cabinetry plays a starring role in every kitchen. Not only are they a visual centerpiece that ties the rest of the room together, but they’re also very commonly the single largest expense in a remodel. On-trend styles for 2023 include timeless Shaker cabinets, two-toned designs, and ingenious solutions for maximizing storage.

Countertops

Close-up of a polished granite countertop in a modern kitchen with white cabinets, a built-in oven, and plants in the background.

Countertops should be both beautiful and highly functional, able to withstand heavy daily use. Quartz, concrete, and butcher block are currently the most popular options.

Appliances

Today’s appliances offer more than just upgraded performance. Clever functionality and integrated smart technology add convenience to simplify all of your daily kitchen tasks.

Lighting

Proper kitchen lighting serves both form and function. A well-executed lighting plan mixes ambient, task and accent lighting for style, safety and practicality.

Accessories and Decor

It’s the little touches that add character and elevate kitchen design. Unique accents express personal style while clever gadgets improve functionality.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. By thoughtfully incorporating 2023’s hottest kitchen design trends like open concept layouts, mixed materials, integrated smart appliances and statement lighting, you can create a kitchen that both stylishly reflects your taste and functions flawlessly. Pay special attention to work zones, storage solutions and lighting to enhance your kitchen’s performance. With strategic planning and design, your transformed kitchen will become a welcoming hub for connecting, cooking and entertaining.

How can I create a farmhouse-style kitchen in 2024?2023-10-24T14:54:01+00:00

Achieve a farmhouse kitchen with features like a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, and rustic finishes. Using thrifted, reclaimed wood furniture adds a rustic appeal on a budget.

What kitchen hardware is in style?2023-10-24T14:53:26+00:00

Sleek and modern cabinet hardware, like matte black or brass handles, is trending throughout 2023 and into 2024. Consider modern and industrial styled hardware for an updated look.

What color combinations are trendy for kitchen walls in 2024?2023-10-24T14:52:36+00:00

In 2024, popular kitchen wall color combinations include soft gray and warm beige, as well as classic navy and white. Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore both picked shades of blue as their 2024 colors of the year, so expect a resurgence in both dark and light tints and shades of blue.

How can I make my small kitchen look bigger?2023-10-24T14:51:01+00:00

To make a small kitchen appear larger, consider light colors, open shelving, and smart storage solutions.

Are dark kitchen cabinets a good choice for a small kitchen in 2024?2023-10-24T14:48:52+00:00

Yes, dark cabinets can work well in small kitchens, but be sure to balance them with ample lighting and lighter elements.

Do I need a design-build contractor for a kitchen remodel?2023-09-22T13:56:57+00:00

You can definitely hire a design-build firm for a kitchen overhaul, but a general contractor or construction manager working with an architectural designer can also execute this well. Design-build makes the most sense for whole home renovations, larger kitchen renovations, and those looking to minimize costs.

How do you add privacy to a pass-through kitchen?2023-09-18T19:12:21+00:00

Add pocket doors, frosted glass panels, louvre doors, or pendant lighting features to open passageways. Valances, shelving displays, or transom windows above eye level also add separation.

Can you add a pass-through to any kitchen?2023-09-18T19:11:55+00:00

If your kitchen has an adjacent dining or living room with the possibility to remove the dividing wall(s), a pass-through can likely be added. Your contractor will determine viability.

What are the pros of a pass-through kitchen?2023-09-18T19:11:35+00:00

Pros of a pass-through kitchen include an open, airy layout, easy communication between rooms, multi-purpose functionality, and seamless entertaining.

Should I hire contractors to add a butler’s kitchen?2023-08-18T16:08:45+00:00

Yes, the structural, electrical and plumbing work involved requires qualified architects, designers and contractors. Be sure to get all needed building permits.

Does adding a butler’s kitchen increase home value?2023-08-18T16:07:46+00:00

Yes, this luxury addition can increase resale value significantly. Home buyers view it as an appealing entertaining-friendly feature.

How much does adding a butler’s kitchen cost?2023-08-18T16:07:05+00:00

$40,000-$60,000 is typical, with costs varying based on size, finishes, appliances added and any electrical/plumbing work or structural changes needed. Expect to spend about 550$ per square foot.

How early should I start planning a kitchen remodel?2023-07-21T18:34:15+00:00

Ideally 6-8 months prior. This gives adequate time to create designs, get permits, order materials and line up contractors. Rushed timelines can result in mistakes.

What is the difference between an interior designer and kitchen designer?2023-07-21T18:33:54+00:00

Kitchen designers focus specifically on kitchens rather than whole homes. Many have training in kitchen workflow, storage, appliances and construction considerations.

How much does a kitchen designer cost?2023-07-21T18:33:35+00:00

Costs range from hourly rates around $100-250/hour, flat fees from $1,500-$5,000, or 10-20% of the total kitchen remodel budget for full service.

Do I need a kitchen designer?2023-07-21T18:33:08+00:00

While not required, a designer can be helpful for larger or more complex projects, or if you need guidance making style and layout decisions. They help ensure it’s done right.

When should I hire a kitchen designer?2023-07-21T18:32:55+00:00

It’s best to hire a designer early in the planning process so they can help establish an overall vision, layout and budget. They can have the biggest impact during the design phase.

What does a kitchen designer do?2023-07-21T18:32:37+00:00

A kitchen designer creates a layout and aesthetic vision for the space, selects finishes like cabinetry and materials, produces construction drawings, and can provide project management during renovations.

About the Author: David Perrotti

Dave has over 20 years of experience in the construction industry, is a Bestselling Home Improvement Author on Amazon, and constantly seeks to reinvent the remodeling industry. As a veteran of the Army and Air Force, Dave operates his business, Fine Home Contracting, on the core army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.

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