The Kitchen Cabinet Colors Designers Are Moving Away from in 2026

Designers are officially shifting gears for 2026, trading those 'safe' neutrals for a new palette that’s all about warmth and personality.

If you’re planning a kitchen refresh this year, you’re probably wondering what colors will keep your space looking fresh and modern. Well, buckle up, because the design world is making a big pivot.

After years of cool, crisp kitchens, the trend pendulum is swinging hard toward warmth, personality, and a connection to nature.

We’ve looked at what the experts are saying will be "out" and "in" for 2026, and the message is clear: it’s time to get cozy.

The Three Colors Designers Are Ditching

If your kitchen is currently decked out in one of these three colors, don't panic, but know that designers are ready to move on. According to experts, these are the cabinet colors that are starting to look dated:

Stark White: For a long time, bright white was the ultimate safe choice. However, designers feel it reads as too clinical and lacks the warmth and personal expression people are craving now. Instead of that cold, bright hue, the shift is toward creamy whites and warm beiges.

Safe Gray: This was the go-to neutral for a decade, but it has become predictable. Designers say cool grays are starting to make kitchens feel outdated, and people are now looking for more colorful cabinets to add character and make a statement.

All-Black: While a solid black kitchen can be striking, it often lacks the warmth and dimensionality that homeowners are seeking. Like stark white, solid black can feel cold and sterile. Designers suggest trading it for colors with more depth, like deep greiges, soft charcoal, or rich stained woods.

The Colors Taking Over in 2026

So, if the cool neutrals are out, what’s coming in? The answer is a palette that is inviting, grounded, and nature-inspired.

Warm Neutrals: Forget the cool grays; it’s all about soft, warm neutrals now. Think colors like mushroom, stone, and putty. These shades often have subtle brown or green undertones and are being favored for their sophisticated, approachable feel.

Nature-Inspired Green: Green is making a huge comeback, but not the bright jewel tones of the past. The trend is for rich forest greens with gray undertones. This is part of the overall desire to bring nature-inspired colors and materials into the home.

Stained Wood: Painted cabinets will always be around, but designers are seeing a big return to natural wood tones. Walnut and white oak are the most popular choices, as they feel more personal and age better than paint, hiding dings and scratches.

Shades of Brown: Just like the warm neutrals, rich browns are replacing cool grays to bring warmth back to the kitchen. Look for colors like espresso, chestnut, and clay.

The Bold Color Strategy

For those who love a pop of color, the trend is to use it strategically. The two-tone cabinet look is staying strong, often pairing natural wood on the upper cabinets with a bold color on the lower cabinets or a contrasting island.

And what about those bold, saturated jewel tones like eggplant and dark teal? They aren't disappearing entirely, but they are moving out of the main kitchen.

Experts predict they will be reserved for private areas like the butler’s pantry, scullery, or a bar area. Since these spaces are often closed off, they are the perfect spot to experiment with a luxurious, deep color without overwhelming the main living space.

Ultimately, the 2026 kitchen is all about moving away from the clinical and embracing a space that feels warm, personal, and connected to the natural world.