5 Trends in Residential Kitchen Design 2023

Morgante Wilson Architects

Jan 26, 2023 - 5 min read

5 Trends in Residential Kitchen Design 2023

With each new year comes a host of exciting new ideas and trends for residential kitchen design. Read on for the top five trends our team of residential interior design and residential architecture partners sees gaining steam in 2023.

Elissa Morgante, AIA, Founding Partner; Fred Wilson, AIA, Founding Partner; back row: K. Tyler, Allied ASID, Partner; John Potter, AIA, NCARB; Partner Bob Zuber, AIA, Partner

Elissa Morgante: White kitchens

“White kitchens are nothing new,” Morgante says. “What’s new is that they’re continuing to get a little cleaner and a little more streamlined every year.” Even kitchens that channel your inner Grandmother are likely to be a bit more sleek than vintage, and that’s a trend Elissa says is worth keeping an eye on.

Fred notes Morgante Wilson’s clients are asking for full slab backsplashes at unprecedented rates. “We love them,” he says. “First of all, they’re super impactful from a design point of view. And second, they’re easy to keep clean since there are no grout lines to catch food splatters or splashes.”

K Tyler: Non-traditional cabinet door materials

This is one of my favorite trends,” says K. “I’m loving reeded glass as a semi-translucent material that hides clutter but allows for the transfer of light. Brass mesh or perforated metal doors are also a nice option to create a fun accent for your cabinetry.” Doors wrapped in woven materials and faux leather are also on the rise, she says.

Bob Zuber: Fewer cabinets, more windows

With interest in biophilic design (bringing the outdoors in) on the rise, it’s no surprise many of our clients favor walls of windows rather than walls of marching upper cabinets. Says Bob, “The more windows in a kitchen, the more appealing it is to be in. You gain natural light and better views outside.” Plus, he notes, “With the advent of larger islands and bigger pantries, upper cabinets often aren’t even required for storage anymore.” Another bonus? Increased opportunities to create statement walls incorporating dramatic tile or open shelves.

John Potter: Metal accents

Gone are the days when the only metal you’d find in a kitchen was either via stainless steel appliances, or cabinet hardware. “There’s been an explosion in the innovative ways metals are being used in kitchens,” John says, “and I think we’re going to see more of that in the future.” From focal point range hoods and eye-catching lighting to open shelving, metal can up the drama quotient of any kitchen, regardless of style. (Mixing metals continues to grow in popularity, too. In fact, matching metals almost feels a bit dated at this point.)

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Morgante Wilson Architects provides architectural and interior design services in Chicago, Deerfield, Evanston, Glencoe, Glenview, Highland Park, Kenilworth, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Northbrook, Northfield, Ravinia, Wilmette, and Winnetka – along with Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Utah, Wisconsin, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.