Your kitchen should be a space that feels fresh, functional, and enjoyable to use. But over time, certain design choices can start to feel outdated and may no longer serve your needs or style.
Knowing which kitchen features are out helps you avoid common pitfalls when updating your space and keeps your kitchen looking current and practical. This article will guide you through twelve kitchen elements that are falling out of favor, so you can make smarter choices for your home.
No upper cabinets
If you like a clean, open feel, no upper cabinets might seem appealing. But without them, you lose valuable storage space.
You’ll need to rely heavily on lower cabinets or alternative storage like tall pantry units. A simple backsplash or open shelves can add style but won’t replace full cabinet function.
Consider how much kitchenware you have before ditching those uppers—they’re often practical even if less trendy.
Wonky kitchen islands
If your kitchen island feels awkward or oddly shaped, it might be time to rethink it. Islands should add function and flow, not create bumps in your workspace.
Avoid overly complicated designs that don’t match your kitchen size or layout. A simple, well-placed island makes cooking and gathering easier for you and your guests.
All-white kitchens without color accents
If your kitchen is all white with no pops of color, it might feel a bit plain or dated. Adding subtle accents like warm metals or soft greys can bring life and personality to the space.
You don’t have to ditch white completely, but balancing it with color or texture helps your kitchen feel more inviting and modern. White alone is losing its appeal in 2025.
Open shelving instead of cabinets
If you’ve been using open shelving instead of traditional cabinets, it might be time to rethink it. Open shelves can look sleek but often require constant tidying to stay neat.
You also lose storage space for less attractive or rarely used items. Cabinets protect your dishes from dust and grease, making kitchen maintenance easier.
Curved countertop edges
Curved countertop edges were once popular for adding softness to kitchens. However, they can make spills harder to control, often leading liquids to drip off the edge.
If you prefer easy cleaning and a sharper look, straighter edges are a better choice. Plus, they tend to fit modern kitchen styles more smoothly.
Dining nooks with banquette seating
Banquette seating was once a popular way to save space and add coziness to kitchen nooks. Now, many find it less flexible than using regular chairs.
While built-in benches can offer storage, they may feel harder to clean and less comfortable over time. If you prefer more versatility, chairs you can move or swap might work better for you.
Work table kitchen islands
Work table kitchen islands used to be popular for big prep surfaces. Now, they often feel bulky and take up too much space.
If your kitchen is smaller, a work table island can limit movement and make the area feel crowded.
Consider replacing it with a more versatile island that offers storage or seating to boost functionality.
Overdone natural wood and marble combos
If your kitchen is heavy on natural wood and marble, you might be following a trend that’s starting to feel tired. This combo was popular for a long time but now can come across as predictable.
You don’t have to ditch these materials, but mixing them less or adding different textures can make your space feel fresher. Try balancing with other colors or finishes to keep things interesting.
Kitchens without powerful vent hoods
If your kitchen lacks a strong vent hood, you might notice lingering cooking odors and more grease buildup over time. Vent hoods help remove smoke, steam, and smells, keeping your space fresher.
Many modern designs favor bold, effective range hoods rather than hidden or weak ones. Investing in a powerful vent hood improves air quality and maintains your kitchen’s cleanliness.
Granite countertops as the only stone option
If you think granite is your only natural stone choice, you might want to rethink that. While granite is durable and popular, there are many other stones like quartz, marble, and soapstone that offer variety.
Limiting yourself to granite can make your kitchen feel less unique. Exploring other materials can match your style and needs better.
Ignoring soft-close drawers and cabinets
You might think soft-close drawers and cabinets are just a nice extra, but skipping them can lead to noisy slams and quicker wear. They help keep your kitchen quieter and your doors lasting longer.
Most new cabinets come with soft-close features now, so it’s worth having them to avoid constant repairs. Plus, they make daily use smoother and more pleasant.
Lack of ample counter space
If your kitchen doesn’t have enough counter space, meal prep gets tricky. You need room to chop, mix, and set down ingredients comfortably.
Without ample counters, cleaning up becomes a hassle too. Try to maximize surfaces near the stove and sink for the best flow.