TrendsKitchen Design Trend Predictions for 2026

1. Wooden Fluted Doors

Texture is taking centre stage in 2026. Fluted or slatted wooden doors continue to grow in popularity, offering a dynamic alternative to flat-front cabinetry. Whether running vertically or horizontally, these reeded surfaces bring depth, rhythm, and architectural interest to the kitchen — working particularly well on islands or tall feature units. Often used in our Skog and Hygge styles, this detail pairs beautifully with natural finishes and minimalist lines.

2. Warm & Mid-Tone Wood Shades

The dominance of pale Scandi timbers is giving way to richer, mid-tone hues. From golden oaks to smoked walnut and toasted ash, these finishes provide a grounding warmth and luxurious feel. They’re ideal for clients looking to create inviting spaces with character, without going too dark or traditional. Combined with tactile elements like leather handles or brass accents, they exude quiet sophistication.

3. Earthy Tones & Natural Textures

Clients are increasingly drawn to nature-inspired schemes, with earthy palettes becoming the go-to choice. Warm beiges, taupes, terracotta, clay pinks, and muted olive greens are being layered with materials like stone, linen, timber, and hand-finished metals. These tones and textures create a calm, grounding aesthetic that celebrates the imperfect beauty of natural materials — a core part of the Sola ethos.

4. Light Timber & Pastel Finishes

For those still craving light and airy kitchens, there’s a shift from white to softer, chalky pastel hues paired with light timber. Think powder blue cabinets with birch fronts, or pale oak with sage green accents. These combinations bring warmth and subtle colour to contemporary interiors without overwhelming the space — perfect for family kitchens that balance function and style.

5. The Return of Stainless Steel

Once reserved for commercial kitchens, stainless steel is making a refined comeback. No longer harsh or cold, today’s iterations are warmer in tone and often matte or brushed for a softer effect. When combined with natural materials — such as fluted oak, travertine, or quartzite — stainless steel creates a sleek yet inviting contrast. Used for islands, worktops, or built-in appliances, it delivers durability with design integrity.

6. Thin Coloured Lacquers on Wood

One of the more exciting finish trends for 2026 is thin, pigmented lacquers that allow the wood grain to subtly shine through. These tinted finishes add colour while still celebrating the natural material beneath — offering depth and nuance. From forest greens to dusky mauves or smoked navy, this effect brings personality to cabinetry without compromising elegance or versatility.

7. Modern Shaker in Oak Finishes

The timeless appeal of Shaker kitchens has been reimagined. We’re seeing clients request cleaner-lined, more modern interpretations of the traditional frame door — often slimmer, flatter, and more minimal. When combined with oak finishes, this look offers the best of both worlds: a sense of heritage and craftsmanship with a contemporary, clean-lined silhouette. It’s a style that works beautifully in both period homes and new builds.

8. Leathered Worktops

For those looking for a tactile alternative to polished stone, leathered worktops are set to be big in 2026. With their soft matte texture and natural feel, leathered finishes add depth and durability to materials like granite, marble, and quartzite.

At Sola Kitchens, we believe in timeless design with a contemporary soul. These trends reflect a broader movement towards sustainability, authenticity, and emotional connection with our spaces — all core to our ethos and the way we design kitchens to last a lifetime.