The kitchen is the heart of the home, where many daily activities unfold. As we spend more time there, it's essential to keep up with the latest kitchen décor trends that balance beauty and practicality.
Our kitchens evoke strong emotions, often serving as the backdrop for cherished conversations. With so many demands on this space, achieving a balance of functionality and aesthetics can be challenging. According to Pearson Turnbull, the owner of a design firm, kitchens are evolving into areas where one can truly disconnect from the rest of the home.
Given these multifaceted needs, the top kitchen design trends of 2022 focus on impactful and intentional choices. Expect to see a shift towards large-scale tile backsplashes, signaling the end of the subway tile era, along with a move away from upper cabinets.
Here are eight major kitchen décor trends that interior designers anticipate will be prominent this year.
Trend #1: Large-Scale Textured Backsplashes
Photo by Duy Nguyen, courtesy of Studio Ten Interior Design.
After spending extended periods at home, designer Lori Sutherland Burns notes a growing desire for texture and dimension in our most-used spaces. Larger, textured backsplashes provide a dynamic visual element and are becoming more accessible as costs decrease. This trend replaces the traditional subway tile with larger pieces, such as 16"x40" or 24"x48" tiles, which create fewer grout lines and are easier to maintain.
Julian Tile Macchia Vecchia Polished Porcelain Slab
Julian Tile Macchia Vecchia Polished Porcelain Slab, $45
Shop NowTrend #2: Blending Aesthetics with Functionality
Photo courtesy of Las Perelli.
Sisters Elena and Beatriz Perelli emphasize creating warm, functional kitchens that blend beauty with utility. They advocate for sustainable, timeless designs that cater to the needs of modern homeowners. By showcasing practical items like antique crockery and colorful cookware, they inspire a sense of appreciation for the cooking experience.
Smeg Mini Electric Kettle in Cream
Smeg Mini Electric Kettle in Cream, $134.95
Shop NowLe Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Casserole Sauteuse
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Casserole Sauteuse, $129.95
Shop NowTrend #3: Embracing Organic and Soothing Elements
Photo of Kate Zimmerman Turpin’s kitchen, seen here.
Many are working from home, and this lifestyle can bring challenges. Turnbull notes a need for kitchens to provide a calming retreat. This year, expect to see natural materials and soft tones that create a serene atmosphere, moving away from open concepts toward more defined, peaceful spaces.
Santa Ynez General White Crafted Wooden Bowls
Santa Ynez General White Crafted Wood Bowl, $65
Shop NowWest Elm Organic Shaped Wood Serving Platter
West Elm Organic Shaped Wood Serving Platter, $14-$32
Shop NowTrend #4: Statement Hood Fans
Photo of Nina Dobrev’s home by Chris Patey, seen here.
Eliza Fox, lead designer at a home improvement firm, highlights the growing trend of bold hood fans in kitchens. These oversized features draw the eye upward and add architectural elegance. If a full hood fan isn't feasible, consider other decorative elements, like wood accents, to enhance visual interest.
Vissani Oversized Hood Fan, $279
Shop NowBamboo Open Weave Orb Pendant Shade
Bamboo Open Weave Orb Pendant Shade, $99
Shop NowTrend #5: Generous Pantry Storage
From cooking to entertaining, maximizing kitchen space is crucial. Ample pantry storage is a must-have. A “framed-in look” with tall cabinets can provide needed areas for dry goods and other essentials. Even if renovations are required, consider DIY options like open shelving to enhance storage.
Photo courtesy of a design firm.
For those who want to boost storage, a standalone pantry might be an option.
Ultra Shelf White Oak Floating Shelf
Ultra Shelf White Oak Floating Shelf, $77
Shop NowBy Andover Mills™ Wide Kitchen Server
By Andover Mills™ Wide Kitchen Server, $236.99
Shop NowTrend #6: Blending Timeless and Modern Styles
Photo courtesy of Las Perelli.
Contrary to popular belief, kitchens can embrace diverse styles. The Perelli sisters suggest mixing antiques with contemporary designs for a captivating aesthetic. Start with a signature piece, such as an antique table, and layer it with modern accessories.
Etú HOME Provence Farm Table, $1590
Shop NowKate and Laurel Cates Wood Farmhouse Dining Table
Kate and Laurel Cates Wood Farmhouse Dining Table, $382.49
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Shop NowTrend #7: Cozy Creamy Whites
Photo courtesy of a design firm.
Warm, creamy whites offer a comforting backdrop that enhances all kitchen elements. Designer Allison Dozier predicts this neutral palette will dominate kitchens in 2022, as it complements any style effortlessly. A simple paint update can transform a room, and she recommends Benjamin Moore’s White Dove for its inviting tone.
Benjamin Moore White Dove Paint
Benjamin Moore White Dove Paint Sample, $10.99
Shop NowTrend #8: Emphasizing Light and Reducing Upper Cabinets
Photo courtesy of a design firm.
Jessica Nicastro champions a bright and airy kitchen in 2022, advocating for abundant lighting and fewer upper cabinets. She believes upper cabinets, once essential, are becoming obsolete. The focus should be on layered lighting from various sources, allowing natural light to flow freely.
Duarte 13.25″ Bedside Table Lamp
Duarte 13.25″ Bedside Table Lamp, $99
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West Elm Sculptural Glass Cone Sconce, $71.20
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