- Warm, Natural Colour Palettes
In 2026, we’re seeing a strong shift away from stark white kitchens toward warmer, more grounded palettes. Soft taupe, mushroom tones, warm greiges, olive greens, and natural wood finishes are becoming increasingly popular.
Why it matters: These colours feel more timeless, welcoming, and better suited to Ottawa’s seasonal light.
What it replaces: All-white, high-contrast kitchens.
Product/visual notes: Wood-tone cabinetry, matte finishes, and subtle colour layering photograph beautifully and add depth without feeling trendy.
- Wood is Back — and Used with Intention
Natural wood cabinetry and accents are making a major comeback, often paired with painted cabinetry rather than used wall-to-wall.
Why it’s new: Homeowners want warmth and authenticity, but in a refined way.
What it shifts away from: Flat, monochromatic kitchens with little texture.
Product/visual notes: Walnut, oak, and textured wood grains used on islands, hoods, or pantry zones create focal points while keeping the space balanced.
- Highly Personalized Storage & Layouts
Clients are prioritizing kitchens that work specifically for how they live. Custom drawer configurations, appliance garages, concealed storage, and tailored pantry solutions are becoming standard rather than “extras.”
Why it’s important: Kitchens are expected to do more than ever, and thoughtful storage is key to long-term satisfaction.
What it replaces: One-size-fits-all cabinetry layouts.
Product/visual notes: Interior cabinet features, pull-outs, and custom inserts are great behind-the-scenes details to highlight in photography.
- Statement Islands & Feature Elements
Kitchen islands are increasingly being treated as furniture pieces. This includes contrasting finishes, fluted panels, waterfall edges, or integrated seating and storage.
Why it matters: The island is often the visual and functional heart of the home.
What it shifts away from: Islands that blend completely into the rest of the cabinetry.
Product/visual notes: Contrasting island colours or materials photograph exceptionally well and help anchor an open-concept space.
- Subtle Luxury in Hardware & Fixtures
Rather than bold or flashy finishes, homeowners are gravitating toward understated luxury — brushed brass, champagne bronze, and softer metallic tones.
Why it’s trending: These finishes feel elevated but timeless and pair well with warm cabinetry.
What it replaces: Overly polished chrome or ultra-trendy finishes.
Product/visual notes: Hardware and plumbing fixtures are small details that add significant visual impact in close-up shots.
Advice for Homeowners Exploring These Trends
My biggest piece of advice is to work with a professional designer early in the process. Trends should always be filtered through how you live, your home’s architecture, and your long-term goals.
At Laurysen Kitchens, we help homeowners translate inspiration into practical, well-designed spaces by offering local manufacturing, custom cabinetry solutions, and a collaborative design process. Our goal is always to create kitchens that feel current but won’t feel dated five or ten years down the road.
