The Go-To Cabinet Color And Finish That's Now Tired, Basic, And Outdated

Neutral colors feel safe and classic in any home design, but you may be surprised to hear that one neutral kitchen focal point is on its way out. When it comes to coveted kitchen designs and color schemes, gray kitchens had their moment in the 2010s. People initially loved the clean lines, cool tone, and minimalist backdrop, and found the muted color easy to pair with other neutral hues. Now, designers and homeowners alike are starting to see those glossy gray cabinets as outdated. As kitchen cabinet trends continue to evolve, the focus is shifting toward creating warmer, cozier spaces with character — something stark grays just can't quite deliver. What was once thought to look fresh and clean is inching its way toward drab and cold.

It's important to remember that styling a kitchen isn't just about what's on trend. A new kitchen is a major investment, so it's always best to choose a cabinet color that will stand the test of time. This is especially crucial if you're planning to sell your home in the next few years, as homebuyers generally prefer kitchens that don't require renovations. By keeping up with the tide of timeless kitchen designs, you can avoid the costs associated with having to either remodel your kitchen in a few years or sell at a lower price.

Gray was a go-to color in home design a decade ago, creating the long reign of the "Millennial Gray" trend. Calming colors like greige, pewter, and other cool neutrals have dominated every corner of modern homes since the 2010s, including floors, walls, and even bathroom decor. It was sleek, and complemented the ever-sought-after modern minimalist vibe perfectly. The kitchen is no exception — and high-gloss gray cabinets remain a common sight in many homes. These days, though, homeowners are growing tired of this safe yet dull, cool-toned neutral. It's starting to feel uninspired, sterile, and just plain bland, especially when paired with the overflow of white elements and chrome fixtures we've also seen in kitchens this past decade. 

The cold truth is that designers are sweeping away the cold and bringing warmth back into the modern kitchen. The shift in designing joyful and personalized cooking spaces has brought new trends to the forefront, and they're polar opposites of glossy gray. Bold retro kitchen cabinet colors and elegant pastels are entering the scene with a splash, as the color-drenching trend gains momentum. Think dark, moody colors like navy and deep reds for a bit of drama. Or, choose earthy hues like green, brown, and blue, coupled with warm wood tones to give modern kitchens a cozy makeover. The bottom line is: Gray kitchen cabinets are out, while warm, cozy kitchen vibes are beginning their reign.

Already got an all-gray kitchen and want to give it a homey twist without a full-blown reno? Don't worry. You don't necessarily have to gut your kitchen or start from scratch. There are quite a few affordable, low-effort ways to give your glossy gray cabinets a fresh new look. Start by swapping out dated cabinet hardware with elegant brass or matte black upgrades. The contrast between the gray and the new hardware will breathe new, edgy life into your cabinets. You can also simply add a few splashes of color to liven up the kitchen space. This can be as simple as adding vibrant kitchen towels and area rugs or even replacing your small appliances with bold-colored ones. Don't forget to add some greenery to soften the look of those sleek gray cabinets.

For a larger overhaul without repainting or replacing your cabinets, consider giving other elements of your kitchen a facelift. Trade muted flooring for warm hardwood, or install new butcher block or warm-hued quartz countertops for a pop of coziness. You could install a creative backsplash for your kitchen, too, to add some zest and personality to the area. Some unique options include geometric patterns, artisan glass, or hand-painted tiles. Even if you keep the shiny gray cabinets, you can breathe new life into your kitchen and give it an inviting update that will be gorgeous for years.