The Functional Kitchen Feature Making A Well-Deserved Comeback In 2026

Basic kitchen cabinets are officially out in 2026, and we're embracing unique, personalized kitchens instead. Functional minimalism is giving way to a more stylized design standard. With that, you can expect to see plenty more embellished elements sprinkled into our interiors this year. Instead of plain cabinets with the same old simple hardware, we're expecting to see an influx of backplates incorporated for a pop of visual interest.

"One of the biggest kitchen hardware trends we'll see in 2026 is the return of unique, decorative backplates. They are an easy way to introduce character without committing to an entirely new hardware style," Kailee Blalock, co-founder of House of Hive Design Co, told Homes & Gardens.

Backplates are a flat, typically metal frame that sits directly under cabinet knobs and pulls. Originally, these old-school adornments were introduced to cover screw holes around handles and knobs. Today, we're embracing them as an extra flourish to add depth and personality to our kitchen designs. Backplates offer a simple, affordable way to refresh your kitchen by adding texture. These adornments come in a variety of shapes and sizes to complement any design aesthetic — from modern to traditional. If you're interested in exploring the potential of this vintage hardware, we're here to guide you in the right direction.

If you're thinking of installing backplates on your kitchen cabinets, you'll need to factor in a number of important considerations before you proceed. Anytime you choose new kitchen decor, you should keep the existing style of your space in mind. Luckily, this particular piece of decor is extremely versatile.

"What makes them especially appealing is their flexibility; they can often be added to existing hardware and easily swapped out over time, allowing kitchens to evolve without a full renovation. They make a strong visual statement and bring a sense of intention to cabinetry," Kailee Blalock expressed to Homes & Gardens.

Backplates like these classic antique brass ones at Stylentdecor can fit a warm minimalist aesthetic, while these star-shaped backplates from Rejuvenation might be perfect for a more whimsical vibe. Style is just one consideration. You'll need to factor in how much space there is around the installation site, the optimal surface coverage, and proper proportions. Some backplates come with the new knob or cabinet pull, but many don't, so be sure your current and new hardware complement one another. Once you get these details in order, you can move on to the fun part — installing your new hardware. All you need to do is unscrew your current cabinet hardware and put your backplate into place. Screw everything back together, and there you have it. A revitalized kitchen with minimal effort or money spent.