Color, Countertop and Tile Ideas

“The all-white kitchen may be out, but what about homeowners who want to update their existing space without a gut job? One of the best ways to inject color into the kitchen is to paint the island base. It instantly activates a sterile-looking space and doesn’t require construction.” — Mary Beth Christopher, MBC Interior Design

“We’re going to see a lot more blending of different finishes in the kitchen: Brass, bronze, stainless, nickel and more. By mixing finishes, you get a visually rich, incredibly inviting look.” — Tiffani Baumgart, interior designer

“For me, one of the keys to great design is when a client and a designer have the trust to take a risk together and choose a kitchen cabinet color or patterned tile that is bold and unexpected. I believe in 2023, we are going to see even more bold cabinet color choices, mixed with other interesting and unique finishes.” — Kirsten Blazek, A1000XBetter

“A butcher-block island is not only stylish, but incredibly functional and durable. We love using walnut as the primary material for a butcher-block island, as it really warms the space. For added functionality, use a butcher-block island that has a mini fridge for extra storage space and plenty of cabinets where you can keep larger appliances hidden.” — Alice Arterberry, Arterberry Cooke

“Kitchens with loads of lower drawers, instead of cabinets, are on the rise. Drawers glide out easily, and can store so much. Bending down, getting on your knees and holding a flashlight is no longer a necessity. Plus, extra large cabinet hardware is the icing on the cake in any kitchen — don’t skimp or skip on this must-have.” — Ruthie Staalsen, interior designer

“There will be more unexpected hues for cabinetry. We have seen a lot of saturated, bright colors in 2022, and I believe we will still see color but lighter and chalkier shades and definitely mixed with woods.” — Caren Rideau, founder of The Kitchen Design Group

“Subway tile backsplashes are starting to look dated, and we are seeing a big shift toward marble slab backsplashes — which add drama and depth to the kitchen. Not only is it easier to clean than tile, a marble backsplash and countertop sets the tone for the entire space and makes a big statement.” — Danny Spears, Captex Construction

“Keep it current by mixing wood and painted cabinets, and embrace natural wood grain and tone rather than selecting glossy varnish and heavy stain. I love an island in wood with the perimeter cabinetry painted, or a wooden hutch-style upper cabinet that rests on the counters.” — Sarah Fischer, Sarah and Sons Interiors

“Shades of blues with more green undertones are a refreshing change. It immediately creates a wow factor, adds interest and provides contrast. Deep hues always give a classic feel that never feels overly trendy.” — Kate Lester, interior designer

“A trend I love is concealing a butler’s pantry that is an entire room of its own. One hidden behind custom cabinetry with a surprise entrance is especially fun when you have a large family or host large gatherings — children as well as adults delight in its hidden treasures.” — Nikki Lugh, interior designer

“I love to add print and texture to a kitchen to bring a bit of interest and life into the space. Doing it with patterned wallpaper behind an open wall shelving like this is low-risk but high impact.” — Amy Leferink, principal designer at Interior Impressions

“While stone in kitchen spaces is a long-standing tradition, more and more kitchens are making a point of featuring natural stone as a central component of beauty. Dramatic stones used widely throughout the kitchen space and marble waterfall islands that highlight the beauty of the material are becoming increasingly popular design choices.” — Sarah Barnard, interior designer

“Painting the bar area in a bold color, like hunter green, is a great way to add a pop of color to a neutral kitchen and create a designated bar area in an open-concept space. We’re seeing a lot of earthy tones in the kitchen for 2023. Hunter green beautifully pairs with classic furnishings, natural accents and clean lines.” — Barrett Cooke, Arterberry Cooke

“We will see a movement toward more timeless, classic designs and honest, natural and durable materials like wood, stone and steel that can stand the test of time. The sourcing and recyclability of materials will also be taken into account to a greater extent.” — Jeppe Christensen, founder and CEO of Reform