Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz may be trendsetters in more ways than one. A growing 66% of kitchens sold last year featured rich blues, greens, and dark, moody cabinetry—a jump from 50% the year before—and designers predict the shift away from stark white will continue into 2026.
Is the classic white kitchen losing its appeal? Designers say homeowners are increasingly seeking warmth and personality in their kitchens, leading to a surge in darker, more expressive color palettes.
- Demand for blue kitchen cabinetry is rising rapidly, with a 32% increase in sales year-over-year.
- Designers attribute the trend to a desire for more grounding and cocooning spaces.
- Darker hues offer a balance of boldness and timelessness, appealing to a wider range of homeowners.
- The aesthetic choices of celebrities like Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz are influencing kitchen design trends.
For years, white and neutral tones dominated kitchen design, prized for their clean aesthetic. But, according to designer Tom Howley, homeowners are now prioritizing individuality and warmth. “It’s clear that consumer tastes are shifting, and kitchens are becoming far more expressive spaces than ever before,” Howley says.
What’s driving the move toward darker kitchen colors? The answer, Howley explains, is both aesthetic and emotional. “Colors like forest green, navy, and charcoal grey strike that perfect balance – they’re bold without being overpowering, timeless but still fresh.”
The shift isn’t just about aesthetics. Howley notes that as kitchen layouts become more multi-functional, color plays a crucial role in defining different zones and creating specific moods. “Additionally, as kitchen layouts become more zoned and multi-functional, color has become an important way to create mood and define character.”
The popularity of blue kitchens, in particular, is undeniable. While all blue kitchen ideas offer aesthetic benefits, the moody shade featured in Brooklyn and Nicola Peltz’s kitchen is striking a chord with those looking to embrace this emerging color trend. Their space, according to many, serves as the ultimate blueprint.
