Expert Nik Johnsson of Cabinet IQ reveals what’s hot, what’s not, and what’s next in kitchen cabinetry.
Story by Ann Butenas / Photos courtesy of Cabinet IQ
The kitchen has long been called the heart of the home, but today’s homeowners want that heart to beat with both style and intelligence. Gone are the days when cabinet selection meant simply choosing between oak or cherry, white or stained. Modern kitchen cabinetry has evolved into a sophisticated blend of innovative materials, clever storage solutions, and design-forward aesthetics that reflect how we actually live and work in our kitchens.
To get the inside scoop on what’s trending in this essential element of kitchen design, we spoke with Nik Johnsson of Cabinet IQ, whose expertise helps homeowners navigate the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) world of cabinet choices. From color palettes to cutting-edge organizational systems, Johnsson shares his insights on the trends shaping today’s kitchens and offers guidance on which innovations are worth the investment.
KCH&S: What are the biggest shifts you’re seeing in kitchen cabinet design right now, and what’s driving these changes?
Cabinet IQ: Homeowners are no longer choosing between beauty and functionality. They expect both. We’re seeing more hidden storage, appliance garages, built-in charging solutions, and thoughtful zones customized to how people actually cook and live. The motivation isn’t just aesthetics anymore. Instead, it’s about efficiency, organization, and personalization.
KCH&S: Are all-white kitchens still dominating, or are homeowners becoming more adventurous with cabinet colors?
Cabinet IQ: All-white kitchens are still classic, but we’re seeing a major shift toward warmth and character. More homeowners are opting for earthy neutrals like creamy whites and beige, deep greens, and bold dark colors like navy, black and charcoal. Natural wood, particularly white oak and walnut, is making a huge comeback. While white isn’t gone, it’s rarely standing alone anymore.
KCH&S: What innovative organizational features are your clients requesting most often?
Cabinet IQ: Storage has become extremely specialized. Clients are asking for drawer peg organizers, pull-out pantries, hidden appliance garages, pull-out spice storage, trash and recycling centers, roll-out trays for pots and pans, and built-in charging drawers.
KCH&S: Any new or unexpected materials gaining traction in cabinet manufacturing?
Cabinet IQ: We’re seeing surprising demand for mesh fronts instead of glass and walnut interiors for cabinets.
KCH&S: Two-tone cabinetry has been popular for a while. Is it holding strong or evolving?
Cabinet IQ: It’s holding strong but evolving. Instead of traditional white uppers and darker lowers, we’re seeing mixed materials like wood and painted finishes together, different tones of the same color family, contrasting island statements, and interior cabinet finishes that differ from exteriors. The goal now is layered, curated, and intentional.
KCH&S: For homeowners planning a renovation soon, what’s one cabinet trend you’d recommend embracing and one to think twice about?
Cabinet IQ: Embrace warm wood cabinetry and organic, earthy colors. This direction is timeless, high-end, and adds comfort and luxury. White is no longer the only timeless finish. Warm neutrals and natural wood tones have just as much longevity and even more character.
Think twice about extremely bold or niche color choices on permanent fixtures. If you love color, use it in decor or lighting for things that can be swapped out. Cabinets are a long-term investment, and something like bright blue may feel dated quickly.
