5 Kitchen Design Fads That Are So Over—and Designers Aren’t Sad to See Them Go

The kitchen is one of the most exciting playgrounds for design, as you can customize everything from the backsplash and flooring to the cabinets and countertops.

However, that excitement can toe the line into trends that don’t stand the test of time. Think: ‘70s plastic-y looking laminate cabinets or modern marble sinks that crack at the first sign of water.

To take a trip down memory lane, we tapped two designers to recount the kitchen fads they’re saying “thank you, next” to—either because the trend lost its original charm, or just because it’s no longer functional for the heart of the home.

All White Kitchens

All white kitchens were coveted for their crisp, fresh look. But when done without texture, the trend can feel bland.

“When white kitchens became popular, they were designed quite literally very flat, lacking warmth and showing every inch of wear and tear,” says Esther Ellard, principal and founder of Effortless Designs. “This is not built for real life.”

But for those who are die-hard for white kitchens, Ellard notes that it can be done as long as you find opportunities to add depth.

“I always opt for adding in texture such as plastered vent hoods, natural stone walls, layered cabinetry detailing, [and] fluted hardware selections,” the designer explains. “Flat white kitchens are not functional or visually interesting. Textured white kitchens are elevated and highly functional.”

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Builder-Grade Pendants Over the Island

Lighting is always a great way to make a statement in a kitchen, but the influx of classic builder-grade pendants as of late can look cookie-cutter.

“You know the ones: basic brushed nickel domes or generic glass shades that came standard in so many kitchens,” Linda Hayslett, principal designer and founder of LH.Designs, recalls. “They lacked impact and made a space that should feel special look uninspired.”

To make the pendants look more interesting, Hayslett recommends opting for personality-packed options.

“Opt for sculptural shapes, bold finishes, or artisan-made fixtures that complement the kitchen’s vibe,” she says. “Lighting should feel intentional, like jewelry for the space.”

Tuscan-Style Kitchens

Tuscan kitchens became popular in the 2000s, and then quickly leaned into overload and overwhelm.

“Although there is nothing wrong with drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean, it needs to be more restrained,” Ellard says, “In the past, this style consisted of ornate cabinetry, heavy faux finishes, and dark color palettes.”

This led to kitchens that felt outdated and cramped—and therefore weren’t functional.

“A great way to avoid this trend is to opt for a more low-key Mediterranean aesthetic by using natural stone, warm woods, and details that don’t add visual clutter,” Ellard suggests.

Border-Tile Backsplashes

Backsplashes have seen lots of trends over the years—but not all of them stick.

“Remember those skinny decorative border tiles that were used to ‘frame’ a backsplash?” Hayslett says. “They tried to be fancy but usually clashed with everything else. It felt more like a design afterthought than a cohesive look.”

The designer instead suggests skipping the border and focusing on material, scale, and layout.

“Let a beautiful tile pattern or slab speak for itself,” Hayslett says. “Or take the tile all the way up to the ceiling to make a bold, modern statement.”

Microwaves Over the Range

Putting the microwave above the stove was—and still is—a common layout in kitchens.

“But it’s awkward and unsafe, especially for shorter users or kids,” Hayslett says. “Plus, it dominates what could be a visually stunning focal point.”

To keep the appliance still accessible, Hayslett likes having a microwave drawer built into the island or a cabinet that’s easy to reach .

“It keeps your kitchen looking clean and uncluttered, and frees up the space above your range for something more eye-catching, like a great backsplash or a statement hood,” Hayslett says