22 Kitchen and Bath Trends on the Way Out
Updated: Jan. 12, 2024
You spend a lot of time in your kitchen and bathrooms, so keep them up to date. To do that, steer clear of these trends that won’t be sticking around for long.
Impractical Designs
Grandiose designs once were considered luxurious or even kitschy (in a good way), like chandeliers and open shelves with decor and neatly stored bathroom supplies on display. But they’re impractical! You have to move everything to clean beneath or above, and stay on top of your organization game. Homeowners are now opting for realistic bathroom environments, including modest bathrooms with simple, functional decor.
Editor’s Tip: We also found some of the best bathroom hacks for every bathroom size and style. Whether your bathroom is small or simply cluttered, these bathroom storage hacks will save the day!
Hanging Pot Racks
Hanging pot racks have hung around long enough. Kitchen trends now lean toward clean, sleek lines and those hanging racks can make a kitchen look cluttered. Instead of hanging a large pot rack over a kitchen island, try building cabinet rollouts.
Farmhouse Sinks
They were everywhere over the last few years, but farmhouse sinks aren’t for everyone. Instead, install a large stainless-steel sink, which is more practical and works with a variety of decor styles and popular kitchen trends. Here’s more on why you might want to skip a farmhouse sink.
Hollywood-Style Bathroom Lighting
Hollywood-style marquee lighting had its moment, but that moment has passed. Need a new look? Try overhead pendant lighting. You can even add sconces on the side to round everything out.
Distressed Cabinets
While painting kitchen cabinets is worth your time, avoid using distressed finishes. Instead, paint cabinets with crisp, clean colors. Check out our picks for the best modern cabinet hardware.
Glass Block Bathroom Windows
Glass block bathroom windows may give you privacy and plenty of light, but they also make for a gaudy look that’s totally outdated.
Too Many Open Shelves
Open shelving looks great when it’s done right, but too many open shelves can look unorganized. Stick to a couple of well-organized open shelves mixed in with cabinets to successfully pull off this kitchen trend.
Copper Materials
Rose and copper finishes had their moment, but we are now seeing a major decline in these finishes on large surfaces. Gold, silver and bronze are beginning to take their place. Here are some other colors you shouldn’t have in your home.
All-White Bathrooms
While all-white makes for a sleek look, the trend has grown tiresome. White will always be around, but be sure to include some pops of color so your bathroom doesn’t look too sterile.
Kitchen Desks
Kitchen desks and workstations found their way into kitchen corners for years, but today’s kitchen designers are using the space more wisely. Try using that space for a pantry, instead. You can also use the area for food prep if you’re short on counter space.
Granite Materials
Granite has been a mainstay for decades, including for bathroom countertops. But designers and homeowners are putting granite on the back burner and putting marble on a pedestal.
Brass Hardware
Metals may be in when it comes to accessories, but avoid shiny brass as it can make a kitchen look dated. Instead, replace cabinet hardware with brushed nickel, glass or stainless steel.
Glossy Bathroom Tile
Matte finishes are taking the place of the glossy look as far as bathroom tiles go, with the trend toward a more natural and minimalist look on the rise. Top designers say you should avoid these trends when renovating your kitchen.
Tile Countertops
Tile countertops have made a comeback in recent years as they are less expensive than many other countertop materials, but they are difficult to maintain because they are prone to chips and grout stains. Instead, research the pros and cons of other countertop materials such as laminate, marble and stainless steel. There are plenty of other countertop options to meet your needs and budget.
Multiple Showerheads
Multiple showerheads means more water, and therefore overconsumption of water and energy. With consumers making more environmentally-friendly design decisions, it makes sense they’re opting for one showerhead.
Beige and Taupe Color Schemes
Along with avoiding all-white and chevron, consumers are passing up on beiges and taupes. Why? Neutrals have become boring. Richer colors are in! You’ll also love these pretty and practical bathroom organization products.
Subway Tiles
Subway tiles are fading from popularity, with terra-cotta tiles in varying geometric shapes taking their place. Check out these common bathroom cleaning mistakes and how to avoid them.
Fluorescent Box Lighting
If you still have a box light with fluorescent bulbs in your kitchen, it’s time for it to go. Go with pendants over your work area and layer in some task lighting over the range and accent lighting to add depth and dimension.
Chevron Pattern
Chevron has been trending like crazy, but that only means it’s time it takes a back seat to other ideas. Give up the rugs, wallpaper and towels designed with the pattern, as they are quickly becoming passé. Remodeling your bathroom?
Over-the-Range Microwave
Instead of saving space in the kitchen by putting the microwave over the range, move it to a built-in cubby under the counter. You may also be able to mount it under the cabinets, just above the counter. While over-the-range microwaves have been stylish for years, this kitchen trend is on the way out.
Oversized Tubs
Big bathtubs are impractical, both in how much space they take up and the amount of water used. Instead, make your bathroom feel like a spa with these relaxing gift ideas.
Bold Appliances
Bold kitchen colors are on-trend, but avoid choosing bright colors for appliances. You wouldn’t put a ’70s avocado green or goldenrod refrigerator in your kitchen now, so just imagine how that bold red or seafoam green appliance will look in a few years.
Next, read up on these easy DIY ideas that will transform your kitchen.
