Kitchen trends are shifting in 2026 toward warmth, depth, and more timeless design choices. While some colours have dominated kitchens over the past decade, changing tastes and a move toward softer, more natural palettes mean certain shades are starting to feel dated.
Here are three kitchen colours expected to fall out of favour in 2026, and what’s replacing them.
1. High-Gloss Black
High-gloss black finishes are becoming less desirable as preferences shift toward softer, matte textures.
Glossy black can feel heavy and show fingerprints easily, making it less practical for busy kitchens. Matte charcoal or deep, earthy tones now offer a more refined, livable alternative, especially for custom kitchen doors, as seen at https://www.happy-doors.co.uk/shop/products/kitchens.
2. Stark White
All-white kitchens are also on the decline. While still clean and bright, stark white can appear clinical and unforgiving, especially in everyday family homes.
Designers are favouring layered neutrals and subtle colour variation instead. When layered with richer, warmer tones, ethereal whites like Cloud Dancer, the Pantone Colour of the Year for 2026, instantly modernise the space while keeping it light.
3. Cool Mid-Grey
Once a go-to for modern kitchens, cool mid-grey AKA millennial grey is beginning to feel flat and impersonal. As homeowners seek warmer, more inviting spaces, grey with blue or silver undertones is losing appeal.
In its place, warmer neutrals such as taupe, greige, and soft clay tones are becoming more popular, offering depth without feeling cold.
By swapping off-trend shades for these alternatives, you can create a kitchen that feels current and comfortable.