The Most Popular Cabinet Finishes: What Dealers Should Stock

To stay competitive, cabinet dealers must keep up with evolving cabinet finish trends in kitchen design. In 2024, several cabinet finishes emerged as favorites, each offering unique aesthetic and functional benefits. Let’s explore this year’s most popular finishes and discuss what dealers should stock to keep their inventory current.

1. Matte Black

• Trend Overview: Matte black has become a top choice for contemporary kitchens. This finish offers a sleek, sophisticated look that complements various design styles, from industrial to minimalist.
• Why It’s Popular: The matte black finish adds drama and elegance to a space without overwhelming it. Its practical benefits, like hiding fingerprints and smudges better than glossy finishes, make it a confident choice for dealers. 30% of homeowners choose it and sales have increased 25% over the past year.
• Dealer Tip: Offering matte black options, like solid black and black with subtle textures and patterns, can better meet customer demand.

2. Warm Wood Tones

• Trend Overview: Warm wood tones, including walnut, oak, and cherry, continue to be popular in 2024. These finishes bring a natural, inviting feel to kitchens and pair well with various design elements.
• Why It’s Popular: The return of warm wood tones shows a growing preference for natural materials that create a cozy atmosphere. These finishes are versatile and work well with both traditional and modern designs. About 35% of homeowners choose warm wood tones, up from 22% in 2022.
• Dealer Tip: Offer a selection of warm wood finishes in different grain patterns and stains. Consider stocking options that highlight the natural beauty of the wood, such as open-grain finishes.

3. Soft White

• Trend Overview: Soft white cabinets, which include shades like off-white, cream, and antique white, are a staple in kitchen design. This timeless finish provides a versatile look that can brighten any space, making it a secure choice for distributors.
• Why It’s Popular: Soft white enhances the perception of space, making smaller areas appear more expansive and open. It also serves as a neutral backdrop, allowing other design elements to stand out. Approximately 40% of homeowners select soft white finishes and sales are up by 15% in the past year.
• Dealer Tip: Your inventory should include a range of soft white finishes, such as matte, semi-gloss, and satin, to suit different tastes and kitchen styles.

4. Bold Blue Hues

• Trend Overview: Bold blue cabinets, including shades like navy, cobalt, and teal, have gained popularity for their ability to add a vibrant pop of color to kitchens.
• Why It’s Popular: Blue hues offer a refreshing and dynamic alternative to traditional colors. They can create a striking contrast with neutral elements and bring a sense of tranquility and depth to a space. Approximately 25% of consumers choose blue cabinets, with sales boosting 20% compared to 2023.
• Dealer Tip: Stock a range of blue finishes, from deep navy to bright teal, and consider offering different textures and gloss levels to appeal to customers looking for a unique statement piece.

5. Matte Gray

• Trend Overview: Matte gray has become a versatile finish for modern and transitional kitchens. This color offers a modern, understated look that pairs effortlessly with various design elements.
• Why It’s Popular: Matte gray provides a neutral base that efficiently complements other colors and materials. This finish conceals dirt more effectively and is more durable than lighter finishes. About 22% of homeowners choose matte gray, with a 15% increase in demand over the past year.
• Dealer Tip: Include matte gray options, from light ash to deep charcoal, in your inventory. Different finishes, such as smooth and textured, can help meet diverse customer needs.

6. Textured Finishes

• Trend Overview: Textured finishes, including rift-sawn wood, brushed metals, and embossed patterns, are gaining traction in 2024. These finishes add visual interest and tactile appeal to cabinet designs.
• Why It’s Popular: Textured finishes provide a unique, personalized touch that sets cabinets apart. They can enhance the overall design of a kitchen by adding depth and character. 18% of consumers select textured cabinet finishes and we have seen a 12% increase in demand since 2023.
• Dealer Tip: Offer a variety of textured finishes, such as those with wood grains, metal accents, or geometric patterns. This variety will attract customers looking for something distinctive and custom.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your inventory updated with the latest cabinet finishes is crucial for staying relevant in kitchen design. You can better meet your customers’ needs by stocking various popular finishes like matte black, warm wood tones, soft white, bold blue hues, and matte gray. Embrace these trends to offer your clients the best options and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
For additional insights and recommendations on cabinet design, please stay tuned to our blog at CabinetCorp.