Cabinet Trends by Region: What’s Popular Nationwide

Cabinets play a vital role in setting the tone and functionality of the space. While some cabinet styles, finishes, and colors are popular nationwide, regional trends can vary widely across the U.S. From the polished, modern styles of the West Coast to the warm, rustic designs in the South, understanding what’s popular in various parts of the country can help contractors, builders, and cabinet dealers better serve their clients. Here’s a breakdown of cabinet trends by region.

1. West Coast: Lustrous & Contemporary

The West Coast, particularly California, is known for its forward-thinking design, influenced by modern, eco-conscious trends. Homeowners in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle often gravitate toward:

• Sleek, Minimalist Designs: Frameless cabinets and flat-panel doors, like the European-style cabinets are famous for their clean lines and clutter-free aesthetic. Modern, streamlined cabinetry is favored by 65% of homeowners.
• High Gloss Finishes: High-gloss finishes in bold, dark, or neutral tones, like whites, grays, and vibrant blues, reflect the West Coast’s love for high-end finishes.
• Eco-Friendly Materials: Sustainable wood options and cabinets made from recycled materials are in high demand as West Coast homeowners prioritize environmentally conscious choices. 45% of new cabinets are made from sustainable materials, aligning with the region’s green initiatives.
• Metal Accents: About 25% of remodels use metal cabinet accents such as brass handles.

2. Northeast: Classic & Timeless

The Northeast region is rich in tradition, with homeowners often favoring designs that blend modern functionality with classic aesthetics. In cities like Boston and New York, popular cabinet trends include:

• Shaker Cabinets: Classic white or light gray shaker cabinets remain a staple, offering a timeless look that complements a variety of kitchen designs. White cabinets are used in a massive 50% of new kitchens.
• Open-Shelving: This type of shelving is used in about 25% of coastal kitchen renovations.
• Two-Tone Kitchens: Northeast homeowners embrace the two-tone kitchen trend, often pairing white or light upper cabinets with darker base cabinets for a visually dynamic look.
• Mixed Materials: Approximately 40% of kitchen remodels integrate different cabinet finishes.
• Inset Cabinets: There has been a 15% increase in the demand for inset kitchen cabinets, especially in high-end remodels.
• Muted Colors: About  45% of homeowners prefer muted, earthy tones, including sage green, antique white, and taupe.

3. Midwest: Farmhouse & Function

With its vast farmlands and strong connection to nature, the Midwest has long been known for its love of practical, sturdy designs. Popular cabinet trends in cities like Chicago and St. Louis include:

• Farmhouse Cabinets: Farmhouse designs remain a favorite in the Midwest, whether warm, natural wood or painted white shaker-style cabinets. Open shelving or glass-front cabinets increase the charm of the space.
• Natural Wood Tones: Homeowners prefer natural wood tones like oak, hickory, and maple, which offer a warm, welcoming feel. Darker stains, like walnut or espresso, are going through a resurgence, with a 20% spike in demand from last year.
• Functional Features: Midwest homeowners prioritize practical features such as pull-out pantries and integrated appliance garages. These smart storage solutions are included in about 30% of new kitchens.

4. South: Warm & Rustic 

In the South, kitchen design is all about generosity and comfort. States like Texas, Georgia, and North Carolina favor homey designs that create a welcoming atmosphere. Cabinet trends in this region include:

• Rustic Finishes: Cabinets with distressed finishes or weathered wood are popular in Southern homes, particularly in ranch-style or farmhouse kitchens.
• Raised Panel Doors: Traditional raised panel cabinets in warm, rich wood tones like cherry, mahogany, and oak, remain popular. They provide an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and charming.
• Open Shelving: Although open shelving is declining in popularity in other parts of the country, many Southern homeowners still love the trend of playing with dishware and decorative items.

5. Southwest: Earthy & Alluring Charm

The Southwest embraces its desert landscape. Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada homeowners lean toward earthy tones and natural materials. Key trends include:

• Warm, Earthy and Vibrant Hues: Cabinets in earthy colors like terracotta, olive green, and muted browns complement the desert landscape and add warmth to kitchen designs. To reflect the region’s bright aesthetic, teals and terracottas are being used by 40% of homeowners.
• Textured Finishes: Southwest homeowners appreciate cabinets with rich textures, like knotty wood or weathered finishes, which add depth and character to their homes.
• Custom Handcrafted Designs: Custom cabinetry with intricate detailing, often influenced by Spanish and Native American craftsmanship, is a highly sought-after feature in this region. The demand has risen by approximately 30%, catering to unique architectural styles.

6. Pacific Northwest: Nature-Inspired & Functional

The Pacific Northwest, known for its lush forests and outdoor culture, often sees design trends heavily inspired by nature. Popular cabinet trends in this region include:

• Natural Wood Finishes: Cabinets with natural, wood finishes like cedar, oak, and pine are commonly found in Pacific Northwest homes, reflecting the region’s love for nature.
• Green Cabinets: Earthy green tones, such as sage or moss green, are often trending in the Pacific Northwest. 
• Functional Storage Solutions: Homeowners in the region tend to favor cabinets that prioritize functionality, with features such as hidden storage, pull-out drawers, and built-in organizers to maximize space.

Wrapping Things Up

Cabinet trends vary widely across the U.S., influenced by regional aesthetics, cultural preferences, and practical needs. Whether designing for sleek, contemporary West Coast kitchens or crafting homey, welcoming spaces in the South, understanding these regional preferences can help you better serve your clients.

CabinetCorp, recognizing the diversity of regional tastes, offers a wide range of cabinet styles to suit any region, making it easier than ever to meet the diverse needs of homeowners across the country.

By staying on top of these trends, contractors, builders, and dealers can proactively create spaces that resonate with their client’s unique tastes while ensuring the kitchen remains functional and timeless.

Are you looking for more inspiration or design advice? Contact CabinetCorp to explore our extensive selection of cabinets, from rustic farmhouse styles to sleek, contemporary designs. We offer a selection that caters to the unique preferences of every region and home.