Are White Kitchens Timeless or Trendy?

Pros & Cons of an All-White Kitchen Look 

Over the course of the past year, we’ve all spent more time than ever before in our homes. And that means that some of the most popular design choices in recent times have been called into question. Is the fiddle leaf fig really still the “it” plant? Are graphic floor tiles really for me? And of course, the big one: Are all-white kitchens timeless or trendy?

So today, we’re diving into the world of kitchens because this last question has been circulating quite a lot recently. After all, the general color trend has been moving into warmer and more saturated-color territory. So you may be thinking that white kitchens are totally trendy. But the truth is that they’ve been around since the 1920s and 1930s (in fact, white was the only color offered at that time!). So it’s not really a surprise that white kitchens do still remain popular. 

Whichever way you lean, it’s definitely a hot debate, and you won’t want to miss it. Read on – it’s your turn to be the judge!

Argument #1: White Kitchens are Totally Timeless

When it comes to the “timeless” stance on white kitchens, practicality reigns supreme. Typically, opting for a neutral palette as your base in your home is actually the smartest choice for longevity. No ultra-permanent commitments to a whimsical wallpaper or a shockingly-bold floor tile. No frustration at having to re-paint your cabinets yet again as soon as the latest mint/sage/blue/pink (or fill in the blank) color trend shifts. 

Easy to Re-Style

White is, arguably, a classic color. And by using it as a base, you can easily change up your style via all of the surrounding kitchen decor. Tired of a too-traditional look? Update your hardware pulls or light fixtures. Ready to make red your color pop du jour? Pick up a few ceramic bowls and a new teakettle to re-style your kitchen. The possibilities never end. White simply allows you to play with your room’s aesthetic. And for people who get tired of trends easily, it’s a safe bet for your own kitchen.

Crisp & Clean

Beyond the functional elements of white kitchens, they’re also beloved simply because of their crisp and clean appearance. Ever walk into a too-bold or cluttered kitchen? Automatically feel closed in or unsure where to stand? That’s precisely our point. All-white kitchens feel inherently collected and visually simple. No matter what type of spread or cooking mess is out in full view on the counter, a white room manages to seem intentional and show-stopping.

Argument #2: White Kitchens are OUT

Then again, the camp that believes that white kitchens are a trend that’s heading out the door has some solid points in its column, too. Not only are we seeing a bucking of the typical all-white look, but we’re seeing more and more of its exact opposite: bold and unapologetic color palettes. Rich jewel tones, soft pastels, textured backsplashes, and more are making debuts left and right. And while that can feel trendy, it seems that it’s actually a reflection of more and more people embracing their personal styles and an overall vibe of comfort.

Practicality

To bring it back to the question of practicality, too, white kitchens are, admittedly, more prone to scuffs and dirt. And if you’ve got kiddos, you know exactly what we mean. Darker cabinets do tend to hide the more pressing stains and fingertip smudges. 

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Ready for Something New

Beyond this, though, white hit a major stride a few years back. This means it’s a wave that people have been riding ever since. You know the look – white walls and cabinets paired with brushed brass hardware and subway tile backsplashes. And while it’s actually quite a stylish look, it’s definitely one you see just about everywhere you go – including commercial spaces. So the whole white and neutral kitchen look seems to feel, well, a little tired overall. And with people spending so much time at home these days, it does beg the question whether or not the look actually brings people joy, or just feels like a repetition of a Pinterest-popular trend. 

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Argument #3: There IS a Middle Ground

But just because white kitchens are being argued over like mad these days, it doesn’t mean you have to either ditch them completely or fight to the bitter end over their value. In fact, there is a happy middle ground that is easily achievable. As far as the color white itself, there are endless variations. And if you love the simplicity and crispness of a white kitchen, but are ready for something a little different than we’ve typically seen, simply stick to those creamy and warm whites instead. That way, you get a soft and neutral white as your base, but your kitchen feels undoubtedly less bright. This allows you to change with the trends in a simple, yet impactful, way. 

Warm It Up

Another great way to keep your white kitchen while adding some warmth and color is to simply update your decor pieces. Bring in hints of wood or woven elements for an inviting and contrasting look. And don’t be afraid to pepper in a few hints of color here and there. You’d be surprised at how something as simple as a new piece of artwork, rug, or a vase filled with flowers can totally transform your space.

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So, what’s your verdict? Are white kitchens still fabulous enough to rave about for years to come? Or are you firmly convinced that it’s time to shelf the trend? Let us know your vote in the comments below!

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By Megan Johansson, Contributor to Carla Bast Design