Cabinets and Countertops: Trends For Your Kitchen Remodel

Trending Kitchen Cabinet Styles for 2025 and Beyond

Choosing cabinets is often the first design decision in a kitchen remodel, setting the tone for the entire space. Over the last few years, folk appear increasingly drawn to styles that balance classic appeal with modern functionality. Here’s a look at the cabinet trends we expect to see more of in 2025.

Shaker and Glass-Front Cabinets

Shaker cabinets are a long-time favorite, and for good reason. Their clean, straightforward lines suit a range of styles, from farmhouse to modern, making them a versatile choice for nearly any kitchen remodel. For those looking to bring a touch of openness, glass-front cabinets offer a unique way to display dishware or add visual depth, particularly in smaller kitchens where light is a priority. Combining shaker with glass-front cabinets can help strike that perfect balance between form and function.

Raised Panel Cabinets for a Timeless Touch

Although shaker cabinets are widely popular, we occasionally recommend raised panel styles for clients who prefer a more traditional look. Raised panel cabinets bring a sense of depth and detail to the space, adding character without overwhelming it. This style works well in homes with traditional architecture, providing a cohesive feel that complements the home’s overall design. When choosing this style, we suggest a slightly glossy or satin finish to highlight the detailing.

Bold Colors and Two-Toned Cabinets

For clients seeking something more striking, bold cabinet colors are making waves this year. Deep greens, navy blues, and even dramatic blacks turn kitchen cabinetry into a true focal point. Two-toned cabinets are also gaining traction, with darker shades on lower cabinets and lighter hues or natural wood tones on top. This approach draws the eye upward and creates a sense of spaciousness. When going bold with color, focus on durable finishes that withstand daily wear. We also recommend pairing bold cabinets with neutral countertops for contrast.

Mixed Material Cabinets

Get an ultra-customized look with mixed materials. Combining wood with metal, or incorporating textured materials like reeded glass or brushed brass, brings a tailored look to the kitchen. Clients interested in a high-end, curated feel often love the unexpected detail that mixed materials can provide.

Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Cabinets

Selecting cabinets is an investment, and making the right choices will impact how your kitchen looks and how you enjoy and use it every day. Legacy Builders Group has guided countless homeowners through these decisions and distilled these top recommendations for choosing the best cabinets for your kitchen remodel.

Know Your Style

Having a clear sense of your design style is essential before choosing cabinets. Try gathering inspiration photos and noting recurring themes. From modern and sleek to traditional and cozy, knowing your aesthetic helps narrow down choices and avoid second-guessing. Our in-house design resources help you clarify your style and visualize different options.

Focus on Functionality and Lifestyle Needs

Your kitchen’s design should reflect your daily routines. Are you an avid cook who needs extensive storage for spices and cookware, or do you prefer a streamlined space with minimal clutter? Considerations like pantry space, pull-outs, drawer organizers, and the type of door styles (such as full overlay for a seamless look) can greatly enhance your day-to-day experience.

Choose Cabinets First

In the design-build process, we advise clients to select their cabinets before other elements, as cabinets tend to anchor the kitchen’s color scheme and overall style. Once you know your cabinet style, color, and layout, picking complementary countertops, hardware, and fixtures is much easier.

Kitchen Countertop Trends for 2025

Selecting the right countertop can be transformative. Here’s what Legacy Builders Group notices on the horizon for kitchen countertops in Cincinnati.

Quartz and Quartzite: The Durable Favorite

Quartz has long been a top choice for its beauty and resilience, but quartzite is also stepping into the spotlight. Both materials are loved for their ability to withstand scratches, stains, and daily wear, making them ideal for busy kitchens. Quartz offers a vast array of color options, allowing clients to achieve everything from soft marbling to a solid, contemporary look.

Mixed Materials and Unique Edges

Blending materials like quartz and butcher block or experimenting with unique edge profiles (such as waterfall edges) is a popular trend that adds depth and visual interest. For example, placing a waterfall edge on a kitchen island provides a sleek, modern touch, while combining quartz with butcher block offers both durability and warmth.

Butcher Block for Warmth and Texture

Butcher block countertops bring warmth and a rustic feel that complements various kitchen styles, especially for clients seeking a cozy, natural aesthetic. They pair well with both traditional and modern cabinets, and their unique, rich wood grains add an earthy texture that balances sleek or painted cabinetry. 

Eco-Friendly and Recycled Materials

Countertops made from recycled materials are an ideal choice for clients interested in sustainability. Recycled glass countertops, for example, provide a distinctive look and are durable enough for everyday use. These eco-conscious options are gaining traction for their unique appearance and environmental benefits.

Expert Insights: Selecting the Right Countertop for Your Kitchen

Countertops play a major role in a kitchen's look and functionality, so choosing the right one requires careful consideration. Here are our expert tips for finding a countertop that suits your style, meets your needs, and stands the test of time:

Consider Your Lifestyle and Maintenance Needs

Each material requires different levels of maintenance, and clients should weigh this early on. While quartz is nearly maintenance-free, butcher block and natural stone may need regular sealing to keep them looking pristine. For families with young children, we often recommend prioritizing stain-resistant qualities. 

Think About Durability and Long-Term Use

Some clients gravitate toward aesthetics over durability, but it’s crucial to consider long-term use. Quartz and quartzite, for instance, can handle heavy use and are highly resistant to chips and scratches, making them ideal for kitchens that see a lot of cooking and entertaining. Granite and concrete also offer excellent durability for busy kitchens.

Consult our complimentary cost guide for updated ranges for kitchen remodeling and other popular remodeling projects in Cincinnati this year.

Balance Aesthetics and Practicality

Ultimately, countertops should add beauty to the space while being practical. Legacy Builders Group helps clients find the right balance, considering factors like color, texture, and the role countertops play in enhancing the kitchen’s overall design. For example, if your cabinets are bold, a neutral countertop will prevent the space from feeling too busy. When selecting countertops, clients should bring a sample of their cabinet finish. This helps them visualize how the materials will look together and ensure a harmonious design.

Let’s Create a Legacy-Quality Kitchen in Cincinnati

Legacy Builders Group is passionate about guiding our clients through every step of the kitchen design-build remodeling process. Our team’s decades of experience in the Cincinnati area means we know how to bring together the best design elements, expert craftsmanship, and high-quality materials to create a kitchen that meets your needs and serves your style.

Ready to start planning your dream kitchen? Schedule a consultation with Legacy Builders Group today to explore the possibilities.