Last Updated on November 30, 2023
The remodeling craze continues this year, with a recent study indicating 33% of homeowners completed a home renovation project in 2023. If you’re about to embark on a kitchen remodel, keep reading to see what’s trending, based on a recent kitchen renovation study conducted by HOUZZ.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost?
According to the latest Cost vs. Value report, a minor kitchen remodel costs 26% and recoups nearly 70% when you sell. An upscale major kitchen remodel can cost upwards of $150,000 and only regains about 51% of the investment when it’s time to sell.
Layout/scope
A staggering 45% of homeowners plan a kitchen renovation with a changed layout, which typically significantly adds to the cost of the total project. Nearly 36% of homeowners modify walls, and only about 11% modify the ceiling.
For 66% of homeowners, the remodeled kitchen is about the same size as their previous kitchen. Twenty-seven percent of homeowners opt for a larger kitchen, and only about 6% of homeowners go for a significantly larger (more than 50%) kitchen. The most common size for a kitchen was at least 200 square feet or more, with 51% of homeowners going with a larger-sized kitchen.
Kitchen island
The kitchen island is going nowhere in terms of popularity and homeowners can’t get enough of this kitchen workhorse, with the majority opting to either add or upgrade an existing island. Most homeowners choose an island that is rectangle and at least 6 feet in length. In terms of color choice, many choose to an island color that contrasts with the perimeter cabinets, with the most popular colors being blue, gray, black or wooden tones.
Open concept
Believe it or not, open floor plans first became popular in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that they became a mainstay in homes. A kitchen opened up to common living areas are still very popular today, with 40% of homeowners opting for this design aesthetic.
Cabinet styles
Shaker style is still the most popular choice when it comes to cabinet selection, but it’s slowly starting to decline in prevalence. Homeowners seeking a more modern look are selecting flat-panel cabinets. In terms of cabinet sources, custom cabinetry is still the most popular route, with 44% of homeowners going this way. Thirty one percent of homeowners opt for semi-custom cabinets, while 12% select stock cabinets.
Countertop choices
Quartz countertops have been the top choice for homeowners for more than two decades, but now the tides are shifting slightly as quartz has dropped in popularity slightly over the past few years. In 2023, 36% of homeowners selected quartz, 23% selected granite, 10% selected butcher block, 8% went with quartzite and 5% selected marble.
Flooring selections
Wood floors remain supreme, despite LVP and engineered hardwood gaining traction. Twenty-five percent of homeowners opt for stained or unstained wood, while 22% opt for vinyl and 15% go with engineered hardwood. Ceramic or porcelain tile is still popular, with 19% of homeowners selecting this flooring option.
Quick tips for a timeless kitchen remodel
- In terms of plumbing fixtures, polished nickel and chrome are the most timeless options
- White subway tile will never go out of style and allows you to change up decor frequently
- When in doubt, choose white cabinet doors
- Hide appliances as much as possible
- Choose a countertop material that’s not busy
If this list of kitchen remodeling trends inspires you to renovate your own home, sign up for a free home physical! Our real estate experts can walk you through your project and discuss ROI when it comes time to sell.
You might also like: Planning a new build? Make it timeless with these tips
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