Inside the Elevated Kitchen: 7 Design Trends Defining the New Luxury
- Lisa Simopoulos
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Today’s high-end kitchen is more than a place to cook—it’s a curated environment that reflects personal style, supports real life, and seamlessly blends form with function. From deeply hued cabinetry to hidden prep zones and sculptural stone surfaces, here are seven trends we’re seeing in the most sophisticated kitchens right now—along with the brands and materials our clients love most.
1. Saturated Cabinetry & Statement Appliances
Neutral kitchens will always have their place, but rich, expressive hues are taking center stage—think forest green, navy, and even warm clay or charcoal. When paired with brushed brass or natural oak, these colors elevate the cabinetry from functional to fashion-forward.
But the personality doesn’t stop there. High-end appliances are now design statements in their own right. We love La Cornue for timeless, French elegance; ILVE and Bertazzoni for their Italian craftsmanship and eye-catching colors; and True and Smeg for refrigeration that merges performance with iconic design.
Why it matters: These thoughtful choices turn your kitchen into a fully integrated living space—layered, elegant, and highly personal.
Pro tip: Consider fully paneled appliances to let the cabinetry take the spotlight—or go bold with a heritage range in a custom color finish.
2. The Rise of the Hidden Kitchen
Originally known as a scullery, these 'dirty kitchens' are tucked-away spaces, often hidden directly off the kitchen to keep the mess of everyday life out of sight—making the main kitchen feel calm and curated. This is not to be confused with a Butler's pantry, which traditionally stores extra dishes and perhaps a bar area. It is no longer limited to high-end builds, either. Some are as simple as a smaller room off the kitchen with a sink and extra storage. Others are a full-blown second kitchen with all the appliances and a desk or additional workspace. It can be where the coffee is brewed, prep is done, and dishes are discreetly stashed during dinner parties.
We often incorporate workstation-style sinks (like Ruvati) to maximize utility in these compact areas, adding layered functionality without sacrificing style.
Why it matters: It’s the secret to hosting gracefully—your guests see the beauty, while real life happens just out of frame- just like those insta pics!
Design tip: Using the same cabinetry style as the main kitchen, but in a different finish or color visually distinguishes the zone while keeping a cohesive feel—bonus points for integrated lighting and a smaller prep sink if there is room.
3. Mosaic Moments & Wallpaper Winks
Specialty zones like coffee bars, wine stations, or prep pantries are becoming design playgrounds. Hand-painted mosaic tiles, zellige textures, and even bold wallpaper prints are defining these spaces and creating high-style moments within hardworking areas.
Why it matters: These materials bring energy and personality to your kitchen without overwhelming it: similar reasoning for going bold in a powder room. These specialized vignettes give a personality punch in a layered, open-plan living.
Where we love it: A jewel-toned mosaic backsplash in a bar nook or a playful wallpaper behind a glass-front cabinet for just a hint of drama.
4. Porcelain Slabs That Perform
We’re seeing increased demand for porcelain slabs that mimic marble—with the added benefit of superior durability. Leading brands like Dekton, Neolith, and Infinity Surfaces are producing large-format slabs that are resistant to heat, stains, and UV exposure, making them ideal for both indoor kitchens and outdoor installations.
Why it matters: These slabs offer the luxurious look of natural stone without the maintenance concerns—especially appealing in homes that balance beauty with high use.
Where we love it: Waterfall islands, full-height splashes, and outdoor counters for enduring the elements with elegance.
5. Marble, Reimagined
Visit the Parthenon and marble is everywhere and it was built in 447 BC. Natural stone isn’t going anywhere—but it’s getting a modern makeover. Today’s luxury kitchens feature honed, leathered, and dramatically veined varieties. One standout: Michelangelo Marble, with its soft white base and expressive gray-gold veining that is both warm and cool—it’s a client favorite for a reason.
Why it matters: These stones don't just read like art; they ARE art—organic, emotional, and quietly powerful.
Client tip: Use bold marble as a focal point—on an island, splash, or integrated shelf detail—paired with understated cabinetry for balance.
6. Tech That Disappears (Until You Need It)
Touchless faucets have become a design must-have—not only for hygiene, but for convenience and subtle luxury. It takes a bit to become accustomed to, but my clients that do are avid fans. Brands like Brizo’s SmartTouch (pictured below), Kohler’s Sensate, and Grohe’s SmartControl offer intuitive operation and beautifully refined finishes.
Why it matters: This smart upgrade allows you to clean raw meat, dirt, grease etc off hands without contaminating or getting the faucet dirty.
Hot tip: We always test faucet sensitivity in person to ensure it aligns with how your household functions—no overreactions, just seamless performance.
7. Designing for Real Life (Not the Showroom)
The most meaningful trend? A return to kitchens that feel lived-in, loved, and deeply personal. Our clients are prioritizing flow, comfort, and authentic materials—spaces where family and friends can gather, prep stations work overtime, and no detail is too small to be considered.
Why it matters: Elevated living isn’t about perfection—it’s about crafting spaces that support your lifestyle with beauty and ease.
Our approach: We begin with the rhythms of your everyday life, then layer in timeless finishes, functional zones, and warm, cohesive design.
Planning Your Kitchen Refresh? Whether you’re dreaming of a high-functioning scullery, a porcelain-wrapped island, or a custom range that stops guests in their tracks, we specialize in creating kitchens that support how you live—beautifully.
Serving Sacramento, San Francisco, Napa & Tahoe
Let's make something beautiful.
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