2026 Cabinetry Trends: What We Expect to See as the New Year Approaches

As 2025 winds down, we’ve had a front-row seat to the design shifts happening inside homes across Oklahoma and beyond. From the finishes rolling through our spray booths to the materials stacked in our mill, the patterns are clear: 2026 is shaping up to be a year of warmer, richer, and far more intentional cabinetry.

Here’s our take on what we're seeing lead the way in the year ahead.

1. From Corners to Curves: A Shift in Cabinet Design

One of the clearest design shifts we’ve noticed heading into 2026 is the move toward cabinetry with softer, curved geometry. Instead of sharp corners and hard lines, homeowners are gravitating toward radius elements that make the home feel warmer and more inviting.

We’re seeing this through:

• Radius islands that soften the room’s focal point

• Radius doors and drawer fronts for a sculptural, custom-crafted look

• Arched uppers and curved hood designs that add architectural interest

  
  

With today’s CNC precision and advanced woodworking techniques, these curved components are clean, consistent, and built to last. They help spaces feel more open and approachable by eliminating harsh corners and replacing them with smooth, continuous movement.

It’s a subtle shift with meaningful impact: cabinetry that feels elevated, organic, and tailor-made from every angle.

2. Natural Wood & Visible Grain

Warmth is officially back, and we’re seeing it in the rise of wood species that proudly show off their grain and character. Instead of hiding natural texture under heavy pigment, homeowners are choosing materials that feel organic, rich, and timeless.

Plain sliced white oak, walnut, rift-cut white oak, and knotty alder are leading the way. Each brings its own personality: the clean vertical lines of rift-cut oak, the warmth and movement of plain sliced oak, the deep, refined tones of walnut, and the rustic charm of knotty alder.

Light stains, natural finishes, and grain-enhancing washes are becoming the go-to choice.

Left - Right: Rift white oak, Walnut, Knotty Alder

These finishes let the wood speak for itself, creating a calm, grounded aesthetic that works beautifully in both modern and traditional spaces.

Natural wood is no longer just an accent in 2026, it’s a statement.

3. Textural Details That Add Quiet Sophistication

Homeowners are gravitating toward fluted panels, tambour accents, and reeded glass that add dimension without feeling busy. These details show up most often in bars, vanities, and

accent pieces, giving the home a handcrafted look. It’s a refined way to introduce personality and depth while keeping the overall design calm and timeless.

Left: Fluted Panels, Right: Reeded Panels

4. Hidden Functionality & Smart Storage

2026 isn’t just about beauty, clean, intentional living is still here to stay.

Clients are asking for:

• Hidden pantries

• Appliance garages with lift-ups

• Pull out trash cans

• Charging stations concealed within cabinetry

• Slim spice pull-outs and baking sheet organizers

Function is now just as important as appearance. A home should look stunning and work even better.

5. Mixed Materials And Finishes Bring Visual Interest

Homeowners want kitchens with presence, not a single finish from wall to wall. This has led to an increase in projects that incorporate multiple materials to build texture and visual interest.

We are regularly seeing

• Wood paired with warm metal finishes

• Painted cabinets combined with stain

• Metal grille inserts adding texture and detail

• Stone, metal, and wood combinations that feel thoughtfully layered

  
  

These elements give the kitchen character and make it feel carefully curated.

FINAL THOUGHTS

2026 cabinetry design is all about balance ,the warmth of natural materials, the artistry of multi-step finishes, and the everyday ease of smart, hidden storage. These trends reflect a shift toward homes that feel lived-in, functional, and uniquely tailored to the people who use them.

As these ideas continue to take shape, our team at Sullivan’s Custom Cabinetry is ready to bring them to life!