Wood Kitchen Cabinets Are Officially Back in Style for 2026, According to a New Report

Homeowners planning a kitchen makeover might find valuable insights in the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA/KBIS) 2026 Trends Report, which highlights a resurgence in the popularity of wood kitchen cabinets. The report suggests that investing in wood cabinetry is a sound decision for those seeking timeless design choices, helping to ensure that a significant home renovation remains stylish for years to come. According to the NKBA Trends Report, wood cabinets are gaining significant traction, with 59% of surveyed design professionals, including designers, remodelers, showroom professionals, and contractors, identifying them as a popular trend. Specifically, white oak is emerging as a top choice for cabinet material, favored by 51% of respondents currently undertaking kitchen renovations. Unlike the orange-toned oak popular in the early 2000s, modern white oak features bleached, ashy undertones and an almost whitewashed finish. This lighter aesthetic offers versatility, capable of complementing various design styles such as antique, beachy, Scandinavian, or contemporary, providing a more serene and updated look compared to its predecessors. Beyond cabinetry, the report also indicates a growing preference for wood flooring in kitchens. For countertops and backsplashes, natural quartzite and quartz are identified as increasingly popular materials. These selections contribute to a calming kitchen environment, further supported by the current trend toward neutral color palettes. Greens and blues are also noted as popular secondary color choices, reinforcing a desire for natural and soothing aesthetics in kitchen design. The emphasis on these classic and neutral elements reflects a broader homeowner desire for timelessness in kitchen renovations. The combination of white oak and natural stone provides a versatile foundation that allows for easy aesthetic updates through accessories or wall colors as personal styles evolve over time. For those who already have existing oak or wood-grain cabinets, achieving the white oak look is possible through refinishing with a whitewash staining technique. Renters seeking a similar aesthetic can consider using white oak peel-and-stick wallpaper, offering a cost-effective and temporary solution. Ultimately, the report encourages a focus on neutral and natural materials for upcoming kitchen makeovers to ensure lasting satisfaction with the design.