Colorado Kitchens Are Moving On From These 11 Looks (But These 13 Are Here To Stay)
Colorado kitchens are cooking up a whole new vibe, and some past trends are getting kicked to the curb like last season’s ski gear. If you’re still rocking dark cherry cabinets or that all-white everything look, it might be time for a style refresh.
Design pros across the Centennial State are saying goodbye to dated details and hello to kitchens that feel fresh, functional, and full of personality. From earthy tones that echo the Rockies to tech-savvy upgrades perfect for mountain living, the heart of the home is getting a major glow-up.
Curious about what’s so last decade, and what’s sticking around for the long haul? Time to stir the pot and spice things up.
1. Overly Glossy Cabinets
Remember when everyone wanted cabinets so shiny you could check your reflection? Those fingerprint-magnet surfaces are finally losing their appeal across Colorado homes.
Mountain homeowners now recognize the impracticality of maintaining that perfect shine, especially with our dusty climate and active lifestyles. Plus, those glossy finishes often created a dated, artificial vibe that clashed with our state’s natural aesthetic.
2. White Subway Tiles Everywhere
White subway tiles have reigned supreme for years, but Colorado kitchens are finally breaking free from this predictable pattern. Though classic, they’ve become the beige carpet of backsplashes, safe but utterly forgettable.
Homeowners now crave materials with character and dimension that reflect our state’s dramatic landscapes. The uniform look simply doesn’t capture the vibrant, textural quality that defines modern Colorado design sensibilities.
3. Dark, Heavy Wood Finishes
Those espresso-stained cabinets that dominated the early 2000s are heading for extinction in Colorado kitchens. While they once signaled luxury, they’ve proven to be light-suckers that make our spaces feel smaller and more confined.
Many homeowners discovered these dark finishes show every speck of dust and water spot. Moreover, they often clash with the bright, airy aesthetic that celebrates our state’s abundant sunshine and breathtaking views.
4. Matching Appliance Sets Only
Why stick to a single appliance brand when your kitchen could reflect your own mountain-style independence? The matchy-matchy appliance suites are losing their grip on Colorado kitchens. That old rule about buying everything from the same brand in identical finishes feels unnecessarily restrictive and lacks personality.
Savvy homeowners now select each appliance based on function and features rather than brand loyalty. This mix-and-match approach creates more interesting, personalized spaces. Those that reflect our independent mountain spirit while allowing for better functionality where it matters most.
5. Overcrowded Open Shelving
The Pinterest-perfect open shelving stuffed with matching dishes is fading fast from Colorado kitchens. While the concept promised an airy feel, reality hit when dust, grease, and clutter transformed these displays into high-maintenance headaches.
Our state’s active lifestyle means less time for constant styling and dusting. Homeowners grew tired of the visual noise and impracticality, especially in areas prone to the fine dust that blows in during our dry seasons.
6. Traditional Floral Backsplashes
Fussy floral tile backsplashes are wilting in Colorado kitchens. Those busy botanical patterns once seemed charming, but now read as outdated and visually overwhelming against our state’s natural backdrop.
The elaborate designs often compete with rather than complement our mountain views. Colorado homeowners increasingly prefer cleaner backgrounds that don’t distract from the real star of the show…those gorgeous window vistas of the Rockies.
7. Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops are rapidly disappearing from Colorado kitchens faster than snow in April. Once valued for affordability, they’ve proven no match for our active lifestyle, showing scratches, burns, and water damage too easily.
The seams and edges tend to peel and chip, especially in our dry climate, which causes materials to contract. Moreover, today’s home seekers expect more durable, premium surfaces that stand up to everything from hot pots to homebrewed craft beer spills.
8. Flush-Mounted Range Hoods
Those barely-there range hoods hiding in cabinetry are losing favor among Colorado cooks. While they once seemed sleek and unobtrusive, their performance often disappoints, failing to properly ventilate our high-altitude cooking.
Colorado’s elevation affects cooking times and techniques, creating more steam and smoke that require serious ventilation. Homeowners have learned that these underpowered hidden hoods simply can’t keep up with the demands of our mountain cuisine and frequent entertaining.
9. All-Black Kitchens
The all-black kitchen trend is fading to gray in Colorado homes. While dramatic, these dark monochromatic spaces often feel too severe and cave-like, especially during our long winter months when natural light is precious.
The stark contrast with our bright outdoor environment creates a jarring transition. Colorado homeowners increasingly prefer spaces that flow with rather than against our natural surroundings, incorporating the warmth and light that reflect our sunny state.
10. Tiny Kitchen Islands
Postage-stamp kitchen islands are being kicked to the curb across Colorado. Undersized islands fail to serve our entertainment-focused lifestyle, where gathering around food is central to mountain culture.
Colorado homeowners have realized these mini islands waste valuable kitchen real estate. Our spaces now demand multifunctional workhorses with enough room for meal prep, homework help, impromptu happy hours, and displaying that farmers’ market haul from summer weekends.
11. Formal Dining Adjacent Only
The strict separation between kitchen and formal dining spaces is crumbling in Colorado homes. Those rarely-used formal dining rooms that sit empty except for holidays feel increasingly wasteful and old-fashioned.
Our casual mountain lifestyle calls for more flexible, multi-use spaces. Colorado homeowners now prefer open concepts where cooking, dining, and gathering flow together naturally, reflecting how we actually live and entertain in our homes throughout all four seasons.
12. Matte Finish Cabinets
Why are more Colorado kitchens going matte? Because glossy just can’t handle the heat, or the fingerprints!
Unlike their glossy predecessors, these sophisticated surfaces hide fingerprints and minor imperfections beautifully, perfect for our active lifestyle homes.
The subtle texture creates a warm, inviting feel that complements our mountain aesthetic. These finishes also photograph gorgeously in natural light, capturing the incredible sunshine Colorado is famous for. All while adding a contemporary yet timeless quality to spaces.
13. Mixed Metal Hardware
Gone are the days when all kitchen hardware had to match perfectly. Colorado kitchens now embrace an eclectic mix of metals that adds depth and character to our spaces.
Combining brushed brass pulls with matte black faucets or copper pendants with stainless appliances creates a collected-over-time feel. This approach reflects our state’s diverse influences, from mining history to contemporary mountain modern. Resulting in kitchens that feel authentic rather than showroom-perfect.
14. Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops have firmly planted their flag in Colorado kitchens. Their incredible durability stands up to everything from red wine spills to hot pots accidentally placed without trivets. It’s perfect for our casual entertaining style.
The material’s resistance to staining and scratching makes it ideal for busy households. Colorado homeowners particularly love quartz options that mimic natural stone with subtle veining, offering the beauty of marble without the maintenance headaches at our higher altitudes.
15. Bold Color Accents
Navy, emerald, and other rich hues are making splashy appearances in Colorado kitchens. These bold color accents create focal points that draw the eye while maintaining a connection to our natural surroundings.
A deep blue island or forest green tile backsplash references our mountain lakes and pine forests. This approach satisfies our craving for color without overwhelming the space. It’s creating visual interest that complements rather than competes with Colorado’s spectacular outdoor views.
16. Large Kitchen Islands With Seating
Substantial islands with comfortable seating have become the heart of Colorado kitchens. These multipurpose workhorses serve as prep space, casual dining spot, homework central, and the inevitable gathering place during parties.
The generous proportions accommodate our love for entertaining and family-style meals. Many Colorado homeowners opt for islands that incorporate different levels or materials, helping define zones for working, eating, and socializing.
They’re perfect for gathering around local craft beers and apps. Because here, the kitchen isn’t just for cooking, it’s for connecting.
17. Curated Open Shelving
Strategic open shelving has found its sweet spot in Colorado kitchens. Unlike the overcrowded displays of yesteryear, today’s approach features carefully curated collections of everyday items and meaningful objects.
A few floating shelves displaying handmade pottery or favorite cookbooks add personality without maintenance headaches. Colorado homeowners have mastered the art of restraint. Using these architectural elements to showcase special pieces that tell a story about their mountain lifestyle or outdoor adventures.
18. Farmhouse Sinks
Farmhouse sinks have secured their place in Colorado kitchens for good reason. Their deep, wide basins easily handle everything from washing farmers market hauls to cleaning outdoor gear after adventures.
The practical design eliminates the countertop lip that collects grime. Beyond functionality, these statement pieces add character that complements our mountain modern aesthetic. Especially in fireclay or natural stone finishes that age beautifully with use and tell a story of a well-loved kitchen.
19. Statement Pendant Lighting
Bold pendant lights have become the jewelry of Colorado kitchens. These eye-catching fixtures create dramatic focal points while providing essential task lighting over islands and dining areas.
Oversized pendants in natural materials like hammered copper or hand-blown glass add artistic elements that elevate the entire space. Colorado homeowners particularly gravitate toward designs that reference our mining heritage or incorporate natural elements.
20. Natural Wood Accents
Warm wood elements have cemented their place in Colorado kitchen design. From exposed ceiling beams to waterfall-edge islands, these natural accents bring organic texture that connects our interiors with the outdoor environment we cherish.
Reclaimed timbers and locally-sourced woods tell a sustainability story that resonates with our environmental values. The natural variation in wood grain adds visual interest and warmth to spaces. It’s preventing the sterile feel that all-white kitchens can sometimes create in our mountain homes.
21. Two-Tone Cabinets
Why settle for one cabinet color when two can do twice the work? Two-tone schemes have captured the hearts of Colorado homeowners.
Lighter uppers paired with darker bases or islands help kitchens feel larger and more dynamic. It’s a smart way to add depth and define zones. Especially in those open-plan, mountain-view homes we love.
22. Minimalist Design With Warm Textures
Clean-lined minimalism warmed up with natural textures has found its perfect home in Colorado kitchens. This approach balances contemporary simplicity with the coziness needed for our mountain climate.
Sleek cabinet fronts paired with textural elements like rough-hewn wood or handmade tile create inviting spaces that never feel cold or sterile. Colorado homeowners appreciate how this aesthetic creates calm, uncluttered environments that let our spectacular views take center stage while still feeling welcoming year-round.
23. Walk-In Pantry Spaces
Dedicated walk-in pantries have become non-negotiable in Colorado kitchen design. These hardworking spaces store everything from small appliances to bulk purchases that sustain us through snowstorms.
Modern pantries often include counter space for small appliances and charging stations. Colorado homeowners particularly value these organizational powerhouses for storing seasonal gear like picnic baskets in summer and holiday serveware in winter. Meanwhile, keeping the main kitchen uncluttered and ready for our frequent entertaining.
24. Smart Kitchen Technology
Smart technology is transforming Colorado kitchens into high-tech hubs. From voice-activated faucets to refrigerators that track grocery needs, these innovations simplify life in our busy, active-lifestyle homes.
App-controlled coffee makers brew before mountain adventures. Ovens preheat remotely after a day of skiing. Colorado homeowners love these smart solutions that boost efficiency and convenience. That means more time for enjoying the state’s abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.
