As 2021 comes to a close, we look back on some of our favorite design trends of the year, and the beautiful kitchens that showcase them.

From rich hues on the walls and cabinets, to the bold contrast of different textures and tones, this year’s inspiration was all about taking risks in the kitchen. And we must say, it paid off.

Read on for more about the trends we loved, and for 10 of our favorite designs from the year (it was hard to pick just 10!)

Going Green

Green elements had a moment in 2021. From their earthy charm to their calming capabilities, it’s a look that feels neutral, yet unique, and designers and homeowners alike opted for the color in kitchens and beyond.

Strohmaier Construction paired a geometric green backsplash with a Thermador Professional Rangetop for a design that is daring, yet simple. A crisp countertop and burnished wood finished cabinets round out the look.

Meg McSherry Interiors also opted for a green color palette in a kitchen design. Pairing a soft sage shade with a clean white backsplash and a bold wood floor creates a homey, yet polished effect. The 36” Thermador Professional Range shines in contrast to the matte finished cabinets.

The image can be credited to photographer Sarah M. Winchester, @sarah_w_studios.

White Oak Accents

Light woods – particularly White Oak – are gaining popularity for their ability to hide dirt and scuffs, as well as their light and airy feel that pairs well with styles ranging from cozy cottage chic, to cool contemporary.

Hidden Valley Homes adds a natural touch to a modern kitchen, choosing to couple White Oak cabinetry with a glamorous marble backsplash. Add in a 48” Thermador Professional Range, and you have the look of luxury.

Likewise, Lisa Furtado Interiors selected a light wooden island and accents to accompany a pastel blue kitchen – keeping the undertones of the flooring, cabinetry and details universal. The 48” Thermador Professional Rangetop packs a punch in this soft design.

The image can be credited to Vivian Johnson, @vivianjohnsonphoto.

Thermador Blue

No one will be feeling blue in a beautiful Thermador blue kitchen. Like green hues, blues trended in 2021 for their natural appeal and livable essence. With palettes ranging from bright to blissful, blue hues dominated the kitchen scene.

Studio Dearborn highlighted the trend by mixing vivid blue cabinetry with a mixed metal hardware look. Incorporating medium-toned woods and an eclectic rug, their vibrant and cheerful design is anything but basic. Yet again, a 36” Thermador Professional Range was selected to accent this space.

Choosing a rich, navy shade as the star of the show, We3 dwellings mixes bold blue cabinets with clean white walls and a classic brick floor to create a cohesive and complimentary color palette. For this space, the team picked a Thermador Professional Double Wall Oven for double the capacity – and style. For more design inspiration from their team, check out our most recent blog post.

This image can be credited to Emily Hart Photography, @emilyhartphoto.

Moody & Mismatched

It’s a mood. While recent years have favored bright white kitchens, dark hues that set the mood shined in 2021. From deep colored cabinets to earthy marble countertops, designers opted for hues with depth.

To offset the dark spaces and make accents pop, darker designs were often paired with intentionally mismatched details. From mixed metal finishes to two-toned cabinetry, the trendiest looks of 2021 were anything but matchy-matchy.

iBUILD Developers created this moody space featuring inky cabinetry paired with a medium-toned wood island and hood to add visual interest and dimension to their space. The mixed metal hardware and appliances – including a 48” Thermador Professional Range – finish the look.

Our friends at Strohmaier Construction also created a delightfully dark kitchen with just enough light. Rich cabinets, windowpanes and barstools pair with an intricate marble countertop for a balanced look, while gold accents and a stainless Thermador Professional Rangetop and Refrigerator Columns round out the space.

Bold Backdrops

Our final trend for 2021 adds visual interest and personality to any kitchen design. Bold backsplashes – whether an unexpected color, a textured material, or a unique pattern – could be seen in looks spanning modern to classic. Here are a few of our faves!

Master Plan Builders understood the assignment when adding a coffee bar (featuring wine storage!) to their kitchen design. With luxe cabernet-colored cabinets at the forefront, a bold and eclectic backsplash offers contrast and flare. Perk up with a morning espresso, or pop bottles from the Undercounter Glass Door Wine Reserve. For more design inspiration, visit their website.

Rounding out our list is the Payne & Payne Builders Augusta model home, featuring a bright and glamourous gold textured backsplash to offset the dark wood cabinets and shiny Thermador appliances. To learn more, read our Beyond the Build blog featuring Mark Verdova of Payne & Payne!