By 2025, kitchen design is evolving past conventional norms. Homeowners and builders are demanding color schemes that balance personality, practicality, and lasting appeal. Serving as the focal point of the kitchen, cabinet colors significantly influence the overall ambiance. Whether you're working with solid wood, laminates, or PVC board, choosing the right color can make or break the overall aesthetic.

Here are five kitchen cabinet colors that designers are recommending this year—each backed by functionality, style, and strong demand across residential and commercial projects.

1. Soft Matte Black – Sophisticated and Versatile

Why it’s trending: Matte black is no longer just for modern industrial kitchens. In 2025, it's being used in a variety of spaces, from sleek urban lofts to upscale suburban homes. Designers love it for its versatility—paired with warm wood tones, brushed brass hardware, or natural stone countertops, black cabinets create a refined, high-contrast look.

Pro tip: For clients concerned about maintenance, recommend matte PVC board finishes. These surfaces offer smudge resistance and are easier to clean than traditional painted wood.

Best for: High-end kitchens, minimalist interiors, and clients seeking timeless elegance.

2. Sage Green – Nature-Inspired Calm

Why it’s trending: The shift toward biophilic design has brought soft greens into focus. Sage green cabinets bring a sense of calm and connection to nature, ideal for kitchens that double as multi-use living spaces. Designers appreciate its ability to soften the kitchen without losing modern edge.

Material compatibility: Sage green pairs well with textured PVC board panels, which enhance the organic look with subtle grain or linen effects. It also complements light oak flooring and white stone surfaces.

Best for: Transitional kitchens, open-plan homes, and eco-conscious design projects.

3. Warm Taupe – The New Neutral

Why it’s trending: Gray is fading. Taupe is taking its place. This warm, earthy neutral is easier to match with a broader range of materials—especially wood-look flooring and beige quartz countertops. It’s a safe yet stylish choice that brings warmth without dominating the room.

Durability factor: PVC cabinets in taupe finishes are gaining popularity for their durability, especially in high-traffic homes. They’re also moisture-resistant, making them suitable for humid environments.

Best for: Multi-generational homes, rentals, and anyone who wants long-term appeal with low risk.

4. Navy Blue – Bold Yet Balanced

Why it’s trending: Navy has made the leap from accent color to main cabinetry tone. It adds a sense of drama without overwhelming the room and is particularly effective in spacious kitchens that receive ample natural light. In 2025, designers are pairing navy cabinets with white or brass hardware to add crisp contrast.

Design insight: Navy looks especially striking in lacquered PVC board, giving it a high-end sheen without the cost of custom millwork. It is also more effective at concealing grime and signs of wear compared to paler tones.

Best for: Statement kitchens, luxury remodels, and design-forward custom builds.

5. Clay Terracotta – Earthy and Unexpected

Why it’s trending: 2025 is the year of taking color risks in the kitchen. Terracotta and clay-inspired tones are making waves, offering warmth, personality, and cultural texture. These hues work well with rustic, Mediterranean, or Southwestern design elements and add a handcrafted feel to modern spaces.

Application tip: Clay tones pop beautifully on matte PVC board, especially when combined with mixed materials like rattan, concrete, or textured glass. It’s a color that’s both nostalgic and forward-looking.

Best for: Renovations aiming for originality, lifestyle kitchens, and projects that embrace earthy color palettes.

Final Thoughts: Color Meets Function

In 2025, selecting the ideal cabinet colors is equally driven by practicality and visual appeal. Builders and homeowners want more than just trendy finishes—they want surfaces that last, clean easily, and handle daily wear. This is where PVC board comes into the spotlight. Its versatility in color, texture, and durability makes it a top material choice for modern cabinetry.

Whether you’re designing for a client or planning your own build, these five cabinet color trends combine designer approval with practical performance. The palette of 2025 is warm, grounded, and confidently bold—ready to make the kitchen the true heart of the home.