We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
Searches for “kitschy kitchens” may have soared in late 2023, but new data signals that it’s time to tone down the retro decor and put a lid on those lime green paint cans. According to Pinterest’s Fall 2024 trend report, tranquil retreats are on the rise, and more specifically, searches for “zen kitchen” have skyrocketed 160%.
Because people rarely say, “Let me take a load off…I’ll head to the kitchen,” turning your home’s hardest-working room into a sanctuary might seem counterintuitive. But focusing on a high-traffic zone will help spread those peaceful vibes throughout.
One way everyone can tap into the trend, whether you’re planning a kitchen reno or not, is by eliminating countertop clutter. Zen decor is rooted in Japanese aesthetics, and minimalism is a major hallmark of the style. That doesn’t mean you have to leave your counters totally bare; just look for complementary finishes—especially in earth tones—rather than a jumble of different materials and colors. Artfully arranged ceramic pieces are worth keeping on display.
Also, lean into natural wood and stone (like soapstone, granite, marble, quartzite, and limestone) to infuse your kitchen with the tranquility of the great outdoors. Go for stone in light colors with subtle patterns to reduce visual clutter. And it doesn’t get more natural than adding plants to your space. Pinterest’s report also notes that searches for “air purifying plants” are up 850%. English ivy, pothos, and peace lilies all fit the bill and do well indoors.
Keeping with the calming theme, serene hues are also up in popularity. Pinterest says searches for “seafoam” and “serene color palette” have shot up 200% and 110%, respectively. In addition to seafoam and earthy green (think: moss and olive), color psychologist Tash Bradley says light blue, warm beige, and soft pink are colors that make you feel relaxed.
So if your kitchen isn’t currently the picture of peace, just think of that old adage about dressing for the job you want—dress up your space for the kitchen energy you crave. Here are a few examples of zen kitchens to get you started.
For this minimalist kitchen in San Francisco, designer Noz Nozawa even covered the range hood with gray elm (which she says has a “quiet wood grain”) to match the cabinetry.
For this mid-century kitchen in L.A., the homeowner customized IKEA cabinetry with square brass pulls, leaving the palette calm and neutral.
For countertops with a tranquil touch, stick to a natural stone like quartzite—pictured here in a Carlsbad, California, kitchen designed by Abbie Naber.
Interest in serene hues like seafoam is surging. These calming cabinets in a Washington, D.C., kitchen are painted in Cromarty by Farrow & Ball.
Don’t want to go green? Soft pink—as seen on the cabinetry in this Clifton Hill, Australia, home—is another relaxing shade.