What's replacing modern farmhouse kitchens in 2025? 5 styles designers say you should consider instead

Modern farmhouse kitchens were one of the biggest trends last year, but as we head into 2025, it's a style that's quickly falling out of favor. So, what should you be considering instead?

If upcoming kitchen trends are anything to go by, rich colors, lived-in spaces, and schemes that imbue timeless coziness are firm favorites for the year ahead. It's time to banish designs that lack personality and instead, bring in characterful features.

For a touch of inspiration for the interior design style you should be bringing into your kitchen this year, we've asked designers what's replacing modern farmhouse kitchens in 2025 – and their insights are full of stylish yet timeless styles.

What's replacing modern farmhouse kitchens in 2025?

While there is still space for modern farmhouse kitchens, it's time to start considering bolder, warmer, and more personalized designs. And these are the styles worth knowing about.

1. Transitional cottage style

The modern farmhouse kitchen style focuses on white hues and light wood tones – it's a contemporary take farmhouse. But in 2025, trends are leaning towards cozier schemes with depth and contrast.

'The modern farmhouse kitchen is giving way to the transitional cottage. Rich, moody hues like mushroom, burgundy, and sage green dominate cabinetry, while dark woods such as darker oak add depth. Textured, handcrafted materials, including zellige tiles and whimsical, hand-painted patterns, elevate the charm of these spaces,' says Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia, founders of House of Hive Design Co.

'The main appeal of the transitional cottage style is its timelessness. It bridges the gap between historical and contemporary design, creating spaces that feel classic yet relevant. Unlike trend-driven styles that can quickly feel outdated, transitional designs have longevity, making them a safe investment for homeowners. In a world driven by fast-paced TikTok trends, this style offers a sense of stability,' they explain.

2. Rich, moody schemes

One of the biggest reasons for the shift away from modern farmhouse kitchens is the desire for richer colors. Moody tones are continuing to prove a popular color trend, and there are few places better than the kitchen to introduce them to your home.

'If you love bold colors, your kitchen could be the perfect place to employ a dramatic navy or rich aubergine tone,' says Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company.

'Replacing the pale tones typically associated with a country or modern farmhouse kitchen, tranquil deep blue or plum shaker cabinetry superbly uplifts more rustic elements, such as a brick feature wall,' he explains.

'Then white and cream accents, such as a sleek marble-look worktop, can help to ground the scheme, creating a modern and fresh look.'

3. Wood kitchens

'Wood kitchens are enjoying a resurgence, with reclaimed or rustic finishes adding texture and warmth,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe – and it's a kitchen design style that's here to stay.

From a full wood scheme to mixing oak cabinets with more polished materials like metallic kitchen features, it can work seamlessly in almost any kitchen aesthetic.

This scheme in particular proves how chic wooden kitchens can be. The slatted design on the lower cabinets adds textural interest, while the tarnished copper of the uppers adds a contemporary touch. Paired with marble countertops and brass hardware, it's chic, timeless, and a great alternative to modern farmhouse.

4. Kitchen schemes with slab front cabinets

In some cases, modern farmhouse kitchens are being replaced by something more, well, modern. It's not about stripping away character, rather creating a kitchen that's unfussy and pared-back.

'Several styles are emerging as alternatives to the modern farmhouse kitchen in 2025. On one side, minimalist kitchens that are handleless with seamless built-in storage are gaining popularity for their understated look,' says Lauren.

'The appeal lies in its versatility and how it reflects modern living. Kitchens have become the hardworking, social hub of the home, blending dining and living areas into one cohesive space. The farmhouse kitchen is no longer a separate, utilitarian zone but an integral part of family life, where functionality and comfort take center stage.'

Even if you do opt for this more contemporary kitchen style, there's no reason you can still add softer, cozy additions to your scheme. 'Simple, thoughtful updates can make a significant difference. Adding built-in seating to unused nooks can transform both the look and functionality of a kitchen,' adds Lauren.

5. Eclectic and bespoke designs

Modern farmhouse kitchens have a clear aesthetic, where certain colors, finishes, and materials come into play. But this year, it's about looking outside of the box, choosing design elements that are bespoke and personal to you.

'There is a shift towards the more eclectic and bespoke features – designing for YOU and not for a trend or a specific style,' says Ariel Schuster, director of design at Artaic.

And as more unique, personalized kitchens take the place of modern farmhouse, there are some colors and finishes that work beautifully. 'We’re seeing layered textures, metallics, and deep colors like oxblood and earthy greens and neutrals,' adds Ariel.

There are plenty of styles worth considering instead of the modern farmhouse look – whether you like the contemporary aesthetic or prefer a bold or lived-in feel.