Kitchen design trends for the New England home

Explore New England kitchen remodeling ideas like blending timeless charm with modern flair, and find inspiration to design a space uniquely yours.

Whether your home is a modern Cape Cod, a classic Colonial, or a rustic farmhouse straight out of a storybook, your kitchen is where everything happens. It's where you hang out with family, cook up delicious meals (or order takeout!), and maybe even sneak a few cookies before dinner. But if your kitchen is starting to feel outdated or just not your style anymore, it might be time for a change. Let's check out some brilliant kitchen design trends popular in New England homes right now and throw in some New England-style cabinet ideas to get your imagination going. 

Classic styles, modern vibes

New England is known for its history and traditional architecture, so it makes sense that many people want kitchen styles that feel classic and timeless. But that does not mean you have to live in the past! Mix those classic elements with modern enhancements to create a fresh environment.

Think about shaker cabinets painted in crisp white, a calm, muted blue, or a high-contrast black. These cabinets have clean lines and simple details that look amazing in New England kitchens. Combine them with stainless steel appliances and sleek quartz countertops to give them a modern edge. Shaker cabinets can provide a sense of order and simplicity, while the modern countertops and appliances add contemporary elegance to the room.

Small kitchen, big style

Some New England homes have smaller kitchens, especially those cute Cape Cods and cozy cottages. So, make the most of a small kitchen remodel. To maximize space in a small kitchen, consider incorporating clever storage solutions, such as pull-out drawers, vertical dividers, and hidden spice racks. These can help keep your countertops clutter-free and make your kitchen more organized.

Another tip is to use light colors. You can use white, cream, or pale gray for your cabinets and walls. This will make your kitchen feel bigger and brighter. Mirrors can also make a small kitchen feel more spacious. Try adding a mirrored backsplash to make the room feel larger and bounce light around. Open shelving or glass-front cabinets can make your space feel more open and airier. 

Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

Historical charm

If you love that vintage, homey vibe, you are in luck! The 1920s and 1930s are making a comeback in kitchen design. Some examples are retro appliances, colorful tiles, and fun details that make you feel like you stepped back in time.

For a 1920s kitchen, try adding checkered floors in black and white, vintage-inspired light fixtures with Edison bulbs, and maybe even a classic farmhouse sink with an apron front. Picture a cozy breakfast nook with a built-in banquette and floral cushions that are perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee and the morning paper.

If the 1930s is your style, you will want to consider bold colors like emerald green or ruby red, geometric patterns on the walls or backsplash, and sleek, streamlined cabinets with chrome hardware. You can even visualize a vintage-inspired refrigerator with rounded edges and a pop of color, such as a sunny yellow or a vibrant turquoise.

Modern marvels

Of course, not everyone is into a vintage vibe. If you prefer a more contemporary style, there are various ways to do that in your New England kitchen. Contemporary kitchen cabinets usually have flat fronts and minimal hardware, giving them a clean and simple look.

Natural materials like wood and stone can make your contemporary kitchen feel warm and inviting. But don’t be afraid to experiment with color! White kitchens will always be a classic, but adding bolder hues, like a deep navy blue or a forest green accent wall, can make this room in your home feel more exciting.

Envision a sleek kitchen with minimalist cabinets in a warm walnut finish, combined with white countertops and a dramatic black backsplash. Add some personality with colorful artwork and geometric pendant lights to round out the modern look.

Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

Coastal accents

Want to bring that beachy feeling into your kitchen? New England coastal-style kitchens use light, airy colors, natural textures, and nautical accents.

Think of yourself stepping into a kitchen with whitewashed cabinets with beadboard panels, shiplap walls painted a soft seafoam green, and maybe even a bit of navy blue to remind you of the ocean. Rattan and wicker accents can provide coastal charm, while natural wood countertops, like butcher block or a light-colored oak, bring warmth and a hint of elegance. Imagine being in a kitchen with windows overlooking the ocean–the room fills with natural light and the sound of crashing waves. Add some seashells and driftwood as decorative accents to complete the coastal vibe.

While thinking about a kitchen remodel can feel overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be because you have a partner in Rebode. With Rebode Kitchen Jumpstarter, you can quickly check out different styles, get tons of ideas for your New England kitchen, and even find trusted local professionals to help make your dream kitchen a reality. You can find inspiration for those classic Shaker cabinets, figure out how to make your small kitchen feel huge, or even design a retro kitchen that looks straight out of the 1920s. So, get started today and craft the kitchen of your dreams.