5 Kitchen Renos Everyone Should Do This Year, According to Designers

It's often said that the kitchen is the heart of the home, making it a prime candidate for renovation. If you’re planning your home improvements for the year, don't overlook your kitchen.

We consulted three designers about the kitchen renovations everyone should consider this year, and they all agreed: 2025 is the year to blend form and function in the kitchen. If it's inconvenient, it's out!

Here are five kitchen renovations designers recommend focusing on this year to upgrade your space.

Upgrade Your Countertops

If you've been delaying replacing your countertops, this is the year to make the change, experts advise. Countertops impact not just the look of your kitchen but also its functionality.

“Upgrading old countertops to modern choices like white marble quartz creates a luxurious yet timeless look,” says Diana George, founder and principal designer of DG Design Group Builders. "These materials are both durable and offer a clean, cohesive feel to your kitchen."

While new countertops can be pricey, they offer a significant upgrade without the need for a full renovation. Options like quartz, granite, and butcher block come in a range of prices to fit every budget and design preference.

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Create Multifunctional Spaces

A pantry that doubles as a coffee bar? A breakfast nook with hidden storage? A movable island? Count us in! George says multifunctional spaces will stay popular in 2025, and for good reason.

“As someone who has redesigned countless kitchens, I’ve seen how multifunctional features can transform how people use their space,” she says. "These features make the kitchen a true hub for family and guests."

Embrace Open-Concept Layouts

For those considering a more extensive renovation, converting your kitchen to an open-concept layout can be highly functional. While open-concept designs might not be as trendy as before, they’re still a great fit for kitchens.

“An open-concept kitchen that flows into the dining or living room is essential,” says Los Angeles-based interior designer Dre Shapiro. "It allows parents to watch their kids while cooking and creates an ideal setting for hosting dinner parties, as guests naturally gather in the kitchen."

Not only do open-concept kitchens provide more cooking space, but they also offer additional seating options. Large kitchen islands fit perfectly in these spaces, offering extra seating and counter space.

Add some counter-height stools, and you’ve got the perfect breakfast nook or snack area for the whole family.

Update Your Cabinets

You can't underestimate the impact upgraded cabinets can have on your kitchen. Whether you go for a full remodel or a simple DIY project, updating your cabinets will transform the overall look of your space.

“In my projects, I’ve noticed that adding soft-close hinges or swapping old cabinet knobs for new, trendy hardware can elevate your kitchen’s look even further,” George says.

She suggests choosing cabinets in warm whites, soft taupes, or muted sage greens for a bold yet modern appearance.

Revamp the Pantry

Is there anything more satisfying than a freshly organized space to start the New Year? Let 2025 be the year you tackle a pantry makeover for an organized and tidy kitchen.

How you renovate your pantry will vary depending on your home. You can build a new pantry, add a butler’s pantry, or update your existing one with built-in shelves and organization options like lazy Susans, pull-out drawers, and more, suggests Mitra Shahi of Shahi Design Group. This investment will pay off in the long run.