The latest Kitchens of the Year 2026 winners perfectly showcase the 2026 Houzz Kitchen Trends Study by supporting key motivators that drive kitchen renovations.
A survey of almost 1,800 U.S. homeowners on Houzz cited improving functionality in the kitchen space as a reason to renovate. At the top of the list is a dissatisfaction with the old kitchen style, followed by a desire to improve resale value.
As for cabinet style, Transitional remains favored this year, with Traditional, Modern, and Contemporary the next most popular styles.
Kitchen size and project scope remain drivers in determining the median spend for major and minor kitchen remodels. Major projects come in at $55,000, while minor projects land at $20,000. The median major remodel of a larger kitchen is $75,000, compared with $46,000 for a smaller space.
The Houzz Kitchen Trends Study also indicated that more than three-quarters of homeowners incorporate built-in features during a kitchen renovation. Pantry cabinets lead the list of options, followed by beverage stations. Built-in seating (including banquettes), wine fridges, walk-in pantries and breakfast bars. Baking stations and butler’s pantries or prep kitchens apparently appeal to smaller shares of renovating homeowners, according to Houzz.
In the category of storage, butler’s pantries are the most popular that include storage for small appliances, while 61% have a prep counter and 59% have enclosed cabinetry. Open shelving makes it easy to store bulky items and appliances. Most pantries will include microwaves, refrigerators, coffee machines and toasters.
What about your kitchen renovation? What are your “must haves” in your dream kitchen?
For more inspiration, please visit Kitchen of the Year 2026 Winners!
