Searches for “kitschy kitchens” may have skyrocketed in late 2023, but new data suggests it’s time to tone down the retro decor and close the lime green paint cans. According to Pinterest’s Fall 2024 trends report, tranquil retreats are on the rise, and searches for “zen kitchen” in particular have skyrocketed 160 percent.
Since people rarely say, “I need to take a break… I’m going to the kitchen,” it may seem counterintuitive to turn the most used room in your home into a sanctuary. However, by focusing on one high-traffic zone, you can spread that peaceful atmosphere throughout your home.
One way anyone can take advantage of the trend, whether you’re planning a kitchen renovation or not, is to eliminate countertop clutter. Zen decor has its roots in Japanese aesthetics, and minimalism is a key hallmark of this style. That doesn’t mean you have to leave your countertops completely bare, but look for complementary finishes — especially in earth tones — rather than a jumble of different materials and colors. Artfully arranged ceramic pieces are worth displaying.
Additionally, rely on natural wood and natural stone (like soapstone, granite, marble, quartzite, and limestone) to bring the serenity of the great outdoors to your space. Opt for stone in light colors with subtle patterns to avoid visual clutter. And there’s nothing more natural than adding plants to your space. Pinterest’s report also notes that searches for “air-purifying plants” have increased by 850 percent. Ivy, pothos, and peace lily all qualify and thrive well indoors.
In keeping with the theme of calming, calm hues are also becoming increasingly popular. According to Pinterest, searches for “sea foam” and “calm color palette” have increased by 200 percent and 110 percent, respectively. In addition to sea foam and earthy greens (think moss and olive), light blue, warm beige and soft pink are also colors that make you feel more relaxed, according to color psychologist Tash Bradley.
So if your kitchen isn’t exactly a picture of calm right now, just remember the old saying, “dress for the job you want to do” – decorate 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 clad the range hood in gray elm (which she says has a “calm wood grain”) to match the kitchen cabinets.
For this mid-century kitchen in LA, the homeowner had IKEA cabinets customized with square brass handles, keeping the color palette calm and neutral.
If you want countertops with a calming touch, choose a natural stone like quartzite – pictured here in a kitchen designed by Abbie Naber in Carlsbad, California.
Interest in calm hues like sea foam is on the rise. These calming cabinets in a Washington DC kitchen are painted in Cromarty by Farrow & Ball.
Don’t want to go green? Soft pink – as seen on the furniture in this home in Clifton Hill, Australia – is another relaxing shade.
