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

As is often said, the kitchen is the heart of the home, which means it’s one of the first places to get some attention when it’s time to renovate. If you’re already planning the renovations you hope to tackle this year, don’t let your kitchen slip through the cracks.

We asked three designers what kitchen renovations they think everyone should focus on this year, and they all agreed that 2025 is all about blending form and functionality in the kitchen. If it’s inconvenient, it’s got to go!

Here are five kitchen renovations designers say you should focus on this year to upgrade your space.

Upgrade Dated Countertops

If you’ve been putting off replacing your countertops, this year is the year to do it, experts say. Countertops don’t just impact a space aesthetically; they can dramatically increase its functionality, too. 

“Replacing dated countertops with modern options 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 durable and add a clean and cohesive feel to the kitchen.”

While new countertops aren’t necessarily cheap, they’re a great way to upgrade your space without a down-to-the-stud renovation that can quickly eat up your budget. The best part is that countertop materials, from quartz to granite to butcher block and everything in between, are available to suit every budget and design.

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Design Multifunctional Spaces

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

“As someone who has reimagined countless kitchens, I’ve seen how adding multifunctional features can completely change the way people use their space,” she says. “[They] make the kitchen a true hub for family and guests.”

Prioritizing Open-Concept Layouts

If you’re up for a more extensive renovation, consider transforming your kitchen into a functional open-concept space. Although open-concept layouts may not be as popular as they once were, they are a no-brainer in the kitchen. 

“An open-concept kitchen that flows into the dining or living room is essential,” says Los Angeles-based interior designer Dre Shapiro. “This setup allows parents to keep an eye on their kids while cooking and creates the perfect environment for hosting dinner parties, as guests naturally gravitate toward the kitchen.”

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

Add a few counter-height stools, and you’ve got the perfect breakfast nook or snack space for the whole family to enjoy.

Refresh Your Cabinets 

There’s no denying the impact upgraded cabinets can have on a space. Plus, there are so many ways you can update your cabinets—regardless of your budget. From full cabinet remodels to DIY upgrades, upgrading the look of your cabinets will completely transform the overall look of your kitchen.

“From my projects, I’ve noticed that adding soft-close hinges or swapping old cabinet knobs for trending hardware further enhances this update,” George says.

She suggests opting for cabinets in shades of warm whites, soft taupes, or muted sage greens for a bold yet modern look. 

Redo the Pantry 

Is there anything more satisfying than a freshly organized space in the New Year? Let 2025 be the year you finally tackle a pantry upgrade and give yourself the gift of clean and organized kitchen storage space. 

A kitchen pantry renovation will look different in each home. You can build a brand new pantry, add an extensive butler’s pantry, or redo an existing pantry with functional built-in shelves and organization options like lazy Susans, pull-out drawers, and more, says Mitra Shahi of Shahi Design Group. This is a project you’ll thank yourself for doing later.