Recent surveys identify blue as the most popular shade of cabinetry right now. However, according to kitchen brands and designers, it might not be quite that simple. We investigate what’s going on…
I’ll admit, I was taken by surprise when I saw the latest Houzz Kitchen Trends Study* state that blue is now the most popular cabinet colour in renovated kitchens (18%). Especially when it also claimed green was in second spot, surpassing neutral tones like grey (12%), off-white (9%), and white (8%). While blue is undoubtedly a classic and timeless shade, its arrival back on the colour throne is something I haven’t particularly noticed – so I decided to further investigate the claim.
Indeed, late last year, Tom Howley, founder of the eponymous bespoke kitchen brand, revealed that sales of blue kitchens surged by an impressive 147% during 2025. “Blue is our fastest-growing paint colour choice,” he said. “From deep navy tones that add drama and sophistication, to softer, chalky blues that bring a sense of calm and freshness, blue is an incredibly versatile choice for kitchen cabinetry.”
And Tom isn’t the only one, as Will Frankling, co-founder of Kitchen Makeovers, says he’s also seeing this on the ground. “Blue has just edged out green as the top choice for kitchen renovations. The ‘safe bold’ choice of blue, specifically navy and midnight blue, has become the new neutral.
“Homeowners want to move away from the clinical whites and greys of the 2010s but are often scared to commit to something too niche. Deep blue feels heritage, expensive, and timeless, which is why it’s flying off the shelves. It anchors a room without the risk of it feeling dated in two years.” Will claims that while navy remains a bestseller, he’s starting to see interest in lighter, ‘wellness blues’.
A shift towards softer blues
Symphony’s design manager, Josie Medved, has also witnessed this shift to softer blues, hinting that, in fact, navy is perhaps not as popular as it once was. “For 2026 we are seeing sales of lighter blues – Providence Blue and French Grey – staying steady, while the trend for the richer, darker colours of Indigo and Midnight Blue, so popular in recent years, is ebbing,” she says.
This drop in navy sales has been noticed by Claire Birkbeck, centralised designer at Neptune, too, as well as Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, who notes, “There’s something inherently comforting about navy – it’s deep, rich, and inviting, and has a way of adding instant character and sophistication to a kitchen. That said, we’re seeing a gradual shift towards earthier palettes, with softer greens, warm neutrals, and an increased use of natural materials such as wood.”
Accent shades
Still, while blue isn’t the number one for primary cabinetry in 2026 for Gareth Davies, design director at Classic Interiors, it is the strongest choice for islands and accents. “White is still leading for main cabinets with blue and green concentrated on islands or lower runs rather than across every unit. Full cabinet runs are typically warm timber or light neutrals, while clients most often choose navy, slate, or inky blues for the island, pantry, or base units, where they want impact. There is still a strong appetite for sophisticated blue tones, but more as a feature than the dominant whole-kitchen selection.”
Layered schemes
Blue isn’t a top-selling cabinetry colour at Masterclass Kitchens either – a position held by warmer neutral tones, particularly greige finishes. “However, blue remains a significant and evolving part of the colour conversation, with clear shifts in how homeowners are choosing to use it,” says Masterclass marketing manager Cassie Jones.
“Over the past 18 to 24 months, we’ve seen customers move away from deep navy blues and towards softer, more expressive shades. Mid blues, royal blues, and increasingly teal tones, which blur the boundary between blue and green, are emerging as preferred choices. Teal is gaining momentum, aligning with broader fashion and interiors trend predictions and offering a balance of reassurance and warmth.”
Cassie is also seeing a move away from all-over colour in favour of more layered schemes. “Blue is increasingly used on islands, tall units, or feature cabinetry, paired with warm neutrals, natural woods, and textured finishes. This approach feels more sophisticated, allowing colour to add character without overwhelming the space.”
So, while there’s some debate around blue cabinetry, it’s clear it has a timeless appeal – whether it’s used as a dominant or an accent shade. How will you use it?
*Findings from a survey of more than 400 UK homeowners on Houzz about their recent or planned kitchen renovation projects.
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