If you're planning a kitchen refresh or complete remodel this year, there's one design choice that stands out above the rest: cabinet color. And for 2025, one shade is quickly becoming the favorite among homeowners, designers, and even real estate professionals.
Say Hello to "Earthy Mushroom"
In 2025, the dominant kitchen cabinet color trend is earthy mushroom — a soft blend of greige (gray-beige), taupe, and warm stone hues. This subtle, grounding tone has surged in popularity for a few key reasons:
It’s versatile: Earthy mushroom pairs beautifully with both warm and cool tones. It complements brass hardware just as well as matte black or brushed nickel.
It softens modern kitchens: While white kitchens remain timeless, mushroom tones add depth and a cozy, organic feel — without going too dark.
It works with wood: Natural wood accents are also trending this year, and mushroom tones effortlessly highlight wood grains, making them ideal for two-tone cabinets or island accents.
Why This Shift Happened
In recent years, there was a major swing toward ultra-modern, minimalist kitchens — think stark white or charcoal black cabinetry. But in 2025, there's a clear pivot toward comfort, warmth, and subtle character. Homeowners are prioritizing spaces that feel lived-in and layered, and mushroom tones offer just the right amount of visual warmth.
Designers say clients are looking for spaces that “feel like a hug” — and colors like mushroom, clay, and sandstone bring that cozy vibe while staying neutral enough for long-term appeal.
Other Popular Contenders
While mushroom leads the way, a few other shades are gaining ground this year:
Dusty Sage Green: Especially in vintage-inspired or farmhouse kitchens.
Oatmeal and Sand Tones: Soft, barely-there beiges with yellow or peach undertones.
Soft Denim Blue: Used often for island cabinetry as a statement.
Charcoal Gray: Still in rotation, but used more sparingly for contrast.
The Hardware Pairing Trend
Interestingly, cabinet hardware is shifting too. With earthy cabinet colors, many designers are choosing:
Antique brass or bronze pulls for warmth.
Flat black handles for contrast.
Textured or matte finishes instead of glossy, for a handcrafted look.
Final Thought
If you’re considering a kitchen update this year, opting for the earthy mushroom cabinet color could be a future-proof decision. It offers a rich, calming aesthetic without going out of style too quickly — and it plays well with other 2025 trends like natural wood, mixed metals, and layered lighting.
Discover More about this year’s emerging interior design favorites and how to bring them into your space.
The Influence of Nature on Color Selection
As trends evolve, the influence of nature on design choices becomes increasingly evident. Homeowners are gravitating towards colors that evoke the serenity and tranquility of the outdoors. Earthy mushroom, with its soft, natural tones, fits seamlessly into this narrative. The color reflects the organic materials found in nature, such as soil and stone, fostering a sense of calm within the kitchen space. This connection to the environment not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes a healthier mindset, encouraging individuals to create spaces that feel both inviting and grounded in the natural world.
Creating Contrast with Earthy Tones
While earthy mushroom is versatile as a main cabinet color, achieving contrast in kitchen design is essential for visual interest. One effective way to enhance the mushroom tones is by incorporating darker elements, such as deep blues or charcoal accents. These contrasting shades can be used in various ways, from choosing a bold backsplash to selecting darker countertops. Additionally, the use of lighter colors in decor, such as white or cream, can help to offset the richness of the mushroom hue, creating a balanced and harmonious kitchen environment that feels both stylish and functional.
The Rise of Sustainable Materials in Design
As environmental awareness continues to grow, many homeowners are looking for sustainable materials to complement their earthy mushroom cabinets. This trend aligns perfectly with the warm, organic aesthetic of mushroom tones, encouraging the use of reclaimed wood, recycled metals, and eco-friendly finishes. By choosing sustainable materials, homeowners not only contribute to a healthier planet but also infuse their kitchens with unique character and history. The combination of earthy mushroom and sustainable materials creates a kitchen that is not only visually appealing but also tells a story of responsibility and care for the environment.
Lighting: The Unsung Hero of Cabinet Color
Lighting plays a pivotal role in how cabinet colors are perceived within a space. Earthy mushroom can appear vastly different depending on the lighting conditions. Natural light accentuates the warmth of the color, making it feel cozy and inviting, while artificial lighting can either enhance or diminish its appeal. For optimal effect, homeowners should consider layered lighting solutions, mixing ambient, task, and accent lighting. Dimmers can also help create the right mood, allowing the earthy mushroom cabinets to shine in different settings, from bright and energetic during the day to soft and intimate in the evening.
Personalizing Your Kitchen with Accessories
To truly make the kitchen your own, personal touches through accessories can significantly enhance the overall look. Earthy mushroom cabinetry serves as a beautiful backdrop for various decorative elements. Homeowners can incorporate vibrant decor items, such as colorful dishware, artwork, or houseplants, which can pop against the neutral tones of the cabinets. Textiles, such as a patterned rug or unique bar stools, can also add personality and warmth. These small details allow for individual expression while maintaining the harmonious feel of the earthy mushroom color scheme, making the kitchen a reflection of personal style.