Discover the most popular kitchen cabinet styles

Planning a kitchen renovation and wondering which cabinetry style will suit your space and lifestyle? At Urban Myth Kitchens, we create contemporary kitchen designs that balance aesthetics with performance. Whether you're drawn to minimalist styling or bold textures, our cabinetry collections offer a wealth of options to help you express your individual taste.

Below, we explore the most in-demand modern kitchen cabinet styles, with expert insights from our talented design team.

Handleless for a Seamless Look
Handleless kitchen cabinets remain a top choice for modern interiors. Their streamlined appearance helps create an uninterrupted flow, perfect for open-plan layouts or compact spaces where visual calm is key.

“Handleless cabinetry creates a sense of harmony in the kitchen,” says Marzena Moks Rodrigues, Senior Designer at Urban Myth. “It allows other materials like bold worktops or architectural lighting to take centre stage without competing with unnecessary detail.”

This style pairs beautifully with integrated appliances and is especially effective in monochromatic or high-contrast colour palettes. Whether you opt for soft neutrals or rich tones, the absence of handles keeps the look effortlessly contemporary.

Shaker, Reimagined for Modern Living
Shaker kitchens are a timeless favourite, and at Urban Myth, we’ve given this classic a modern update. By refining proportions and using a curated palette of contemporary colours and finishes, Shaker-style cabinetry continues to appeal to homeowners seeking both charm and simplicity.

“The beauty of a Shaker kitchen lies in its versatility,” explains Peter Hill, Design Director. “It can feel traditional, minimal, or modern depending on the context. We often pair it with clean-lined islands, integrated appliances and warm wood accents to strike the perfect balance.”

Shaker cabinets also offer tactile appeal and work especially well with natural materials, such as stone or quartz worktops, brushed metal handles, and open shelving for a touch of lived-in luxury.

Fluted Finishes Add Texture and Depth
Fluted cabinetry has seen a surge in popularity, bringing architectural texture into kitchen design. From softly ribbed timber panels to vertical detailing on island units, fluting adds a sculptural quality to your space without relying on bold colour or pattern.

“Texture is a powerful design tool,” says Davide Dellanzo, Urban Myth’s Creative Lead. “We use fluted finishes strategically,on an island, pantry door, or tall unit to create a focal point that draws the eye and adds depth.”

For a sophisticated look that won’t overpower your kitchen, consider combining fluted fronts with flat cabinetry or open shelving. This ensures balance while letting the craftsmanship shine through.

Dark and Dramatic Statements
Dark kitchen cabinetry continues to make waves in modern design. Charcoal greys, off-black stains, and deep navy tones offer a dramatic aesthetic that feels luxurious and grounded.

“Dark colours work exceptionally well with natural materials,” adds Peter Hill. “Pairing a rich cabinet finish with oak flooring or veined stone surfaces creates contrast and elevates the entire room.”

To prevent darker palettes from feeling too heavy, we often introduce softer elements, such as brass fixtures, warm timber accents, or textured splashbacks to balance the visual weight and add warmth.

Metallic Accents for a Luxe Finish
While bold metallics aren't for everyone, they’re increasingly being used in high-end kitchens to add a sense of glamour and individuality. From brushed bronze island panels to subtle gold inlays or copper-toned handle details, metallics can lift a scheme with light and elegance.

“Metallic finishes offer a sleek, reflective surface that complements both minimalist and more eclectic interiors,” says Marzena Moks Rodrigues. “We use them to highlight key features, like an island or bespoke drinks cabinet.”

Striking Stone Cabinetry
‘Stone drenching’ is a growing trend where cabinetry and worktops are crafted from the same material for a seamless, sculptural effect. Thanks to innovations in lightweight engineering, stone-fronted cabinet doors are now more accessible, durable, and practical than ever.

“Stone brings depth, richness and a truly bespoke feel to modern kitchens,” notes Davide Dellanzo. “Whether it’s a marble island, porcelain upstands or stone-fronted cabinet doors,stone adds character and timeless appeal.”

Recessed Handles for Subtle Impact
For homeowners who want a minimalist aesthetic without going fully handleless, recessed handles offer the perfect compromise. These integrated details allow for clean lines while still giving you a tactile experience when opening cabinets and drawers.

“Recessed handles add interest to otherwise simple cabinetry,” explains Peter Hill. “They’re a subtle but effective design choice that enhances the overall look without overwhelming it.”

Recessed handles work best with slab doors with minimal detailing. They can be colour-matched for a seamless finish or finished in a contrasting material like stainelss steel or matt black for a more defined accent. This understated design choice continues to gain popularity for its balance of style and function.

Create Your Dream Contemporary Kitchen
At Urban Myth Kitchens, we believe in combining craftsmanship with innovation to deliver kitchens that stand the test of time, both aesthetically and practically. Whether you're inspired by clean, minimalist lines or crave a more textural and layered look, our design team can help you bring your vision to life.

Book a design consultation to explore cabinetry styles, finishes and layouts tailored to your lifestyle.