These Passe Kitchen Details Can Hurt Home Value
By Jon Grishpul
They say the kitchen is the heart of the home — but if yours still features trends from decades past, it might be more of a time capsule than a welcoming space. From tired materials to outdated lighting, certain design choices can make your kitchen feel less functional and far from stylish—and keeping them might be hurting your home’s style and value..
Ever wonder why some kitchens just feel outdated, even if they’re clean and well-maintained? According to the pros, there are a handful of common features that instantly age a space — and many homeowners don’t even realize they’re the culprit. Think bulky upper cabinets, tired countertops, outdated bar stools, and more.
The good news? Swapping out a few of these elements — like upgrading your lighting or refreshing cabinet hardware — can completely transform the look and functionality of your kitchen.
Here’s a breakdown of the most outdated kitchen features and expert tips on how to bring your space into the modern era.
1. Overused Granite Countertops
Granite countertops used to be a sign of luxury in kitchen design, but now they are everywhere and look a bit dull. Many homeowners are choosing different surfaces with natural textures, like quartz, marble, or even butcher block. These new options bring gentle patterns and a softer feel to your kitchen island.
Using materials that go well with other kitchen elements, from cabinets to lights, can really boost the look of your space. Designers often suggest stepping away from the “granite all over” idea and trying out more unique options.
You should think of your countertops as a focal point instead of just a background. The right material can add personality to your kitchen without taking over the whole room. When combined with modern cabinets, these surfaces can make your kitchen look stylish and unified.
What are some modern alternatives to granite countertops? Modern options for kitchen countertops are quartz, marble, and butcher block. These materials have natural textures that can refresh your kitchen island. They provide a modern look and match nicely with cabinets and lights. This is better than the heavy and strong look of traditional granite countertops.
2. Bulky Cabinet Designs
Traditional, heavy cabinets have been common in kitchens for a long time. However, they can make spaces feel tight. Nowadays, designers like sleek linear light designs. These designs can make a kitchen look bigger while still being practical. Minimalistic cabinets help create a more stylish atmosphere.
Upper cabinets are being replaced with storage solutions that serve multiple purposes. Lower storage areas, open corners, and nice drawer units help with meal prep. They also provide space for personal touches. This creates a space of warmth instead of being crowded by heavy frames.
To give your kitchen a modern look, think about reducing the size of your cabinets or painting them in bold colors. These changes not only improve how the kitchen looks but also free up space for cooking and socializing easily.
3. Above Stove Microwave
People often dislike having a microwave over the stove (also called an over-the-range microwave, or OTR) for a few practical and ergonomic reasons:
- Hard to Reach Safely: It’s awkward and potentially dangerous to lift hot or heavy food in and out of a microwave that’s above eye level—especially for shorter people or children.
- Poor Ventilation: OTR microwaves usually have weaker ventilation compared to a dedicated range hood, which means they don’t clear smoke, steam, and cooking odors as effectively.
- Limited Space: They can cramp the space above the stove, making it harder to use tall pots or see what you’re cooking.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Many people prefer a sleeker, more open kitchen look or want a custom range hood that matches their style.
- Heat Exposure: Microwaves above stoves are exposed to a lot of heat and grease, which can shorten their lifespan or require more frequent cleaning.
4. Excessive Use of Open Shelves
Open shelves used to be trendy, but too many can make a space feel messy. They disrupt the look of your kitchen and are not very helpful when you are preparing meals.
Instead, you should use open shelving more as a focal point. You can do this by combining it with closed cabinets for a balanced look. Designers recommend adding color with decorations or kitchen tools on the shelves instead of using them to store a lot of items.
When you limit open shelves, you keep your kitchen tidy and practical. This simple change adds a modern touch while making sure the shelves are design features that enhance the space, not take over.
5. Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures
Good lighting is very important, but fluorescent lights can make a kitchen look old and uninviting. Their bright light shows flaws instead of highlighting the room’s best features.
The power of good lighting comes from using fixtures that match your kitchen design. A sleek linear light or pendant lights with softer colors can change the space for the better. This way, you can lower renovation fees and add some style. You can also choose natural-themed shades or add a pop of color to create a warmer feel.
Upgrading your lighting not only makes your kitchen more functional but also improves how it looks. When you pair nice fixtures with modern countertops and cabinets, you create a clean and inviting space that feels just right for modern times.
Good lighting has the power to improve a kitchen’s usefulness and show off its style. Choosing modern linear lights or bold pendant lights can help cut renovation fees. It can also add warmth and a stylish feel. Good light fixtures not only enhance your kitchen design but also make it easier to use every day.
6. Ornate Cabinet Hardware (Controversial)
Ornate cabinet hardware with shiny silver finishes can make your kitchen look outdated. This is especially true now when most people like simple designs. Instead of these older styles, choose sleek and timeless options. Aged brass or matte black can update the look without making the space too busy.
Shiny silver hardware was common in older kitchens, but now people prefer subtler choices. These can fit well with both vintage and modern styles. By adding modern knobs and pulls, you can improve the room’s appearance without doing big renovations.
For extra style, think about matching your outlet plates and cabinet hardware. Small updates, like new faucets or handles, may seem minor, but they can change how the space looks and works.
Is Your Kitchen Outdated?
It’s clear that staying current with kitchen design trends isn’t just about style — it’s about creating a space that feels fresh, functional, and welcoming. Swapping out dated features like oversized cabinets or once-popular granite countertops for more modern alternatives can breathe new life into your kitchen.
A thoughtful update can make your kitchen not only look better but work better, turning it into a space you actually enjoy spending time in. Remember, the kitchen is more than a place to cook — it’s the heart of your home.
Jon Grishpul is Co-CEO of GreatBuildz.com—a FREE service that matches homeowners with reliable, pre-screened general contractors. He’s also Co-CEO of www.MaxableSpace.com —the industry-leading ADU property design / build / construction resource website for granny flats, in-law suites, guest houses, casitas and other types of Accessory Dwelling Units. He may be reached at www.Greatbuildz.com.
