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Kitchen design continues to evolve, and 2026 is shaping up to be a year where warmth, texture, and contrast take center stage. Cabinet styles are moving away from stark minimalism and toward more character-driven designs. Understanding how cabinetry trends influence countertop selection helps create kitchens that feel current and cohesive.
Kitchen design continues to evolve, and 2026 is shaping up to be a year where warmth, texture, and contrast take center stage. Cabinet styles are moving away from stark minimalism and toward more character-driven designs. Understanding how cabinetry trends influence countertop selection helps create kitchens that feel current and cohesive.
We’ve put together our list of recommendations for stone slabs to match cabinetry trends in 2026.
One of the biggest shifts we expect for 2026 is the return of warmer tones. Natural wood cabinets in oak, walnut, and rift-sawn white oak have already been replacing cooler gray finishes. These cabinets emphasize grain and texture rather than uniform color, adding timeless elegance to kitchens.
Image credit: https://www.decorilla.com
Another strong trend that has been trending for some time is two-tone cabinetry. Upper cabinets are often lighter, while base cabinets introduce deeper colors like forest green, navy, or charcoal. This creates visual balance and allows countertops to play a more central role. We also see lighter cabinets paired with wood tones, creating beautiful, yet softer, designs.
Flat panel and slim shaker doors continue to dominate in 2026, but with softer edges and less rigid lines. Matte finishes are preferred over high gloss, creating a more neutral and livable kitchen aesthetic.
Countertops in 2026 are about subtle movement rather than bold contrast. Homeowners are gravitating toward stone slabs that feel natural and timeless while still making a statement.
Veining remains popular but is more refined. Instead of dramatic, high-contrast patterns, many prefer soft veining that adds depth without overwhelming the space. Think softer marble patterns and countertops dominated with one color.
Thickness is also evolving. Thicker slab profiles and mitered edges are gaining popularity, especially in kitchens with large islands.
Image credit: 202 Design
Timeless marble slabs with gentle movement pair beautifully with warm wood cabinets and two-tone kitchens. Creams, soft whites, and light taupes create contrast without clashing.
Image credit: Cohesively Curated, photography Carina Skrobecki)
Granite remains a strong option offering beautiful dark and mid tones with subtle movement, and lighter tones that add interest to large islands. Mid and light tone granites complement darker base cabinets, while darker tones ground open kitchen layouts.
In 2026, quartzite’s popularity continues as quartzite slabs become more common in higher-end renovations. Their natural veining pairs well with minimalist cabinetry and adds visual interest without sacrificing durability.
Soapstone is another material that’s been gaining popularity, offering a unique color and finish that pair wonderfully with wood tones and brass hardware. Soapstone looks natural and organic, while adding a little bit of dramatic flair to modern kitchens.
Light cabinets benefit from stone slabs that add warmth and movement. Avoid stark white countertops that can make wood cabinets feel washed out.
Dark cabinets pair best with lighter stone slabs to prevent the kitchen from feeling too heavy. Subtle veining helps soften the contrast.
Two-tone cabinets offer flexibility. Neutral stone slabs can unify the space while allowing both cabinet colors to stand out.
AP Marble & Granite helps homeowners and builders select stone slabs in Metro Detroit that align with both design trends and lifestyle choices. The right pairing of cabinetry and countertops ensures kitchens remain stylish well beyond 2026. Contact us to schedule your visit to our 40,000 square-foot showroom, where you can see all of these stone slabs and more, in person!
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