Kitchens of the Future: 4 Trends to Watch for 2026
- Brien Plunkett
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
At Decker Design, we’re always looking ahead to see how your home can better serve your lifestyle. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) released its 2026 Kitchen Trends Report, and the results are exciting! From smarter storage to a focus on wellness, here is a look at what’s trending and how we can bring these ideas to your La Crosse home.
1. The Death of the Formal Dining Room
According to the report, homeowners are increasingly trading formal dining rooms for larger, multi-functional kitchens. People want more "elbow room" and better flow.
The Decker Touch: Whether you’re looking to expand your footprint or just want a more open feel, we specialize in layouts that connect your kitchen to the rest of your home using seamless flooring and cohesive cabinetry.
2. “Quiet” Luxury and Natural Materials
Say goodbye to high-maintenance surfaces. The trend for 2026 is moving toward organic, earthy aesthetics. Neutral tones, especially greens and blues, are leading the way, along with natural wood grains.
Local Tip: We’ve seen a huge rise in interest for Quartz countertops here in the Coulee Region. They offer that stunning, natural stone look but are durable enough to handle a busy Wisconsin household.
3. Smarter, Personalized Storage
"Clutter-free" is the mantra for 2026. Homeowners are prioritizing floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, walk-in pantries, and "hidden" appliances (panel-ready dishwashers and fridges).
How We Can Help: Using our 2020 Design software, we can help you visualize storage solutions so your kitchen works exactly the way you do.
4. Wellness-Focused Design
The kitchen is no longer just for cooking; it’s a hub for health. This means an emphasis on natural lighting, powerful (but quiet) ventilation, and "steam cooking" appliances.
Lighting Matters: The report found that 95% of homeowners prioritize natural light. While we don’t sell lighting, we can help you find the right lights for your needs. From task-specific under-cabinet lights to statement pendants, we can create a space that feels as good as it looks.
Ready to get ahead of the trends?
Your kitchen should be as unique as you are. Whether you’re looking for better organization or dreaming of a timeless, classic update, the team at Decker Design Inc. is here to guide you.
Visit our showroom at 2946 Airport Rd. in La Crosse or contact us today for a complimentary consultation!



Comments