The ’90s are back, baby! This time, though, the decade’s design styles are having a resurgence in the kitchen. Interior designers are excited about all of the ways in which cabinets are getting refreshed with the help of classic ’90s tones. Whether you’re craving an all-wood look or are interested in spicing things up with paint, here are three ’90s-inspired cabinet styles that experts are loving for 2026.
Wood Tones—With a Twist
While the 21st century has in large been characterized by a passion for all-white kitchens, times are changing, and wood-toned cabinets are coming back into the fold. “The reemergence of wood tones in kitchens is proof that the ‘90s are back, but with a refined twist,” says Stephanie Pierce, director of design and trends at MasterBrand Cabinets.
But don’t worry—Pierce isn’t suggesting that you replicate your childhood kitchen’s palette to a T. “Where once we saw heavy orange-toned oak dominate, today’s woods celebrate grain, tone and texture in a more elevated way,” she explains, noting that lighter, softer stains of walnut, hickory and red oak are currently popular among consumers. “What’s exciting is that this wood revival isn’t about recreating a past look, it’s about reinterpreting it for modern living.”
Interior designer Tehilla Bennett agrees that warm wood tones are “making a strong comeback from their 1990s roots with a modern twist.” These finishes contribute to making the kitchen a warm, welcoming space, something that the designer says is becoming more and more of a priority. “Homeowners today want kitchens that feel grounded, cozy, and handcrafted, and natural wood delivers that effortlessly,” she says.
Muted Green
Muted green cabinets are returning to the mainstream but with a twist, Bennett shares, noting that an array of shades are currently popular, sage, olive, and moss, being some of the most common—the bright and pastel shades from the 1990s have fallen out of favor.
“These nature-inspired tones offer a soothing balance between color and neutrality, bringing a sense of calm sophistication to the kitchen,” Bennett says of these muted green hues. “Their return reflects a broader desire for spaces that feel restorative and connected to nature.” To really ensure that your green kitchen cabinets feel modern, the designer recommends going with clean lines and soft finishes.
Another great choice is pistachio, adds Javier Burkle, founder of Burkle Creative. “When paired with warm brass hardware, light oak, or crisp white marble, the result is unexpectedly fresh and sophisticated rather than retro kitsch,” he says.
Retro Color Combos
Not feeling like you can commit to just one color in the kitchen? That’s A-OK, as color combos are coming back into play, too, explains Ashley Banbury, an interior designer and color marketing manager at HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams. “Color combinations, such as burgundies and khakis with moss green and teal, can create a familiar yet refreshed aesthetic, bringing a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a modern edge in a variety of design styles,” she says.
Keep in mind that while khaki is a neutral pick, it’s by no means boring. “Khaki is emerging as a fresh alternative to white that helps transform homes into inviting sanctuaries,” Banbury says.
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