2020 Kitchen Trends and Brands Builders Can Earn Rebates On

Kitchens are a core feature of the home. They’re also one of the most popular rooms to remodel — and one of the most expensive — giving home builders an opportunity to offer homebuyers a fresh look that doesn't require an overhaul. We’ve pulled some of the top trends to emerge in 2020, as well as a list of our brand partners who can help you accomplish these looks while earning money back.  

But before we get to the fun trends, we want to take a moment to let home builders know you can earn rebates through HomeSphere on the brands listed below for any projects you’ve already closed this year. So, even if building is slowing down now, you can still claim past rebate opportunities to add a little padding to your margins. And if you’re still able to safely build, you can continue to earn rebates for using these brand partners.  

So, let’s talk trends.  

Transitional style is still a favorite 

In a 2020 survey, Houzz asked nearly 2,600 homeowners about kitchen preferences, and the top interior style was transitional — a style that combines both the modern and traditional. Those details typically include clean lines, Shaker style cabinets, marble or quartz and simple backsplashes.  

The kitchen island is a big deal 

The same Houzz survey found that the must-have kitchen feature of 2020 is the kitchen island. The island is a natural spot for people to congregate, so it’s no surprise islands are getting bigger too. Some homeowners are even opting for double islands to help create more space for both meal prep and people-gathering.  

Sinks that standout 

Another on-trend touch is a great sink. While apron-front sinks are still trendy, plenty of other styles, including undermount sinks and the classic drop-in, hold appeal depending on budget and overall design. Sinks also give the opportunity to show off cool hardware that easily ups the style of a new kitchen.  

Kitchen larders to store even more 

Larder is probably not a word we’ve used in awhile, but it’s agreed by Country Living and Homes & Gardens that larders are the new great thing. Considering homebuyers do love extra storage, it makes perfect sense.  

A return to natural wood tones  

As Homes & Gardens notes, wood is enjoying a revival, naming walnut and ash in particular. And Country Living backs them up — suggesting wood for the must-have kitchen island. Is it any surprise hardwood floors also remain popular? Remodelers named it as a favorite in Houzz’s survey. The same look can be achieved with tile and vinyl flooring, which is also rising in popularity.  

Sleek and silver appliances 

Black appliances can look just as sophisticated as stainless steel, though the latter remained the popular pick for homeowner’s in Houzz’s study. Interestingly, high tech growth slowed from 2019, with 25 percent of remodelers choosing major appliances with high tech features, versus 30 percent last year.   

Kitchen brands featured on the HomeSphere builder rebate program