We’re feeling nostalgic about the 2016 trend. Hard to believe that was already four years ago… right?
If you’ve spent any time online lately, you’ve probably noticed the quiet resurgence of “2016 nostalgia.” It’s showing up across social media, design conversations, and pop culture, driven by a collective longing for a time that felt optimistic, expressive, and just a little less complicated. Kitchens from that era reflect the same sentiment. They were confident, detailed, and unapologetically personal.
Looking back at 2016 Kitchen Trends
Looking back at our projects from 2016, a few clear themes emerge. Ceiling heights were climbing to 9 feet (108”), which made stacked upper cabinetry a defining design move. Cabinetry was expected to fill the room, not float within it. Lighting was beginning to step out of the shadows, traditional details still held their ground in high-end homes, and modern design was finding its footing in bolder, more deliberate ways.
What makes this collection especially interesting is the range. You’ll see everything from fully modern slab-door kitchens to traditional spaces with raised panels, turned posts, and decorative accents. It was a transitional year in the best sense of the word.
Materials, Surfaces, and Smarter Storage in 2016 Kitchens
Wood species like hickory made a comeback, but in warmer, more refined stains. Granite remained a hallmark of luxury, while quartz was gaining momentum. Waterfall countertop edges began appearing as a statement detail, wrapping the countertop material vertically down the side of an island for a clean, sculptural look.
At the same time, functional priorities were shifting. Designers and homeowners alike began paying closer attention to what was happening inside the cabinets, allocating more of the budget to pullouts, accessories, and storage solutions beyond the classic lazy Susan.
There are also moments in these projects that firmly place them in their time. Drywalled walls behind islands, visible bar supports under countertop overhangs, and corner pantries were all still common, especially in new home construction. Many of these features have quietly faded from today’s design playbook, but they remain a clear snapshot of how kitchens were being planned and lived in at the time.
Detail-Driven Design and Craftsmanship in 2016 Kitchens
Perhaps most notably, 2016 kitchens weren’t afraid of detail. Handcrafted finishes, luxury glass inserts imported from Italy, coffee zones built around early pod machines, and layered lighting all point to a growing desire for kitchens that felt intentional and tailored. Even when trends have moved on, the craftsmanship and design thinking behind these spaces still hold up.
Summary
Looking back, it’s easy to see why 2016 is having a moment again. These kitchens strike a balance between warmth and structure, tradition and experimentation. They remind us that good design doesn’t chase trends. It captures a moment in time.
2016 Project Highlights by Superior Cabinets – A look back worth revisiting.
