4 Colorado Kitchen and Bath Trends for 2026

October is National Kitchen and Bath Month—a great time to reimagine two of the most essential living spaces in any home. To provide inspiration for your next interior refresh, designers from HighCraft Builders in Fort Collins, Colorado, share their top kitchen and bath trends for 2026.

Photo: Cassihise Photography

Deep Soothing Hues

Rich, restorative dark hues will influence kitchen and bath color palettes in the coming year. “We’re going to see deeper, richer finishes in everything from moody wall colors to statement cabinetry, accessories, and flooring,” says Jill Sanchez, Design Manager for HighCraft Builders. “Deeper tones—like grounding charcoal grays, stormy blues, and deep espresso stains—add warmth and sophistication to both kitchen and bath projects. These darker finishes are intensely compelling, and establish a soothing sanctuary in any space.”

Photo: Canyon Heart Photography

Mixed Metal Redux

The use of multiple metals—especially when it comes to lighting, plumbing fixtures, and cabinet hardware—will make a resurgence in 2026. “When mixing metals such as brass, bronze, and nickel, consistency in undertone is key,” says Kelly Allen, an interior designer at HighCraft. “Pair finishes with a similar feel—like aged brass with antique nickel, or polished brass with polished nickel—to create a layered, collected look that feels intentional rather than mismatched.” A new twist, she adds, is mixing polished and brushed finishes within the same metal family. “This trend of mixing brushed gold with polished gold, or pairing antique brass with satin brass, will gain momentum in the new year.”

Photo: Cassihise Photography and Canyon Heart Photography

Natural Stone Surfaces

“Natural stone tiles and countertops are making a strong comeback in kitchen and bath design,” Allen says. “Clients are gravitating toward the beauty of natural quartzite and granite again, moving away from manufactured quartz.” Quarried stone, she points out, can add texture, interest, and a sense of grounded authenticity to modern and traditional interiors alike. “Each stone slab is unique, with natural color variations and surface movement that can’t be replicated in factory-made materials,” Allen explains. “Expect to see more natural stone used for flooring, shower walls, island countertops, and more.”

Photo: Cassihise Photography

Vertical Drama

Capsule-shaped tiles, vertical detailing, and grooved or fluted paneling, will make a bold statement in 2026. “These elongated and ribbed elements create a sense of movement and visual rhythm, adding architectural interest to even the simplest surfaces,” Sanchez says. To slightly soften the look, she points to capsule tiles as a great option.

“Because of their round edges, they temper the rigidity of straight lines while still feeling modern and structured.” Whether applied in a subtle tone-on-tone palette or a contrasting finish, these vertical details infuse texture and dimension without overwhelming a space. “Fluted wood or stone paneling brings depth and shadow play to walls, kitchen islands, and bathroom vanities,” Sanchez adds. “We’re going to see more vertical grooves on cabinet fronts for a bespoke, custom-built look.”

Kira Koldeway, Allied Member ASID, Affiliate IIDA, is the General Manager of Design at HighCraft Builders in Fort Collins, Colorado. Founded in 1998, HighCraft’s design-build team provides quality remodeling and custom home building in the cities and mountain communities of northern Colorado. Visit their website or contact them at 970.472.8100.

Content for this article provided by HighCraft Builders.