Design Mistakes to Avoid in 2026

Design trends evolve each year, but great craftsmanship and thoughtful planning never go out of style. As we head into 2026, homeowners are prioritizing kitchens and interiors that feel warm, functional, and timeless. And while stunning inspiration is everywhere, there are a few
common design mistakes that can lead to frustration, or costly regrets, down the line.

At Mullwoods, we help clients bring their visions to life while steering them away from pitfalls that compromise beauty or functionality. Here are the top design mistakes to avoid in 2026, and how to ensure your remodel stands the test of time.

1. Choosing Trends Over Timelessness

Bold colors, flashy hardware, and ultra-trendy finishes might feel exciting today, but kitchens and cabinetry should be built to last for years.

Avoid:

• Overcommitting to loud color palettes
• Choosing trend-heavy door styles
• Using experimental finishes without understanding durability

What to do instead:
Focus on a timeless foundation – quality materials, neutral tones, and clean lines, then express
personality through lighting, stools, décor, or paint accents that can evolve with you.

2. Ignoring How You Actually Use Your Kitchen

One of the biggest mistakes is designing based on aesthetics alone rather than lifestyle.

Warning signs:

• Not planning enough prep space
• Overlooking storage solutions
• Forgetting trash, recycling, or cleaning zones
• Choosing a layout purely for looks, not flow

Design smart:
Think about how you cook, entertain, and move through your space on a daily basis. Your kitchen should support your habits, not complicate them.

3. Settling for Insufficient Storage

Minimalism is trending, but “less storage” is not the goal. A beautiful kitchen becomes frustrating fast when your counters turn into a catch-all.

Common mistakes:

• Too many upper cabinets removed for aesthetics
• Not enough deep drawers
• No dedicated pantry space
• Forgetting hidden zones like appliance garages

The fix:
Prioritize smart, functional storage that helps keep your home clutter-free and visually clean.

4. Choosing Cabinetry Based on Price, Not Quality

Cabinetry is one of the most used elements in your home. Cutting corners here often leads to early wear, damage, and dissatisfaction.

Mistakes include:

• Opting for low-quality materials to save money
• Not asking about construction and finish durability
• Overlooking warranty or long-term maintenance

Smart approach:
Invest in cabinetry that can withstand daily use—quality hinges, durable finishes, solid construction, and craftsmanship that lasts.

5. Forgetting About Appliance Placement

Even the most stunning kitchen can feel dysfunctional if appliance placement isn’t intuitive.
Common issues:

• Refrigerator too far from prep space
• Ovens opening into walkways
• Dishwashers blocking access to cabinets
• No landing zones around appliances

Solution:
Work with a designer who understands flow, ergonomics, and clearance requirements.

6. Neglecting Future Flexibility

Your life today may not look the same in five years. Designing only for your current needs can limit the longevity of your remodel.
Consider:

• Growing families
• Aging-in-place needs
• Increased work-from-home habits
• More cooking or entertaining in the future

Design smarter:
Choose layouts and features that adapt along with you.

7. Rushing the Process

A beautiful, well-planned kitchen takes time. Fast decisions often lead to layout regrets, mismatched materials, or supply chain delays.
Avoid:

• Picking finishes without seeing samples
• Ordering cabinetry before finalizing layout
• Hiring the first contractor without research
• Starting construction before all materials are confirmed

Instead:
Give yourself a thoughtful planning window—and work with a team that guides you through each step.

Design With Confidence When You Choose Mullwoods in 2026

The difference between a kitchen that looks great and a kitchen that lives great often comes down to smart design choices, and avoiding the common traps many homeowners face.
At Mullwoods, our goal is to help you create cabinetry and spaces that are beautiful, functional, and built for the long term. If you’re planning a 2026 remodel, our design team is here to help you get it right from the start.

Ready to begin your project? Let’s design something exceptional together.