4 “Recession-Core” Kitchen Trends Everyone’s Searching for Right Now, According to Yelp
When it comes to giving your kitchen a fresh new look, this year is all about high-impact, low-effort upgrades. And according to Yelp’s new 2025 Summer Home & Outdoor Trends study, there are a few simple but statement-making hacks that homeowners and renters can’t stop raving (and searching) about. I spoke to an expert about why they’re on the rise, how to pull them off, and what they can really do for your space.
1. Hardware Replacement
One of the most popular upgrades on the list? Hardware replacement. Yes, swapping out knobs and pulls might seem minimal, but don’t underestimate the punch it packs. It’s cost-effective, renter-friendly, and completely transformative. In fact, Yelp reports a 91% increase in searches for this trend this year compared with last as people look to refresh their spaces.
“We’re seeing an influx in people swapping out basic knobs for character-rich alternatives to add personal elements to their homes,” says Tara Lewis, Yelp’s trend expert and vice president of consumer expansion. “Personally, I’ve been loving sleek glossy chrome pulls for a modern touch, and hand-painted ceramic knobs that can add a pop of color or texture. No matter your style preference, hardware is a versatile way to echo your personal aesthetic.”
So, what’s behind the hardware obsession this year? It all comes down to accessibility and function. “In a challenging market with costs on the rise, both homeowners and renters are looking for affordable ways to refresh their spaces while maximizing function and style,” Lewis adds. “Many people are discovering how simple projects like swapping old cabinet and door hardware can help transform a space, without a major investment.”
2. Adding Pops of Color
But the upgrades don’t stop at handles and hinges. “There are plenty of ways to bring character into a kitchen without doing a full reno!” she adds. “Some of my favorite ways to achieve this are by creatively integrating pops of color and texture — think hiring a painter to transform plain white cabinets into a dreamy pastel, or upgrading backsplash in a jewel tone or checkered tile.” I also love the idea of leaning into fun personal touches that speak to your style. Try swapping in a patterned rug, putting colorful cookware on open or glass-front shelves, or even framing vintage recipe cards as wall art. This will help add a bit of personality to the space for little to nothing.
3. Wallpaper
Wallpaper is trending again, too, even in kitchens. “For areas that are more likely to encounter moisture, it’s best to go for high-quality, washable vinyl or vinyl-coated wallpapers,” Lewis recommends. “Incorporating wallpaper as a playful accent wall or a bold backdrop behind open shelving can also be a great option.” Another hack? Wallpaper can help define zones in open-concept layouts or add nice pops to smaller nooks like breakfast corners or pantry walls. Plus, many peel-and-stick options are renter-friendly and easy to swap out when you want a change.
4. Sink Skirts
Yet another vintage-inspired detail making a quiet comeback: sink skirts. “I’m loving the return of pleated sink skirts — they bring a soft charm while hiding storage and plumbing,” Lewis notes. “Done in a natural linen or muted stripes, these sink skirts can add an elegant touch that feels timeless … just make sure the skirt is removable and washable, so it stays just as practical as it is pretty!”
So, if you’re looking to revamp your kitchen for less, you’ve got options. “For renters or anyone sprucing up their kitchen on a budget, my go-to ‘small budget, big impact’ kitchen upgrades include fresh hardware on cabinets, stick-on stained glass, peel-and-stick backsplash tiles (renter-friendly and easy to remove), and even just a fresh coat of paint,” Lewis says. Small but mighty changes like these prove you really don’t need a full reno (or a ton of cash) to completely change the vibe of your space. The bottom line? A little creativity goes a long way, and your dream kitchen could be just a few upgrades away!
This post originally appeared on The Kitchn. See it there: 4 “Recession-Core” Kitchen Trends Everyone’s Searching for Right Now, According to Yelp