Pantone Color of the Year 2026: White and the Revival of 90s Kitchen Style in Montgomery County, DC & Northern Virginia
Every year, Pantone announces a color that sets the tone for design trends across interiors, fashion, and lifestyle. For 2026, Pantone has chosen “White”—a color that symbolizes clarity, simplicity, and timeless elegance. At Sabz Interiors, we see this as the perfect foundation for kitchens that are both serene and versatile, while also paving the way for a resurgence of bold, expressive color palettes and eclectic design elements inspired by the kitchens of the 1990s.
For homeowners in Montgomery County, Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia, understanding how to incorporate these trends can turn a kitchen remodel into a statement of both style and personality.
Pantone White: The Perfect Neutral Foundation
White has always been a classic choice for kitchens, but Pantone’s selection in 2026 reflects a shift towards purity, light, and flexibility. Using white as a primary color allows homeowners and designers to:
Maximize natural light and create a sense of spaciousness
Showcase premium materials such as stone, marble, and metallic accents
Use white as a backdrop for bolder textures, patterns, and accent colors
In Montgomery County and Northern Virginia homes, white kitchens with layered textures—from wood grain to terrazzo countertops—are already seeing increased popularity among discerning clients.
The Comeback of 90s Kitchen Style
The kitchens we loved in 90s sitcoms are inspiring a new wave of design in the DMV area. Think playful combinations of wood tones, patterned tiles, mixed cabinetry finishes, and colorful appliances. These kitchens were fun, lively, and expressive—qualities that homeowners are eager to reintroduce in modern spaces.
Key features making a comeback include:
Mix of Woods: Combining dark walnut with lighter oak or maple adds warmth and visual interest.
Patterned Tiles: Bold geometric or mosaic backsplashes create a focal point in otherwise neutral kitchens.
Colorful Accents: Think retro-style small appliances, pastel cabinetry, or accent chairs to create personality.
Eclectic Accessories: Vintage bar stools, patterned rugs, and open shelving displaying curated collections make kitchens feel dynamic and lived-in.
At Sabz Interiors, we help our clients blend this nostalgia with modern functionality, ensuring that kitchens remain timeless while celebrating individuality.
Looking Ahead: More Color in Kitchens
While white provides a neutral and elegant base, we predict a gradual increase in the use of vibrant and layered colors over the next several years. Homeowners are looking beyond minimalism and embracing:
Two-tone cabinetry: Mixing dark and light shades for contrast
Bold accent walls: Deep blues, forest greens, or warm terracotta behind neutral kitchens
Statement islands: Painted islands or textured wood with color finishes
Decorative ceilings and walls: Bringing pattern and color into overlooked areas
In Washington DC and Northern Virginia, these trends are particularly appealing in townhomes and contemporary urban kitchens where small pops of color can transform the space.
Why Homeowners in Montgomery County and DC Should Consider This Trend Now
Investing in a kitchen remodel now allows you to:
Future-proof your space with timeless white as a foundation
Integrate upcoming trends like expressive colors, patterned tiles, and layered woods
Bring a sense of nostalgia and playfulness while maintaining elegance
Create a kitchen that balances function, beauty, and personality
A professional interior kitchen designer, like the team at Sabz Interiors, ensures that these trends are implemented thoughtfully. We guide material selection, color pairing, and layout planning to create a cohesive and stylish kitchen tailored to your home and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
2026 marks a turning point in kitchen design: white is the new canvas, but it’s also the springboard for creativity and personality. From Pantone’s choice of White to the playful revival of 90s sitcom kitchens, homeowners in Montgomery County, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia can embrace a style that feels both fresh and familiar.
At Sabz Interiors, we see the kitchen as more than a room—it’s a statement of design, lifestyle, and individuality. Whether you’re incorporating bold patterns, mixing wood tones, or keeping a serene white palette, a thoughtfully designed kitchen ensures your home feels welcoming, dynamic, and timeless.
