2023 Cabinet Design Trends for Modern Multifamily Properties

Multifamily design has been moving fast. Here are the trends developers are specifying in 2023 and why they're resonating with today's renters.

Two-Tone Kitchens

Upper cabinets in white or light grey paired with lower cabinets in navy, black, or forest green deliver a high-end custom look at production pricing. The contrast reads as intentional design rather than builder-grade, and it photographs well for marketing materials.

Integrated Appliance Panels

Panel-ready refrigerators and dishwashers with matching cabinet fronts create a seamless, built-in aesthetic. This upgrade adds ~$300–500 per unit in material cost but meaningfully increases perceived value and rental comps.

Open Shelving Accents

Replacing one or two upper wall cabinets with open floating shelves breaks up the cabinet mass and gives tenants display space. Specify prefinished shelves in the same material as the cabinet boxes for a cohesive look.

Matte Black Hardware

Brushed nickel still dominates multifamily hardware specs, but matte black is growing quickly — particularly in urban class A and student housing projects. Matte finishes hide fingerprints better than polished alternatives, which appeals to operators managing high-turnover units.

What's Not Trending

Avoid highly personalized or regional design choices in volume projects. Deep wood tones, glass inserts, and ornate rope or arch profiles limit your resale and repositioning flexibility. Timeless neutrals with thoughtful accent details remain the most durable investment.