When you think about a kitchen remodel, you might picture shiny new countertops, fresh paint, or replacing worn-out cabinets. But to Bayshore Remodels’ owner, Justin Eichler, a kitchen is more than just a place to cook. It’s a canvas.

We sat down with Justin to pick his brain on what he’s been seeing in Tampa Bay kitchens — and what he predicts will define kitchen design trends in 2025. Spoiler: he’s not afraid to step outside the box.“I think of kitchens as the heart of a home, but also as an art form,” Justin says. “Anyone can build cabinets. We want to create spaces that feel layered, intentional, and elevated. Something that makes you stop and say, wow.”

So what’s trending? Let’s dive into Justin’s insights.

1. Natural Wood Cabinets: The Comeback Kid

Justin says one of the biggest shifts he’s seen lately is the return of natural wood cabinetry.

“People want warmth again. White kitchens are beautiful, but homeowners are asking for natural oak, walnut, and even rustic tones. Wood brings character — it grounds the space.”

Not only does natural wood pair beautifully with stone countertops and gold hardware, but it also creates a timeless backdrop for modern living. Think coastal Clearwater homes with light oak cabinets, or a moody downtown Tampa loft with rich walnut.

2. Two-Tone Kitchens: Contrast as a Design Tool

Gone are the days when a kitchen had to match top to bottom.

“I love when homeowners are open to two-tone kitchens,” Justin explains. “It’s one of the easiest ways to make a space feel custom and modern. A navy island with wood cabinets, or black lowers with crisp white uppers — it makes the kitchen feel alive.”

Two-tone designs also give homeowners freedom to blend styles. You can stay classic on one side and bold on the other, creating a kitchen that feels tailored instead of cookie-cutter.

3. The Great Hardware Debate: Pulls vs. Knobs (Or Both)

One of the most surprisingly fun conversations during a kitchen renovation? Hardware.

“I tell clients, don’t underestimate the details. The choice between cabinet pulls and knobs can totally change the personality of a kitchen,” Justin says.

Pulls: Sleek, modern, and practical for wide drawers.
Knobs: Timeless, traditional, and easy to swap out.

And the new trend? Mixing both. Use pulls on drawers and knobs on uppers for balance and interest.

4. Beyond Nickel: Gold, Brass, and Mixed Metals

Nickel and chrome will always have a place, but according to Justin, more and more clients are leaning toward warmer finishes.

“Gold hardware is huge right now. Not the shiny brass from the ’90s — more like brushed brass, champagne gold. It pairs beautifully with wood tones and even black cabinets. It’s jewelry for the kitchen.”

He also encourages homeowners not to shy away from mixing metals. A matte black faucet with gold pulls? Yes, please.

Thinking Outside the Box: Kitchens as Art

Justin prides himself on pushing past “safe” choices.

“The easiest thing is to do all white, brushed nickel, subway tile. And honestly there’s nothing wrong with that. I like to push clients to think about their kitchen as more than just cabinets and counters. It’s the one room everyone sees. Why not make it artistic? Some like to do it through decoration while others prefer to use unique tiles, different cabinet colors, the list goes on!”

Some of the unique touches Bayshore Remodels has been incorporating include:

Waterfall quartz islands with dramatic veining.
Statement range hoods wrapped in plaster or wood.
Hand-picked tile patterns that feel custom, not builder-grade.
Lighting as design — from oversized pendants to sculptural fixtures.

6. Justin’s Pro Tips for a Kitchen Remodel

We asked Justin what advice he gives to every homeowner before starting a remodel:

Think long-term. Don’t just remodel for today. Pick cabinetry and layouts that will age well.
Layer textures. Wood, stone, metal, and tile together make a kitchen feel high-end.
Don’t skip hardware. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to make your kitchen look custom.
Function first. “Even though I love the artistic side, a kitchen has to work for your lifestyle,” Justin says.

Final Thoughts

At Bayshore Remodels, we don’t just install cabinets — we transform kitchens into works of art. From natural wood cabinetry to two-tone kitchens, from gold hardware to pulls and knobs, our team brings both creativity and craftsmanship to every project.

If you’re ready to turn your kitchen into a space that feels fresh, functional, and uniquely you, we’d love to bring your vision to life.

Contact Bayshore Remodels today to schedule your consultation.

Kitchen Remodel Trends 2025: A Conversation with Bayshore Remodels