Kitchens and bathrooms play a major role in defining the character and functionality of any custom home. In East Tennessee, homeowners are embracing design styles that blend modern convenience with Southern charm, natural beauty, and thoughtful craftsmanship.
As families across Knoxville, Maryville, Blount County, Sevierville, and surrounding areas continue to design homes around lifestyle and comfort, kitchens and bathrooms have become the spaces that receive the most attention and personalization.
Whether you are planning a new custom home or considering a remodel, these are the most influential kitchen and bathroom design trends shaping East Tennessee homes today.
1. Open Concept Kitchens That Encourage Connection
Open kitchens remain one of the most desired layout choices for custom homes. East Tennessee homeowners continue to prioritize spaces that allow the kitchen to serve as the central gathering point of the home.
Why Open Kitchens Work So Well
- Integrated dining and living areas create a more welcoming environment
- Larger sightlines allow families to stay connected during cooking or entertaining
- Natural light flows easily throughout shared spaces
- Furniture placement and décor can create lifestyle zones that feel cohesive and functional
At Richardson Construction, open concept layouts are tailored to how families cook, gather, and move through their everyday routines.
2. Two Tone Cabinetry for Visual Interest
Two tone kitchens remain a favorite choice throughout East Tennessee for their ability to add depth and personality.
Popular Combinations
- White upper cabinets paired with deep greens or blues
- Natural wood lowers combined with soft neutral uppers
- Subtle contrasts such as warm gray with creamy beige
This design trend allows homeowners to personalize their space without overwhelming the overall style.
3. Feature Islands With Thoughtful Function
Kitchen islands continue to evolve as the true centerpiece of modern kitchen design. In East Tennessee homes, islands provide both beauty and functionality.
Island Trends You Will See Everywhere
- Seating built into one or more sides
- Deep storage drawers that maximize organization
- Waterfall countertops for a clean visual finish
- Integrated appliances to improve workflow
Many homeowners also add decorative lighting above the island to create an inviting focal point.
To see examples, visit our portfolio.
4. Walk In Pantries and Butler’s Prep Areas
Walk in pantries have grown in popularity due to the desire for improved organization and convenience. In many custom homes, they now serve as a separate extension of the kitchen.
Favorite Pantry Enhancements
- Built in shelving tailored to household habits
- Counters for small appliances
- Secondary sinks for meal prep
- Additional refrigeration for drinks or entertaining
These spaces help keep the main kitchen clean, streamlined, and visually peaceful.
5. Warm Natural Woods and Earthy Finishes
East Tennessee’s mountainous landscapes inspire a love for natural materials inside the home. Warm wood cabinetry, beams, and accents continue to gain momentum.
Natural Materials That Stand Out
- White oak cabinetry and flooring
- Soapstone or quartzite style surfaces
- Muted earth tones inspired by nature
- Stone or brick accents for rustic charm
Richardson Construction incorporates local and regional materials whenever possible, emphasizing craftsmanship and the natural character of the region.
Explore how these materials come together in our process.
6. Smart Kitchens With Subtle Technology Integration
Technology plays a growing role in kitchen design, and homeowners are adopting features that improve convenience without compromising aesthetics.
Smart Features That Blend Seamlessly
- Voice activated lighting systems
- Touchless faucets
- Wi Fi enabled ovens or refrigerators
- Hidden charging stations inside drawers or cabinets
These subtle technology upgrades make daily routines smoother and more enjoyable.
7. Quartz and Porcelain Surfaces for Durability and Style
Quartz and porcelain continue to dominate East Tennessee countertops because of their beauty and long term durability. They complement everything from modern styles to rustic mountain inspired homes.
Design Advantages
- Non porous and easy to maintain
- Available in a variety of patterns and textures
- Can mimic natural stone with stunning realism
- Performs beautifully in kitchens and bathrooms alike
These materials provide a polished finish and pair well with natural wood or painted cabinetry.
8. Spa Inspired Bathrooms Designed for Relaxation
Homeowners across East Tennessee are transforming bathrooms into personal spa retreats. These spaces are designed for comfort, quiet, and relaxation.
Elements of a Spa Like Bathroom
- Freestanding tubs that create sculptural beauty
- Walk in showers with frameless glass
- Dual showerheads or rainfall features
- Natural stone or tile textures
- Warm, soothing lighting
At Richardson Construction, we craft bathrooms that combine relaxation with refined detail.
9. Organic Materials and Soft, Natural Palettes
Bathrooms in East Tennessee custom homes are moving toward nature inspired palettes that reflect the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Popular Bathroom Looks
- Light, earthy greens paired with warm neutrals
- Stone inspired tiles with texture and variation
- Matte black or brushed bronze fixtures
- Wood toned vanities for organic warmth
The look is calming, grounded, and timeless.
10. Double Vanities and Thoughtful Storage
Functionality is a hallmark of luxury bathroom design. Double vanities remain a top request, not only for personal comfort but for organization and style.
Storage Features Homeowners Love
- Custom drawer dividers
- Cabinets designed around daily routines
- Built in shelving for linens
- Floating vanities that provide airy elegance
These thoughtful touches make the bathroom a calm and clutter free space.
11. Zero Entry Showers and Universal Design
Designing with the future in mind continues to shape bathroom trends across East Tennessee. Zero entry showers remain one of the most requested universal design features.
Key Universal Design Elements
- No threshold entries
- Handheld and overhead shower combinations
- Built in benches
- Slip resistant flooring
- Wider doorways and smooth transitions
Richardson Construction incorporates these elements seamlessly into the style of the bathroom.
12. Tile That Doubles as Art
Bathrooms and kitchens are now showcasing tile as a statement feature rather than just a functional surface.
Tile Trends to Watch
- Geometric or mosaic backsplashes
- Textured subway tile variations
- Large format stone inspired tiles
- Hand painted or artisan crafted pieces
These add personality and a sense of creativity to everyday spaces.
13. Freestanding Tubs With Scenic Placement
East Tennessee’s landscape offers countless opportunities to incorporate views into your home’s interior design. Freestanding tubs placed near windows have become a favorite feature.
Why They Are Popular
- Provide a striking visual focal point
- Enhance the spa experience through natural scenery
- Allow light to fill the room
- Create an open and tranquil atmosphere
Many custom homes near water or mountains highlight this design beautifully.
14. Mood Enhancing Lighting
Lighting influences the experience of both kitchens and bathrooms in powerful ways. Homeowners across East Tennessee are upgrading spaces with lighting that improves comfort and atmosphere.
Lighting Ideas for Kitchens and Bathrooms
- Layered lighting with recessed and accent fixtures
- Dimmable lights for relaxation
- LED mirrors for grooming
- Under cabinet lighting for both function and elegance
- Natural daylight integration whenever possible
Lighting is often the final touch that brings your entire design to life.
15. Personalized Details That Reflect Lifestyle
True customization comes from choosing features that feel meaningful and unique. East Tennessee homeowners continue to embrace personalized touches throughout kitchens and bathrooms.
Examples of Popular Custom Details
- Coffee stations built into kitchen or bathroom alcoves
- Decorative ceiling beams or wood accents
- Built in seating in kitchens or near windows
- Custom mirrors or artisan crafted hardware
- Display shelving for personal collections
Every detail adds character and makes your home truly your own.
FAQs About Kitchen and Bathroom Design Trends
Q1: Can these trends be incorporated into existing homes?
Yes. Many of these design elements can be integrated through renovations or partial updates.
Q2: Are farmhouse and rustic styles still popular in East Tennessee?
Traditional and rustic styles remain favorites, often blended with modern finishes to create a transitional look.
Q3: Do these trends work well in both large and small spaces?
Absolutely. Good design adapts to the size and layout of the home. Many trends like lighting, natural materials, and custom storage work in spaces of all sizes.
Q4: Can Richardson Construction help design these features?
Yes. We offer fully customized homebuilding and remodeling services to bring your ideas to life. Explore our services or view our process to get started.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Kitchen and Bathroom with Thoughtful Design
The trending kitchen and bathroom designs in East Tennessee custom homes reflect a commitment to comfort, quality, and individuality. From open concept kitchens to spa inspired bathrooms, homeowners are choosing spaces that feel both inviting and expressive.
Key Takeaways
- Natural materials and warm finishes continue to dominate design choices.
- Smart technology and thoughtful storage enhance everyday living.
- Personalized details bring character and meaning to kitchens and bathrooms.
At Richardson Construction, we believe kitchens and bathrooms should serve as the heart and soul of your home. Our team designs and builds each space with care, creativity, and craftsmanship, ensuring it reflects your lifestyle and the beauty of East Tennessee.
👉 Ready to bring your vision to life?
Contact Richardson Construction today to schedule your consultation. Explore our portfolio, browse our services, and learn how our proven process supports homeowners across our service areas.
