It is possible to master two kitchen trends with just one design feature, and Eva Longoria has shown us exactly how. We've already highlighted the actress's brown wooden cabinets, a hue designers have predicted as a key trend in recent months, but beyond the color, her choice of handleless cabinetry taps into another major design movement.
Eva Longoria's handle-less cabinet trend is gaining traction, especially among those seeking the ultimate minimalist kitchen look.
Handleless cabinets, like hers, are celebrated for their sleek, uninterrupted lines that create a clean and sophisticated aesthetic. While the colors and finishes we choose for our kitchen cabinets dramatically impact the space, hardware choices are equally influential, and handle-less designs are consistently favored for a streamlined, uncluttered feel, perfect for cozy fall and winter months.
Shop the wooden kitchen edit
You don’t need high-end cabinets to capture Eva Longoria’s streamlined kitchen style. I love experimenting with neutral accessories, like this elegant acacia chopping board from Magnolia’s collection at Target.
The finest kitchen accessories blend beauty with functionality. Here, richly grained acacia wood is transformed into a smooth, sculptural serving piece that works just as well for daily use, entertaining, or artful display
Elevate your entertaining with this beautiful and functional serving board. Made from natural wood with graceful scalloped edges, it’s ideal for presenting appetizers, charcuterie, or any artful spread.
When introducing a new texture or material to my kitchen, I start with the basics. Slate and pepper mills are an easy, budget-friendly way to add an extra wood tone, and I’m especially drawn to the striking design of this set from Wayfair.
'One of the biggest trends we have seen this year is pairing different styles and finishes of cabinetry in one design. Handleless cabinetry is perfect for this trend as the streamlined effect removes extra visual stimulus, adding to the impact of contrasting colors and keeping the focus on the cabinetry itself rather than leading to a cluttered and overwhelming design,' comments Dawn Filkins, Head of Creative at Smile Kitchens.
When designing a minimalist space, it may seem intuitive to choose a subtle kitchen cabinet color like white or cream for a bright feel. However, as Filkins explains, a handle-less design offers the freedom to experiment with moodier hues without sacrificing the minimalist aesthetic.
'Handleless design and open-plan living go hand in hand, creating the perfect opportunity to play with darker colors. The light and airy effect of an open-plan design will lift and complement the drama of darker cabinetry, furniture, and accessories,' Filkins explains.
Longoria opted for a muted brown tone, but the absence of handles and the correct lighting allows for even darker shades, providing a sophisticated, grounding look that feels especially appropriate as the days grow shorter and the focus shifts indoors.
'Utilize effective lighting in these areas to enhance the impact even further. Incorporating ambient lighting is a great way to create an atmosphere in the room and ensures that your space feels sociable and warm even with deeper cabinetry,' Filkins says.
Finally, while space likely isn't an issue for Longoria, Filkins notes that handle-less cabinets are an excellent choice for small kitchens where maximizing every inch is crucial.
'Eliminating the wasted inches of handle space, [this option] is a great option for smaller kitchens. No longer will homeowners have to squeeze past awkward drawer knobs or worry about bumping against handles. [It] also gives you the flexibility to bespoke each cabinet space to your personal storage needs.'
