The kitchen is reinventing itself – AI and consumer preferences as game-changers

The desire for health and flexibility, limited living space, and a shift away from established values are leading savvy first-time buyers into new kitchen worlds—beyond traditional manufacturers and familiar distribution channels. In the process, familiar paradigms are being put to the test: What does the air fryer have to do with the oven? For 2026, value growth of just 1 percent is expected for major home appliances in Western Europe, compared to 5 to 7 percent for small domestic appliances. Multifunctionality and convenience are among the most important consumer drivers of the future.

How will limited living space affect the kitchen? Available living space per person is decreasing in many markets. Will kitchen manufacturers continue to develop individual kitchens in the future—or will they increasingly focus on flexible living systems? How large can appliances be?

Kitchen planning is also undergoing fundamental changes due to AI. Even today, some customers are already using AI visualization tools for style inspiration and product searches. In just a few years, consumers will be able to use complex AI planning systems to design kitchen furniture and layouts, as well as to plan connected kitchen appliances. AI tools can create complete 3D designs based on room dimensions, budget, and individual lifestyle habits—including cost estimates, visualizations, and specific product recommendations.

This will result in customized kitchen solutions that will challenge established paradigms by consistently focusing on people’s actual needs.

This gives rise to customized kitchen solutions that will challenge established paradigms by consistently focusing on people’s actual needs.

The presentation uses figures, data, and facts to illustrate where the kitchen industry is headed. It highlights opportunities and new areas of growth for product and kitchen manufacturers and clearly summarizes the key success factors for product strategy.

Barbara Busse is an internationally experienced futurist, innovation strategist, and the founder of the trend and foresight agency FUTURE+YOU. With her concept of “Future Positivity,” she helps global brands and executives identify technological and societal upheavals early on and translate them into future-proof business strategies.