Nostalgia is alive and well in kitchen design, with patterns from the ’90s, especially checkerboard tiles, becoming the must-have trend of 2026. Goldie Hawn’s Los Angeles kitchen from 1992, featuring blue-and-white tiled backsplashes and countertops, is leading the way as a style inspiration.
- Checkerboard tiles offer a striking visual focal point in kitchens.
- The pattern cleverly hides kitchen messes and wear.
- Retro ’90s style makes a chic, practical comeback in 2026.
What happened
The checkerboard tile pattern from the 1990s has surged back into popularity in 2026, heralded by the iconic kitchen of actress Goldie Hawn. Her 1992 Los Angeles kitchen showcased blue-and-white tiled backsplashes and countertops, complemented by stainless steel appliances and open shelving. This combination offered a cozy yet elevated atmosphere that perfectly captured the era’s style and is now inspiring designers and homeowners alike.
Currently, the trend is evident across social media platforms like Pinterest, where tiled floors, checked rugs, and patterned appliances are becoming increasingly common. Designers and decorators are embracing the checkerboard motif for its ability to create an immediate visual center in kitchens and dining rooms, spaces that are frequently used and crave both function and charm.
Why it feels good
Checkerboard patterns bring a unique contrast that naturally draws the eye and anchors kitchen and dining spaces. Instead of relying on complex decor, these bold two-toned designs offer instant structure and emphasis, making rooms feel inviting and well-composed. The pattern’s geometry adds visual interest without clutter, encouraging longer and more memorable gatherings around the dining table.
Another appealing aspect is its practicality. The darker elements of checkerboard designs help conceal crumbs, spills, and everyday wear and tear common in busy kitchens. This makes the style not only beautiful but functional, maintaining a fresh look with less effort, which resonates especially well in homes that prioritize both aesthetics and usability.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those eager to incorporate the checkerboard trend without remodeling their entire kitchen, a range of charming accessories is available. Items like utensil holders, end-grain cutting boards, and washable checkered rugs add stylish checkerboard accents. Even practical appliances, such as toasters and kettles featuring this pattern, invite compliments and joyful utility.
Keep an eye on how this trend evolves, particularly as more designers reinterpret the pattern by mixing colors and introducing it to furniture and tableware. Inspired by Goldie Hawn’s effortlessly cool ’90s vibe, checkerboard looks set to remain a comforting yet statement-making choice well beyond 2026.