A new survey reveals how kitchen priorities are evolving across generations, from aesthetics and social spaces to functionality, storage and long term practicality.

Walk-in pantries have  emerged as a standout design feature across all age groups, ranking as the most wanted addition for Gen Z, families and over 55s. However, beyond this shared demand, preferences for other features and styles vary significantly across generations. While Millennials lean towards sleek, handleless styles and integrated features, Gen Z are driving a return to warmer, farmhouse inspired designs.

Wren Kitchens have uncovered  how expectations shift at different life stages, revealing what homeowners value most in their kitchens today and how these needs are shaping future design. Mark Sellars, Head of Product Design and Development at Wren Kitchens shares expert insight on how to bring these trends into the home, with design-led solutions that help create kitchens tailored to you.

Pantries top the wishlist for every generation

Walk-in pantries have emerged as a standout design feature across all age groups, ranking as the most wanted addition for Gen Zs, families and over 55s, highlighting a growing focus on organisation and considered storage.

Mark explains “Pantries are becoming a key part of kitchen design, rather than an afterthought. Features like full height cabinetry, pull out shelving and internal organisers, such as spice racks or drawer dividers, help make the space much more functional and adaptable, whether you’re cooking for a family or looking for something more low maintenance.

With thoughtful planning, pantry storage can be incorporated into kitchens of any size — whether through a walk-in pantry or integrated larder cupboards — allowing it to feel like a seamless part of the overall layout.

Gen Z: Designing kitchens for lifestyle, identity and routine

Gen Z are redefining the kitchen as a space built around daily routines, with breakfast stations and pet-friendly features reflecting a strong focus on convenience and practicality.

Mark explains: “From breakfast stations to pet-friendly storage, homeowners are increasingly looking for practical features that support everyday routines while keeping kitchens organised and clutter-free.”

Style wise, Gen Z are also driving the return of farmhouse kitchens (16%), alongside bold statement designs (14%).

“With farmhouse-inspired interiors making a comeback, shaker cabinetry remains a popular choice thanks to its timeless look and surprising versatility. At Wren, there are multiple shaker styles to choose from, including classic, in-frame and more modern slim designs, in a wide range of colours and finishes. Pairing these with warm neutrals, Belfast sinks and traditional handles is an easy way to create that softer, more lived in feel.”

Millennials: The design conscious, convenience driven generation

Millennials are the most design led group, with 35% prioritising soft close cabinetry alongside a preference for seamless, modern finishes.

“That typically translates into features like handleless designs and clean lined cabinetry in tones like soft greys, matt blacks or warm neutrals. Pairing this with subtle contrasts, such as two tone units or textured finishes can bring depth to the space without taking away from that clean, modern feel.”

They are also the biggest adopters of smart and integrated features, with 34% interested in hidden extractor fans and 26% prioritising boiling water taps. Millennials are also the biggest fans of drinks stations (27%), making them the most entertaining focused group and reinforcing the kitchen’s role as a social space.

Mark adds: “Integrated appliances and concealed extraction are increasingly popular because they create a seamless look, allowing cabinetry and surfaces to remain visually uncluttered. Features such as boiling water taps and dedicated drinks areas — including integrated drinks fridges with storage for glassware and bottles — also help create a more sociable, hosting-friendly space.”

Families: Prioritising storage, practicality and efficiency

For families, practicality is key. Over a third of 35s-44s (35%) prioritise walk-in pantries, while 30% want double sinks, reflecting fast paced households and making everyday cleaning and multitasking easier.

“Once you’ve got a busy household, storage quickly becomes one of the biggest priorities,” Mark explains. “Pantries, whether that’s a separate space or built into the kitchen, are a really effective way to keep things organised and easy to access.”

“Features such as ample sink space, practical storage and a smooth flow between key areas can make a significant difference to how a kitchen functions day to day. Durable, easy-to-maintain worktops like quartz or Corian can also help make everyday upkeep more manageable.”

Mid-life homeowners: The rise of the social, multifunctional kitchen

For this group, the kitchen is evolving into a multifunctional space for both practical use and socialising. Nearly a third (32%) prioritise large kitchen islands, alongside separate utility spaces.

“As kitchens evolve into more social, multi use spaces, islands are becoming a central design feature rather than just an add on. It’s not just about adding seating, it’s about designing a feature that works from every angle.

Islands can be tailored to include built-in storage like deep drawers, pull-out units or open shelving, alongside integrated appliances such as hobs or wine fridges. In terms of design, contrasting finishes, like pairing a darker island with lighter perimeter cabinetry, or using materials such as quartz worktops with waterfall edges, can help make it a real focal point while still feeling cohesive within the overall space.”

Over 55s: Functionality, ease and long term living

For over-55s, practicality and ease of use remain top priorities, with many favouring separate utility spaces and other convenience-led features. They are also the most likely generation to favour high-gloss luxury kitchens.

“Ease of use becomes much more of a focus,” says Mark Sellars. “That can be as simple as thinking about where things are positioned, making sure everything is within comfortable reach and easy to access. I’d always recommend using a kitchen design service, like Wren’s free planning service, to get the most out of your layout, especially in smaller spaces.

Having a separate utility area is also really valuable, as it helps keep the main kitchen feeling calm and uncluttered, especially when you’re using the space for more than just cooking.”