Designers are favoring muted, earthy tones in kitchen design, which are said to have a surprisingly luxurious look. These "dirty" kitchen colors are being used as an alternative to traditional pale neutrals, with some designers also recommending the use of certain paint colors to add personality to kitchens. The trend towards these richer colors may be part of a broader shift in color preferences, although it is unclear how long this trend will last or what other colors may be gaining popularity.