Leicht KYOTO Wins German Design Award 2025: Minimalism Perfected

Big news from the world of kitchen design: KYOTO by Leicht has just been named a winner of the German Design Award 2025 in the category of “Excellent Product Design.” We could not be more proud. This award isn’t just a badge of honor; it’s an international recognition of the precision, innovation, and artistry that goes into every Leicht kitchen.

If you’ve been following the evolution of modern kitchens, you know KYOTO is something special. Rooted in Japanese-inspired minimalism, yet full of modern flexibility, this collection brings warmth, structure, and calm to the heart of the home. Take a closer look at why everyone’s talking about KYOTO in 2025 and what this award win really means.

What Is the German Design Award?

The German Design Award is one of the most prestigious honors in global product design. Organized by the German Design Council, which has been setting international design standards since 1953, this award recognizes products that combine cutting-edge innovation with exceptional aesthetics and quality.

Winning in the “Excellent Product Design” category is an impressive feat. The award signals to the world that a product isn’t just beautiful; it’s meaningful, smart, and expertly crafted. As the fourth consecutive win, the Leicht team is proud to showcase their commitment to design and innovation.

The Philosophy Behind KYOTO: Minimalism Meets Materiality

KYOTO defining trait comes down to one word: balance.

Inspired by Japanese craftsmanship, KYOTO is all about clarity, simplicity, and focus. The design is calm and composed. No loud colors or ornate details to clutter the eye. This allows the honest materials and clean lines of the intelligent design to be a main focus. It’s a space where function flows effortlessly with form.

But don’t mistake “minimalist” for “basic.” Rich with quiet sophistication, KYOTO is a show stopper that embraces veneered oak and walnut surfaces. The smooth panel fronts and thoughtfully aligned tones help to create a serene and high-end atmosphere. Everything has a place. Nothing is loud, and yet, it still makes a statement.

What’s New for KYOTO in 2025?

This year, KYOTO expands into even more creative territory. Leicht introduces a playful use of material layering and a broader selection of custom color surfaces, including:

• Les Couleurs® Le Corbusier: a legendary palette of architectural tones

• RAL and NCS color systems: offering incredible flexibility

• A deeper dive into matte textures and smooth finishes

Resulting in a collection that’s calm and quiet, yet completely open to personal expression. Whether you're after soft neutrals or bold earthy hues, KYOTO has a finish that feels right at home and integrates seamlessly into any space.

Why Homeowners and Designers Love KYOTO

Designers appreciate KYOTO because it is the ideal solutions for storage and space planning issues while elevating aesthetics offering an incredibly refined design. Often found in open-plan homes, where the kitchen blends seamlessly into the larger living space.

Homeowners, on the other hand, fall in love with KYOTO for its comfort and warmth. It’s not flashy; it’s welcoming. The materials feel honest and the color coordination is calming. KYOTO focuses on giving off the overall vibe of timeless, not trendy.

And while it’s unmistakably modern, KYOTO doesn’t lean into too much of a cold or industrial feel. It hits that sweet spot between sleek design and human-centered living.

What This Award Means for the Future

At Leicht, this win reinforces what we already believe, that design should make life better, not just look good. The German Design Award is a reminder that the industry recognizes our commitment to pushing German Kitchens forward.

For you, it means even more confidence in choosing Leicht for your next modern luxury kitchen project. You’re not just buying cabinets. You’re investing in design expertise, global innovation, and long-lasting beauty.

Come See KYOTO for Yourself

We’d love for you to experience the award-winning KYOTO collection in person. Whether you’re planning a remodel, building a new home, or simply exploring possibilities, our design experts at LeichtCA are here to help.

Schedule a visit to our kitchen showroom in Orange County or book a design consultation today and discover what minimalist elegance can look like in your home.