My MIL did this a few years ago, so though I can't comment on whether it is a fad, I can share some pics. The floor is a mix of hardwood and tile, so she "pulled" the darker colors back into the room there.

Today's larger kitchens can be a little overwhelming if done all in one color. Using different moldings or completely different finishes to deliniate areas can be a great way to add visual interest.

I think the only really big trend in cabs right now is the white cab with white subway backsplash-- anytime a particular look goes from [guestimating here]a 10% market share to 75% or more, its trendy. Doesn't matter how many examples you can find from a century ago-- that just makes it a trend with historical precedence.

I like Jaymielo's MIL's kitchen, though I personally think it would work better if there were a few more midrange colors-- the molding is so much darker than anything else I think they demand more than their fair share of attention. May I ask what the floor is? I like the large format and colors...

I've seen a few kitchens with black molding (I think HD's Thomasville line has it as an option) and a LOT of kitchens where the island is one color and the perimeter cabs are another. That's a very popular look right now. Here's a pic of mine (maple perimeter cabs, cream island; there was a thread a couple of weeks ago in which most, but not all, people thought the island should be darker than the perimeter cabs):

Jaymielo, very nice kitchen!

oruboris, I don't have particulars on the floor, but I can get them if you are interested. Here is a little better picture.

It is basically a wide plank, site finished hardwood with 12"x12" ceramic tiles between and then the smaller tile in the center on the diagonal. It is a pretty floor.

Thanks-- I was wondering if it was wood or a wood look tile. Awfully pretty, but I'm not sure I'd want the added maintenence of the hardwoods.

I am doing two different cab colors in my tiny kitchen. My uppers and bottoms will be natural maple (shaker style). My sink cab will be maple, shaker style and espresso in color (black). I hope it will look OK. Too late to turn back now. I love the two tone kitchens. I think they are pretty and provide some interest.