Adding color to your kitchen is an easy and affordable way to give it an instant facelift. Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or want to make a bold statement, injecting color into your kitchen design can completely transform the space. Here are 9 great ways to incorporate vibrant color into your kitchen.
Paint the Walls
Painting the walls is the simplest way to add pops of color to your kitchen. If you want a subtle change, paint just one wall in a bright hue. For more drama, paint two or three walls a color that complements your existing kitchen elements. Some popular kitchen wall colors include:
- Vibrant reds – Energize the space with shades like apple red or fire engine red.
- Sunny yellows – Cheerful colors like lemon or mustard yellow create an upbeat vibe.
- Ocean blues – From sky blue to navy, these cool tones are both calming and appetizing.
- Forest greens – Earthy green hues like sage or moss green bring nature indoors.
- Classic white – Crisp white walls make cabinets and decor pop.
Use Colored Appliances
Today’s appliances come in a rainbow of colors, making it easy to add pizzazz to your kitchen. Swap out stainless steel appliances for ones in your favorite hue. Options include refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves and more in colors like cobalt blue, tomato red, orange, purple and even black. A colored refrigerator is an especially fun way to showcase your style.
Install a Colorful Backsplash
The backsplash is the perfect place to infuse color since it takes up a large surface area. Glass, ceramic tile or metal backsplashes can be found in any color imaginable. For a look that pops, choose a vibrant shade or create a geometric pattern with tiles in complementary colors.
Add Bright Accents
Colorful accents are an easy way to liven up your existing kitchen. Swap out old accessories for bright and cheery ones like:
- Colored pots, pans and cooking tools in hues like turquoise, orange, yellow and red.
- Vibrant tea kettles, salt & pepper shakers and kitchen towels.
- Placemats, napkins and table runners at the dining table.
- Ornate bowls filled with lemons, limes or oranges that instantly add color when placed on countertops.
Use Colorful Cabinets
Replacing old cabinets can be costly, but repainting or re-staining them allows you to get a colorful look on a budget. Some creative ways to give cabinets a bold new look:
- Paint cabinets in a bright matte shade like cobalt blue, canary yellow or lime green.
- Stain the wood a vibrant hue like cherry red or orange.
- Paint inside the cabinets a fun color so it peeks out when doors are opened.
- Replace cabinet doors with ones made of colored glass for a whimsical accent.
Paint an Accent Wall
Beyond just painting the walls, creating a focal point with an accent wall in a vibrant shade highlights a particular area. Ideas for accent walls:
- Behind the stove – Paint a bold red or orange to bring drama to the cooking zone.
- Inside open shelving – Bright blue or green shelves stand out against wall decor.
- Behind kitchen sink – A calming sage green accentuates this relaxing prep area.
Swap Out Countertops
Colorful countertops can completely transform the look of your kitchen. Options include:
- Vibrant solid surface – Materials like Corian come in numerous colors and patterns.
- Richly veined stone – Granite, quartzite and marble in shades like emerald green or deep blue.
- Bright tile – Use glass, ceramic or mosaic tiles in shiny hues.
- Concrete – Dye concrete countertops any color during pouring.
Use Colorful Bar Stools
Bar stools offer the perfect opportunity to infuse color because they take up visual space. Swap out your neutral stools for ones in your favorite bright shade. Red, yellow, green and blue bar stools make a big impact in any kitchen.
Paint the Floors
Finally, for the most dramatic effect, consider painting your kitchen floors in a vibrant hue. Stained concrete floors take paint beautifully. Choose high-gloss paint for wood floors. Primary colors like red, yellow and blue make the biggest splash on floors. Just think through the practicalities of colorfully painted floors before taking the plunge.
With so many options, it’s easy to wake up a dull and dated kitchen with pops of color. Start with small accents, then go bold by painting walls, cabinets, backsplashes and more. The key is deciding which elements you want to highlight in cheerful hues that align with your personal taste. With a well-thought-out color scheme, you can give your kitchen an exciting new look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good colors to pair together in a kitchen?
Some popular kitchen color combinations include:
- Red and white – Classic and timeless
- Blue and yellow – Vibrant and unexpected
- Green and brown – Earthy and peaceful
- Purple and gray – Elegant and sophisticated
- Orange and turquoise – Fun and energetic
Should I avoid bright colors in a small kitchen?
Not necessarily! Bright colors like yellow or green can make a small kitchen feel fresh and cheerful. Just be sure to use them sparingly on accent walls or furnishings so the space doesn’t feel too busy. Neutral walls with a few bold accents is a good approach.
How do I add color to a rental kitchen I can’t paint?
Use colorful removable items like appliances, linens, rugs, bar stools and decor. Swap out hardware like faucets, light fixtures and cabinet knobs for bright colored ones. Use contact paper or removable wallpaper to add color inside cabinets and drawers.
Should my colorful kitchen have a pattern or just solid colors?
It’s up to you! Patterns can lend visual interest, but limit colors to just 2 or 3 so it doesn’t get too busy. Repeating a color in different shades (light blue backsplash, navy cabinets, etc.) helps it feel unified. Include some solid blocks of color to anchor the space.
What type of paint finish works best for a colorful kitchen?
Matte and eggshell paint finishes are ideal for walls. They provide color without too much shine that can make walls look plastic-y. Semi-gloss paint works well for cabinets and trim for easy wiping. Use high-gloss paint on woodwork for a lacquered look.
Conclusion
Revamping a tired kitchen with vibrant color is an exciting, achievable project for DIYers. Splashing your favorite hues onto walls, cabinets, counters and decor breathes new life into the space. Whether you opt for an accent wall in electric blue or sunshine yellow cabinets, the right color scheme can make your kitchen the heartbeat of the home. Choose colors that reflect your personality and complement your existing finishes. With so many creative options, you can easily whip up a kitchen that exemplifies your unique style.
