Introduction
Choosing a color scheme for your kitchen can be an exciting yet daunting task. With so many paint colors, materials, and styles to consider, it’s important to think about the functional and aesthetic goals for your space. We assembled a panel of interior design experts to share their advice on selecting the perfect kitchen colors. From considerations like lighting and cabinetry, to emerging color trends, these pros cover everything you need to know before painting your kitchen.
Key Factors To Consider When Choosing Kitchen Colors
When selecting a color palette for your kitchen, there are several important factors to consider:
Lighting
The amount and type of natural and artificial lighting in your kitchen will impact how colors appear. North-facing rooms with cool natural light may lend themselves to warmer paint colors. South-facing rooms awash in sunlight can handle deeper shades without appearing too dark. For kitchens with minimal natural light, layering pendant lights, under-cabinet lighting and other fixtures can allow you to be more adventurous with darker paint colors.
Cabinets and Countertops
Your cabinetry and countertops will be prominent features in the kitchen, so select paint colors that complement (or intentionally contrast with) these elements. For example, crisp white cabinetry pairs nicely with just about any color, from light sage greens to navy blues. Rich wood cabinets may call for equally earthy paint shades. And black countertops can ground bright white upper cabinets. Think about how your color scheme will interact with these anchor pieces in the space.
Size of the Space
Smaller kitchens feel even cozier with light, airy paint colors like sea foam green or soft yellow. These cheerful hues reflect light and make the space feel more open. Large kitchens can handle bolder, richer colors on the walls like jewel tones and charcoal greys. However, use these saturated shades sparingly in big kitchens to avoid an overwhelming effect.
Personal Style
Consider the look and ambiance you want for the kitchen. Do you gravitate towards modern, minimalist spaces or cozy cottage vibes? Match your paint colors to your personal style. For a sleek, contemporary kitchen, stick to neutral whites and greys. For a rustic farmhouse kitchen, explore warm reds, antique greens and buttery yellows. Select colors that make you feel happy and reflected in the space.
Functionality
While aesthetics are key, also consider functionality when selecting kitchen colors. Dark walls can recede and feel gloomy in kitchens designed for meal prep. Bright whites keep cooking spaces feeling energized. Stay away from high-gloss paints, which can show grease and water spots. In high-traffic areas, like an island, choose durable paints that can withstand bumps and scrapes. Ensure your color scheme promotes a space that’s both beautiful and highly-functional.
Popular Kitchen Color Schemes
Our expert panel shared these popular kitchen color combinations that look beautiful while fulfilling practical needs:
All White
An all-white kitchen is a timeless choice that promotes cleanliness and brightness. Use varying tones and textures of whites on cabinets, walls, countertops and backsplashes for dimension. Incorporate black and wood accents for contrast. All white kitchens look especially fresh with abundant natural light.
Black and White
For an edgy, high-contrast look, pair matte black lower cabinets with bright white uppers and walls. Consider glossy black subway tiles on the backsplash to complement dark cabinetry. Stainless steel appliances also coordinate nicely with this dramatic color scheme.
Navy Blue and White
Deep blue cabinetry anchored by bright white countertops and walls creates an elegant nautical vibe. For a beachy look, paint upper cabinets, trim or an island a crisp white. Metallic hardware and light wood flooring balances the richness of the blue.
Sage Green and White
Earthy sage green cabinets or walls with bright white trim brings the feel of nature indoors. Pair with marble, quartz or butcher block countertops. Brushed brass hardware and lighting fixtures work nicely with the green and white scheme.
Red and White
For traditional charm, red walls or cabinets combined with white countertops and backsplashes exude classic kitchen style. Subway tiles, diamond patterns or clean lines on the backsplash prevent it from feeling too vintage. Nickel or chrome finishes give this palette a modern twist.
Expert Kitchen Color Tips and Ideas
We asked our panel of interior design experts to share their pro tips for selecting and using color in kitchens:
Anne Z., Kitchen Designer: “Don’t be afraid to use darker colors like deep greens and navy blues on lower cabinets or an island paired with a lighter wall color. This creates an anchoring effect in the space. Just be sure to also incorporate lighting under upper cabinets.”
Phil K., Paint Retailer: “Sometimes a unexpected pop of color like on an island, range hood or the inside of open shelves can enliven an otherwise neutral kitchen. Yellow, green and red work well in this application.”
Wendy F., Color Consultant: “If your style is very sleek and modern, stick to neutrals like white, black, gray and wood tones. Use color sparingly in contemporary kitchens, like on a backsplash or bar stools.”
Mark H., General Contractor: “For resale value, white and off-white kitchens are your safest bet. To keep them looking fresh, opt for warmer antique whites over stark bright whites.”
Liz S., Interior Designer: “Don’t overlook the impact of flooring and lighting fixtures in your kitchen color scheme. Wood floors inject warmth while black pendant lights reinforce darker colors.”
Olivia C., Home Stager: “Green is an unexpected but versatile color for kitchens. Sage greens complement natural wood while forest greens pair well with stone and stainless steel.”
David L., Architect: “Using the entire rainbow in a kitchen can look tacky. Stick to 3 colors max – one for the cabinets, one for the walls and one for accents.”
Sophia V., Blogger: “A red kitchen island is a great way to incorporate color without overwhelming the space. Coordinate the red with metallic accents for an eye-catching contrast.”
Emerging Kitchen Color Trends
Here are some emerging kitchen color trends our experts predict will be popular this year:
Two-Tone Kitchens
Expect to see more two-tone kitchens with different cabinet colors on upper and lower levels. Black lower cabinets with white uppers is a common combination. But we’ll also see color on color, like navy blue bases with peach uppers.
Terracotta Tones
Warm earthy hues like terracotta, rust and ochre will heat up kitchens. These colors bring vibrancy, yet still feel soothing and grounded. Terracotta backsplashes and rustic tiles are especially on trend.
Deep Greens
Dark green is poised to be a breakout kitchen color in the coming year. Deep emerald and sage work well on cabinetry and invoke organic vibes. Pair these moody greens with light countertops and backsplashes.
Brass Accents
Polished brass and champagne gold finishes are making a comeback after years of preferring brushed metals. Expect to see brass lighting fixtures, hardware and taps bringing luxury to kitchens.
Colorful Appliances
White and stainless steel appliances have dominated for years. Now, brands offer appliances in a rainbow of colors. Red, blue, green and more unique hues on refrigerators, ovens and dishwashers enliven modern kitchens.
Common Questions About Kitchen Color Selection
Our interior design experts answered these frequently asked questions about choosing paint and color schemes for kitchen spaces:
What are the best paint finishes for kitchens?
Our pros recommend satin, eggshell or matte paint finishes for kitchen walls and cabinets. These offer subtle sheen while still being durable and stain-resistant. Full gloss paints easily show grease, water spots and imperfections.
How do I choose a color that matches my countertop?
First, identify the undertones of your countertops, which are usually warm (yellow, red) or cool (blue, green). Then, choose a wall or cabinet color that has similar undertones. For example, white, beige or gray paints complement white marble countertops.
Should I match my kitchen island color to the cabinets?
It’s not mandatory, but matching island and cabinet colors creates a streamlined, seamless look. Contrasting island colors can also work, but make sure the tones complement each other.
How dark can I go with kitchen wall colors?
Dark colors like charcoal, navy and black can work well on accent walls or islands paired with ample lighting. But some pros advise keeping other walls and overhead cabinets lighter to prevent a gloomy, cavelike effect.
Should I use the same color in open concept kitchens?
In open floor plans, consider extending your kitchen color scheme into living areas through accent walls or smaller repeats of color. This helps spaces feel cohesive instead of choppy.
Is it ok to use more than 3 colors in a kitchen?
Limiting to 3 colors (one for walls, one for cabinets, one for accents) creates a clean, consistent look. But some pros endorse using more colors as long as there is one dominant hue and additional colors are the same tone or intensity.
Tips for Transitioning to a New Kitchen Color
Ready to take the plunge with a new bold kitchen color? Our experts share these tips for a seamless transition:
- Decorate the space with removable accents like rugs, art and flowers in your new color scheme before painting major elements like walls or cabinets. This allows you to visualize the colors together.
- If you’re painting existing cabinets, thoroughly clean surfaces and lightly sand glossy areas to ensure the new color adheres properly.
- Add a sample pot of the new color to walls and watch it at different times of day before fully committing. Colors appear different in morning light versus evening.
- When painting existing walls or cabinets, use a primer coat in a similar tone to your final color for optimal coverage.
- Don’t rush into an all-over kitchen recolor. Try small pops of new hues first through changeable accents like barstools, appliance covers and window treatments.
- Paint interior cabinet boxes and shelving in a lighter tone than exterior surfaces to prevent dark shadowing within cabinets.
- Update existing hardware, fixtures and pulls to finishes that coordinate with your new color scheme for a cohesive look.
- Repaint ceiling trim after walls are completed so you can neatly cut along edges. Use extra painter’s tape for the cleanest lines.
Conclusion
Our expert interior design panel provided insights on the many factors to weigh when selecting the perfect kitchen colors from cabinetry to lighting to your own personal tastes and style. They recommend versatile color schemes that are both beautiful and functional, along with tips for implementing color transitions smoothly. While trends come and go, the essentials of choosing hues that make you smile and promote productivity in your kitchen will always be in style. With some thoughtful planning using the advice above, you’re sure to create a kitchen color scheme you’ll love for years to come.
