Kitchen cabinets play an important role in defining the overall style and aesthetic of your kitchen. While white and gray painted cabinets remain ever-popular, blue is emerging as a stylish and versatile alternative for those looking to add a pop of color. From deep navy to airy powder blue, the right shade can lend your kitchen a coastal, vintage, or contemporary vibe.
This week we explore six fresh blue paint colors for kitchen cabinets that will inspire you to revamp your kitchen with a dash of color. Whether paired with white countertops or warm wood tones, blue kitchen cabinets make a statement. Consider one of these trending blue hues to give your kitchen an enviable style upgrade.
1. Navy Blue
Navy blue kitchen cabinets are having a major moment right now. Deeper shades of blue like navy evoke a cozy, moody feeling and pair well with brass hardware and fixtures. Navy blue painted cabinets also pop against white marble or quartz countertops. For a beachy vibe, combine navy cabinets with rattan barstools, driftwood accents, and turquoise backsplash tiles.
2. Powder Blue
For a soft, feminine look, consider powder blue painted cabinets. This pale pastel blue is subtle yet makes an impact alongside white countertops and floors. Powder blue evokes a vintage farmhouse aesthetic. For contemporary contrast, pair powder blue cabinets with glossy black fixtures. This versatile, on-trend hue works with a variety of kitchen styles.
3. Robin’s Egg Blue
Another pale blue option, robin’s egg blue makes a cheerful statement. This light turquoise hue looks fresh and inviting. Robin’s egg blue painted cabinets strike the right balance between neutrals and bolder blues. Pair them with marble, brass accents, and rattan pendants for a breezy, coastal kitchen. White subway tiles and butcher block countertops also complement robin’s egg blue cabinetry.
4. Periwinkle Blue
Periwinkle is a gray-blue pastel shade that brings subtle color into a kitchen. It has a calming effect paired with white backsplashes and countertops. For contrast, add gold or brass hardware, black window frames, and pendant lighting. Periwinkle blue cabinetry has a vintage, romantic vibe. Yet it also gives a contemporary kitchen refreshing color in a lighter hue.
5. Light Blue
For barely-there color, light blue makes an easy update. This cool, airy blue has a tranquil effect in a kitchen. Light blue painted cabinets look crisp against white marble countertops and backsplash tiles. Stainless steel hardware also pops nicely against light blue cabinets. This subdued blue shade adds a hint of color without overpowering small kitchens.
6. Blue-Gray
Blue-gray is a versatile blend of cool blue and weathered gray. These hues look stunning together on kitchen cabinets for a modern, beachy look. Blue-gray painted cabinets suit transitional and contemporary kitchen designs. Pair them with driftwood accents, rattan pendants, and bold backsplash tile patterns. The soft blue-gray color also complements white and warm wood tones.
Painting Tips for Blue Kitchen Cabinets
When painting your kitchen cabinets blue, proper prep and application are key for a long-lasting finish:
- Clean cabinets thoroughly before painting to remove grease and grime
- Lightly sand cabinets to help the paint adhere
- Apply 2-3 thin coats of high-quality cabinet paint, allowing drying time between coats
- Use a small foam roller and angled brush for the recessed cabinet frames
- Allow the painted cabinets to cure fully for at least 2 weeks before use
- Add a clear topcoat for added protection and sheen
Which Blue is Best for Your Kitchen?
When deciding which shade of blue is right for your kitchen, consider the size of your space, the style you want to achieve, and how much color you’d like to incorporate. Bolder navy and bright robin’s egg blue make more of an impact in spacious kitchens, while soft pastel blues suit smaller spaces.
The undertones of your cabinets, countertops, floors and other finishes also factor in. Cool blue-grays complement weathered wood, marble, and stainless steel, while warm periwinkle and powder blue pair nicely with brass and unpainted wood.
While blue painted cabinets are trending now, choose a timeless blue hue that you’ll enjoy for years to come. And don’t be afraid to get creative – mix different blue tones on upper and lower cabinets for added dimension.
Blue Kitchen Cabinets: FAQ
What colors go well with blue cabinets?
White, gray, navy, wood tones, brass, black, and stainless steel all complement various shades of blue for kitchen cabinets. Blue also pairs nicely with marble, quartz, butcher block, and concrete countertops.
Do blue cabinets make a small kitchen look bigger?
It depends on the shade. Soft powder blue or light blue cabinets can make a small kitchen feel airy and open. But darker blues like navy may make a small kitchen feel more closed in. Opt for lighter blues to give the illusion of more space.
Are blue cabinets hard to match decor with?
Not at all! From farmhouse to coastal to modern, blue kitchen cabinets suit a range of decor aesthetics. Navy and blue-gray pair well with wood tones, white, black and brass accents. Soft powder blue complements pastels, florals, and cream colors.
Will blue cabinets go out of style?
While trends come and go, blue is a classic color that has remained popular for decades. Timeless, versatile shades like navy, light blue, and blue-gray should maintain longevity. Steer clear of bold blues to avoid major style changes down the road.
What wall color goes with blue cabinets?
White, light gray, navy, soft yellow, and light green are great wall colors to pair with blue cabinets. For navy cabinets, try white or beige walls. Robin’s egg blue cabinets suit white, sage green, or peach walls. Light blue cabinets look great with gray, tan, or crisp white walls.
Conclusion
Blue kitchen cabinets make a gorgeous and bold style statement. From bright and coastal hues like robin’s egg blue to soft and soothing tones like powder blue, the blue color palette offers endless possibilities to liven up your kitchen. Consider navy blue for drama, periwinkle for vintage romance, light blue for an airy look, or blue-gray for versatility. Use these trending blue cabinet ideas as inspiration when planning a kitchen update. Painting the cabinets blue is an easy DIY way to affordably change the whole look of your kitchen. With proper prep and painting technique, you can enjoy stylish blue cabinets for years to come.
