Colors to paint kitchen cupboards
35 Kitchen Cabinet Colors That Will Stand the Test of Time, According to Designers
Selecting kitchen cabinet colors may not be as frivolous a task as, say, choosing a sweater, but you’d be surprised just how much color theory goes into each task. Interior design decisions are often similar to those you’d make in the fashion world. Those looking for something sleek and modern will likely gravitate toward black kitchen cabinets or gray kitchen cabinets. Alternatively, a homeowner with a bohemian flair may not balk at something bolder, like an emerald green kitchen or vibrant blue kitchen cabinets that complement the rest of their home design. “The cabinetry in a kitchen can set the entire tone for the space,” notes Nicole Hirsch of Nicole Hirsch Interiors. “I find that cabinetry color selection always reflects our clients overall aesthetic and design personality within the rest of the home.”
Kitchen design comes into play, of course, even before you decide to tackle those cabinet doors with a paintbrush. Tile backsplash, the existing color scheme, the kitchen island, and the hue of your wood floors all play a role when it comes to deciding on kitchen cabinet colors.
So, what are interior design pros gravitating toward these days? AD has asked 35 experts to share their go-to picks. Whether you’re moving into a new home or are undergoing a remodel and want to paint your cabinets, see which shades can take your kitchen design to the next level and which will stand the test of time, and maybe prove that warm white cabinet doors can be just as trendy as their teal counterparts.
What is the most popular color for kitchen cabinets?
Though trend reports may show that white is falling out of favor, interior designers say that, generally, homeowners are still most drawn toward white kitchen cabinets. “It’s classic and great for resale value,” says Hattie Collins of Hattie Sparks Interiors.
1. Farrow & Ball Pointing (No. 2003)
Warm white Farrow & Ball Pointing complements the natural wood finishes of this modern kitchen designed by Alyssa Kapito.
Photo: Stephen Kent Johnson
“It’s the perfect shade of creamy white and looks great with anything from veiny Paonazzo marble to Belgian Bluestone countertops. A little tip: I always recommend a hand-painted finish. I really adore seeing the faintest hint of paintbrush lines; I think this adds so much character.”—Alyssa Kapito
2. Sherwin-Williams Origami White (SW 7636)
“You’ll see me use this color any and everywhere. With its warm gray undertone, it will never feel stark or cold. And using this warmer white with brass hardware gives a very sophisticated kitchen vibe that can be made playful or modern.”—Beth Diana Smith
3. Farrow & Ball Lime White (No. 1)
“This is a really rich taupe-y off-white that is completely classic, but very warm and interesting. I like to do this shade in either Modern Eggshell or Full Gloss depending on the look we are trying to achieve. Full Gloss works better in a space that’s a little more polished, and Modern Eggshell is perfect when we’re trying to achieve a more rustic look.
I always suggest using the Farrow & Ball primer under the paint, as even the most beautiful cabinet color in the world still won’t look good if it’s scuffed and chipped.”—Emma Beryl
4. Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117)
“I love a creamy white kitchen cabinet and often use this—it looks great with many different quartz and marble countertops and is clean, simple, and not too bright. I strongly recommend letting paint cure for a minimum of 48 hours; I like to wait three days before adding hardware and all your favorite items back.”—Liz Goldberg
5. Benjamin Moore Bruton White (CW-710)
“I love using this color, part of Benjamin Moore’s Williamsburg paint collection, due to its historical references. It feels more romantic than most, and I love creating dreamy spaces! Use a professional-grade paint gun to spray cabinets for more of a factory finish look.” —Claire Staszak
What are the new kitchen cabinet colors?
As far as design trends go, new kitchen cabinet colors are making waves, especially in a modern kitchen.
“Color is coming back in a big way,” notes Jess Weeth of Weeth Home. “Shades of green have staying power, but there is a noticeable shift toward bold and unexpected color schemes, specifically with warm tones like clay, terra-cotta, and even wine,” she adds. “These colors pair so well with some of the unique countertop choices we are seeing.” Collins and her clients have been gravitating toward verdant cabinet doors. “Green kitchens have become such a nice alternative to white, and the range of shades makes it so versatile,” she says. “Some greens are earthy and organic feeling, while others are more moody or glamorous. It’s great to play within the tonal spectrum to amp up the overall design aesthetic.” Blue kitchen cabinets are also basking in attention, particularly because designers are opting for a variation when it comes to shades of blue—from sky to retro azure to the more serious navy.
6. Farrow & Ball Oval Room Blue (No. 85)
Painting cabinet doors a dusty Farrow & Ball Oval Room Blue is the quickest way to a fresh kitchen makeover, as seen in this design by Sara Swabb.
Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Most Popular
“Oval Room Blue can be considered a new neutral; its touch of black ensures a timeless and historic feel, and you can see it here shown on cabinetry. Farrow & Ball uses water-based paint, thus we recommend dampening your paintbrush in water before dipping in the paint. And don’t forget to stir.” —Sara Swabb
7. Behr Ultra Dark Cobalt Blue (PPU15-3)
“My favorite kitchen cabinet paint color is deep cobalt blue. While this color is striking, it also represents peace and serenity—perfect for one of the most used places in your home. To achieve the desired look, you need three coats.”—Dominique Fluker
8. Sherwin-Williams Salty Dog (SW 9177)
“Don’t shy away from a fun and dramatic color! This impactful blue allows for a lovely contrast when paired with lighter natural or quartz countertops. Use a tinted primer close to your color to cut down on the number of coats needed—at least 50% of the full color should be in the primer.
”—Laura Umansky
9. Farrow & Ball Studio Green (No. 93)
“I like that this is almost a soft black with a hint of green. To prep your millwork or paint over previously painted cabinets, start by using a wood-knot and resin-blocking primer. I usually do three to four coats of this before putting on the primer. Farrow & Ball recommends different primers based on the shade you pick. For example, we did one coat of Interior Wood and a primer undercoat for dark tones. We used the Estate Eggshell finish for our top coat, because I prefer a low-shine finish on my cabinets, as it hides any imperfections that you may see otherwise. Finally, we did two coats with an air sprayer, with four hours of drying time between.”—Pallavi Kale
10. Sherwin-Williams Privilege Green (SW 6193)
“Green is gaining popularity. I have found that the key is proper prep work. If the cabinets are not prepped properly, the paint finish looks amateurish. So, whether it’s a DIY project, or you hire a painter, be sure to put in the time into sanding and smoothing the cabinets before painting.
”— Pamela O’Brien
11. Benjamin Moore Backwoods (469)
Noa Blake Design embraces the deep green cabinets painted with Benjamin Moore Backwoods.
Photo: Rikki Snyder
Most Popular
“I really love to play with color in cabinetry these days, especially when the space invites earth tones like Benjamin Moore Backwoods, which merges playfulness and sophistication in a way that feels fresh but not trendy. The easiest paint to use for cabinets is Benjamin Moore Advance, as it is highly durable with excellent coverage and is self-leveling, which makes it somewhat foolproof for nonprofessionals.” —Ariel Fischer
12. Sherwin-Williams Chartreuse (SW 0073)
“Currently, the most beautiful kitchen cabinet color we’ve seen is Sherwin-Williams Chartreuse. In fact, it’s the color of my new kitchen! We recommend bringing in a pro to get this color right, ideally a pro who uses a spray method and lacquer finish.
For best results, go matte. This fresh, modern color looks great on flat panel cabinets. Shaker-style cabinets may make this color feel retro, or worse, dated!” —Leah Alexander
13. Fine Paints of Europe Coach Green 3088B
“Durability is the main goal for kitchen cabinets. Cabinets take a lot of abuse. Engineered and well-crafted millwork is relationship is the starting point. Fine Paints of Europe’s Coach Green is a winner for me. The green is a great neutral color. It’s saturated, and it works well in the city or country.” —Joy Moyler
14. Little Greene Tuscan Red (140)
Plain English Design, a bespoke joinery, implements Little Greene Tuscan Red paint on a project with antiques dealer and interior designer Max Rollitt.
Photo: Plain English Design
“This terra-cotta shade adds a welcome pop of color to the space and looks great on kitchen cabinetry. This deep and luxurious paint adds to the depth of the kitchen, making it truly feel like the hub of the home.
Little Greene’s colors are eco-friendly and water-based and come in a hard-wearing satin finish, making them a great choice for painting on wood. It is recommended to use one to two coats of primer before applying two coats of Tuscan Red.” —Louise Wicksteed
15. Benjamin Moore Raindance (1572)
“This is a great color that combines the depths of green and blue. I spent a significant part of my life in England, and it reminds me of the beauty and elegance of a Cotswolds cottage. It’s calming and can add subtle depth or can be enhanced further with complimentary accents and accessories, yet it is never too overpowering. I suggest always using a semigloss paint.” —Susan Knof
16. Farrow & Ball Cook’s Blue (No. 237)
Not ready to commit to an all-blue kitchen? Use Farrow & Ball Cooks Blue on the island to make a statement in a white kitchen.
Photo: Jane Beiles
Most Popular
“This color has a rich and happy brightness to it that is reminiscent of a cloudless sky on a cheerful sunny day.
I love a hand-brushed finish rather than a sprayed finish. The brushstrokes are charming; they remind me of the art and effort behind the application, and it’s forgiving to scuffs and chips. It’s a great idea to apply one full coat of F&B’s wood primer and undercoat and two full coats of color. Eggshell finish is my favorite for a moderate sheen.” —Georgia Zikas
17. Benjamin Moore Blue (2066-10)
“We just wrapped a kitchen in Benjamin Moore Blue, an electric azure that takes its cues from Yves St. Laurent’s vibrant Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech. The cabinets are flat-front and modern, and the look is a firm departure from the moody, muddy tones we’ve used of late. Paired with a painted white brick backsplash, cold rolled steel, and caramel leather accents, it’s an edgy take on pop art. Dark colors can be finicky, and if you’re painting these yourself, a can of tinted primer can help chase away undertones. Stix is a great water-based primer with low VOCs that’s less impactful on the environment.
Before you get underway, sand, then brush on Benjamin Moore Aura, building up layers slowly before finishing with a roller.” — Samantha Sacks
What is the most timeless kitchen cabinet color?
Designers say that white cabinets are bound to stand the test of time. “A white kitchen will never go out of style,” Collins says. Hirsch concurs, “When executed on the perfect, clean millwork with minimal, elegant hardware and topped with gorgeous stone countertops and backsplash, it is a gorgeous look.” However, if crisp white isn’t your color scheme of choice, another neutral shade is just fine, Weeth adds. “For a timeless look, I always go back to a light neutral with depth, like linen or bone,” she comments. “Not only does it work well in spaces big or small, but it always serves to highlight the authentic materials we gravitate toward, like marble and quartzite countertops, and the living finishes we love, like unlacquered brass, polished nickel, and iron.”
18. Benjamin Moore Natural Cream (OC-14)
White walls work as a backdrop for cabinetry in Benjamin Moore Natural Cream, a project by Tiffany Piotrowski.
Photo: Patrick Biller
Most Popular
“We’ve used this in a few projects lately and it’s the perfect warm, putty tone for cabinetry and a nice break from an all-white kitchen while still achieving a clean look.” —Tiffany Piotrowski
19. Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal (HC-166)
“This is a saturated warm gray that works well in kitchens and bathrooms. For cabinet durability, oil-based paint is the best. We have the cabinets sanded thoroughly, then use an oil-based primer. I prefer to have existing cabinets sprayed for a clean look, but they can be hand-brushed as well. If a client is sensitive to smell, I recommend using Benjamin Moore’s Stix primer followed by their waster-based Advance paint line.”—Laura Casey
20. Sherwin-Williams Caviar (SW 6990)
In a kitchen by Beth Diana Smith, the back of the peninsula is painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Caviar.
Photo: Mike Van Tassell
“Choosing a black with depth can be a bit challenging, but I’m leaning into Caviar as the perfect black for kitchen cabinets.
To keep the cabinets from getting too flat and cold, I suggest utilizing festive hardware in brass finishes to warm them up a bit.”—Eneia White
21. Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist (OC-27)
“It’s one of those paint shades that looks beautiful in almost any setting. It breathes an air of sophistication and visual appeal to any space. I recommend two coats of paint paired with one coat of primer for optimal results.”—Nishi Donovan
22. Sherwin-Williams Crushed Ice (SW 7647)
A kitchen by Amhad Freeman showcases kitchen cabinets in Sherwin-Williams’s Crushed Ice.
Photo: Nick McGinn
Most Popular
“This is the most absolute perfect color of light gray, and it’s as close to white as possible. I request that the cabinets be primed with standard white primer, as it will provide a clean and clear backdrop for the truest color. Always use semigloss paint, and have the cabinets hand-painted for the best look.
This way, if the paint chips or gets scratched, they can be touched up much easier!”—Amhad Freeman
23. Farrow & Ball Skimming Stone (No. 241)
“Off colors that straddle the line between gray and beige are particularly stunning and can work well with both dark and light countertops. They have just enough pigment, so if your countertops are marble, the cabinet paint intentionally doesn’t match (versus a white, which has to be perfect). Like all paint jobs, be sure to test in different lights, such as early morning and dusk.”—Anne Mueller
24. Sherwin-Williams Agreeable Gray (SW 7029)
“This is a very light, warm gray that works well with all types of neutrals—whether they’re cooler or warmer—and contrasts beautifully with darks. When painting with this shade, one coat should probably do it, if you are going from a pure white, but for existing dark cabinets, I recommend at least two or even three coats to fully cover. For a more dramatic, elegant look, I recommend a semigloss or even high-gloss finish.
For a more casual look, go for a flat enamel sheen.”—Amy Youngblood
25. Benjamin Moore Soft Sand (2106-60)
“It’s all about blush right now. A lot of clients who are getting sick of going white with their cabinets have been trending toward a soft, pale pink. When this color is done in a high-gloss mirror-like finish, it comes across as very chic yet romantic. My pick would be Benjamin Moore’s Soft Sand tinted in the Fine Paints of Europe’s Hollandlac Brilliant 98 enamel. You will need someone with experience in using those types of finishes; it would need to be sanded down and sprayed on and can take up to 5 to 10 layers to get the right sheen. The multilayer process ensures that there is not a bump to be felt when you brush your fingers across the final product.”—Blanche Garcia
26. Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015)
“This is my go-to neutral kitchen cabinet color. It’s the perfect shade of greige—not too gray or too beige—and brings that earthy, organic vibe I love to see in kitchens.
Choosing a high-quality paint is crucial. Kitchen cabinets are not the place to skimp on quality. Finish is also extremely important; be sure to select a durable finish that’s easy to wipe. Leave the eggshell and matte paints for your walls: Choose a more durable finish that won’t hold on to all your sticky fingerprints.”—McCall Dulkys
27. Sherwin-Williams Black Magic (SW 6991)
Sherwin-Williams’s Black Magic stars in this kitchen by Arianne Bellizaire.
Photo: Jessie Preza
Most Popular
“For any darker color, you will likely need more coats to fully cover the cabinets. I almost always recommend choosing a semigloss finish on cabinets because it is a lower maintenance option than the flatter finishes. If covering an existing color, I would highly recommend a primer to neutralize the base and then allow the new color to present without the bleed-through from the previous color.”—Arianne Bellizaire
28.
Benjamin Moore Universal Black (2188-10)
“It’s a deep mysterious black with a subtle blue undertone. It takes several layers and is preferably used in a semigloss or even high-gloss sheen to build up its many layers. My favorite color to contrast it with is Benjamin Moore Cognac Snifter.” —Garrow Kedigian
29. Sherwin-Williams Drift of Mist (SW9166)
“I am drawn to colors that have multiple undertones and change throughout the day; it feels more interesting this way! This color is the perfect example. In certain light, it can pass as a white, yet it’s truly a warm gray. It plays well with any metal finish, stone, or other paint colors. I always prefer a satin finish on cabinetry. For a classic look, I love hand-painted cabinets; the brushstrokes add character! For a more modern look, sprayed cabinets look super clean.” —Meg McSherry
30. Benjamin Moore Wind’s Breath (OC-24)
“This is the most pale taupe and is a wonderful neutral that has a bit of warmth. I am using it in kitchens when clients want light and bright but do not want a typical white kitchen.
Its hushed tone has a calming effect on the sometimes chaotic atmosphere of the kitchen.” —Marika Meyer
31. Benjamin Moore Timber Wolf (1600)
“I’m a big fan of this cool gray for kitchen cabinets, especially when done in a high-gloss finish. This color provides a ton of depth and visual interest and works beautifully with a variety of undertones in close proximity. I generally prefer a satin finish or high-gloss for extra dimension. This also helps with cleaning. I recommend having cabinets spray-painted instead of hand-painted to avoid a noticeable variation in brushstrokes and result in an overall cleaner look.” —Charli Hantman
32. Benjamin Moore Classic Gray (OC-23)
Christina Kim Interior Design conceived this kitchen with North End Builders. The cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray.
Photo: Raquel Langworthy
Most Popular
“This is actually a white paint with a tiny drop of warm gray.
It’s a great look for an elevated white kitchen. First things first: Always wash the cabinets with a degreaser. Then, they get sanded before getting one coat of an oil-based primer. Let that dry for a day or two, and try not to rush it. Then, cover the cabinets in two coats of Benjamin Moore Advance in the satin finish and lightly sand between coats. I’m always amazed when even older cabinets turn out so fresh and great-looking!”—Christina Kim
33. Farrow & Ball Slipper Satin (No. 2004)
“This off-white is one of my favorite choices for kitchen cabinets. It’s the perfect warm and sophisticated tone that would complement either a richly veined or dark and moody stone countertop equally wonderfully. Pair it with the Farrow & Ball interior wood primer in white and light tones for an undercoat and use two coats of the paint. If you’re painting overtop of previously painted wood, don’t forget to start with a light sand before applying the primer. I’d recommend the modern eggshell finish, which gives a highly durable mid-shine look while still providing a nice, rustic feel.
” —Alexandra Nino
34. Benjamin Moore Collingwood (OC-28)
“Collingwood by Benjamin Moore is the perfect non-white color that brings in warmth while complementing everything else in this important gathering place. In bright light, it looks colorless, and in low light, it has the perfect amount of pigment to highlight countertops and other finishes. Pair it with wood finishes and brass to complete the warmth factor.” —Andrea Pietragallo
35. Sherwin-Williams Marshmallow (SW7001)
“I painted a kitchen in Marshmallow and its adjacent pantry in Sherwin-Williams Retreat [a muted green with blue-gray undertones], and it remains one of my favorite projects to this day. There is something very enchanting about these colors when they work in tandem. I consider spraying as the best application method of paint for your kitchen cabinets and recommend starting with a nice, matte surface for the paint to adhere to ensure that these shades look their best.” —Sara Hillery
10 best colors for your cabinets |
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Future)
Considering the options for kitchen cabinet colors? Whether you’re remodelling your room or refreshing it, colored cabinets are a fabulous choice, with the potential to create both a look you love plus give your room a durable and easy-care finish.
Naturally, you’ll want to select kitchen cabinet paint colors that you’ll be happy to live with for a while to come. But you might also want to consider the decorative power of each hue. Different kitchen cabinet colors have particular benefits you may wish to exploit in your room design. Some can brighten and visually enlarge the room, while others make cleaning a less frequent necessity, for example.
And when it comes to the style of your cabinets, you might want to think about which colors complement their look best and fit in with the rest of your kitchen ideas.
Ideas for kitchen cabinet colors
We've selected the most stylish kitchen cabinet ideas and color palettes, so that you can find out the advantages of all the possible kitchen cabinet colors with advice from the experts.
1. Choose white for kitchen cabinets
(Image credit: Neptune)
White painted kitchen cabinets can complement a whole range of kitchen styles. ‘Fresh and crisp, white is the perfect color to brighten up a traditional scheme, for example a Shaker kitchen,’ says Melissa Klink, creative director at Harvey Jones .
‘Timeless yet modern, it will give classic cabinetry an uplifting look that will work as the perfect base for neutral and colorful accessories and furnishings alike. Equally, white works well in modern settings, as long as it’s balanced by colorful or natural-looking features adding character and warmth.
‘If you think white will look too stark in your contemporary kitchen, try pairing it with a softer shade of beige or a more colorful green. This will create a more impactful look whilst still maintaining a neutral and fresh base.’
Pay attention to the room’s orientation if you’re considering using white when remodelling a kitchen. ‘Think about how the light enters the room: is it a cold northern light, and can it be warmed by the color of the cabinets or the flooring?’ says Tom Howley.
If white is still what you prefer, look for one with undertones of yellow or pink to avoid a cool feel.
White painted cabinets also show dirt more readily than other colors, so they might not be the best choice for homes with young kids and pets, unless the extra maintenance involved is a price you’re willing to pay for the undoubted upsides of a white kitchen.
2. Go for gorgeous gray kitchen cabinet colors
(Image credit: Future / James Balston)
Leaning towards gray as your favorite among kitchen cabinet colors? There are a whole host of different takes on gray that are possible, from gray-whites through to dark grays that approach the drama of black painted cabinets (see below).
‘Gray is certainly one of the most popular colors we have seen in recent years,’ says Melissa Klink. ‘It works with virtually any style of kitchen, from country-style to ultra-contemporary.
'However, you need to be able to balance it with the right accessories and finishing touches.
Gray kitchens can sometimes look a little dull, so choosing contrasting colors for the bar stools, accessories and even some cabinets can really brighten and balance the whole scheme.
‘For both modern and traditional styles, recent trends seem to be moving away from cool grays and leaning towards warmer and earthier shades of greige,’ she adds. And that’s certainly a strategy you might want to adopt if your kitchen receives northern light, which brings out cool tones.
The light reflectivity of paler tones of gray makes them a boon when it comes to small kitchens. ‘We have some beautiful light gray colors which are very timeless and will keep a small space fresh and feeling spacious,’ recommends Tom Howley.
As a neutral, gray is easy to team with other colors you might want to use for your kitchen wall decor and design features such as kitchen backsplash ideas, making it easy to put together a successful color scheme for the room.
Gray can be more forgiving than white when it comes to hiding the grime that comes about with everyday kitchen use, although the paler the version of gray you pick, the more cleaning will likely be involved.
3. Fall for beautiful blue cabinets
(Image credit: Studio Duggan)
Blue kitchen cabinet colors are an established trend, and one that seems set to continue. However, while deep rich navy blues may come to mind first, other shades of blue are growing in popularity.
You might want to consider fashion-forward powder blue, a take that’s fresh and clean but also relaxing to live with, or slightly gray-toned ocean blue, which is eye-catching without being overpowering.
‘Ocean-inspired blues work particularly well with timeless and traditional kitchen styles, such as Shaker-style cabinetry,’ says Melissa Klink. ‘Bold enough to liven up the scheme and introduce personality, yet easy to live with, blue cabinetry looks brilliant paired with quartz worktops and wooden features bringing light and warmth to the scheme.’
Blues at the paler end of the spectrum can help make a kitchen feel larger, so consider them if you're looking for small kitchen ideas and white is too clinical for your taste.
They’re also a wonderful choice for south-facing rooms that have the benefit of warm light throughout the day where they’ll optimize the experience of light and space. Dark blues will advance visually, so are generally best reserved for larger rooms.
Another possible issue with blue is that certain takes on the color can feel cool, so get a tester to ensure your preferred shade isn’t going to make your room feel chilly. In general, blues that tend a little towards green are the ones to select for a warmer atmosphere.
A big advantage of blue kitchen cabinets – especially the darker versions? They won’t show the dirt easily delivering a low maintenance finish.
4. Embrace nature with green kitchen cabinet colors
(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)
Green kitchen cabinet colors can range from the freshness of mint, through the earthiness of sage, to deep foliage green. Connecting us to nature, green can be a soothing shade, whichever version you choose, and make kitchen cabinets a fabulous feature of the scheme, rather than a subtle backdrop to colorful backsplashes or kitchen flooring.
They’re practical, too. Green painted cabinets can be forgiving of marks and grime to reduce cleaning time.
‘Green kitchens have overtaken blue schemes in popularity over the last year,’ says Melissa Klink. ‘Green is a versatile colour that looks at home in a sleek setting just as much as a farmhouse kitchen.’
A small kitchen can feel larger if you go for a lighter take on green. Dark greens, meanwhile, can make larger kitchens look super sophisticated. They needn’t be out of the question for smaller rooms, however.
Deep tones can make the space cocooning, and as green is positioned where the cool and warm colors meet on the color wheel, it will help create a cozy kitchen color scheme. Bear in mind that the freshest of greens can feel cool, so avoid them in north-facing rooms.
5. Make it moody with black
(Image credit: Harvey Jones)
Another of the kitchen cabinet colors that’s become a huge trend is black. It makes for an atmospheric room scheme, but one that’s easy to live with.
Black cabinets won’t show grime, so they’re champions in the practicality as well as the style stakes.
Black looks both dramatic and sophisticated, but given that it will absorb rather than reflect light, is it only an option for larger rooms? ‘If you have your heart set on this style, make sure the room gets lots of natural daylight and that your kitchen lighting ideas are perfectly planned,’ says Tom Howley.
‘Add pale natural flooring or white surfaces and mirrors to help bounce light around and open out smaller spaces. Avoid too many pale contrasts though, as the beauty of a dark kitchen lies in creating a sophisticated yet snug ambience.’
When it comes to the orientation of your room, you might think the cool light in a north-facing kitchen rules black out, but rather than fighting it, you could simply welcome the opportunity to make the kitchen feel cozy and cocooning with black cabinets.
Black can be a winning option when considering modern kitchen ideas.
‘Sleek and contemporary cabinetry can often look a little clinical, especially if painted in minimal whites or grays,’ says Melissa Klink. ‘Black is a powerful color that will add so much personality, depth and definition to the scheme.
'Black handleless cabinetry looks very sophisticated, but if you prefer adding handles, brass or matt black brassware will provide an industrial and luxurious finishing touch.’
However, black should definitely be on your list of possible kitchen cabinet paint colors if you prefer other styles. ‘Black is also a great option if you want to bring a little bit of edge into a traditional Shaker or country-style scheme,’ Melissa continues.
‘Particularly with a more classic design, if you opt for black, make sure the room has enough natural light to take such a bold colour and add lighter touches through the worktop, soft furnishings, dining table and chairs.’
6. Opt for warming yellow or orange
(Image credit: Naked Kitchens)
Bolder, brighter and warmer shades are a growing trend as kitchen cabinet paint colors.
These bright shades can be used for the entire room or for sections – such as incorporated into kitchen island ideas and set against a neutral backdrop of white or charcoal. They’re energetic shades that can be the perfect backdrop for a kitchen where family and friends gather.
These colors are best used on simpler cabinet styles such as slab or Shaker rather than more traditional cabinets, to keep the look contemporary. They are options for smaller rooms too, but here paler takes on the colors are preferable rather than the bolder versions that might be too dominant.
As for the time you might spend on cleaning, they’re somewhere in between the two poles – easier to keep clean than white cabinets, but not as grime-concealing as darks.
Pay attention to the orientation of your room when choosing one of these warm cabinet colors. They might come to life beautifully as the sun hits them in east or west-facing spaces, but the boldest of these hues has the potential to be overpowering when the sun hits them.
Use testers to check before committing.
7. Warm up with red kitchen cabinets
(Image credit: Plain English)
If you are looking for kitchen color ideas that will never date, here is one to consider. Red kitchen ideas are having something of a moment, and it is easy to see why. A beautiful shade adds instant warmth to this rustic kitchen by Plain English . This muted orange-red is a shade that works so well with the authentic features and bare floorboards.
Rich, sophisticated and eye-catching, this kitchen cabinet color may just tempt you to ditch conventional colored cabinetry.
8. Embrace the dark side
(Image credit: Roundhouse)
If you’re looking for kitchen ideas that are both dramatic and calm, the undeniable chic of a black kitchen is the perfect fit.
‘A dark or black kitchen can work very well in monochromatic schemes,’ says Gary Singer, Director of Eggersmann Design. ‘By bringing in dark cabinetry and layering the space with dark textures you can create a feeling of warmth and luxury.
’
‘Like the enduring ‘little black dress’, a black kitchen is a classic which will stand the test of time,’ says Richard Atkins, Managing Director at DesignSpace London.
9. Take a two-tone approach to color
(Image credit: Nicola Harding & Co / Paul Massey)
‘A two-tone scheme allows extra definition and interest without overcomplicating,' says Nicola Harding, director, Nicola Harding & Co.
'Most paint charts are arranged in families of colours, making it easy to find two shades that work together or contrast. Remember that dark colors take up more space visually. Use the darker shade below eyeline, and a lighter shade that’s closer to the wall color above; it will help break up expanses of cabinetry and feel calmer and less blocky than a high-contrast scheme.'
Try not to be too clever when choosing kitchen paint colors. Instead, take inspiration from decorative items you intend to include, such as art or upholstery, and see the paint as a backdrop, rather than the main event.
’
10. Be brave and decorate with a favorite color
(Image credit: Fiona Duke Interiors)
‘Playing it safe with kitchen cabinet color on a long-term investment like a kitchen is entirely understandable. But first, ask yourself: will it ever really make an impact, and will you end up wishing you’d been braver? Committing to a bright color requires time, effort, and a whole lot of tester pots. Bear in mind that you’re looking for a shade that will make your heart sing every time you’re in the kitchen. Once you’ve narrowed it down, put your chosen color on a trial door or very large sample and live with it for a few days to make sure it’s the one.’
Here, a salmon-pink color sets the scene for the rest of the scheme. This controversial hue can actually form a reliable background color that channels anything from a contemporary to a classical country-house spirit, as long as you find the right tone for the kitchens space and the light.
How do I pick the right color for my kitchen cabinets?
The starting point when you’re selecting kitchen cabinet colors is to consider how you want your room to look and feel.
‘Think about how it might relate not just to the living and dining areas, especially if it is part of an open-plan space, but also how it fits with your overall plan for the house,’ says interior designer Tiffany Duggan, founder of Studio Duggan .
Gather images of kitchens that inspire you and start to hone your ideas, thinking about how they might suit your space, the joinery elsewhere in the house and the period of your property.
Once you've selected your kitchen cabinet colors, our guide to how to paint kitchen cabinets has all the expert advice you will need for the next steps.
What is the most popular color for kitchen cabinets?
White is a popular color for kitchen cabinets. In the Design Trends 2021 study from the NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association), whites and off whites were cited as the most popular kitchen color scheme for the near future by 47 per cent of respondents.
Meanwhile, grays and blues, along with beiges and bones, were mentioned by at least 25 per cent of respondents to the survey.
Owner of the eponymous kitchen company Tom Howley reports similar trends. ‘Last year we saw a sharp increase in orders of dark kitchens, with searches for gray shades up by 93 per cent in six months,’ he says. ‘Equally popular are dark shades of green, with searches and orders reflecting that the dark kitchen trend is here to stay.
(Image credit: Tom Howley)
‘Dramatic deep shades, such as our color Avocado, luxurious charcoal hues, taupe and sophisticated black designs create cozy and comforting spaces. For a room that simply oozes high-end homeliness, combine dark shades with beautifully grained wood for added texture and warmth.’
Searches echo these observations, with Pinterest reporting a 50 per cent increase in those for the term ‘black kitchen cabinet’. Meanwhile green has taken the ‘kitchen’ hashtag on Instagram by storm; and of the possible shades of blue, it’s powder blue kitchen cabinets that have seen a huge increase in searches.
Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor.
Previously executive editor of Ideal Home, she’s specialized in interiors, property and gardens for over 20 years, and covers interior design, house design, gardens, and cleaning and organizing a home for H&G. She’s written for websites, including Houzz, Channel 4’s flagship website, 4Homes, and Future’s T3; national newspapers, including The Guardian; and magazines including Future’s Country Homes & Interiors, Homebuilding & Renovating, Period Living, and Style at Home, as well as House Beautiful, Good Homes, Grand Designs, Homes & Antiques, LandLove and The English Home among others. It’s no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house renovator.
How to choose the right color for the walls in the kitchen
In case of insufficient light and especially the lack of sunlight, choose warm, calm shades for the walls - yellow, orange, light brown and beige.
If a lot of sunlight enters the room, it is better not to paint the walls in saturated colors, as they will become even brighter when illuminated and may change color.
Green color is popular now. It is believed that the green color has a good effect on digestion. For the kitchen, it is advisable to choose pistachio or soft salad shades.
Also popular pastel colors, yellow gloss, red copper. The universal color is white, it can be used in any style, from classic to modern.
Consider the color and design of the kitchen furniture.
For example, white kitchen furniture goes well with red, green, burgundy, peach, yellow, blue walls.
Classic brown furniture looks good against peach, beige or white walls.
Furniture is one of the most significant elements of the interior, so you often have to choose the shade of the walls just for it, and not for other interior details. If the furniture needs to stand out, then regardless of its color, the walls should not be bright and do not contain catchy ornaments. The more unusual and original the furniture looks, the more restrained the walls should be - calm shades, without flashy patterns.
If your kitchen set has a very light and calm shade, and the kitchen is large enough, you can choose a brighter and more saturated color for the walls.
Solid color furniture needs to contrast with the walls - walls can be bright, patterned and large decorative elements.
If pieces of furniture should not attract attention (furniture is old, in poor condition or simply ugly), then emphasis should be placed on juicy and expressive walls - catchy patterns and shades that delight the eye.
If the room is small and the number is furniture is also not enough, then you can paint the walls in calm, restrained colors, and decorate one side with a bright large picture.
In general, it is recommended to stick to the colors closest in tone. Soft, warm colors of the walls look equally harmonious with both light-colored furniture and darker tones.
Look at the design of furniture .
If it is chosen in a romantic and rustic style, then it is better to leave the walls light - pale green, beige tones, with bright contrasting stripes of brick shades.
For an interior in a classic style, more solid and juicy shades are suitable - cold pink, strictly blue, beige.
For modern style furniture with its metallic sheen and subdued brightness, it is better to choose a solid, conservative and calm wall finish.
There are several "forbidden" colors for kitchen walls: is black and all dark shades of brown. They oppress and make the room cramped, evoke associations with dirt. * To understand how comfortable you will live with the chosen wall color, hang sheets of white paper, old wallpaper or cardboard on the walls. Apply paint spots on them and leave for a few days, during which, looking at these colors, you can understand which color suits you best.
Popular articles:
What color to choose for the kitchen
beautiful and cozy.
1) Canary Yellow
Place a bowl full of juicy, ripe lemons on the table and see how your kitchen transforms! It will immediately be filled with warm light, it will become bright and hospitable. This is what your kitchen will look like if the cabinets radiate this color and energy! Yellow cabinets will bring that light and warmth to even the darkest and smallest spaces.
Yellow has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, promotes the emergence of new ideas, gives a charge of vivacity and joy!
2) Scandinavian Grey.
Gray cabinets on gray walls and a white backsplash make the room interesting and original, but do not overload the interior. With the right presentation, such interiors look expensive and luxurious.
Choose a deep, intense, somewhat reminiscent of burgundy, red.
For brave and determined people who enjoy life and enjoy it!
This color will give your kitchen warmth, vitality and joyful emotions.
And your guests and relatives will eat with a double appetite.
4) Blue Black
Combination of dark blue, almost black base cabinets with a marble top that has elements of sophistication in gray and white. This color is perfect for larger kitchens that require stylish design elements.
Wealth and discreet luxury dominate this magnificent interior!
5) Cedar Green
This color is reminiscent of grassy fields and will give your kitchen a fresh and open look. It is the color of life, harmony and balance. Such pastel green will decorate your kitchen, you will feel calm and comfortable in it. The combination with natural wood creates a beautiful interior for your kitchen.
) A shade of sky blue gives the kitchen freshness and coolness, fill it with air and transparent light.
Learn more
