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Modern paint colors for kitchen cabinets


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

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“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

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“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 

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“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

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“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

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“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

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“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 

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“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

11 Best Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors of 2023

by Andre Kazimierski | Jan 30, 2023

Painting your kitchen cabinets but struggling with colors? Choosing the best kitchen cabinet color is difficult for homeowners. Especially with all of the white, green, navy blue, and dark gray color trends that are in right now.

No question, it’s common to feel overwhelmed with hundreds of kitchen design ideas. Given that, we’ve created a guide to finding the perfect kitchen cabinet paint colors to create a look you’ll love. Not to mention, our 11 best cabinet colors are classic shades that will stand the test of time. As opposed to the typical fly-by-night interior design trends.

To help you pick the best colors for cabinets we asked our painting experts here at Improovy for the latest and greatest hues. From classic white cabinets, painting kitchen islands, to darker colors, our trend-worthy list covers it all. Likewise, we’ll showcase before and after pictures of cabinet painting projects to inspire your next kitchen makeover.

After selecting a few of the most popular kitchen cabinet paint colors, try placing swatches next to your countertops and backsplash. That way, you’ll get a better idea of how a new cabinet color coordinates with your current kitchen’s look.

Whether you prefer a neutral white kitchen color or two-toned cabinetry style, the photos in our top 11 cabinet paint colors will make deciding easy.

  1. White Dove By Benjamin Moore

Kitchen trends come and go, but Benjamin Moore’s White Dove (OC-17) remains a popular cabinet paint color year after year. It is a creamy, soft white cabinet shade with warm undertones. No doubt, White Dove looks amazing in your kitchen when paired with a black granite countertop. This is evident in the awesome before and after painted kitchen cabinets below!

Moreover, White Dove is a warm neutral kitchen color that is quite versatile. Specifically, it does have hints of yellow and gray which pulls it back from being too stark. For this reason, we wouldn’t recommend pairing it with white quartz or granite kitchen countertops as it may look too yellow in contrast.

For your reference, this is brighter white with a higher LRV of 85. As a result, it may take a few extra coats to cover. All in all, this classic shade sets a welcoming and balanced tone for any farmhouse or open concept kitchen home interior.

Thinking about painting your cabinets? Find out the average cost to paint your kitchen cabinets in this helpful guide.

  1. Pure White By Sherwin-Williams

Pure White by Sherwin Williams is another favorite white cabinet paint color among homeowners. This super popular white tone for cabinetry strikes that rare balance between warm and cool. As shown in the kitchen cabinet before and after photos below, it works well as a sleek upper color for a two-tone configuration. It also balances well with stainless steel appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves.

Now, Pure White (SW 7005) is more of a brighter white versus a softer tone like White Dove. As a result, it actually pairs very nicely with white countertops like veined quartz or marble. Indeed, we love using this trendy white kitchen cabinet color for contemporary or modern cabinet door styles.

Accordingly, it contrasts beautifully with textured backsplashes for a picture-perfect kitchen design option. With the pandemic, we all could use a little brightening up in our kitchen and main living spaces.

Learn about how to choose between satin and matte paint finishes in our latest guide.

Trend Alert: Two-Toned Kitchen Cabinets

One of the hottest design trends many homeowners are opting for is two-toned cabinets. This unique kitchen cabinet design is where you have two different colors on the upper and lower sections of your cabinets. Typically you’d want a lighter color for upper cabinets and a neutral or deeper color for the bottom drawer faces below countertops.

You can also coordinate a two-tone color combination between the main cabinets and kitchen island drawers and boxes. This works best with a lighter color for the main drawers and an accent cabinet color for the island.

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  1. Dovetail SW 7018 (Drawers or Lowers)

We’ve covered some classic white cabinet colors so let’s dive into the neutral gray family to mix things up. Sherwin-Williams’ Dovetail is a medium-toned gray kitchen cabinet color that certainly works well as a lower drawer contrasting color in white kitchens. Likewise, it’s a top choice for a kitchen island to add a pop of color to any modern kitchen. However, this trendy gray cabinet tone can stand on its own, especially in open kitchens that get plenty of natural light.

Not only is it one of the world’s most popular gray-painted cabinet colors, but Dovetail has enough warmth to create an inviting space where dinner guests will want to hang out at. Ultimately versatile, it plays nicely with starker shades like Pure White or warmer neutrals like White Dove.

What we like most is that Dovetail (SW 7018) has an LRV of 26. This means it has excellent coverage when painting. Not to mention, it has enough depth to pair with most countertops and kitchen flooring combinations.

Wondering what a painter costs in cities like Denver, CO? To compare, find out how much Denver painting contractors charge in our latest post!

  1. Benjamin Moore’s Simply White

Many design experts swear that Simply White by Benjamin Moore is their go-to paint color for kitchen cabinetry. And we don’t disagree, as this warm white can cozy up even the most sterile, cold kitchen layouts. As with most white paint colors, this shade works best with plenty of natural light. Moreover, it has very soft yellow undertones so we recommend it in kitchens with plenty of northern or cooler lighting.

Since the kitchen is often the busiest room in the house, Simply White (OC-117) allows for an inviting atmosphere where friends and family can gather while waiting on dinner to be served. This color works best with natural wood butcher block countertops or dark granite with a kitchen island. Also worth mentioning is that it’s a warmer-leaning white without any gray undertones. This makes it a wonderfully crisp white color for kitchens or trim, doors, ceilings, and even exteriors.

No doubt, popcorn ceilings are out. But what is the best way to remove this hideous ceiling texture often found in older homes? Get the answers you need to make the best decision by checking out our guide to removing popcorn ceilings for homeowners.

  1. Sherwin Williams’ Naval SW 6244

Blue cabinet colors for kitchens are ever more popular these days and Naval (SW 6244) by Sherwin Williams stands out as one of the best. No question, dark navy tones in a kitchen are trendy. However, the key to finding a timeless blue cabinet paint color that won’t go out of style is to choose a more neutral hue. Along those lines, Naval does not disappoint.

It’s a deeper blue tone that works as the main cabinet color or as a contrasting kitchen island color. In particular, we love pairing Naval with stark white sinks or grayish countertops. In like fashion, this lovely blue hue works great with brass-colored cabinet pulls, handles, knobs, and faucets. And since Sherwin-Williams deemed Naval as its 2020 color of the year, we’re guessing it’ll be some time before it goes out of style, if ever.

  1. Rookwood Dark Green (Sherwin Williams)

One of the top kitchen trends this year is green cabinet paint colors. That’s why we had to add Rookwood Dark Green (SW 2816) by Sherwin Williams to our list. Indeed, this wonderfully natural green kitchen cabinet color has been flying under the radar for years.

As a dark forest green, it’s perfect for a natural contrasting kitchen island paint color as shown below. Surprisingly, this is Sherwin’s darkest green paint color which is perfect if you want to go bold in a two-tone cabinet design setup in your kitchen.

This deep green kitchen paint color pairs nicely with brass light fixtures and natural wood floors or butcherblock style countertops. Likewise, Rookwood Dark Green works well with natural straw or farmhouse elements. These are often found in modern or new kitchen feels that lean into the nature theme. This is one of those shades of green for cabinets that can act as a focal point for any contemporary kitchen remodel straight off of Houzz or HGTV.

  1. Mysterious, Benjamin Moore

Looking for a deeper navy blue paint color for your kitchen cabinets? Benjamin Moore’s Mysterious AF-565 may be the perfect hue for your cabinet boxes and doors. First, this is a deep, rich denim blue that can register as black in some lights. Given that black paint colors are all the rage for interiors and exteriors this year, we see Mysterious as an extension of that trend.

As kitchen cabinet color trends continue to adopt sophisticated shades of black, we’ll see more of these hues pop up in modern color schemes. No question, darker shades will continue to be used as an accent color on a kitchen island and as a two-tone option.

This cabinet color is almost charcoal with hints of navy as an undertone. Nonetheless, it’s categorized as a classic neutral that works well in both contemporary and traditional kitchens or home designs. Lastly, pair this deep blue with white countertops and subway tile kitchen backsplashes for a sophisticated aesthetic.

  1. Summer White By Sherwin-Williams

Warmth and natural environments are big in today’s kitchen design trends. Cue Sherwin-Williams off-white cabinet paint color, Summer White (SW 7557). Indeed, this is a warm pastel cabinet hue that evokes the feel of a warm summer day. Use it on wood cabinets paired with a rustic range hood for a country kitchen feel.

While beige pastels have been out of style since the mid-2000s, Summer White is more of a warm white when painted on cabinets. It works especially well paired with darker countertop materials like granite, pictured above in a recently completed kitchen renovation.

As a warm color choice for kitchens, this airy pastel can brighten up any small space with a hint of sunshine. Plus, its way easier to clean an off-white cabinet surface versus a stark white like Chantilly Lace. If you like to cook, that is a major consideration when picking cabinet paint color palettes.

Modern Kitchen Cabinet Styles:

  1. Chantilly Lace (OC-65)

While we all can’t live in a picture-perfect world, we can channel those vibes with nice delicate white cabinetry. Indeed Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore (OC-65) fits that bill. This very popular neutral crisp white paint color is great if you want to open up a smaller kitchen. Accordingly, its clean sharpness makes it great for kitchen cabinets.

One key consideration is that Chantilly Lace has an (LVR) Light Reflectance Value of 92.2. In other words, it’s extremely light and clean. Keep in mind, higher LRVs mean more prime and paint coats are needed to cover cabinet surfaces properly. Whether you’re DIY painting walls, trim, or cabinets, its notoriously difficult to cover in one or two coats. As long as you budget for at least 2 or 3 EXTRA coats, you’ll be fine using this as a kitchen color.

Be that as it may, this shade is great for kitchen cabinets with rustic home decors. Benjamin Moore says this shade creates an illusion of soft silk and linen. We largely agree. Since this is a bright white cabinet paint color perfect for breezy kitchens that open into a living room or great room.

  1. Studio Green By Farrow and Ball

A yummy color for cabinets worth trying is Studio Green (No.93) by Farrow and Ball. This is the boutique paint company’s darkest green color. However, it lightens beautifully without losing its rich color. A dark hue like Studio Green may come off as intimidating, but it makes a smaller room look large.

With that said, Studio Green goes well with shaker-style cabinetry for a bold statement. Nevertheless, you can still paint your flat-surfaced cabinets, but it just really makes your shaker cabinets stand out.

  1. Antique White, PPG Paints

At first glance, Antique White by PPG (PPG1024-2) adds an elegant statement to any kitchen cabinet. It’s a pale, caramel white with bronze undertones. Indeed, this color works well with wood flooring and white walls, giving your kitchen cabinets a timeless classic look.

Likewise, this shade will brighten up your kitchen with little to no light. Overall, Antique white is the best PPG paint color for kitchen cabinets. Considering how popular the farmhouse kitchen look has been, this is a great shade to remain on-trend. Use this paint color only in cooler-leaning kitchens to offset stark white tiles or fixtures. If paired with other creamy, warm surfaces like travertine tile flooring or tan walls, it may look too yellow.

The Best Paint For Cabinets

You need special paint and primer when painting kitchen cabinets. Likewise, there are multiple steps in the prep process you cannot overlook including sanding the surface and even skim coating rougher cabinet face textures. Given the amount of time and skill it takes to properly paint cabinets, we recommend skipping this as a DIY project for homeowners.

The best finish for cabinets is achieved using a specialized sprayer versus rolling or brushing. While you can rent a sprayer as a homeowner, the skill needed to apply cabinet paint properly is very high. You can visit Home Depot’s paint sprayer rental page for more information.

In any case, some home painting jobs are just best left to professionals. Cabinet painting is definitely one of those projects. However, using the right kind of paint matters. Here are our recommendations for the best Sherwin Williams cabinet paint as well as Benjamin Moore.

Top-Rated Cabinetry Paint From Sherwin

First, you’ll need a solid bonding primer after prepping your cabinets for painting. An excellent choice is Sherwin Williams Extreme Bond Primer. Whether you are looking to transition your traditional wood paints to white this primer is a must-have.

Our painting experts use this base for durability and easy coverage. It ensures secure bonding on tricky kitchen cabinet surfaces for a high-quality smooth finish. Furthermore, this primer offers scratch resistance and water sensitivity.

Which Sherwin Williams paint is good for cabinets?

First impressions matter, that’s why Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is best for a smooth luxurious cabinet finish. This line of paint is stain and scratch-resistant, two of the best characteristics to have in your kitchen cabinet paint selection.

Sherwin Williams’ Emerald dries hard making it durable. Not to mention, it has great color retention with is important for white cabinetry. Moreover, color retention is key to changing cabinet colors to darker shades like Hale Navy, pictured below.

Benjamin Moore Advance Cabinet Paint

Benjamin Moore Advance has been a popular paint base for many years now. Many contractors use this as a go-to because of the excellent quality and cost per gallon compared to Sherwin Williams Emerald. Lastly, this paint is self-leveling which ensures a smooth finish when spraying cabinets.

Advance is a waterborne alkyd that dries like oil-based paint. With that said, only soap and water are needed to clean and sustain your cabinet from wear and tear.

While Behr, Valspar, and Glidden all have cabinet paint products, we recommend sticking with Sherwin or Ben Moore if possible.

More Expert Painting Advice

Finding this cabinet paint color guide useful? Get more tips from the experts at Improovy by selecting our most recent articles below:

Cabinet Paint Color FAQs

Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions we get from homeowners that are painting their cabinets a different color. From the best sheens to trend-worthy recommendations for colors, we hope these help you make the right decision as a homeowner.

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.

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some important rules to consider

It is important for every person to feel comfort and coziness in their home. The kitchen is almost the main room where the whole family spends a lot of time, starting with a morning breakfast and ending with cozy evening gatherings over a cup of tea.

How your kitchen will look depends on how comfortable you will be in it during cooking or eating.

An important role in creating a favorable psychological climate is played by the colors that surround you. Therefore, if you decide to renovate, it is very important to decide what color to paint the kitchen.

Contents:

How to choose the right color?

In order to feel cozy and comfortable in any room, including the kitchen, it is necessary not only to correctly arrange the furniture and surround yourself with pleasant little things - it is very important to choose the right color scheme in which the walls in the kitchen and the ceiling will be decorated.

Each color has a certain effect on our psycho-emotional state, and this must be taken into account when deciding what color to paint the walls in the kitchen.

In order to make the right choice, consider first what style you prefer. The most popular today are all types of "folk" - country, Provence, African, retro style, classic English and modern, as well as trendy high-tech and loft.

Therefore, to answer the question of what color to paint the kitchen, consider the trends of your chosen style.

Idea

Surely you have a favorite color that you like the most. However, if it does not fit into the chosen kitchen design, then you can purchase accessories for it made in this color.

Depending on the chosen design, you will have to decide on the choice of finishing materials - decorative plaster, paint or wallpaper.

To find out what color to paint the kitchen and which option you prefer, try to attach a sample of the finishing material to the wall at different times. This technique will allow you to determine how the selected texture will suit your room.

Lovers of bright, saturated colors should keep in mind that:

Therefore, if you prefer bright colors, it is better to paint the walls in the kitchen in shades of orange.

If we talk about fashion trends, then all shades of green are at the peak of fashion for kitchens now - according to doctors, it has a beneficial effect on digestion. Any kitchen will look stylish if you paint the walls in pistachio or salad shades of green.

Shades of yellow, pastel, red copper are not inferior to green.

A universal color for any kitchen is white - with a skillful combination of decor elements and furniture, it is acceptable for any style and in any room.

We select the color taking into account important parameters

Designers advise when choosing a color for a kitchen, always be guided not only by its characteristics, but also take into account the level of illumination, ceiling height, and the total area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.

It is important in what design style you are going to decorate your kitchen, what furniture you put in it.

Given that the walls create a common background for any interior, you need to remember a few basic rules:

The construction market offers a wide range of finishing materials with different textures and a wide range of colors. But still, you should not chase fashion and use it to decorate the kitchen, regardless of the chosen design, black colors and shades of chestnut.

Walls painted in these colors will make the room visually cramped, dark and gloomy, regardless of its size and light level. Given the negative impact on mood as well as human health, these colors should not be used for wall painting at all.

It is important what color to paint the ceiling in the kitchen. We are accustomed to white ceilings, devoid of reliefs, but they are already rather tired. If the area and height of the kitchen allows, the ceiling can be mounted in several levels of drywall, stretch ceilings can be made of vinyl film.

Both of these methods can be combined. Here you can play with the shape, color, and placement of light sources. You can make a two-level ceiling in two matching or, on the contrary, contrasting colors.

However, for small kitchens with low ceilings, it is still better to stick with classic white or soft pastel colors that give the impression of an expanding space. A glossy ceiling of delicate light colors made of vinyl film would be appropriate.

Color solutions that visually change the size of the kitchen

The question of what color to paint the walls or ceiling is not the only one that you will have to decide before and during the renovation of the kitchen. The general appearance of the renovated premises depends on many little things that should be taken into account.

Furniture

This is one of the most important items in the kitchen interior, so when deciding what color to paint the walls and ceiling, you need to consider the color of the furniture with which you are going to furnish your kitchen.

There are also rules to follow here:

Finishing materials

So, you have decided on the general background of the kitchen and the ceiling. However, kitchens are not always painted in a single color - very often wallpaper with a pattern, decorative plaster or ceramic tiles with an ornament are used for wall decoration.

When choosing these materials, you should also take into account some subtleties that can visually change your kitchen: