What color for kitchen cabinets
10 best colors for your cabinets |
(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.
The Best Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors, According to 18 Designers
AD It Yourself
Plus, how to paint with them
By Sarah Lyon
Choosing kitchen cabinet paint colors that will make your cupboards pop may seem like an impossible task when there are so many brands and shades to choose from. But whether your inclination is to go for a classic white or think outside the box a bit with a moody hue, there are plenty of designer-approved options that you should feel confident about choosing. Below, 18 designers weigh in on the kitchen cabinet paint colors that they find to be ultra-dreamy and perfect for your DIY painting job.
A kitchen by Amhad Freeman showcases wall cabinets in Sherwin-Williams’ Crushed Ice.
Photo: Nick McGinn
Sherwin-Williams Crushed Ice (SW 7647)
“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
Farrow & Ball Pointing (No. 2003)
“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
Behr Ultra Dark Cobalt Blue Extra Durable Semi-Gloss Enamel Interior Paint & Primer (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
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
Sherwin-Williams Caviar (SW 6990)
“Choosing a black with depth can be a bit challenging, but we’re leaning into Caviar as the perfect black for kitchen cabinets. To keep the cabinets from getting too flat and cold, we suggest utilizing festive hardware in brass finishes to warm them up a bit.”—Eneia White
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
Sherwin-Williams Salty Dog (SW 9177) and Sherwin-Williams Dark Night (SW 6237)
“These impactful blues allow for a lovely contrast when paired with lighter natural or quartz countertops. We recommend using a tinted primer close to your color to cut down on the number of coats needed—at least 50 percent of the full color should be in the primer. Don’t shy away from a fun and dramatic color!”—Laura Umansky
Farrow & Ball Skimming Stone (No. 241) and Farrow & Ball Strong White (No. 2001)
“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
Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117)
“We 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. From our experience, kitchen cabinets require a primer and a minimum of two coats of paint. We strongly recommend letting your paint cure for a minimum of 48 hours; we like to wait three days before adding hardware and all your favorite items back.”—Liz Goldberg
Sherwin-Williams’ Black Magic stars in this kitchen by Arianne Bellizaire.
Photo: Jessie Preza
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Sherwin-Williams Black Magic (SW 6991)
“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
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
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 (2106-60) 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
In a kitchen by Beth Diana Smith, the back of the peninsula is painted in Sherwin-Williams’ Caviar.
Photo: Mike Van Tassell
Sherwin-Williams Origami White (SW 7636)
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“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
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 topcoat, 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
Sherwin-Williams Privilege Green (SW 6193)
“Green is gaining popularity, with nearly all the paint companies selecting a version of green as their current color of the year. 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 that time will be put into sanding and smoothing the cabinets before painting.”— Pamela O’Brien
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
Christina Kim Interior Design conceived this kitchen with North End Builders. The cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray.
Photo: Raquel Langworthy Photography
Benjamin Moore Classic Gray (OC-23)
“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: We always wash the cabinets with a degreaser. Then they get sanded before getting one coat of an oil-based primer. We let that dry for a day or two and try not to rush it. Then we 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
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
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Read MoreKitchens of different colors in the interior - designers' advice on choosing colors for the kitchen and 95 photos
The choice of color for the kitchen set depends on how you would like to see the kitchen after all the work is completed. It can be calm or tonic, effective or calming, bright or gentle. Consider in this article the basic rules and advice from designers on choosing colors for the kitchen.
Designer tips on how to choose the right kitchen color and what to watch out for:
* Do not use more than two colors in one kitchen set.
* If the kitchen set is designed in two colors, then the color of the upper cabinets should be lighter in tone than the lower cabinets.
* A monochromatic kitchen looks better when it is made of colors ranging from light beige to dark brown, pleasant, calm and not too flashy. A plain kitchen looks good if the kitchen space is not large.
* Only one color should be the dominant color in the headset if the headset is made in different colors.
* Different colors of the kitchen unit must be combined with each other.
The starting point in the design of the interior of the kitchen should be furniture.
If you are planning to buy brightly colored furniture, it is advisable to make walls in calm, neutral colors.
And vice versa, a monochromatic and not bright kitchen set requires more catchy, contrasting walls and surrounding decor.
The following color combinations are popular in one set: black and white, black and pink, black and red, black and orange, red and gray, red and white, yellow and blue, beige and gray, green and light yellow, dark brown and light brown, brown and beige, orange and dark brown, lilac/purple and yellow, burgundy and light pink, green and brown.
* In a small kitchen space, you do not need to use dark saturated colors.
Remember that a light color visually enlarges the space.
* A room with a large area will become more comfortable if the light suite is supplemented, "diluted" with bright accents.
* Too dark a kitchen set, even in a large kitchen, can create a gloomy atmosphere.
* The colors of nature are best suited to the color of kitchen furniture.
The best color combinations in one kitchen set:
- White - goes well with almost all colors. Best with blue, red and black; - Beige - matches blue, brown, gray and white; - Gray is a neutral color that can be used as a base color. Pairs well with beige/cream, pink, red, purple, brown, blue; - Pink - brown, white, olive, gray, turquoise matches this color; - Red - ideally combined with yellow, white, green, blue and black, combination with gray is also possible; - Brown - with bright blue, cream, pink, green, beige, light brown; - Orange - with blue, blue, lilac, violet, green; - Yellow - with blue, lilac, light blue, gray, black, lilac; - Green - goes well with golden brown, yellow, black, light beige; - Blue - to red, gray, orange, pink, white, yellow; - Blue - to purple, green, yellow, orange, red; - Lilac - to yellow, green, brown, beige; - Black is a universal elegant color. Looks good with all colors. Best combined with orange, pink, green, white, red, yellow. Color plays a huge role in a person's life, it affects well-being, mood, performance, relationships. The kitchen is an important part of our home, we spend a lot of time there, so choosing the color of the walls for this room should be taken seriously.
Basic rules for choosing wall colors for the kitchen:
- A large pattern visually reduces the size of the room.
- A small pattern, on the other hand, makes the room appear larger than it really is.
- Geometric patterns on the walls of the kitchen in the form of intersecting stripes, like the ornament on Scottish kilts, create the illusion of a continuous space.
- Vertical pattern "raises" the ceilings, visually "increasing" the height of the room.
- The horizontal pattern and horizontal stripes on the walls expand the kitchen while reducing its height.
- Diagonal lines on the walls bring dynamism to the kitchen interior, creating the illusion of movement.
- Textured wallpapers look very extraordinary. By endowing the surface of the walls with new qualities, they are able to create an additional dimension in the room. Thanks to the play of shadows and partial shadows, curious color nuances and unexpected alternations of textures, you can get a lot of interesting effects.
- When choosing the color of your kitchen, keep your own tastes and preferences in mind.
- Undoubtedly, the kitchen set must be in harmony in color with other design solutions of the room: ceiling, walls, floor. However, first of all, its color should cause you only positive emotions. Psychologists do not get tired of repeating that the coloring of the things around us directly affects the character, mood, well-being and even performance.
Each person has an individual approach to the choice of color, so you should figure out what will be relevant for the kitchen, and what can hardly be called the right decision.
Let's take a closer look at the main color options:
Red - This color is considered one of the most intense, bright, impressive and eye-catching. However, do not forget that it can not only arouse appetite, but also inappropriately increase blood pressure. Psychologists say that such a solution for the kitchen is preferable for people who are strong-willed, self-confident and able to always keep any situation under control. Psychologists have come to the conclusion that bright red furniture should not be installed by those who regularly diet, wanting to lose weight.
Pink - This shade of red can have different effects on a person - it all depends on the saturation. However, he is not so aggressive, but, on the contrary, carries a tendency to calm and tranquility. Pastel shades of pink are able to improve mood, give a feeling of lightness and tenderness, but crimson ones - awaken appetite, increase tone, excite, make people more emotional.
Orange - If the lady of the house chooses this color for her kitchen furniture, she will always win. The fact is that it is orange shades that moderately increase appetite, and communication in such a bright environment is always relaxed and easy. This is one of the reasons why such tones are chosen in many modern cafes and restaurants. They are considered the key to movement, dynamics and communication. Who should choose such a solution? First of all, those people who are used to quick snacks are active and purposeful.
Yellow - A yellow kitchen will be filled with light, warmth, comfort and boundless good mood all year round. This choice is most often inclined to cheerful and loving people who love to start their day with beauty. Even in cloudy weather, when it is autumn or winter outside, it will always be sunny and clear in a yellow kitchen. Experts say that this color awakens the "muse" in creative people, and also contributes to the manifestation of imagination, prompts a desire to experiment, including in culinary business. A variety of shades allows you to choose the best one, but it should be borne in mind that too bright contributes to anxiety, and dim - a breakdown.
Green - Green has long been considered the most pleasant color to perceive. It evokes a feeling of calmness, and the interior in such colors gives people comfort and a sense of security. In addition, it is a symbol of growth, life, development, relaxes, protects from stress, nervous overload. Choosing a green kitchen is for those people who do a lot of work, read, work, and also regularly experience psychological or physical stress. In addition, scientists have found that this coloring is able to reduce pain in the abdominal cavity, harmonizes the general condition of the body.
Blue - A blue kitchen is sure to give its owners a sense of calm. It is natural that such an environment will evoke associations with relaxation, sea, sky, water. Well, how can you not relax here? Paradoxically, scientists have found that the popularity of blue shades increases at times when a country or the world as a whole is experiencing crises, including economic ones. It's easy enough to explain. It is the heavenly colors that are a sign of security, trust and even devotion. If there are those in the house who want to say goodbye to excess weight forever, then it is worth acquiring a kitchen in a bright blue color, since, unlike red, it perfectly fights hunger, dulling it.
Violet/Lilac - Violet kitchen is always a bit of a daring option, which always reeks of brightness. Many are inclined to this choice, knowing about some mystical properties of such shades - to attract wealth, strength and power. Nevertheless, it is the purple color that is considered an expression of sensuality, subtlety. To make such a kitchen look luxurious and stylish, you should pay attention to the right combination of shades and accessories. Calm tones, in turn, will create a unique romantic atmosphere in this corner of the house, where it will be pleasant not only to cook and eat, but also to receive guests with a cup of fragrant tea.
Brown - In most apartments today you can find kitchens in brown made of wood or "under it". This is not surprising, because such a color gives a feeling of confidence, stability, trust, comfort. In addition, it is considered the most neutral, since, in most cases, it does not affect the general well-being or mood. It is worth noting that brown is one of the most combinable colors, as most of the others are combined with it.
Black - A kitchen in black is, as they say, an amateur. The fact is that many modern people are prone to prejudice and consider this color to be mournful, mystical, dark. However, designers prove the opposite and, with a skillful combination of accessories, turn the black kitchen into a stylish and presentable room, which, in addition to everything, looks spectacular and harmonious. This is a classic that will remain relevant and in demand at any time. Most often, black is combined with white, red and orange.
White
The indisputable advantage of such a kitchen is the visual expansion of space. Also, this color is able to soften combinations of any, the brightest shades. It is known that it is completely impractical, but it always looks stylish, spectacular, expensive. However, you should not get carried away too much, as the abundance of white can cause eye strain and even headaches.
KITCHEN IN DIFFERENT COLORS IN THE INTERIOR - PHOTO COLLECTION
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What color to choose kitchen set
Furniture selection
February 24, 2021 Reading time 4 minutes
Pyotr Velvetov
Permanent author of the Divano. ru Blog, interior designer with more than 10 years of experience
The choice of colors is one of the most difficult moments in the arrangement of the interior of the kitchen. In this part of the house, people spend a lot of time and want the pastime to bring only pleasant emotions. When wondering how to choose the color of the headset for the kitchen, it is worth considering that it can reduce or enlarge the space, create a bright accent or hide layout flaws. The shade of furniture should be combined with coatings and wallpaper, be appropriate for the chosen style.
It is impossible to name a specific color that is strictly forbidden to be used in this part of the house. But there are some hard-to-play tones that can make a room look smaller and be problematic to pair with other interior design elements. In the article we will tell you how, thanks to color schemes, to add a cozy and pleasant atmosphere to the kitchen.
Effect of color on appetite
When deciding on the color of the future kitchen set, most people are guided by their preferences and the general style of the room, which is quite logical. But when making such a decision, take into account the influence of the chosen color on the well-being and mood of a person, as well as appetite:
- green. The most relaxing and soothing color that promotes relaxation and concentration on pleasant positive thoughts. It can be called universal, because depending on the shade - from light green to deep emerald - it will be possible to achieve the desired effect;
- red. It is associated with passion and powerful energy, while in the kitchen it is possible to enjoy romance and tune in to a wave of love. The headset is good for confident, ambitious and purposeful individuals. Keep in mind that space in red tones increases appetite;
- blue. All its shades can slightly reduce the desire to eat. Some tones, such as light blue, help to improve mood and even get rid of the blues;
- yellow. Ideal for creative people, because it prompts experiments and charges with positive. In the yellow kitchen, you want to cook new interesting dishes and eat with pleasure. Also, such a choice charges with positive and warmth;
- orange. More active than other colors, it awakens the appetite, which is why it is often seen in coffee shops and restaurants. But it is not suitable for people who periodically diet and have a tendency to overeat. Otherwise, such a headset will have a positive effect on mood and well-being;
- pink. Light versions of pink add romantic and gentle notes to the interior. They also dull the feeling of hunger. Bright colors, on the contrary, will awaken the appetite and become a noticeable accent of the room;
- purple. A shade that will bring magic and magic to the kitchen space. It does not cause a strong desire to eat, but does not reduce it;
- brown. If different trendy colors are not for you, because you dream of a natural and natural setting, then this is a good option. Combining its shades can create comfort, while not affecting the feeling of hunger;
- grey. One of the most stylish colors in kitchen furniture. This is a great choice if you're buying headsets for decades. It will always be relevant. Also, a kitchen in gray tones will help to avoid overeating;
- black. Despite the association with mourning, when used correctly, black will make the room more graceful and elegant. The palette is used in minimalism, hi-tech, retro, along with glass, chrome finishes. In addition, it slightly suppresses appetite;
- white. Adds lightness and simplicity to space, makes it visually larger. Designers do not advise to stop at pure white, because it can cause a feeling of depression and pain. It is better to replace it with beige or milky, which also dampen your appetite well.
Combination with wall finishes
Kitchen furniture should be combined with the design of the entire room so that the interior looks solid and complete. If bright tones are chosen for decoration, then more neutral beige, cream and olive furniture is preferable to soften the atmosphere and bring harmony. They are effectively complemented by patterned carvings, graceful handles, and elegant painting. This option is ideal for lovers of Provence style, shabby chic, English classics.
Connoisseurs of modern combinations will love the unobtrusive pattern on the walls. Depending on the style, it can be a small floral print, vertical stripes, geometry, as well as combinations of wallpaper, ceramic tiles and other textures. It is permissible to stick photo wallpapers or place attractive, matching pictures.
When the walls, floor and ceiling are pasted over or painted in light paint, it is possible to choose a bright kitchen set. In this case, he will be the main one in the room. The apron must be in harmony with the furniture in the work area. Ideally, it should match the kitchen set or finish. If the furniture and walls have similar shades, then the apron may differ.
It must be remembered that a clear contrast between the headset and the wall will visually reduce the room, including the height of the ceiling.
Advice! If you understand that you can’t beautifully combine several shades, you don’t need to experiment. It is better to choose 2-3 subtones of the same color and try to combine them.
Interior color and style
When deciding on the color scheme for decoration, decide in advance in what style the interior will be made. After all, choosing a shade for a certain direction is much easier:
- classic style and minimalism. Based on the use of natural muted tones. Most often it is brown, beige, black and gray. Combinations of black with white or metallic gray look good;
- provence, shabby chic and other romantic styles. Implies delicate pastel shades. It can be milky, peach, lilac, heavenly;
- Scandinavian. It gravitates towards everything natural and natural, so beige and brown are a priority;
- loft, rustic and other modern styles. The fashion of this trend is traditionally black, white, red and gray. Depending on your preferences, you can add pink, purple, blue and other tones;
- retro and boho. There are no frames in these styles; any experiments with textures and color are welcome;
- industrial. Kitchen sets in this style are most often made of natural wood, have black, gray, brick or metallic colors;
- rustic. For him, accented, but muted tones are ideal. Usually it is olive, brick, gray and other similar options.
Kitchen design according to size
When choosing a color, it is important to focus on the size of the room. After all, it can both visually expand and reduce space.
If the room has a modest footage, then you should not overload it with a large number of shades. Ideally, stop at 2-3, which will smoothly flow into each other. Sharp transitions “eat up” the space and greatly reduce the room. Headsets look good, which are only a couple of tones different from the colors of the walls.
The smaller the footage, the more carefully you should handle dark and saturated colors. They may well be used as a kind of frame, taking their place on horizontal surfaces (for example, countertops) or along the edges of furniture.
A small kitchen is no reason to give up color accents. The key is to keep them small. For example, an apron with a bright image, eye-catching textiles or decor items.
It is important for owners of small kitchens to remember that with an increase in light colors, there is more free space. Ceilings, floors and walls should be beige, light gray or other pastel colors, and the headset can be made a noticeable accent. Or pick it up in a muted version, and add brightness with accessories.
White is traditionally considered the best choice for a small room. But its abundance can evoke associations with the hospital, so it is better to replace it with milky, beige, grayish or combine these colors with white.
If the room occupies more than 10 squares, then more room for experimentation opens up for you. Catchy colors in this case will not make the room cramped, but will add warmth and comfort. But even in a situation with a large kitchen, it is worth limiting yourself to 3-5 colors. In this case, there should be fewer saturated spots than muffled ones.
If you want to make the furniture as fresh and airy as possible, look at the heavenly, light green, peach. If you choose their bright counterparts and combine with white, you get a stylish and positive interior with plenty of free space.
Natural and artificial lighting
With the help of a shade, the kitchen can be made colder or warmer, lit or gloomy. Therefore, the design of the kitchen set must be selected taking into account how much natural light is in the room. If the windows face the north side, then street light will not be enough. Therefore, for such kitchens it is better to buy furniture and choose a finish in warm colors: beige, peach, yellow, orange.
For rooms with windows to the south, furniture in cold tones is also acceptable: blue, blue, green, lilac. They will be more comfortable to relax and cook at any time of the year.
If natural lighting is not enough, you need to competently use artificial. In addition to standard ceiling lamps, LED lighting built into the kitchen design would be a good option.
Local lights will provide comfort while cooking, and LEDs on the ceiling and furniture will make this area more spacious and romantic. When distributing light sources, do not forget about glossy surfaces that reflect light, and your own shadow falling in a place that is not convenient for you and complicating the cooking process. To do this, you can provide a small portable lamp, the light from which you direct, depending on your placement.
Variants of harmonious color combinations
When choosing a kitchen set, remember that it must match the decoration of the room. If you are afraid not to cope with the selection of colors yourself, use the universal combinations:
- white. The easiest to combine, as it is combined with almost all shades. Softens and harmonizes even the most juicy and rich color;
- black. Also versatile and especially pleasing with a light finish. But there are many colors, for example, red, which he makes more aggressive and flashy;
- beige. Often taken as a basis in the interior. On a par with white, it looks advantageous in any case, highlighting pastels and shading too bright ones;
- brown. Looks nice with green, metallic, light pink, blue, beige. Adherents of the classics will like the “coffee with milk” option, in which chocolate, light brown and beige are placed together;
- green. Good with brown, golden, beige, yellow and orange. If you choose olive, then there are even more opportunities for combination. Coziness will add blotches of brown, beige and golden;
- blue. Gray, orange and pink are most suitable for it;
- blue. Most attention is attracted by its combination with red, brown, green, purple and orange;
- purple. This mystical shade is best emphasized by green, brown, gray and yellow;
- grey. If you have chosen such furniture, then the color of the wallpaper can be pink, green, purple or yellow.
Bold combinations
Classic color combinations are a universal option, but if you want to embody the most daring ideas, there is an opportunity to pick up something more original. Among non-standard combinations, designers have identified several of the most harmonious:
- When thinking about what color to choose a kitchen set, few people stop at black. But this is a stylish option that is timeless. If you do not want to add light elements to it, then stop at gray or brown. But it is important that the room is spacious. The combination with bright colors is also interesting: yellow, pink, light green, which is relevant for modern style;
- gray and burgundy look concise and simple together. But such minimalism can be called ageless. It does not matter if your surfaces are matte or glossy;
- lovers of bright colors will love the combination of purple and lilac. It will add charm to the space and become an accent;
- Rainbow Headset is ideal for creative and daring individuals.
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