How to Choose Kitchen Colors: A Simple Guide

Your kitchen is the heart of your home. Choosing the right colors can make it feel warm, welcoming, and stylish.

But with so many options, where do you start? This guide breaks it down into easy steps.

We’ll cover everything from planning to picking the perfect shade. Let’s create a kitchen you’ll love!

Why Kitchen Colors Matter

Colors set the mood. They affect how you feel when you cook, eat, or chat with family.

A bright kitchen feels lively. A calm one helps you relax. Colors also make your kitchen look bigger or cozier.

Picking the right ones ties the whole space together.

Planning a Kitchen Color Scheme – The Basics

Start with a plan. Think about what you want your kitchen to feel like.

Modern? Cozy? Bold? A good color scheme balances style and function.

• Know your style: Do you like sleek modern looks or warm rustic vibes?
• Think about use: Is your kitchen for cooking, dining, or hanging out?
• Use tools: Try a color wheel or apps like Pinterest for ideas.
• Test samples: Paint small patches to see how colors look in your space.

Tip: Create a mood board with colors, textures, and photos you love. It keeps your ideas organized.

Colors and Mood

Colors change how a kitchen feels. Warm colors like red or yellow make it cozy. Cool colors like blue or green feel calm.

• Red: Boosts energy but can feel intense. Use it for accents.
• Yellow: Happy and welcoming. Great for morning cheer.
• Blue: Soothing and clean. Perfect for a peaceful vibe.
• Green: Fresh and natural. Ideal for eco-friendly kitchens.

Tip: Pick a mood first, then choose colors that match it.

White and Monochrome Kitchens

White kitchens are timeless. They feel clean and bright. Monochrome (one-color) schemes add depth without clutter.

• Use different shades of white for variety.
• Add texture with wood or tiles to avoid a flat look.
• Throw in small pops of color with towels or plants.

Caution: White shows dirt easily. Choose wipeable paints or finishes.

How to Combine Colors in a Kitchen

Mixing colors can be tricky. A simple rule is the 60-30-10 method:

• 60%: Main color (walls or cabinets).
• 30%: Secondary color (countertops or backsplash).
• 10%: Accent color (knobs, rugs, or decor).

Tip: Stick to 2-3 colors for a clean look. Too many can feel chaotic.

Color and Space: Choosing Colors for a Smaller Kitchen

Small kitchens need smart color choices. Light colors make them feel bigger. Dark ones can make them cozy but cramped.

• Use whites, creams, or pastels for walls.
• Add glossy finishes to reflect light.
• Try open shelves to avoid bulky cabinets.
• Use bold accents sparingly, like a colorful rug.

Tip: Mirrors or glass backsplashes can make a tiny kitchen feel airy.

Think About How You Use Your Kitchen

Your kitchen’s job shapes its colors. Do you cook a lot? Host parties? Eat as a family?

• Busy cooks: Choose durable, easy-clean colors like gray or white.
• Social kitchens: Warm colors like yellow invite conversation.
• Family spaces: Pick stain-resistant paints for kid-friendly vibes.

Tip: Test colors where you spend the most time, like near the stove or table.

Look at Adjacent Rooms

Your kitchen shouldn’t clash with nearby rooms. If you have an open-plan home, colors need to flow.

• Match tones with living or dining areas.
• Use neutral walls to connect spaces.
• Add shared accents, like blue cushions in both rooms.

Example: If your living room has green walls, try green accents in the kitchen.

Consider Lighting

Light changes how colors look. A color that’s perfect in sunlight might look dull under bulbs.

• Natural light: Brightens bold colors like navy or red.
• Artificial light: Warm bulbs make colors cozier; cool bulbs make them crisp.
• Test it: Paint samples and check them at different times of day.

Tip: Use layered lighting (ceiling, under-cabinet, pendants) to show off colors.

Look to Your Existing Color Palette

Work with what you have. Floors, countertops, or appliances can guide your colors.

• Match wood floors with warm tones like beige.
• Pair marble counters with cool grays or whites.
• Update old cabinets with a fresh coat of paint.

Tip: Can’t change your countertops? Pick colors that complement them.

Consider Your Favorite Colors Inspired by Nature

Nature’s colors feel calm and timeless. Think of forests, oceans, or deserts.

• Green: Sage or olive for a fresh look.
• Blue: Coastal blues for a beachy vibe.
• Brown: Earthy tones like terracotta for warmth.

Example: A sage green cabinet with white walls feels like a forest retreat.

Don’t Be Afraid to Go Dark

Dark colors add drama. Navy, charcoal, or deep green make kitchens feel luxe.

• Pair dark cabinets with light counters.
• Use good lighting to avoid a cave-like feel.
• Add metallics like gold knobs for sparkle.

Tip: Dark works best in bigger kitchens with lots of light.

Remember the Finish

The paint’s finish matters as much as the color. Matte hides flaws but stains easily. Gloss is bold but shows smudges.

Tip: Use satin for walls and gloss for cabinets for a balanced look.

Bring Brightness With White

White kitchens never go out of style. They feel clean and spacious.

• Try warm whites for cozy vibes.
• Use cool whites for a modern edge.
• Add wood or plants for warmth.

Tip: Mix white with bold accents like red mugs or green tiles.

Choose Warm and Welcoming Colors

Warm colors make kitchens inviting. Think reds, oranges, or yellows.

• Use soft orange for a sunset glow.
• Try mustard yellow for a retro pop.
• Balance with neutral walls or floors.

Example: Yellow walls with gray cabinets feel sunny yet grounded.

Add Color to Your Kitchen

Small touches can add big color. You don’t need to repaint everything.

• Paint an accent wall for a quick change.
• Use colorful appliances like a red toaster.
• Add rugs, curtains, or art for easy updates.

Tip: Swap out accents seasonally for a fresh look.

The Rising Popularity of Gray

Gray is a crowd-pleaser. It’s neutral but stylish.

• Light gray feels airy and modern.
• Dark gray adds depth and elegance.
• Pair with wood or brass for warmth.

Gray Kitchen Cabinets We’re Loving

Gray cabinets are trending. They work in any style.

• Try light gray for Scandinavian vibes.
• Use charcoal for industrial edge.
• Add white counters for contrast.

Tip: Test gray shades to avoid ones that look too blue or green.

Catching Up: Blue Kitchens

Blue kitchens are calming and chic. From navy to sky blue, they’re versatile.

• Navy cabinets feel bold and timeless.
• Light blue walls add softness.
• Pair with gold or wood for warmth.

Example: Navy cabinets with marble counters scream luxury.

Classic, Happy Yellow

Yellow brings joy. It’s perfect for a lively kitchen.

• Use soft yellow for subtle cheer.
• Try bold mustard for a statement.
• Pair with white or gray to tone it down.

Tip: Yellow accents like chairs or vases are easy to add.

The Trend for Organic, Natural Elements Spells Green

Green is fresh and trendy. It feels eco-friendly and calm.

• Sage green cabinets are soft and modern.
• Emerald green walls make a bold statement.
• Pair with wood or stone for nature vibes.

Tip: Green works in rustic, modern, or boho kitchens.

Getting Inspired: The Naked Kitchens Paint Colour Palette

Curated palettes make choosing easier. Here are some favorites:

Beach Hut – Soothing Coastal Blues

Coastal blues feel like a beach getaway.

• Pair with white walls and sandy floors.
• Add rope or wood decor for texture.

Seal Pup White – Soft Warm Tones

Warm whites feel cozy and inviting.

• Use with wood cabinets for farmhouse style.
• Add beige accents for softness.

Oyster Catcher – Dark and Elegant

Deep tones like charcoal add elegance.

• Pair with gold hardware for luxury.
• Use in well-lit kitchens to avoid gloom.

Swallowtail – Statement Yellow

Bold yellow makes a fun focal point.

• Use on an island or accent wall.
• Pair with gray or white for balance.

White Kitchens Feel Cleaner

White kitchens look spotless. They’re great for busy homes.

• Use wipeable paints for easy cleaning.
• Add colorful accents to avoid boredom.
• Try textured tiles for interest.

White Kitchens That Are Anything But Vanilla

White doesn’t mean plain. Mix it up with:

• Patterned backsplashes.
• Wood beams or floors.
• Bold hardware like black knobs.

Best Colors for Kitchen Painting

Top picks for walls include:

• White: Timeless and bright.
• Gray: Modern and versatile.
• Blue: Calm and trendy.
• Green: Fresh and natural.

Tip: Always test paint samples before committing.

Top Kitchen Paint Colors

Some favorites:

• Soft Gray: Feels airy.
• Navy Blue: Adds depth.
• Sage Green: Calming and trendy.
• Butter Yellow: Warm and happy.

Best Colors for Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinets set the tone. Popular colors:

• White: Clean and classic.
• Gray: Sleek and modern.
• Navy: Bold and elegant.
• Green: Fresh and unique.

Popular Kitchen Cabinet Color Ideas

Try these:

• Light gray with brass handles.
• Navy with white counters.
• Sage green with wood accents.

Great Color Ideas for Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Get creative:

• Paint lower cabinets bold, upper ones white.
• Try two-tone for a modern twist.
• Add chalkboard paint for fun.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets

1. Remove doors and hardware.
2. Clean and sand surfaces.
3. Apply primer for grip.
4. Paint 2-3 thin coats.
5. Seal with a topcoat.

Tip: Use a foam roller for a smooth finish.

Best Color for White Kitchen

Not all whites are the same. Choose:

• Warm white for cozy vibes.
• Cool white for crisp modernity.
• Pair with bold accents like navy or red.

Color Schemes for Kitchens

Try these combos:

• Monochromatic: All gray for sleekness.
• Complementary: Blue and orange for energy.
• Neutral: White, beige, and wood for calm.

Color Scheme for Kitchen Cabinets

Two-tone cabinets are hot:

• Navy below, white above.
• Green lowers, gray uppers.
• Add matching hardware.

Gray Colors for Kitchens

Gray works everywhere:

• Light gray walls for brightness.
• Charcoal cabinets for drama.
• Pair with warm wood or bold red.

Contemporary Kitchen With Navy Cabinets

Navy cabinets scream style:

• Pair with marble counters.
• Add bronze hardware for glam.
• Use white walls to balance.

Painting Kitchen Backsplashes

A colorful backsplash pops:

• Paint tiles for a budget update.
• Use bold colors like teal or red.
• Seal for durability.

How to Paint a Tile Backsplash

1. Clean tiles thoroughly.
2. Sand lightly for grip.
3. Apply tile primer.
4. Paint with epoxy or tile paint.
5. Seal to protect.

How to Pick a Kitchen Backsplash

Consider:

• Color: Match or contrast cabinets.
• Material: Tile, glass, or paint.
• Style: Modern, rustic, or classic.

How to Paint a Laminate Countertop to Look Like Stone

1. Clean and sand the surface.
2. Apply primer for adhesion.
3. Use sponge painting for stone texture.
4. Seal with polyurethane.

Tip: Practice on cardboard first.

Conclusion

Choosing kitchen colors is fun and rewarding.

Start with your style and needs. Test samples, play with light, and don’t fear bold choices.

Whether you love calm whites or vibrant greens, your kitchen can shine.

Get inspired, grab some paint, and create a space you adore!