Kitchen Color Accessories: 13 Clever Ways to Refresh Your Cooking Area
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This post is all about kitchen color accessories.
Does your kitchen feel a bit uninspired?
I hear you—my kitchen used to be all about function, not style, until I started experimenting with colorful accessories.
Suddenly, it became a space I actually loved spending time in!
You don’t need a complete overhaul to create a chic kitchen.
A few vibrant, well-chosen pieces can totally refresh your space and make it feel uniquely yours.
That’s why I’m sharing 13 must-have kitchen color accessories to transform your space into a stylish haven you’ll adore!
Consider These Before You Start Adding Color
Before you start buying accessories or repainting items, take a moment to consider:
- Your existing color palette: Neutral kitchens can handle bold pops; colorful kitchens may benefit from subtle accent tones.
- Lighting: Natural light can make certain colors look vibrant, while artificial light may dull them.
- Purpose and placement: Where you place color accessories matters. Items near eye-level (like open shelves or countertops) draw more attention than items lower down.
Getting Started: Where and How to Begin
Don’t overthink your first step. Start small:
- Choose a color family (blues, yellows, greens, etc.).
- Pick 2–3 items in that family—like a utensil holder, dish towels, or wall art.
- Place them in visible spots.
- Observe how it feels for a few days before adding more.
1) Colorful Cookware
Why It’s Must-Have
Colorful cookware, such as enameled cast iron pots or vibrant skillets, serves as both a functional tool and a decorative centerpiece.
Brands like Le Creuset offer hues like cerise red or coastal blue, adding a bold statement to any kitchen.
These pieces are durable, versatile, and perfect for displaying on open shelves or stovetops, instantly elevating the space’s aesthetic.
For kitchens with warm-toned cabinets, colorful cookware can harmonize beautifully, as explored in kitchen color for oak cabinets.
How to Incorporate
Display cookware on open shelving or a kitchen island to showcase its vibrant hues.
Use it regularly for cooking, as high-quality pieces offer excellent heat retention.
Arrange pots in a color-coordinated stack for visual appeal when not in use.
A single bold piece, like a teal Dutch oven, can anchor the kitchen’s color scheme.
Tips for Choosing
- Select colors that complement or contrast with existing kitchen tones for cohesion.
- Choose durable materials like cast iron for longevity and style.
- Ensure sizes fit storage and cooking needs to maximize utility.
2) Vibrant Tea Towels
Why It’s Must-Have
Tea towels are an affordable way to introduce color and pattern, instantly refreshing a kitchen’s look.
Available in bold geometrics or soft pastels, they add personality while serving practical purposes like drying dishes or hands.
Their versatility makes them easy to swap out, keeping the space dynamic and chic.
How to Incorporate
Hang tea towels on oven handles or hooks near the sink for easy access and visual impact.
Fold them neatly on countertops as part of a curated display, as suggested in counter corner decor ideas.
Mix patterns for a playful vibe or stick to solids for elegance.
Tips for Choosing
- Opt for 100% cotton for absorbency and durability.
- Choose patterns that align with the kitchen’s color palette.
- Rotate designs seasonally to keep the look fresh without specific holiday themes.
3) Colorful Glass Jars
Why It’s Must-Have
Glass jars in hues like amber, cobalt, or green add a touch of elegance while storing dry goods or utensils.
Their transparency showcases contents, making them both practical and decorative.
Arranged in groups, they create a cohesive, colorful display that enhances a kitchen’s sophistication.
How to Incorporate
Place jars on countertops or shelves, filled with pasta, grains, or spices for a functional yet stylish look.
Use them as vases for fresh herbs to double as decor.
Group varying sizes for visual interest, ensuring they complement the kitchen’s overall design.
Tips for Choosing
- Select colors that harmonize with the kitchen’s palette for a unified look.
- Choose sturdy, food-safe glass for daily use.
- Vary jar sizes to create a dynamic display.
4) Decorative Canisters
Why It’s Must-Have
Decorative canisters in ceramic, metal, or glass offer stylish storage for staples like flour or coffee.
Available in vibrant colors like mustard or emerald, they add a focal point to countertops.
They blend form and function, making them essential for a chic kitchen, as highlighted in kitchen color combos.
How to Incorporate
Arrange canisters on countertops or a kitchen cart for easy access and visual appeal.
Label them for clarity if opaque, and choose colors that tie into the kitchen’s scheme.
Use them to store non-food items like utensils for added versatility.
Tips for Choosing
- Pick airtight canisters to keep contents fresh.
- Match colors to the kitchen’s theme for cohesion.
- Consider sizes based on storage needs.
5) Bold Patterned Rugs
Why It’s Must-Have
A bold patterned rug adds warmth and color, defining the kitchen space.
Geometric or floral designs in hues like coral or teal create a focal point, especially in open-plan kitchens.
Rugs enhance comfort underfoot and tie together the room’s aesthetic, as seen in rustic-modern kitchen ideas.
How to Incorporate
Place a rug in front of the sink or under a dining table to anchor the area.
Choose machine-washable materials for easy maintenance, given the kitchen’s mess-prone nature.
Ensure the rug’s size fits the space without overwhelming it.
Tips for Choosing
- Select durable, easy-to-clean materials like cotton or synthetics.
- Choose patterns that complement the kitchen’s color scheme.
- Measure the space to ensure the rug fits proportionally.
6) Artwork or Prints
Why It’s Must-Have
Artwork adds personality and color to kitchen walls, transforming them into a gallery-like space.
Bold prints or paintings in vibrant hues like yellow or blue can elevate a neutral kitchen, making it feel curated and chic, as discussed in kitchen color palette ideas.
How to Incorporate
Hang a statement piece above the dining area or create a gallery wall on a blank space.
Ensure artwork is well-lit to highlight its colors, and choose frames that complement the kitchen’s style for added impact.
Tips for Choosing
- Select art that reflects personal style and kitchen theme.
- Use frames in colors that match or contrast with the palette.
- Ensure proper lighting to showcase the artwork’s vibrancy.
7) Plants in Colorful Pots
Why It’s Must-Have
Plants in colorful pots bring life and vibrancy to a kitchen.
Ceramic or metal pots in hues like terracotta or teal add a pop of color while housing low-maintenance plants like herbs or succulents, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
How to Incorporate
Place pots on windowsills, countertops, or hanging planters for a dynamic display.
Choose herbs like basil for cooking convenience, ensuring pots complement the kitchen’s color scheme.
Group plants for a lush, vibrant effect.
Tips for Choosing
- Select pots in sizes suitable for the plants and space.
- Choose low-maintenance plants for busy kitchens.
- Ensure pots have drainage to prevent water damage.
8) Colorful Utensil Holders
Why It’s Must-Have
Colorful utensil holders, whether ceramic or woven, keep tools organized while adding a stylish touch.
A vibrant holder in teal or mustard can stand out against neutral countertops, enhancing the kitchen’s chic appeal, as noted in kitchen color combinations.
How to Incorporate
Place a holder near the stove for easy access to utensils like spatulas or whisks.
Choose a design that complements the kitchen’s palette, using it as a focal point or subtle accent.
Tips for Choosing
- Select a size that holds essential utensils.
- Choose materials like ceramic or metal for durability.
- Ensure easy cleaning for frequent use.
9) Vibrant Cutting Boards
Why It’s Must-Have
Vibrant cutting boards in colors like green or red add functionality and style.
Using different colors for specific foods (e.g., meat, vegetables) enhances organization while bringing color to prep areas.
They can double as decor when displayed.
How to Incorporate
Store boards in a countertop holder or hang them on a wall for visual appeal.
Use them daily for food prep, ensuring they’re both practical and decorative.
Display them as part of the kitchen’s design scheme.
Tips for Choosing
- Choose food-safe materials like bamboo or plastic.
- Select colors that complement the kitchen’s palette.
- Ensure boards are easy to clean and store.
10) Colorful Small Appliances
Why It’s Must-Have
Small appliances like toasters or mixers in bold colors, such as Smeg’s pastel blue or KitchenAid’s vibrant red, act as statement pieces.
They combine functionality with style, making them ideal for a chic kitchen, as seen in modern luxury kitchen inspirations.
How to Incorporate
Place appliances on countertops where they’re accessible and visible.
Choose colors that enhance the kitchen’s aesthetic, ensuring they blend with or stand out against the existing palette.
Tips for Choosing
- Select frequently used appliances to justify countertop space.
- Choose reputable brands for quality and durability.
- Match colors to the kitchen’s theme for cohesion.
11) Statement Lighting
Why It’s Must-Have
Statement lighting, like pendant lights with colored glass or shades, adds both illumination and color.
A vibrant fixture in amber or blue can transform the kitchen’s mood, making it a focal point for style and function.
How to Incorporate
Install pendant lights above the island or dining area, ensuring they provide adequate task lighting.
Choose fixtures that complement the kitchen’s color scheme, as explored in kitchen room design.
Tips for Choosing
- Select lights that balance style and illumination needs.
- Choose colors that enhance the kitchen’s palette.
- Consider modern or industrial styles for a chic look.
12) Colorful Backsplash
Why It’s Must-Have
A colorful backsplash, whether mosaic tiles or peel-and-stick options, adds a bold focal point.
Hues like turquoise or coral can elevate a neutral kitchen, offering a chic, modern vibe, as discussed in kitchen backsplash tile designs.
How to Incorporate
Install a permanent backsplash for a lasting impact or use peel-and-stick tiles for a temporary solution.
Focus on areas behind the sink or stove for maximum effect.
Learn more about installation in how to install a backsplash.
Tips for Choosing
- Select tiles that are easy to clean and durable.
- Choose colors that complement the kitchen’s scheme.
- Consider patterns like subway or mosaic for visual interest.
13) Sculptural Decor
Why It’s Must-Have
Sculptural decor, like abstract vases or ceramic figures in bold colors, adds an artistic touch.
Pieces in hues like mustard or cobalt create a gallery-like atmosphere, enhancing the kitchen’s chic appeal without seasonal themes.
How to Incorporate
Place sculptures on open shelves, countertops, or dining tables as focal points.
Combine with other accessories like plants or artwork for a curated look, ensuring they tie into the kitchen’s color palette.
Tips for Choosing
- Select pieces that reflect personal style and kitchen theme.
- Choose durable materials like ceramic or metal.
- Ensure sizes fit the space without cluttering.
Brightening Up Your Kitchen with Color: Why It Matters
Color has a unique way of transforming not just a space but also the mood of those who use it.
In the kitchen—where we start mornings, unwind with family, or experiment with recipes—the right use of color can uplift the atmosphere, energize the space, and even enhance organization.
But not everyone can repaint their cabinets or retile their backsplash.
That’s where color accessories come in: they’re affordable, temporary, and make a bold statement without permanent commitment.
Bonus Tips for Styling with Color Accessories
- Stick to odd numbers: Group accessories in 3s or 5s for a balanced look.
- Use color to define zones: For example, place matching red items near your coffee station.
- Don’t match everything: Harmonize your accessories but avoid overly matching everything—it can look forced.
Wrapping It Up: Small Changes, Big Impact
Adding color accessories is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to revitalize your kitchen.
Whether you rent or own, whether your kitchen is spacious or compact, smart use of accessories like rugs, containers, towels, or even fresh flowers can inject charm and personality without overwhelming the space.
The key is to be intentional—don’t crowd your counters, and let each colored piece breathe.
So next time you feel your kitchen looks tired or bland, don’t rush for a full remodel—try a pop of color instead.
FAQ Section
What colors work best for kitchen accessories?
Bold hues like teal, mustard, or coral add vibrancy, while neutrals like gray or beige offer timeless elegance.
Choose colors that complement the kitchen’s existing palette, as explored in stunning kitchen color schemes.
How can I add color to a small kitchen?
Use small accessories like tea towels, glass jars, or cutting boards to introduce color without overwhelming the space.
Light tones can make the kitchen feel larger, as noted in small cottage kitchen ideas.
Are colorful accessories practical for daily use?
Yes, items like cookware, canisters, and utensil holders are both functional and decorative.
Choose durable, easy-to-clean materials to ensure they withstand daily use while maintaining style.
How do I choose accessories that match my kitchen’s style?
Consider the kitchen’s design—modern, rustic, or coastal—and select accessories that align with it.
For example, vibrant rugs suit rustic-modern kitchens, as seen in rustic farmhouse kitchen ideas.
Can I mix different colors in kitchen accessories?
Absolutely, mixing colors like turquoise and coral or mustard and gray creates a dynamic look.
Ensure cohesion by referencing a color palette, as discussed in kitchen color combinations.