HOW TO CHOOSE KITCHEN CABINET COLORS

Homeowners often make some of their biggest investments in the kitchen, as it’s a space that should blend beauty with utility. It’s important to incorporate color and personality into your kitchen design, while focusing on practicality and function.

While a white kitchen will never go out of style, there are other cabinet colors that have become staples in the kitchen. Two-tone cabinets, where upper and lower cabinets each have their own color, add a bit more dimension to the space. Blues and greens, meanwhile, have almost become neutrals in the kitchen space.

We’re breaking down some common mistakes and misconceptions about kitchen cabinet colors — and offering helpful design tips. Whether you prefer bright colors or classic neutrals, here’s what to consider before selecting kitchen cabinet colors for your next kitchen remodel.

CONSIDER THE LONGEVITY OF THE DESIGN

Whether you’re considering blue, yellow, or green kitchen cabinets, bright colors will instantly upgrade your kitchen aesthetic. Before choosing a bold color palette, remember that color trends can change quickly and most kitchen cabinets are built to last 10 to 15 years. If you want to ensure a look that won’t go out of style, opt for neutral colors like shades of white, gray, and brown.

LOOK BEYOND WHITE, WITHOUT GOING TOO BOLD

Light-colored cabinetry can brighten up your interior for a more open and airy aesthetic. White is great neutral, but it’s not the only option for long-lasting style. Consider a light shade of blue, green, or yellow to brighten up your design without worry that you’ve selected a color that is far too vibrant. If you’re nervous to embrace a full set of color cabinets, consider a split palette. Keep white or light colors as the upper cabinets and save a statement color for your lower cabinets.

MIX MATERIALS AND COLORS

Create a two-toned design by mixing materials and finishes. For example, use raw wood cabinetry for the lower cabinets and paint your upper cabinets for a more eclectic and personalized style. You can also choose to mix stainless steel and wood cabinetry if you’re going for a more industrial chic look. Complete the design with a two-toned kitchen faucet from VIGO, such as The Bristol pull-down kitchen faucet.

MATCH EXISTING HARDWARE FINISHES

When installing or upgrading your kitchen cabinet, be sure to match the style and color with your hardware finishes. Stainless steel, matte black, and matte brushed gold kitchen faucets from VIGO are versatile enough to pair with any design style, however the right choice can elevate your space in the best way.

Matte black kitchen faucets, such as The VIGO Parsons pull-down kitchen faucet, are a great way to create contrast against white or light-colored cabinetry. Meanwhile, a matte brushed gold faucet — like The VIGO Livingston — brightens up an interior with dark-colored or dark wood cabinetry. Stainless steel, brushed nickel, or chrome faucets are the most versatile. A brushed nickel kitchen faucet paired with a Matte Stone™ kitchen sink can brighten up dark gray or black cabinetry, while a stainless steel faucet pairs well with light green, yellow, or blue kitchen cabinets.

CONSIDER THE SIZE OF YOUR SPACE

Bright-colored cabinets, such as light greens and pale pinks, work better in small spaces. If you’re working with a small kitchen with less light, opt for a brighter shade to make the space feel bigger and brighter. Conversely, dark cabinets — like deep blues, grays, and natural wood tones — work best in large, well-lit kitchens.

DON’T ATTEMPT TO MATCH AN EXISTING COLOR

Sometimes you need to replace an old or damaged cabinet or do a partial change. Usually, it’s not recommended to match an existing color as it’s never exact. It is better to do something completely different so it looks as the difference is intentional. The only time we suggest it is if you know the exact manufacturer and have them attempt to duplicate their own work.

ALWAYS CONSIDER DURABILITY

Kitchen cabinet colors can change over time. Different woods and different quality stains react differently to sun exposure and can yellow, darken, or lighten over time. It is very common after years that lower cabinets in the shade become an entirely different color than upper cabinets that are continuously exposed to natural sunlight. When selecting a kitchen cabinet color, consider the amount of sunlight your space gets — and investigate the durability, materials, and manufacturer to determine if the quality will persist over the years. To ensure a kitchen design that lasts a lifetime, complete your space with an exceptionally strong kitchen faucet and stainless steel kitchen sink from VIGO.