The Ideal Cabinet Painting Colors

From classic whites to bold hues, explore cabinet painting colors that fit your style and home design
February 19, 2023
8 min read
Table of contents

When it comes to painting your cabinets, the options are seemingly endless. From bright and bold colors to subtle neutrals, the possibilities are infinite. The trick is to find a color that will bring out the beauty of your cabinets and enhance the look of your kitchen. To help you find the ideal cabinet painting colors, we’ve put together a few tips to consider.

Warm Colors

The first step in choosing the ideal cabinet paint colors is to consider the color of your kitchen walls. While you don’t have to match the wall color exactly, it’s important to keep the colors in the same range. While bold colors such as red or yellow may stand out, they may also overwhelm the room. On the other hand, neutrals such as taupe or gray can help create a tranquil atmosphere.

Once you’ve decided on the wall color, you can begin choosing cabinet colors by considering what you hope to achieve with your new kitchen design. For example, if you want a calming effect, choose shades of blue or green that are darker than your walls but lighter than black or brown. If you want to create an elegant atmosphere, opt for light shades of pastel pink and purple as well as white cabinets with gold accents.

One way to choose a warm neutral is by considering what other warm accents are already in your kitchen. If there are dark wood cabinets, they could be painted with a deep brown or burgundy hue. If there are light wood cabinets, they could be painted with a light tan shade or even white for contrast.

Traditional

If you're looking to update your kitchen, you might be wondering what colors are best for your cabinets. Your choices will depend on the style of your cabinets, but there are a few general rules of thumb to keep in mind. If you have traditional-style cabinets, you'll have plenty of options for color combinations. Light wood tones work well with light walls and white trim, while darker woods work best with dark trim and light walls. If you have modern-style cabinets, consider using white or other light colors on the inside of the cabinet doors and drawers, while keeping the outside a dark color like black or brown.

This will give it an illusion of depth and make it look more like furniture than just an appliance in a room. Consider whether or not your cabinets are traditional or modern-looking. If they have a more traditional style, classic colors like navy blue, hunter green and deep brown tend to be popular options. If they're more modern in appearance, consider shades of gray or white. If you want to achieve a rustic look, earthy hues like burnt orange or olive green will work well with most styles.

Finish and Style

When it comes to your kitchen cabinets, there are three main considerations: color, finish and style. When choosing a color for your cabinets, it’s important to consider what finishes you want on the rest of your kitchen. For example, if you have stainless steel appliances, choosing a white or light grey cabinet will pair well with those finishes. If you want a more bold look, consider painting your cabinets red or blue—it will stand out against lighter colors.

It’s also important to consider the finish of your cabinets: glossy finishes will reflect light and make them appear brighter; matte finishes will give them a softer appearance; and semi-gloss and satin finishes combine the best of both worlds by creating a subtle sheen without being too shiny.

Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to choosing the ideal cabinet painting colors, it’s important to keep in mind the other elements of your kitchen. Consider the color of your countertops and appliances, as well as the overall atmosphere of the room. For example, if your kitchen is full of natural light, then go for light and airy colors such as white or ivory. On the other hand, if your kitchen is a bit darker, then darker colors such as navy or brown could be a better option.

It’s also important to consider what type of paint you will use on your cabinets. If you choose an oil-based paint, then you may want to consider going with lighter shades because they are easier to work with than latex paints. While there are many factors that play into choosing cabinet painting colors, it’s important that you find something that works well with both your space and style!

Conclusion

If you are searching for the best cabinet painting colors, then the right place to be! We have the top 8 best cabinet paint colors that will make you want to rush out and purchase them right now. An added bonus is that these cabinet paint colors work very nicely in kitchens, laundry rooms, bathrooms and living rooms. So if you are ready to create a new look for your cabinets using our top 8 recommended cabinet paints, then read on!

MIT Citations

Sarah, L. (2023, February 15).

35 Kitchen Cabinet Colors That Will Stand the Test of Time. AD

Retrieved February 20, 2023, from

https://www.opendoor.com/articles/paint-colors-that-boost-home-value

Felicia, F. (2023, January 4).

Great Color Ideas for Painting Kitchen Cabinets. HGTV

Retrieved February 20, 2023, from  

https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens/color-ideas-for-painting-kitchen-cabinets

Sarah, W. (2022, September 16).

Kitchen cabinet colors – the 10 best colors to paint your cabinets. H&G

Retrieved February 20, 2023, from

https://www.homesandgardens.com/ideas/kitchen-cabinet-colors

FAQs

What is the best paint color for kitchen cabinets?

The best cabinet paint colors are versatile shades like white, gray, navy, and soft greens. These options complement most wall colors and finishes, creating a fresh, balanced, and stylish look that works across traditional and modern kitchens.

What is the current most popular kitchen cabinet color?

White remains the most popular cabinet color for its clean, timeless appeal. However, grays, navy blues, and earthy greens are trending as homeowners seek more character while still keeping a versatile, elegant design.

What is the most popular paint finish for kitchen cabinets?

Satin and semi-gloss finishes are the most popular for kitchen cabinets. They provide a subtle sheen, resist moisture, and are easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic, spill-prone areas like kitchens.

Should painted cabinets be lighter or darker than walls?

It depends on the look you want. Lighter cabinets than walls make the kitchen feel bigger and brighter, while darker cabinets than walls add contrast and drama. Always consider lighting and room size before deciding.

What is the most timeless kitchen cabinet color?

White is the most timeless cabinet color, valued for its versatility and ability to pair with any design style. Soft grays and navy blues are also classic choices that remain stylish across trends.

Is it better to have light or dark kitchen cabinets?

Light cabinets make kitchens feel larger and more open, while dark cabinets add richness and contrast. Choose light tones for small, low-light spaces and darker shades for larger kitchens with plenty of natural light.

What paint do professional painters use for cabinets?

Professional painters often use high-quality acrylic latex or alkyd-based paints designed for cabinets. These paints offer durability, smooth finishes, and resistance to stains and scratches, ensuring long-lasting results.

What is the best color for a small kitchen?

Light colors like white, cream, or soft gray are best for small kitchens. They reflect light, make the room appear larger, and create a bright, airy feel. Adding pops of color in accents keeps the design lively.

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