Reimagine Your Kitchen in Style with On-Trend Color Schemes
Decorating or remodeling your kitchen can feel like an overwhelming task. With so many choices for cabinetry, countertops, flooring and lighting, it's easy to feel overwhelmed—especially when it comes to choosing the perfect color palette.
The colors you choose for your kitchen remodel or refresh can dramatically transform the look, feel and function of the space. Whether you prefer classic neutrals, bold contemporary hues, warm natural tones or an eclectic mix, today's most popular kitchen color schemes offer stylish inspiration for your own reimagined kitchen.
Classic Color Combinations for a Timeless Look
Some kitchen color schemes stand the test of time with their enduring, versatile appeal. These classic combos keep coming back in style again and again.
All White
An all-white kitchen immediately evokes a clean, bright, open look. White cabinetry, countertops, backsplash and walls create a seamless, minimalist aesthetic. The absence of color puts all the focus on textures and materials. All-white kitchens feel both timeless and contemporary.
If all-white feels too stark, add warmth with natural wood accents on the floor, table or island. Metallic accents in silver, gold or rose gold also complement an all-white scheme beautifully.
Black and White
For dramatic contrast, black and white kitchen color schemes continue to top the list of popular pairings. Use black on lower cabinets or island bases to visually ground the space. Set off black lower cabinets with crisp white uppers and accents.
A black and white checkerboard floor makes a bold style statement. Or stick to black and white materials like marble counters and subway tile backsplash.
Wood Tones and Neutrals
Pairing warm wood cabinetry with cool painted walls in light neutrals creates a relaxing, inviting kitchen. Try pale grays, beiges, taupes or soft blues on walls to allow wood cabinets and accents to shine as the star.
Butcher block counters also bring natural pattern and texture to balance neutral walls and trimwork. Wood dining tables and open shelving add organic style while keeping the overall palette soothing.
Use Color to Enhance Small Kitchens
Strategically selecting lighter tones and reflective surfaces can help small kitchens appear more spacious and open. Here are some tips for using color in a small kitchen remodel.
- Stick to light wall colors like soft greens, airy taupes, or cloud whites to avoid closing in the space.
- White or light cabinets keep things streamlined and bright.
- Use glossy subway tiles or mirror-finish metallic mosaic tiles to reflect light.
- Balance light walls with a darker floor in rich espresso hardwood or slate.
By keeping things light but punctuated with contrast, a small kitchen can feel fresh and expansive even without expansive square footage.
Make a Bold Statement with Vibrant Hues
For kitchens with adequate space, embrace color and make a splash with deep gem tones like emerald greens or sapphire blues.
Navy Blue
Anchoring crisp whites with rich navy instantly elevates a kitchen palette. Use navy on lower cabinets or an island base while upper cabinets and walls remain bright white.
Navy islands create a dramatic focal point and make a polished statement. Or consider glossy navy backsplash tiles paired with white cabinets and brass accents for a nautical vibe.
Emerald Green
Vibrant emerald green infuses kitchens with an earthy yet energizing pop of color. Paint an accent wall in deep emerald green to create ambiance.
Alternatively, add hits of emerald with green cabinet knobs, kitchen island stools, or appliances like a retro SMEG range. Emerald green feels both friendly and sophisticated.
New "It" Colors: Sage Green and Terracotta
Beyond classic combos and bold brights, today's trendiest kitchen color schemes embrace earthier organic hues like sage greens and terracotta reds.
Relaxing spa-like sage greens feel both lively and soothing. Paint a set of cabinets in this subtle green or use it on walls. Sage green pairs beautifully with walnut or oak cabinetry.
Terracotta backsplashes and floor tile add warmth and texture to a neutral kitchen. Terracotta also complements both traditional and modern styles.
Eclectic Mix and Match Styles
For the most personalized palette, blend colors, patterns, textures and eras to reflect your unique point of view. An eclectic style kitchen throws the color rulebook away.
Try combining a distressed wood dining table with bright neon stools. Or match a farmhouse sink and subway tile backsplash with glossy mint cabinets and modern pendant lighting.
In an eclectic kitchen, anything goes. The more you mix things up, the more interesting and conversational the space becomes.
With so many appealing options, selecting your kitchen color scheme can feel like an overwhelming decision. But with some inspiration from today's most popular looks, you can choose colors, materials and styles that fit your personality and lifestyle.
Whether you prefer a soothing oasis, vibrant showpiece, rustic retreat or quirky expression, a strategic color scheme can bring your ideal kitchen to life. Trust your instincts, embrace what you love, and transform your space.