The Best Dark Cabinet Colors to Make Your Kitchen Pop
Looking to give your kitchen a dramatic, stylish makeover? Dark cabinet colors are having a major moment right now. Going with rich, moody cabinets is a surefire way to add tons of visual interest and dimension to your kitchen design.
From sleek black to warm espresso, dark cabinet hues range from classic to trendy. With so many gorgeous options, it can be tricky to land on the perfect color scheme for your space and style. Here, we'll explore the most popular dark cabinet colors and provide design tips to make your dream dark kitchen a reality.
The Benefits of Choosing Dark Kitchen Cabinets
Before diving into specific colors, let's look at why dark cabinets are a smart choice:
- They create an elegant, sophisticated look. The deep tones lend a refined, upscale feel.
- Darker finishes hide scratches and everyday wear and tear better than light cabinets.
- They provide gorgeous contrast and visual punch when paired with light counters and accents.
- You can design a more layered, custom kitchen by mixing cabinet colors and playing with lighting.
For many homeowners, the winning combination of practicality and serious style makes dark cabinets the clear winner.
The Best Dark Cabinet Color Options
Ready to choose your perfect dark cabinet color? Here are ten of the most popular and striking options to inspire your kitchen redesign.
Classic and Timeless Black
Deep, glossy black cabinets make a huge impact. They instantly create a modern, polished look. Black pairs beautifully with crisp white or light gray countertops and backsplash tile.
Stainless steel appliances also complement black cabinets nicely. For contrast, go for oak or walnut wood flooring. Add drama with black and white patterned tiles or mosaic designs.
Elegant and Refined Navy Blue
Looking for dark cabinets with a softer edge? Rich navy blue exudes tailored sophistication. It provides depth without feeling too heavy or imposing.
Pair navy cabinets with bright white quartz counters to really make them pop. Contrasting gold or brass hardware and fixtures will provide the perfect polished accent.
Warm and Inviting Espresso
For a more traditional vibe, opt for lush espresso-colored cabinets. The subtle reddish undertones provide a cozy, welcoming look. Espresso pairs well with both light and dark countertops and floors.
Try coupling espresso cabinets with dramatic black granite counters and pale wood flooring. Or go for a double dose of warmth with butcher block counters and oak flooring.
Natural and Earthy Forest Green
Forest green cabinets are perfect for those seeking a bold, nature-inspired kitchen. The deep green adds real vibrance and feels fresh.
Light oak or butcher block counters will complement forest green cabinets nicely. For contrast, install marble subway tiles in cream or white. And don't forget plenty of plants and earthy decor.
Trendy and Daring Deep Purple
Deep, jewel-toned purple kitchen cabinets make a serious style statement. It's an unexpected color that feels glamorous and lush.
Keep other finishes lighter to let those amethyst cabinets take center stage. Concrete, quartz, or white granite counters will be perfect counterparts. A minimalist design will really emphasize the magic of purple cabinets.
Design Considerations for Dark Cabinets
Dark cabinets offer gorgeous drama. But incorporating them seamlessly into your design requires planning. Keep these tips in mind:
Light Countertops Create Balance
Dark lower cabinets paired with light-colored counters and an accent wall or backsplash will prevent your kitchen from feeling too somber or enclosed. White, light gray, cream, pale blue, and light wood are great options.
Layer Your Lighting
Since dark cabinets can absorb light, sufficient lighting is key. Incorporate under-cabinet strips, overhead cans, pendants above islands, and accent lighting. Illuminate both countertops and cabinets to avoid shadows.
Factor in Your Entire Design
Make sure your dark cabinets coordinate well with the color scheme, materials, and style of the surrounding kitchen. Keep countertops, hardware finishes, appliances, and decor cohesive.
Ready to move forward with planning your perfect dark and dramatic kitchen? Here are the key steps:
- Gather inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, and blogs. Collect photos of dark kitchens you love.
- Measure your space carefully and sketch a rough layout.
- Finalize your cabinet color and choose complementary finishes.
- Research cabinet brands and materials within your budget.
- Hire a kitchen designer if needed to perfect the lighting and layout.
Investing in gorgeous dark cabinets will instantly inject style, sophistication, and wow-factor into your most important room. With deliberate design choices and proper lighting, you can create a dark kitchen that truly feels like home.