The Top Flooring Options to Complement Your White Kitchen Cabinets
White kitchen cabinets are having a major moment right now. Their bright, airy look keeps spaces feeling open and inviting. But choosing the wrong flooring can make crisp white cabinets seem dingy or dated. The right flooring completes the look, letting those gorgeous cabinets really shine.
With so many flooring options out there, it can be tricky to decide what will pair best with your new white kitchen cabinets. Should you go for hardwood? Tile? Vinyl? And what about color - warm tones or cool tones? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's an in-depth look at the best flooring to complement your white kitchen cabinets.
Light Hardwoods Add Warmth
Nothing beats the inviting look of wood floors against crisp white cabinetry. The light wood tones add warmth and accentuate the bright white cabinets beautifully. Oak, maple, hickory and birch are great choices that won't clash with the cabinets.
Light oak is a nice in-between shade, warmer than maple but not too bold. It has a friendly, casual vibe. Maple floors offer a cooler, breezier look that keeps things airy. Hickory is slightly richer than oak, with gorgeous variation in the wood grain. For a mellow, pale tone, birch has an attractive blonde hue.
Considerations for Hardwood Floors
With hardwood, pay attention to the species and grade. Opt for harder woods like oak that will better withstand heavy kitchen use. And choose consistent grain patterns for a seamless look.
Since wood shows off its best colors and character in ample light, factor in good lighting schemes if choosing hardwood to pair with your white kitchen cabinets. The right lighting lets those beautiful wood grains shine.
Tile Floors Are Durable and Easy to Clean
For a sleek, contemporary kitchen look, neutral colored tile pairs wonderfully with white cabinets. Tile comes in so many cool tones like grey, beige and cream that complement without clashing. Mixing tile sizes, shapes and textures creates visual interest.
Natural stone tiles like marble, travertine or limestone also look elegant against white cabinets. Just be aware, some stone surfaces require more maintenance to keep them looking pristine.
Choosing the Right Tile
With tile, pay attention to material, rating and size. Porcelain is an excellent durable option for high-traffic kitchens. Check ratings like PEI to confirm suitability for kitchen installation. And choose larger tiles with minimal grout lines to maintain that spacious look.
Make sure to pick tile that complements the style of your cabinet doors and hardware. For modern Shaker-style cabinets, sleek grey or white porcelain tiles are perfect. Rustic country cabinets pair well with handmade subway tile or tumbled travertine.
Vinyl and Laminate Offer Budget-Friendly Options
Vinyl and laminate floors provide an affordable alternative look that emulates real wood or stone. Durability has improved, with vinyl specifically engineered for kitchens. And waterproof vinyl helps guard against spills and messes.
With vinyl and laminate, just make sure the pattern and color complements your white cabinet style. Avoid very busy fake wood prints or stone looks. Keep it simple for the most seamless design.
Avoid Clashes with White Cabinets
While light, neutral-toned floors are best for white kitchen cabinets, there are a few hues to steer clear of. Very dark floors can make a space feel smaller and dimmer. And floors with a reddish tone can sometimes clash with the cool bright white cabinets.
It's also best to avoid super busy patterned floors that compete with your cabinetry for attention. Simple is better for maintaining that light, airy look.
Hardwood, tile, vinyl - the options for great flooring with white cabinets are endless. Just keep the tones light and natural. Grey and tan work beautifully; rich browns and reds, not so much.Patterns should be subtle and undeistracting.
Take your time, get creative, and find the perfect flooring to give your gorgeous white kitchen cabinets the chance to shine. Your dream kitchen awaits!