10 Kitchen Color Schemes for a Fresh New Look
Choosing the perfect kitchen color scheme is one of the most exciting parts of a kitchen renovation. The colors you select for your cabinets, walls, countertops, backsplash, and flooring set the aesthetic tone for the whole room. Whether you prefer a minimalist all-white kitchen or a bold, maximalist space filled with pinks and oranges, your color choices bring your kitchen decorating vision to life.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select a cohesive color palette that you'll still love years down the road. Classic color combinations stand the test of time. To inspire your next kitchen revamp, here are 10 timeless kitchen color schemes along with tips for choosing the best hues for your space.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Kitchen Color Scheme
Several key factors impact what color scheme will work best in your kitchen. Assess the following elements before visiting the paint store:
- Kitchen size - Bold, saturated colors can overwhelm a small kitchen. Soft neutrals open up the space.
- Natural light - Well-lit rooms can handle darker paint colors while dark kitchens need lighter hues to brighten.
- Architectural style - A modern kitchen begs for grays and whites while a cottage kitchen suits robin's egg blue.
- Personal taste - Incorporate favorite hues but aim for timelessness over bold trendiness.
Once you have an idea of the look and feel you want, it's time to explore specific color combinations. Here are 10 stunning yet classic kitchen color schemes to inspire your remodeling plans.
#1 Crisp White and Ocean Blue
This fresh color scheme pairs bright white cabinetry with navy blue walls. Crisp white backsplash tiles and countertops keep the look light and airy. Adding navy to the lower cabinets grounds the space. This combo evokes seaside cottages yet also works well in modern kitchens.
Try It With:
- White countertops like quartz
- White subway tile backsplash
- Nickel or stainless steel hardware
#2 Natural Green and White
For a soothing, earthy look, sage greens complement white cabinetry beautifully. painting the lower cabinets in a deep green and the uppers in bright white maximizes the color contrast. A beige Quartz countertop and stone or wood backsplash tie the look together.
Works Well With:
- Quartz, butcher block or concrete countertops
- Stacked stone or wood backsplash
- Oil-rubbed bronze hardware
#3 Sophisticated Gray and Sunny Yellow
yellow acts as a surge of brightness against muted grays. Dark charcoal lower cabinets ground the space while light gray uppers keep things airy. Yellow backsplash tiles tie in well with stainless steel and nickel accents for a contemporary vibe.
Try With:
- White or light gray quartz countertops
- Glossy subway tile backsplash
- Stainless steel appliances
#4 Classic Red and White
Nothing evokes retro charm like a red and white kitchen. Opt for cherry or fire engine red on the lower cabinets with bright white uppers. Or use red as an accent on an island. red has an appetizing effect, perfect for cooking spaces. A coordinating cherry red backsplash pops against white counters.
Great With:
- White quartz or butcher block countertops
- Glossy brick-shaped ceramic backsplash
- Chrome hardware and fittings
#5 Warm Beige and Chocolate Brown
For a cozy cottage kitchen, try light beige walls with chocolate brown cabinetry. Butcher block counters in a light oak tone tie the scheme together. Use brick, stone or ceramic backsplash tiles with copper accents for a charming vibe. Keep white appliances and lighting for balance.
Works Well With:
- Oak butcher block countertops
- Brick ceramic backsplash
- Copper or bronze hardware
#6 Striking Black and White
Black and white kitchens never go out of style. The contrast makes a strong visual impact. Use black on base cabinets and white uppers for plenty of drama. For more brightness, opt for white countertops and backsplash. Stainless steel hardware suits this palette's contemporary edge.
Try It Out With:
- White quartz countertops
- Herringbone marble backsplash
- Stainless steel appliances and hardware
#7 Rustic Wood Tones and Off-White
Wood cabinetry in a light oak stain gives this nature-inspired palette a rustic feel. Creamy off-white on upper cabinets and walls keep things airy and bright. Butcher block counters complement the wood cabinet finish. A stone backsplash completes the earthy look.
Works Well With:
- Butcher block or wood countertops
- Stacked stone backsplash
- Black wrought iron fixtures
#8 Sophisticated Navy and Brushed Gold
Deep navy blue cabinets get a glamorous update with accents of brushed gold and brass. Crisp white quartz countertops pop against the rich cabinet color. Navy blue walls carry the moody color up from the cabinetry. A marble backsplash with navy veining completes this stylish look.
Great With:
- White quartz countertops
- Marble mosaic backsplash
- Brushed gold hardware and lighting
#9 Earthy Sage Green and Terracotta
This soothing, Tuscan-inspired palette combines sage green cabinets with terracotta walls. Light green metro tiles on the backsplash complement the cabinet color. Creamy white or beige quartz counters keep the look light. Wrought iron fixtures and earthy granite countertops complete the vibe.
Works Well With:
- Granite or quartz countertops
- Ceramic metro backsplash
- Wrought iron handles and pendant lights
#10 Vibrant Turquoise and Terracotta
Make a Southwestern style statement with bright turquoise lower cabinets against terracotta walls. White uppers and counters keep the exuberant colors from overwhelming. Add interest with a geometric backsplash in coordinating yellow and blue hues. This fun scheme suits informal family kitchens.
Great With:
- White quartz countertops
- Geometric ceramic tile backsplash
- Stainless steel appliances
Selecting the ideal color palette comes down to deciding the mood you want to achieve. Cool hues like grays, blues and greens create tranquil spaces perfect for cooking and creating. Warm shades of red, yellow and brown foster an energizing vibe for casual meals.
Take time to view color samples in your kitchen at different times of day. Snapping photos lets you see how the tones interact with cabinets, counters and flooring. Don't rush this exciting step in your kitchen remodel! And once you settle on the perfect scheme, get ready to enjoy your fresh, welcoming new space.