Best Modern Kitchen Cabinets Color Combinations

When it comes to kitchen design, selecting the perfect cabinet color can really make or break the space. Modern kitchens call for cabinet colors that are fresh, innovative and on-trend. From soft neutrals to bold, saturated hues, the options for modern kitchen cabinet colors are endless. But with so many choices, it can be tricky to land on a combination that is both stylish and timeless.

Whether you're doing a full kitchen remodel or just looking to spice up your existing cabinetry with a fresh coat of paint, these modern color pairings are sure to inspire.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cabinet Colors

Before deciding on your cabinet color combination, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:

• Personal style - Consider colors and finishes that speak to your unique taste and personality.
• Kitchen size and layout - Bolder colors can shine in spacious kitchens, while smaller spaces may call for lighter or neutral shades.
• Natural light - Rooms with ample sunlight can handle darker cabinet colors, while low-light rooms benefit from lighter hues.
• Cabinet finish - The underlying cabinet material (wood, laminate, etc.) impacts how paint and stain colors appear.
• Countertops and backsplash - Choose cabinet colors to complement these elements for a cohesive look.

When selecting your colors, also think about the general mood you want to achieve - warm and rustic? sleek and modern? bright and airy? Keeping these factors and goals in mind will help guide you to make the best color choices.

Most Popular Modern Kitchen Cabinet Color Combinations

Here are some of the most popular, on-trend modern kitchen cabinet color combinations:

1. Two-Toned Cabinets

Two-toned kitchen cabinets remain one of the hottest trends in kitchen design. This look often pairs:

• White upper cabinets with navy, charcoal or black lower cabinets
• White upper cabinets with wood or walnut lower cabinets
• Glossy white or black uppers with matte wood-toned lowers

Two-toning is great for adding visual interest, depth and contrast to your kitchen's design. It works especially well in contemporary or modern kitchens.

2. All-White Kitchen

You really can't go wrong with an all-white kitchen. White cabinetry gives off a light, airy, timeless look. Today's white kitchens feel fresh with variations like:

• Bright glossy white
• Crisp matte white
• Warm antique white
• Subtle alabaster white

Combine with light countertops like quartz or butcher block. Add warmth with brass or gold accents. All-white kitchens suit any design style from modern to traditional.

3. Monochromatic Palette

Choose one bold cabinet color in different tones and finishes for a polished, cohesive look. On-trend options include:

• All-gray kitchen - Use light dove, medium gray and dark charcoal cabinets together.
• All-green kitchen - Try sage, mint and emerald cabinets.
• All blue kitchen - Navy, sky blue and robin's egg cabinets.

This approach makes a colorful statement. Keep countertops and backsplash neutral. A monochromatic palette delivers a bold yet designer look.

4. Black and White

The classic black and white color scheme is back in a big way. Today's modern black and white kitchens feel warmer and softer with:

• Matte black island and lower cabinets + glossy white uppers
• Black accent cabinets + white perimeter cabinets
• White and gray veining in white marble countertops
• Natural wood accents for texture

For a pop of color, add a vibrant backsplash or mixer. Black and white kitchens evoke a retro yet contemporary vibe.

5. Earth Tones

Natural wood cabinetry easily suits modern rustic, farmhouse and industrial kitchens. But earth tones like:

• Golden oak
• Espresso
• Walnut
• Driftwood gray

Can also carry a contemporary vibe. Pair with stone or wood surfaces and black metal accents. Earth-toned kitchens deliver a warm, timeworn look.

Achieving Different Looks with Cabinet Colors

Beyond just following trends, cabinet colors can help you achieve very specific aesthetic goals. Consider how different hues set different moods in your kitchen:

• Light and neutral whites, creams and grays create a bright, airy look and feel spacious.
• Bold saturated hues like emerald green and sapphire blue make a dramatic colorful statement.
• Dark broody hues like charcoal, black and espresso evoke a moody, cozy ambiance.
• Warm wood tones and bleached driftwood grays give a comforting, relaxed look.
• Glossy lacquered finishes in black, white or bold colors convey sleek, contemporary style.

Choosing colors aligned with your goals sets you up to achieve your ideal kitchen aesthetic.

Trending Modern Kitchen Cabinet Color Ideas

Ready to get inspired? Here are some trending modern kitchen cabinet color ideas to consider for your next kitchen design project:

Matte Black Island

A matte black island makes a dramatic style statement and becomes the focal point. Contrast glossy white or light gray perimeter cabinets. Add wood, marble or metal accents for texture.

Glossy Emerald Green

Deep emerald green cabinetry makes a bold colorful splash. The glossy finish accentuates the jewel-toned hue. Pair with brass fixtures and white quartz countertops.

Two-Toned Blue

Go for a soothing, beachy vibe combining navy blue lower cabinets and breezy robin's egg blue uppers. Add sea glass backsplash tile and driftwood-look floors.

Stained Walnut Cabinets

Walnut's rich, chocolatey stained finish looks luxe and modern. Contrast with bright white countertops and walls. Brass hardware and fixtures add shine.

Sleek Lacquered White

All-white kitchens are eternally chic. Lacquered ultra-gloss cabinetry and marble countertops give off a glam modernist vibe.

Wood Tone Accent Wall

One wood tone accent wall adds warmth to an otherwise neutral kitchen. Floating open shelves display cookware and serveware.

When combining cabinet colors, keep these tips in mind for the most appealing designs:

• Contrast uppers and lowers for defined separation of space.
• Choose accent colors that complement each other (like navy and brass).
• Repeat colors in appliances, fixtures, accessories for continuity.
• Tie together adjacent rooms with the same colors.
• Add texture and material contrasts - glossy and matte, wood and lacquer, etc.

Avoid choosing too many competing colors. Limit to 3 main hues for unity and balance. With strategic color combinations and finishes, your kitchen cabinets will elevate your space in both form and function.