Using Color to Enhance Black Kitchen Cabinets
Black kitchen cabinets can create a dramatic, sophisticated look in any kitchen. However, pairing the right colors with these striking cabinets is key to creating a cohesive and appealing design.
From bright and vibrant paint colors, to natural, earthy tones, to high contrast black and white - there are endless possibilities for customizing your kitchen.
Why Choose Color for Black Kitchen Cabinets
Black cabinets make a bold statement. They create a mood of drama and sophistication. However, too much black can also make a space feel dark and closed-in.
Strategically adding pops of color is key to brightening up the space and keeping it from feeling too heavy. Vibrant colors also add personality and visual interest.
Brightens Up the Room
Black absorbs light, so infusing bright, lively colors is an easy way to keep the kitchen feeling open and airy. Blues, greens, and yellows create an uplifting, cheerful environment.
Adds Personality
Color allows you to reflect personal taste and style. A sky blue or mint green kitchen conveys a different feeling than terra cotta or marigold. Have fun with different hues!
Provides Contrast
Contrast is an important design principle. Alternating black with white or other light colors creates definition. The colors complement each other for great visual impact.
Consider the Lighting
Proper lighting is especially key when working with dark cabinet colors. Strategically place lighting under cabinets, incorporate pendant lights over islands, use recessed lighting to eliminate shadows and allow ample natural light.
Incorporate Texture and Patterns
Layer in visual interest with natural or colorful textures and patterns. Solid surfaces like quartz, concrete and marble add subtle neutral patterns when paired with black. And don't overlook textiles - window treatments, rugs and bar stools offer opportunities to punch in colors and prints.
Complementary Color Schemes for Black Kitchen Cabinets
Certain palettes pair especially well with black cabinets, tying the whole kitchen together beautifully. From bright and punchy, to natural and subdued - here are some winning combinations.
Bright, Vibrant Hues
Cheerful colors like citrus yellow, sky blue, and bright white make black cabinets pop. They keep the kitchen feeling fresh instead of dark and gloomy. Try pairing with colorful mosaic tiles, patterned window treatments or vibrant bar stools.
Earthy, Natural Tones
Warm neutrals like beige, tan, cream and brown work well with black cabinets. Paired with natural materials like wood countertops and stone backsplashes, the look is welcoming and organic. Incorporate organic patterns through wallpaper, rugs and prints.
Classic White and Black Contrast
The ultimate contrast - black and white is a classic, timeless color scheme. White walls serve as the perfect backdrop for sleek black cabinets. Add pops of color with appliances, barstools or artwork.
Metallic Accents
For serious drama, bring in metallic touches. Brass hardware pops against black cabinets, as does incorporating metal finishes into lighting and bar stools. Metallics add glamour and sophistication.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Colors
When decorating your black cabinet kitchen, consider how all the elements work together - not just the wall color. Cabinet hardware, lighting, flooring and counters impact the overall flow.
Countertops
Popular countertop materials like white and black marble, quartz, and granite beautifully complement black cabinets. Concrete, soapstone, and colored quartz like deep blues and greens also pair nicely. Don't shy away from making a color statement!
Flooring
Rich hardwood floors add warmth against cool black cabinets. Tile and stone like slate and travertine also pair nicely with their natural gray and brown tones. And don't overlook patterned vinyl flooring for an eclectic, vintage vibe.
Backsplash
Have fun with your backsplash! Glass, metal and ceramic tile come in every color and style imaginable. Contrast black cabinets with a vibrant backsplash like aqua glass or colorful talavera tile. Or create harmony with black, white and gray stone.
Lighting
Proper kitchen lighting is a must. Incorporate lighting under cabinets, pendants, recessed lighting and ample natural light to keep things bright! Task lighting also helps focus light right where you need it most.
Cabinet Hardware
From classic brass bar pulls, to industrial black wrought iron handles, your hardware makes a statement! Satin brass and oil rubbed bronze also work with black cabinets. Bring in metallics for added drama and sophistication.
Best Paint Finishes for Kitchen Cabinets
The best cabinet paint finishes withstand moisture, stains, scrapes and more. Popular options include:
- Gloss - Most durable shine
- Satin - Subtle sheen, easy to clean
- Matte - Velvety, non-reflective finish
Consider your lifestyle and design taste when selecting a finish. Gloss shows imperfections easily, while matte hides them. Satin strikes a nice medium. Darker paint colors may also hide flaws better than lighter shades.
Doors vs. Frames
When painting cabinets black, consider using high gloss on doors and drawers with a softer satin or matte finish on the frames. This creates visual separation for added dimension.
Painting cabinets isn't rocket science, but proper prep and application make all the difference.
- Clean cabinets thoroughly before painting
- Lightly sand to help paint adhere
- Apply 2-3 thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats
- Use a high quality primer suited for your cabinets for best results
- Remove doors and hardware before painting for easy access
Pay attention to details like the cabinet frame, hinges, and hardware installation for a seamless painted finish. And don't forget to seal your handiwork with a protective clear coat!
You're sure to find a style that suits your personality and taste, with endless color combinations. The key is experimenting with colorful counters, tiles, flooring and lighting until you discover your perfect palette.