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Discover the perfect color to paint your kitchen that will beautifully complement your white cabinets, transforming the space into a stylish and inviting haven.
Are you planning to remodel your kitchen and wondering what color to paint it? With white cabinets being a popular choice for modern kitchens, selecting the right color can be a daunting task. The color of your kitchen walls can make or break the overall aesthetic of your space.
It’s important to choose a hue that complements your white cabinetry while also reflecting your personal style. In this article, we’ll explore various colors that pair well with white cabinets and help you make an informed decision on what color to paint your kitchen.
So, let’s get started!
Key takeaways:
- Warm shades like greige and warm gray
- Cool shades like blue and green
- Undertones of white cabinets affect color choice
- Consider natural light and direction of windows
- Popular paint brands include Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore
What's Inside
Introduction to Kitchen Colors
The kitchen is the heart of every home, and it’s essential to create a space that reflects your personality while also being functional. One way to achieve this is by choosing the right color for your kitchen walls.
The color you choose can set the tone for your entire home and affect how you feel when cooking or entertaining guests.
When selecting a paint color for your kitchen with white cabinets, there are several factors to consider. You want a hue that complements not only the cabinetry but also other elements in the room such as countertops, backsplash tiles, flooring materials, and appliances.
In this article on what colors go well with white cabinets in kitchens we will explore various options available so that you can make an informed decision about which shade will work best in creating an inviting atmosphere within your space.
Determine The Undertone of Your White Cabinets
The undertone is the subtle hue that lies beneath the surface color and can be warm or cool. Knowing this will help you choose a complementary wall color that enhances rather than clashes with your cabinetry.
To determine the undertone of your white cabinets, hold up various paint swatches next to them in different lighting conditions. If they appear yellowish or creamy, then they have a warm undertone.
On the other hand, if they look bluish or grayish-white under certain lightings, then their underlying tone is cool.
Choosing the Right Paint Color
When selecting a color, it’s important to consider the undertones of your white cabinets. White cabinets can have warm or cool undertones, so you’ll want to choose a wall color that complements those tones.
If your white cabinets have warm undertones such as yellow or beige, opt for warmer shades like greige (a combination of gray and beige), taupe, or even light shades of brown. These colors will create an inviting atmosphere while still providing contrast against the bright white cabinetry.
On the other hand, if your white cabinets have cooler undertones such as blue or grayish-white hues, consider cooler-toned grays with blue-green bases that will complement these tones perfectly. You could also experiment with bolder colors like navy blue and forest green which are currently trending in modern kitchens.
Consider the Direction the Windows Face and the Amount of Natural Light
The orientation of your windows can affect how colors appear in different lighting conditions throughout the day. For example, if you have north-facing windows, which receive less direct sunlight than south-facing ones, you may want to choose warmer shades like beige or yellow tones as they will help create a cozy atmosphere in an otherwise cool room.
On the other hand, if you have plenty of natural light coming into your kitchen from large south-facing or east-facing windows during most parts of the day then cooler shades such as blue and green could work well with white cabinets. These colors tend to reflect more light making them perfect for brightening up darker spaces.
It’s also worth noting that artificial lighting can alter how wall colors look at night time so be sure not only rely on daylight when selecting paint samples but also test them out under various types and intensities of artificial lights commonly used in kitchens such as pendant lamps or recessed ceiling fixtures.
Warm Shades for Kitchens
Warm grays and greiges (a combination of gray and beige) work particularly well with white cabinets as they add depth without overpowering the space. These colors also complement natural wood finishes, making them an excellent choice if you have wooden floors or countertops.
When selecting a warm shade for your kitchen walls, consider the undertones of your white cabinets. If they have yellow or cream undertones, opt for warmer shades that lean towards beige or taupe.
On the other hand, if your cabinets have cooler blue-gray undertones, choose warmer grays with brownish hues.
Some popular warm paint colors include Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter (HC-172), Sherwin Williams’ Agreeable Gray (SW 7029), and Behr’s Wheat Bread (720C-3). These versatile hues can be paired with various accent colors such as navy blue or sage green to create a cohesive look throughout your kitchen.
Warm shades like greige and warm gray can add depth while creating an inviting ambiance in kitchens with white cabinetry.
Warm Gray and Greige
These colors add warmth to the space while still maintaining a neutral palette. Warm grays have yellow or brown undertones, which make them perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen.
Greige is another warm color that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s a combination of gray and beige, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for something between cool and warm tones.
When choosing warm gray or greige paint colors, consider the undertones of your white cabinets to ensure they complement each other well. Some great options include Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter (HC-172), Sherwin Williams’ Agreeable Gray (SW 7029), and Behr’s Wheat Bread (720C-3).
Remember that lighting can also affect how these colors appear on your walls, so be sure to test out samples before committing to one shade.
Warm Shades of Gray and Greige to Consider
These colors have become increasingly popular in modern kitchens due to their versatility and ability to create a cozy atmosphere. Warm grays are perfect if you want to add depth without making the space feel too dark or heavy.
Greige is another great option that combines beige with gray tones, creating an earthy yet sophisticated look. It’s important to note that different shades of greige can lean towards either warmer or cooler undertones depending on the amount of beige or gray present in the mix.
When selecting warm shades of gray and greige for your kitchen walls, it’s essential first to determine whether your white cabinets have cool or warm undertones so that they complement each other perfectly. Some popular options include Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter (a classic favorite), Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray (a versatile choice), Behr Wheat Bread (a soft neutral tone) among others.
Cool Shades for Kitchens
Cool-toned grays are an excellent choice for those who want to add depth and sophistication to their kitchen. These hues pair beautifully with stainless steel appliances, giving your space a sleek and contemporary feel.
If you’re looking for something bolder, consider blue or green paint colors. Blue is known for its calming effect on the mind while green evokes feelings of tranquility and relaxation.
Both colors work exceptionally well in kitchens as they create a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for cooking up delicious meals.
When selecting cool shades of paint, it’s essential to consider the undertones present in your white cabinetry carefully. If your cabinets have warm undertones such as yellow or beige tones, cooler blues may clash with them instead of complementing them.
Some popular cool-toned paints that pair well with white cabinetry include Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray HC-170 (a light gray), Sherwin Williams Repose Gray SW 7015 (a mid-tone gray), Farrow & Ball Light Blue No 22 (a pale blue) among others.
Cool Toned Grays
Gray walls can create a sleek and modern look in your kitchen while also complementing white cabinets. When selecting the perfect shade of gray, it’s essential to consider the undertones of your white cabinetry.
If your cabinets have blue or green undertones, choose a cooler shade of gray that has similar tones to ensure they blend seamlessly together.
Some popular cool-toned grays include Sherwin Williams’ Repose Gray and Benjamin Moore’s Stonington Gray. These shades are versatile enough to work with various styles and design aesthetics.
When pairing cool-toned grays with white cabinetry, consider adding pops of color through accessories such as colorful dishware or vibrant textiles like curtains or rugs. This will help break up the monotony while still maintaining a cohesive overall look.
Blue and Green Paint Colors
These cool-toned hues can create a calming and serene atmosphere in your space, making them perfect for those who love a tranquil ambiance. Blue shades like navy, cobalt, or even sky blue can add depth and sophistication to the room while still complementing the crispness of white cabinetry.
Green is also an excellent choice as it brings nature indoors creating a fresh feel that’s both relaxing and invigorating at the same time. From soft sage greens to bold emerald tones, there are many shades of green that work well with white cabinets.
When choosing between blue or green paint colors for your kitchen walls, consider how much natural light enters the room as this will affect how bright or dark these hues appear on your walls. If you have limited natural light in your kitchen space then opt for lighter shades such as pastel blues or minty greens which will help open up space visually without overwhelming it.
Neutral Color Options
They create a clean and fresh look that is both calming and inviting. When choosing neutral shades, it’s essential to consider the undertones of your white cabinetry to ensure that the colors complement each other.
White paint is an obvious choice when it comes to painting walls in kitchens with white cabinets. However, there are many other neutral options available that can add depth and warmth while still maintaining a cohesive look.
Beige wall colors are another popular option for kitchens with white cabinetry as they provide just enough contrast without being too bold or overpowering. Lighter shades of greige (a combination of gray and beige) also work well in creating an elegant yet understated ambiance.
When selecting your color palette, keep in mind how much natural light enters your kitchen space throughout the day as this will affect how different hues appear on your walls at various times.
White Paint Colors That Work With White Cabinets
However, not all whites are created equal. If you have white cabinets in your kitchen, selecting the right shade of white for your walls can be tricky as you want to avoid creating an overly sterile or clinical look.
To ensure that the whites in your space complement each other rather than clash, consider using different shades of white with varying undertones. For example, if you have warm-toned cabinets with yellow or brown undertones like cream or ivory-colored cabinetry opt for a cooler toned wall color such as Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace (OC-65) which has blue-gray undertones.
Alternatively, if you have cool-toned cabinetry with grayish-blue hues like Sherwin Williams’ Pure White (SW 7005), choose warmer tones such as Benjamin Moore’s Simply White (OC-117) which has subtle yellow undertones.
Remember that lighting plays an important role when it comes to how colors appear on walls so make sure to test out samples at different times of day before making any final decisions.
Beige Wall Colors for Your Kitchen With White Cabinets
It’s a warm neutral tone that creates an inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. When selecting beige wall colors for your kitchen, it’s essential to consider the undertones of both the paint and cabinetry to ensure they complement each other.
If you have cool-toned white cabinets, opt for beige shades with pink or peach undertones such as Sherwin Williams’ “Accessible Beige” or Benjamin Moore’s “Shaker Beige.” These hues will add warmth without clashing with the cool tones of your cabinetry.
For warmer-toned white cabinets, choose beige shades with yellow or gold undertones like Behr’s “Sands Of Time” or Farrow & Ball’s “String.” These colors will create a cohesive look while adding depth and dimension to space.
Remember always to test out different samples on your walls before committing fully.
Lighter Shades Of Neutral Tones and Greige Colors
These hues work well with white cabinets as they create a soft contrast that is easy on the eyes. Greige, which is a combination of gray and beige, has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its versatility.
Lighter shades of neutral tones like ivory or cream can also add warmth to your kitchen while keeping it bright and airy. They pair well with natural wood accents or metallic finishes for added texture.
When selecting lighter shades of neutrals or greiges, consider the undertones present in your white cabinetry. If your cabinets have warm undertones such as yellow or orange, opt for warmer-toned neutrals like ivory or cream with yellowish undertones rather than cooler ones like gray.
Remember that lighting plays an essential role when choosing paint colors; always test samples under different lighting conditions before making any final decisions.
Accent Colors and Combinations
You can choose a bold and striking color that creates contrast or opt for a more subtle hue that complements the overall aesthetic of your space. One popular option is navy blue, which pairs beautifully with white cabinetry and adds depth and sophistication to any kitchen.
Another great choice is green, which brings in natural elements while still maintaining a modern look.
If you’re looking for something more daring, consider pairing black walls with white cabinets for an ultra-modern look or go all out by incorporating bright red accents into your decor scheme.
When selecting accent colors for your kitchen walls, keep in mind the undertones of both the paint color and cabinet finish. For example, if you have warm-toned wood floors paired with cool-toned gray cabinets then choosing an accent wall painted in warm beige will create balance between these two contrasting tones.
Adding Striking Contrast
If you’re looking for a way to make your white cabinets pop, consider pairing them with darker shades like navy blue or black. These colors will add depth and dimension to the space while creating an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere.
Another option is to use bright accent colors that complement the white cabinetry. For example, if you have a predominantly white kitchen with stainless steel appliances, adding pops of red or yellow can create an energetic vibe that’s perfect for cooking up delicious meals.
When choosing contrasting colors for your kitchen walls, it’s important not to go overboard. Too many bold hues can overwhelm the space and detract from its overall aesthetic appeal.
Instead, choose one or two accent colors that work well together and balance them out with neutral tones like gray or beige.
Trending Kitchen Color Schemes (Combining Points From List 2)
One popular choice is blue walls paired with darker colors such as navy or black accents. This combination creates a sophisticated and modern look that’s perfect for those who want their kitchen to make a statement.
Another trending option is greige kitchen wall colors for white cabinets. Greige, which is a mix of gray and beige tones, provides the perfect balance between warm and cool shades while also adding depth and texture to your space.
Gray walls with white cabinets are another classic yet stylish combination that never goes out of style. You can opt for light or dark shades of gray depending on the amount of natural light in your kitchen.
Green wall colors have also been gaining popularity in recent years as they add an earthy touch while still being fresh and vibrant. Sage green or olive green hues work particularly well with white cabinetry.
Lastly, blue paint colors provide another great option when it comes to pairing them up with white cabinetry; from soft pastel blues like powder blue all the way through bold cobalt blues – this color family offers endless possibilities!.
Blue Walls and Darker Colors
It’s a versatile hue that can create different moods depending on the shade you choose. Darker shades of blue, such as navy or indigo, can add depth and sophistication to your kitchen while still complementing your white cabinetry.
When selecting darker shades of blue for your kitchen walls, it’s important to consider the amount of natural light in the space. If you have limited natural light in your kitchen, painting all four walls dark blue may make it feel smaller and more enclosed than desired.
Instead, consider painting one accent wall or using dark blue as an accent color through decor items like curtains or dishware.
Pairing darker blues with lighter colors like whites and grays will help balance out the intensity of this bold hue while creating contrast within the space.
Greige Kitchen Wall Colors for White Cabinets
Greige is a combination of gray and beige, creating a versatile hue that complements white cabinets beautifully. This color works well in both traditional and modern kitchens, adding warmth without overpowering the space.
When selecting greige paint colors for your kitchen walls with white cabinets, consider the undertones of your cabinetry to ensure they complement each other. If your white cabinets have cool undertones like blue or gray hues, opt for warmer shades of greige such as Sherwin Williams’ “Agreeable Gray” or Benjamin Moore’s “Revere Pewter.” On the other hand, if your white cabinetry has warm undertones like yellow or cream hues go with cooler shades such as Behr’s “Silver Drop” which will balance out those tones.
Greiges are also great because they pair well with various accent colors including blues and greens to add pops of color throughout the kitchen while still maintaining its overall neutral look.
Gray Walls With White Cabinets
Gray is a versatile color that can create an elegant and sophisticated look when paired with white cabinetry. When selecting the perfect shade of gray, consider the undertones in your white cabinets to ensure they complement each other.
If your cabinets have cool undertones, opt for a warm gray hue to balance out the space’s overall feel. On the other hand, if your cabinetry has warm tones, choose cooler shades of gray to create contrast and depth.
Some popular options include Sherwin Williams’ Repose Gray or Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray. These colors work well in both traditional and modern kitchen designs.
When painting your kitchen walls gray, it’s essential to keep lighting in mind as this can affect how light or dark the paint appears on different times of day.
Green Wall Colors for Kitchens With White Cabinets
When paired with white cabinets, green walls create an inviting and serene atmosphere. There are many shades of green to choose from, ranging from light pastels to deep forest greens.
If you’re looking for a subtle pop of color in your kitchen, consider using soft sage or mint green on the walls. These lighter shades pair well with white cabinetry and provide just enough contrast without overwhelming the space.
For those who want bolder hues in their kitchens, darker greens like emerald or hunter can make quite an impact when used as accent colors on one wall or as part of a patterned wallpaper design.
When selecting paint colors for your kitchen walls, it’s important to keep in mind the amount of natural light that enters the room throughout the day. If you have limited natural light sources in your kitchen area, opt for lighter shades such as pale lime-green which will help brighten up space while still adding some personality through its unique hue.
Blue Paint Colors for Kitchens With White Cabinets
When paired with white cabinets, blue paint colors create a fresh and inviting atmosphere. Lighter shades of blue such as sky blue or powder blue work well in smaller kitchens, making the space feel more open and airy.
On the other hand, darker shades like navy or cobalt can add drama to larger kitchens.
When selecting a shade of blue for your kitchen walls, consider the undertones in your white cabinetry. If you have cool-toned whites with gray undertones, opt for cooler blues like periwinkle or baby-blue hues that will complement them nicely.
If you prefer warmer tones on your walls but still want to incorporate some blues into your design scheme then try pairing warm greige (gray-beige) wall colors with muted teal accents around windowsills or backsplashes.
Popular Kitchen Paint Brands
Popular brands like Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Behr offer a wide range of high-quality paints that are durable and long-lasting. These brands also provide various finishes such as matte, satin or semi-gloss that can withstand frequent cleaning in a busy kitchen.
Sherwin-Williams offers an extensive selection of colors with their Emerald line being one of their most popular options for kitchens due to its durability and stain resistance. Benjamin Moore’s Aura line is another favorite among homeowners because it provides excellent coverage while still allowing walls to breathe.
Behr Marquee is known for its one-coat coverage which makes painting your kitchen quick and easy without sacrificing quality. Other notable paint brands include Farrow & Ball with their eco-friendly formulations made from natural ingredients; Valspar Signature which has over 3,000 colors available; PPG Diamond Interior Paint & Primer which boasts exceptional scrubbability making it ideal for high traffic areas like kitchens.
Finish Options for Kitchen Walls
The finish you choose will affect how easy it is to clean and maintain your walls, so consider this when making a decision.
For kitchens with white cabinets, we recommend using either an eggshell or satin finish for your paint. These finishes are durable and can withstand frequent cleaning without losing their luster.
Eggshell has a slight sheen that gives off a soft glow while satin has more of a subtle shine.
Avoid using flat or matte finishes in high traffic areas like kitchens since they tend to absorb stains easily and are difficult to clean without leaving marks on the wall surface.
Semi-gloss paint may be used on trim work such as baseboards or crown molding but should not be used on kitchen walls because its shiny appearance can make imperfections more noticeable than other types of finishes would do.
A Word On Trim
The color of your trim can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your space. If you have white cabinets, consider painting your trim a crisp white or off-white shade that complements them.
Alternatively, if you want to add some contrast and depth to the room, try using a darker shade for the trim such as black or dark gray. This will create an eye-catching effect that draws attention to architectural details like crown molding.
It’s important not only to choose colors that work well together but also finishes that complement each other too. For example, if you’re going with glossy cabinets then opt for semi-glossy trims so they match without being too shiny.
What Color Should My Trim Be in My Kitchen If I Have White Cabinets?
The trim serves to frame and highlight your cabinets, so you want a hue that complements them without overpowering them. If you have white cabinets in your kitchen, there are several options for what color your trim should be.
One popular choice is to paint the trim in a shade of white that matches or closely resembles the cabinet finish. This creates a cohesive look and allows for an uninterrupted flow throughout the space.
Another option is to use a contrasting color on the trim such as black or dark gray which can add depth and dimensionality while still complementing white cabinetry.
Paint Application Tips
However, before you begin applying paint to your walls, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.
Firstly, make sure that the surface is clean and free of any dirt or grease. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and doesn’t peel off later on.
Secondly, use painter’s tape to protect areas such as baseboards and cabinets from accidental splatters or drips while painting.
Thirdly, invest in high-quality brushes and rollers for a smooth finish. Cheap tools can leave brush marks or uneven coverage which can ruin an otherwise beautiful paint job.
Fourthly, apply two coats of paint for best results. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying another layer of paint over it.
Lastly but most importantly – take your time! Rushing through a painting project may lead to mistakes which could be costly both financially and aesthetically speaking!.
Don’t Forget To Always Use Real Paint Samples!
While online swatches and digital images can be helpful in narrowing down your options, they don’t always accurately represent how a color will look on your walls. Lighting conditions and other factors can significantly affect how a hue appears in different spaces.
To ensure that you’re making an informed decision about what color to paint your kitchen with white cabinets, we recommend getting actual paint samples from the store or ordering them online. Most stores offer small sample sizes of their paints at affordable prices so that you can test out various colors before committing.
Once you have several sample pots of different shades, apply them directly onto the wall where they’ll be painted using two coats for best results. This way, you’ll get an accurate representation of how each shade looks under natural light and artificial lighting conditions throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about painting kitchens with white cabinets:.
Q: What is the best paint finish for kitchen walls? A: Satin or semi-gloss finishes work well in kitchens as they are durable and easy to clean.
Q: Should I choose a light or dark color for my kitchen walls? A: It depends on personal preference, but lighter shades tend to make small spaces feel larger while darker hues create a cozy atmosphere.
Q: Can I use wallpaper instead of paint in my kitchen with white cabinets? A: Yes! Wallpaper can add texture and pattern to your space. Just make sure it complements your cabinetry.
Remember that ultimately, you should choose colors that reflect your personal style and taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades until you find one that feels just right.
Sources and Inspiration
From home decor magazines and Pinterest boards to interior design blogs and social media platforms like Instagram, there are endless sources of inspiration available at your fingertips.
One great way to find inspiration is by looking at real-life examples of kitchens with white cabinets that have been painted in different colors. You can visit showrooms or model homes in your area or browse online for photos of beautifully designed kitchens.
Another source of inspiration is nature itself. Take a walk outside and observe the colors around you – from the blue sky above to green leaves on trees, these natural hues can inspire beautiful color combinations for your kitchen walls.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to consult with a professional interior designer who has experience working with white cabinetry. They may offer valuable insights into what works best based on their expertise and knowledge about current trends in home decor.
Remember that ultimately it’s important to choose a paint color that reflects not only current trends but also suits your personal style preferences while complementing those gorgeous white cabinets!.
FAQ
What color should I paint my kitchen if the cabinets are white?
Considering your white cabinets, I suggest painting your kitchen with a warmer shade of gray or greige (gray + beige) as they are neutral colors that complement the cabinets without competing for attention.
What color white walls go with white kitchen cabinets?
Answer: White walls that go well with white kitchen cabinets include various shades such as bright white, warm white, and cool white, creating a clean and minimalistic look.
Which contrasting colors would work best with white kitchen cabinets?
Some contrasting colors that work best with white kitchen cabinets include black, navy blue, and dark gray.
How can I use a subtle color to complement white kitchen cabinets?
Consider using light gray or soft pastel shades, such as pale blue or green, to subtly complement white kitchen cabinets.
What are some popular color trends for kitchens with white cabinets?
Some popular color trends for kitchens with white cabinets include shades of blue, gray, and green as well as pastel and neutral tones.
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