3 Min. Read

Finding the perfect kitchen cabinet color is a big decision. The kitchen’s color palette will be the first thing you see after all, so take your time. Before making any permanent decisions, explore all the color options and what kind of atmosphere they create so you can be confident with your choice.  


Are you starting with an existing color palette or starting from square one?

 
Neutral colors bring a softened elegance to your space while brighter colors will be bolder and make a statement. Even within the color category, there are more neutral options like deep blues and greens. These colors allow you the flexibility to add more accent colors than a bright red, turquoise, or vibrant blue finish would. Here are some recommendations on how to get started whether you do or don’t have a color palette. 


Medium-toned wood cabinets with gold hardware, white countertops, and floating shelvesMedium-toned wood cabinets with gold hardware, white countertops, and floating shelves
Lenox kitchen cabinets in Fossil

Using a Pre-Existing Color Palette

Whether you’re starting with pre-existing paint colors, countertops, or furniture from an adjoining room, there are plenty of areas to draw inspiration from. Try to identify what you like about the colors you’ve already selected. Is it the chic muted tones or warmth that those colors bring in, or is it bright, fun pops of color that create an energetic atmosphere? 

Once you know what you like and why, round out your color scheme by choosing 3 of those colors for the kitchen. These colors could be drawn from the varying shades in a countertop sample or a rug in another room. The main color (or two) will be for the kitchen cabinets, and the remaining colors will act as accents.  

 

Creating Your Own Color Palette From Scratch 

Starting from scratch can be daunting, but putting together a plan will help. If you’re not sure what shades to go with, start with timeless colors that don’t lose their appeal as trends come and go. This means you can still achieve the bright and bold, or warm and inviting palettes you love through décor and draperies. It’s also easier to switch these things out when seasons or tastes change.  


On the contrary, if you are confident starting with a bold kitchen cabinet color, but want it to stand the test of time, choose a subtle or darker option. Gale, Eucalyptus, Indigo, Pine, and Navy are all beautiful options that provide a bold pop of color without being overwhelming. These tones give you versatility in décor and provide a dynamic design. Keep in mind some colored cabinets may cost more than others, so consider your budget as you finalize finish selections. 

 

Use a mood board to put it all together. Looking at every finish, color, and material in one glance will help you know whether you like the feeling this palette will create. If not, experiment by switching out a few colors and materials for some of your other favorites. Here are some popular kitchen color palettes and the atmosphere they provide. 

 

Color Palettes & Their Influence

White Cabinets

Clean, bright, open, and modern 

White & Wood Cabinets

Earthy, warm, and inviting 

Green Cabinets

Chic, trendy, and relaxing 

Gray Cabinets

Sleek, modern, clean, casual

Navy Cabinet

Calming, refreshing, and dynamic 

Wood-Toned Cabinets

Warm, rustic, cozy, and inviting 


Light gray shaker cabinets with glass wall cabinet doors, marble countertops and a matching slab backsplashLight gray shaker cabinets with glass wall cabinet doors, marble countertops and a matching slab backsplash
Shaker kitchen cabinets in Misty Grey
Large modern white shaker kitchen with two large navy colored islands and medium wood bar stoolsLarge modern white shaker kitchen with two large navy colored islands and medium wood bar stools
Dayton kitchen cabinets in Cloud White and Navy
Rustic shaker wood cabinets with glass wall cabinet doors, creamy stone countertops and a matching backsplashRustic shaker wood cabinets with glass wall cabinet doors, creamy stone countertops and a matching backsplash
Fairfield kitchen cabinets in Timber

Explore the CliqStudios gallery page or social media platforms like Pinterest if you need more inspiration. CliqStudios also offers free kitchen design, so our professional designers are here to help coordinate your color palette while laying out your dream kitchen. 


Contact a CliqStudios designer to get started now!