Two-Tone Kitchen Design: Maximizing Style in Your Small Kitchen

4 Min. Read

Do you want to create an eye-catching design? Then consider two-tone kitchen cabinets. This style of design has gained popularity in recent years due to its ability to add interest and color to any kitchen. There are almost limitless color combinations, and two-tone designs give you true creativity in personalizing your space. Explore the pros and cons of two-tone design, tips for choosing the perfect color pairings for small kitchens, and more.

Small kitchens can benefit in a big way from two-tone cabinet designs. Depending on the color scheme you choose, this type of design can make your kitchen appear larger and even draw your eye upward creating the illusion of taller ceilings. This style also creates interest and style, so you don’t have to rely on décor as much to make a statement.

Most home buyers also enjoy the look of two-tone cabinets because of the design flexibility. It’s a great option for people who can’t decide on one color. It can give you a tailored designer look as long as it’s balanced. Just use décor to add warmth, and balance colors with patterns and textures for a more complete aesthetic.

Two-tone kitchen cabinets also help ground a design when the darker of the two colors is used on base cabinets. Rather than an all-white kitchen design, using a darker color below creates strong contrast, adds personality, and an elevated look.

Potential disadvantages of this style are minimal but can be avoided. As with any design style, it’s always possible to overdo it. When remodeling for the first time, it’s easy to get excited and go overboard with color, so make sure the calmer color is dominant. For example, use the brighter and bolder finish on the island or base cabinets.  

Another disadvantage can be getting swept up in trendy color combinations. For a timeless two-tone kitchen design, use neutrals and wood finishes. Avoid wild and bright finishes like yellow, red, purple, and other colors not commonly found in permanent household fixtures.

White and Blue 
This color combination provides a bright and calming aesthetic with a fresh pop of color. White and blue cabinets are timeless and inviting.

Neutral Tones
Whether it’s white and taupe or varying shades of neutrals combined with wood finishes, this color scheme is cozy, chic, and inviting.

Multiple Gray Tones
Create a contemporary and sleek design with two-tone gray cabinets. This combination can also include white for a brighter space.

White, Black, & Wood Tones
Modern kitchens do well with this color scheme because of its edgy appearance. Combine two or all three of these finishes for a clean design.

Blue & Wood Tones
Get the cozy and fun kitchen with blue and wood cabinets. This combination creates a welcoming space with lots of personality.

Making your kitchen appear bigger is simple. Brighter colors tend to reflect more light than dark colors, so use this rule to your advantage. Choose light countertops and backsplashes to create the illusion that your kitchen design is more open and spacious.

This can be done by simply using a white subway tile backsplash or marble-like quartz countertops with matching slab backsplashes. The most popular colors and styles right now are marble, light-colored granite, white and cream quartz with veining, and matching slab backsplashes.

Everyone wants a well-lit kitchen remodel. To make sure you have the proper lighting, incorporate ambient, task, and accent lighting. Each of these is important, but for kitchen safety, focus heavily on task lighting. This can include under cabinet lighting for cutting veggies and prepping food, or pendant lighting on your island for rolling out dough. To add softer light fixtures, use chandeliers, track lighting, and sconces to create a relaxed setting.

CliqStudios cabinet lines are full of beautiful, complementary colors to create your dream kitchen. If you need help choosing the perfect color for your two-tone kitchen, contact a CliqStudios designer today!