Are you ready to pick a paint color for your kitchen cabinets? It might seem like you have endless choices, but experts beg to differ. According to pros, there are quite a few colors that you should steer clear of when it comes to painting your kitchen cabinets to prevent future regrets. In this guide, Southern designers unveil four color taboos that you should keep in mind.
Bright White:
Corinne Back, the brains behind Corinne Victoria Design in Alexandria, Virginia, warns against opting for bright white cabinets. This color can come off as too harsh and sterile, particularly in homes with a touch of history, she explains. According to her, white cabinets tend to show wear and tear more prominently in the kitchen, the messiest room of the house. Instead, Back suggests exploring warm off-whites as a more inviting and less clinical alternative.
Dawn Heuer of Heuer Design Collective in Atlanta, Georgia, echoes this sentiment regarding pure white cabinets. She recommends considering soft neutrals like off-white, warm grays, or greige for a timeless and practical choice. For those looking to make a statement, Heuer proposes deep, rich colors such as navy blue or forest green for a bold yet balanced aesthetic.
Very Dark Colors:
While dark colors may seem like a sophisticated choice, designers like Elana Mendelson of Elana Designs in Potomac, Maryland, caution against high-gloss black or very dark cabinet colors. These shades are prone to showcasing fingerprints, smudges, and dust more visibly. Mendelson advises opting for matte or satin finishes instead for a chic and easy-to-maintain appearance. Similarly, Emma Thayer of Emma Thayer Interiors in Washington, D.C., notes that stark black cabinets can lack warmth and suggests exploring deep charcoal or blue-black hues for a high-impact look without sacrificing comfort. Thayer also recommends integrating matte black hardware or soapstone countertops for a touch of sophistication.
Any Color That Is “Too Clear or One Note”:
Adam Ford, co-founder of A.A. Ford Interiors in Knoxville, Tennessee, emphasizes the importance of avoiding colors that are overly bright or one-dimensional when painting kitchen cabinets. Ford suggests selecting hues with a bit of depth to add visual interest and complement the items you’ll bring into the space.
Neons:
When it comes to selecting kitchen cabinet colors, Lauren McKay of Lauren McKay Interiors in Raleigh advises steering clear of neon shades. Vibrant hues like highlighter yellow, neon orange, electric blue, and bright pink can clash with other colors in the room due to their intense nature. According to McKay, neon tones can give off a juvenile vibe and disrupt the overall aesthetic of the kitchen.
For more insights on choosing the perfect paint for your kitchen cabinets, refer to the original article on Southern Living.
