The selection of the most suitable color of paint that matches white kitchen cabinets has a significant effect on the general appearance and worth of your kitchen remodeling project. Having the knowledge of the most suitable way of creating a color scheme will help you make your kitchen look attractive with a color scheme that will never go out of style. The selection of the color of the wall and the finish of the cabinets provides the foundation of your whole kitchen design. Before you commit to paint and finishes, it helps to plan your budget—try our kitchen cost estimator to get a quick starting range.
The Appeal of White Cabinets
Style Versatility and Adaptability
White kitchen cabinetry is an eternal favorite for a reason: it goes well with all design styles. With white as the backdrop, the possibilities are limitless for choosing all other design elements such as paint color, countertops, backsplash, flooring, and accessories, without the white cabinetry interfering with the selection process. It’s no wonder why design professionals continue to turn to white cabinetry as the go-to choice for creating an attractive and adaptable look. For a timeless look that works with nearly any paint color, shaker cabinets are one of the most versatile styles homeowners choose.
HomeCabinets: Classic White Shaker
Creating a Spacious Look
White cabinetry is the favorite of contractors and homeowners alike, not only for its clean look but also for its ability to make the kitchen appear spacious and bright. White reflects light, which helps to illuminate the space and prevent it from feeling heavy. Choose wall colors that complement this light-reflective quality, and the space will feel larger.
Creating a Timeless Look
Unlike trendy cabinet colors, white is a timeless look that won’t go out of style any time soon. And when you pair it with the right paint color, one that works well with undertones and lighting, you’ll have a kitchen that looks like it was designed to be, well, designed, and will have lasting value. White cabinetry is one of the safest design choices you can make, and it’s a great option for builders, flippers, and homeowners who are concerned with resale value.
Top Matching Paint Colors
Light Blue Tones: A Beacon of Relaxation
Soft blue tones evoke a sense of relaxation and cleanliness, but still manage to be bright. This could be sky blue, a muted blue reminiscent of the ocean, but with a hint of gray thrown in. This color will give the kitchen a fresh look without being juvenile, and it works well with metallic hardware and light-colored countertops.
HomeCabinets: Frost White Shaker
Pale Gray Shades: Modern Minimalism
Pale gray is a popular color choice among designers because it creates contrast without overwhelming the cabinets. The best shades of gray to match white cabinets are those that are either gray-beige or those that are neutral, without any purple or blue undertones. This is a modern, sophisticated, and livable look.
HomeCabinets: Frameless High Glossy White
Subtle Green Hues: Call of Nature
Soft shades of green, especially sage or seafoam, are popular because of their ability to add warmth to a kitchen. This is a good choice if you are tired of gray but still want something that is going to be around for a long time. With white cabinets, muted shades of green are luxurious and natural, rather than garish.
HomeCabinets: Slim Dove White Shaker
Off-White to Warm Beige Hues: Earthy Sophistication
Warm off-whites and soft beiges bring a welcoming kitchen without sacrificing the clean aesthetic of white cabinetry. The trick is to find a shade that works well with the undertone of the cabinets, rather than one that will make the cabinets appear dull or yellowed in comparison. This color combination is particularly effective in traditional and transitional kitchens.
HomeCabinets: Creamy White Shaker
Soft Yellow Pigments: Splash of Sunshine
Buttery and muted yellows can greatly improve kitchens that are short on natural light. The secret is to avoid bright and highly saturated yellows and instead opt for warm, soft yellows that have a gentle, inviting quality. When executed properly, this combination is bright and cheerful without being garish.
HomeCabinets: Double Dove White Shaker
Dramatic Red Accents: Bold Statements
For those who like to make a statement, muted cranberry or rich burgundy can be a breathtaking combination with white cabinetry. This is a riskier combination that needs to be executed with careful lighting and a balanced design, and ideally in a larger space. When done properly, this combination is sophisticated and memorable rather than overwhelming.
HomeCabinets: Classic White Shaker
Steps to Choose the Right Paint Color For Your Kitchen
Evaluating the Kitchen’s Overall Theme
First, consider what you cannot change, such as the color of the floor, countertops, backsplash, and architectural style of your kitchen. For example, modern kitchens look great with a cool color scheme, while a more traditional kitchen looks great with a warm color scheme. Your kitchen paint color must complement these elements, rather than clashing with them.If you’d like a designer to help you coordinate cabinets, wall color, and finishes as a complete plan, explore our kitchen cabinet design services.
Using a Color Wheel for Complementary or Contrasting Choices
You may have noticed that designers always ensure that their color scheme complements each other. Complementary colors are used when you want a contrasting look, while analogous colors are used when you want a harmonious look. White kitchen cabinets can go with both, but it is essential to consider the undertones.
Testing Paint Samples in Different Lighting Conditions
Kitchen paint color may look great in one lighting condition, but it may look entirely different in another lighting condition, especially if it has undertones. You should consider testing your kitchen paint color samples in different lighting conditions, such as natural lighting in the morning and artificial lighting in the evening.
Tips for Further Enhancements
Accented Kitchenware for a Pop of Color
If you wish to add some color without going all out and painting the kitchen, then consider using kitchenware accessories that feature your chosen color. Not only does this allow for flexibility in kitchen decor, but it also ensures that the kitchen can be changed and updated without the hassle of repainting the kitchen every time the mood strikes.
Light Fixtures for a Bright and Warm Ambiance
Using white kitchen cabinets can create a visually appealing and premium effect when layered lighting is used. One can consider using ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting in this regard. Under-cabinet lighting can create a visually appealing effect and improve kitchen functionality in one go.
Wall Decorations That Complement Wall and Cabinet Colors
The right type of wall decor can complement the colors of the kitchen without overpowering them. The right type of decor can be achieved when using a few pieces of decor instead of numerous smaller ones, especially in kitchens that feature high ceilings. One can consider using artwork that complements the kitchen wall color in this regard.
Select Quality White Cabinets from HomeCabinets
Quality white cabinets from HomeCabinets are the perfect foundation for almost any paint color selection. Our cabinets are designed for real kitchens, with functionality and durability in mind. We know that, as a contractor, you may have several projects to work on, or if you're a homeowner, you may have just one to complete. Either way, our quality cabinets will help you achieve a finished look that is both polished and beautiful, without compromising on quality.
Start planning your home renovation today. If you’re planning a renovation on a timeline, our ready to assemble cabinets (rta cabinets) make it easier to get a high-end look with a smooth, manageable installation process. Browse through our selection of quality white cabinets or contact us to learn more about choosing a cabinet finish that will complement your paint, lighting, and countertop selections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wall color that goes well with white kitchen cabinets?
Some of the best wall colors that complement white kitchen cabinets, according to designers, are light blue, gray, and beige. These colors are best because they are bright, create depth, and are timeless.
Are white kitchen cabinets best complemented by darker or lighter wall shades?
You can choose either. However, slightly darker shades of wall color are best because, although they create visual interest, the kitchen will still be bright.
How do I choose a wall color that will not make my white kitchen cabinets appear yellowed?
To do this, you should match the undertones of the white kitchen cabinets. For instance, if your white kitchen cabinets are cool, then it is best to choose blue and gray shades. However, if your white kitchen cabinets are warm, then it is best to choose beige shades.
What wall colors should I avoid when choosing a color that complements white kitchen cabinets?
You should avoid choosing wall shades that are either too dark, creating stark contrast, or too bright, creating visual overwhelm. You should also avoid choosing white wall shades because, although it is neutral, it is too clinical.