When refinishing cabinets, a lot of homeowners question whether their walls should be lighter or darker than their cabinetry. So, if you’re diving into a kitchen update and are scratching your head over whether your cabinets should be lighter or darker than your walls, you’re in good company. A lot of us have been there! The truth is, there are no hard and fast rules—it really boils down to your personal style and the vibe you want to create.
Taking a peek into the thoughts of some design experts can definitely help. Louisa Eggleston, the creative director at Humphrey Munson, is pretty laid-back about the whole lighter vs. darker dilemma. She says, “Go with what feels right for your space! Consider the light and architecture of the room, and think about how you want to feel when you walk in.” In short, your kitchen should reflect what you love—don’t get too caught up in what everyone else thinks!
Another design enthusiast, Adrian Bergman from British Standard, echoes Louisa’s sentiments. He makes a good point: the key is to make sure the colors you choose complement each other. So, how do you pull off that perfect balance? Let’s break it down:
1. Light Tones for an Expansive Feel Got a small kitchen? Light tones can do wonders! Think about painting your cabinets or walls in a soft, darker neutral shade. This little tweak can create the illusion of more space and add depth.
2. Go Bold with Contrasting Tones If you’re feeling daring, why not mix dark cabinets with lighter walls? It creates a chic, intimate atmosphere, especially in larger spaces. Ben Burbridge from Kitchen Makers points out that bold contrasts can project confidence and elevate your kitchen’s style. Dark greys or blues with white or off-white is a killer combo! Don't shy away from color, even in a small kitchen. Dark hues can add a wow factor, so go bold if that’s your style!
3. Make the Kitchen Island Pop Love dark shades but not ready for a full kitchen makeover? Try painting just your kitchen island in a darker color. It’s a great way to test the waters and see if you enjoy the dramatic feel without committing to a full renovation.
4. Cohesive Boldness Feeling adventurous? Consider painting both your cabinets and walls the same deep shade! Helen Parker from deVOL suggests this can create a harmonious and calming atmosphere. You get a cohesive look that can really impress your guests.
5. Keep it Timeless with Similar Tones: While bold colors are great, sticking to neutral tones can give your kitchen lasting appeal. As Ben reminds us, “Longevity is key!” Use varying shades of the same neutral color for cabinets and then mix it up with your backsplash or trim.
6. Extend the Base Color: Lastly, why not try painting a section of your wall the same color as your cabinets? Adrian Bergman thinks this is a smart design move that really draws the eye. It creates a unified look without overwhelming the space. In the end, it’s all about what makes you happy in your space. Whether you choose light, dark, or something in between, make sure it reflects your personal style. Let your creativity flow, and trust your instincts.
Call A Cabinet Refinisher
It’s always best to consult a cabinet refinisher if you want your kitchen cabinets painted. A pro will know exactly how to give you the look your craving. If you’re in upstate South Carolina, call us at Greenville Refinishing.
We will come to your home and give you a direct quote on how much the job will cost, unlike our competitors who give you only estimates that can fluctuate. Remember, if you think you need new cabinets, call us first! We may be able to save you thousands by refinishing your existing cabinetry for a whole new kitchen look.
Give us a call at Greenville Refinishing. We can help turn your kitchen from dull to dynamic. You can see images of our work here.