How To Use Color In Your Kitchen Design

Kitchen renovations are on the rise. Consumers who are still cautious about the economy are looking for home improvements projects that can offer more return on investment. Kitchen and bathroom renovations fit the bill, but people often find these areas the most difficult to make decisions with the myriad choices available. Perhaps the biggest set-back comes with the fear that these decisions are a long term commitment with expensive elements like cabinetry, flooring, and countertop surfaces!

Another point to consider is that most kitchen design elements derive from more neutral palettes consisting of white, off-white, grays and/or wood stains. Especially when a client is perhaps planning to relocate in the next few years, they ask me to consider an overall palette that will have a broad appeal to future buyers.

A great kitchen renovation is a blend of form, function and design. Just because cabinetry and countertops are the main element doesn't mean that they should necessarily take the lead role in your design. My recommendation is to start with the broader task of looking at a general color palette to start the selection of materials and finishes.

It may seem like you are putting the cart before the horse, but I suggest to clients that they start by selecting a fabric, or other color inspiration like a piece of artwork or pottery. By choosing an element to determine your color palette first, it makes it easier to decide on the color and tone of larger elements in your space. By working from a color inspiration fabric or other element, one can see the big picture of the balance of color and texture in a space.

Here’s an example - pick a fabric, see how the hues you like in that fabric help you with choices of a wood grain that is either in a warmer, red or golden tone stain. Or, perhaps it's more fitting to go with cooler brown, ash or taupe tones. Of course, this fabric doesn’t have to be something new; it can an existing element in an adjacent room or part of your open floor plan concept.

Adding color in your cabinetry is a bold step for many people. Creating a color palette first helps you fine tune that commitment and feel more confident in your decision. If you have a large kitchen consider using color to define specific areas like an island or separate appliance wall. Grays and a wide range of blues are still trending. A darker blue will seem more formal while a lighter blue more casual and playful.

If a modern monochromatic kitchen is more your style, you should consider whether you prefer cooler or warmer tones. Pick one and stick to it. In a monochromatic design it is essential to choose elements that add texture and interest to your design combination. A neutral palette will allow you to emphasize color with just one or two elements like a colorful appliance or a piece of colored cookware.

The material selections you make for your kitchen and bath designs are typically long-term investments, so having a color source to guide your decision will give you a head start towards designing your amazing kitchen!