The rising trend of two-tone cabinets is not without good reason! If you’re looking to incorporate some visual dynamism into your kitchen, dual-tone cabinets offer a superb option. However, the key to a successful two-tone kitchen cabinet color scheme lies in the right approach.
How to Pick the Perfect Two-Tone Cabinet Color Scheme
Just because two colors appeal to you doesn’t mean they’ll harmoniously blend on cabinet surfaces. Adhere to these tips for nailing the two-tone color trend:
Tip #1: Neutrals and Bold Colors
The beauty of the two-tone look is its ability to introduce a bold pop of color in the kitchen without it becoming overpowering. To achieve this, consider painting your kitchen island in an unusual, vibrant color while keeping the rest of the cabinets in a neutral shade. If you don’t have an island, apply a dark, profound color to your base cabinets and choose a light, neutral color for your upper cabinets. Just remember, whenever you opt for a striking color, it should be counterbalanced with a softer, neutral tone.
Tip #2: Aim for Balance
Strive for a sense of balance while applying two tones to your cabinets. To accomplish a well-balanced, serene space with the two-tone style, opt for two colors of distinct hues or shades of the same color. Consider a combination of a deep, dramatic dark gray with a light, neutral gray.
Make sure to apply the lighter shade on the upper kitchen cabinets and the darker shade on the base cabinets. The darker cabinets will provide grounding to the space, fostering a solid sense of balance.
Tip #3: Use Natural Wood as One Tone
Actually, to achieve a two-tone effect, you don’t have to paint your cabinets in two different shades. Instead, stain some of your kitchen cabinets to enhance the attractiveness of the natural wood. Paint the remaining cabinets in a color that coordinates well. As wood tones function as neutrals, feel free to pair it with a bold color.
Tip #4: Choose White When In Doubt
If you’re unsure which neutral shade to pair with a more vibrant color, opt for a white or a variation of white. If you’re choosing a cool bold color like blue, go for a cool shade of white or light gray. If your vibrant color is warmer, select a creamier white. This method ensures balance between the bold cabinet color and results in a harmonious, welcoming kitchen atmosphere.
Tip #5: Abide by the 60-30-10 Rule
When integrating color into your kitchen, a good guideline to adhere to is the 60-30-10 rule. This suggests painting 60% of your cabinets in one dominant color and 30% in a neutral shade, or vice versa. The remaining 10% should be an accent color, brought in through artwork, rugs, floral displays, window drapes, and the like.
Handpicked Dual Color Cabinet Combinations
At N-Hance of Delaware, we have facilitated numerous homeowners in achieving their dream of two-tone cabinets. If you’re uncertain about the direction you wish to take, here are a few of our top picks for inspiration.
White teamed with Dark Gray or Black
Try painting your base kitchen cabinets in dark gray or black, with the upper cabinets in bright white. This combo results in a sleek, sophisticated aura that’s clean and crisp. Plus, you can use any accent color you like, even switching it up frequently.
White and Blue
If black doesn’t appeal to you, another popular pairing with white is shades of navy or cobalt blue. Combining a bold blue on the base cabinets with white upper cabinets creates a striking aesthetic. Introduce some elegance with gold lighting fixtures and cabinet hardware.
Blue and Brown
If the idea of highlighting the natural beauty of your wooden kitchen cabinets appeals to you, opt for a color like light blue for the other cabinets. The blue infuses energy into the space, with the hardwood maintaining warmth and grounding.
Shades of One Neutral
One more option is to choose varying shades of a single neutral, such as a dark gray and a lighter gray. This results in a visually appealing, dimensional, classic look.
Green and Gold
This color combination for cabinets has seen a rise in popularity recently. You can either paint your kitchen island or your base cabinets in a dark green and contrast it with a cream color on the upper kitchen cabinets, adding glamour with golden accents.
Other Kitchen Cabinet Color Combinations to Explore
- Pairing dark green with natural wood cabinets
- Olive green alongside cream cabinets
- Plum coupled with cream cabinets
- Orange paired with white cabinets
- Beige combined with black cabinets
Ready to Introduce the Dual-Tone Trend to Your Kitchen Cabinets?
At N-Hance of Delaware, we’re dedicated to offering guidance. Whether you’re certain about the colors you want for your cabinets or need some help deciding, we’re here to assist. Our cabinet makeover experts are eager to discuss your preferences, from colors to finishing methods, hardware, and even cabinet storage solutions. We can also bring samples to your home so you can see the colors in your own kitchen.
We offer a palette of highly popular colors, but if you have a specific color in mind that’s not part of our palette, let us know, and we can match it for you. We’re committed to helping you navigate the selection process to achieve two-tone kitchen cabinets that you adore.
Keen to explore more or ready to infuse the dual-tone trend into your kitchen cabinets? Contact N-Hance of Delaware at 302-750-5167 for a FREE consultation and quote.