Ready to say goodbye to single color cabinets and embrace the trend of two-toned kitchen cabinet colors? With this popular style, you’ll not only bring more appeal and visual interest to your kitchen, but you’ll truly be creating a one-of-a-kind space.
However, when it comes to selecting a two-tone kitchen cabinet color combination, the right approach is key. Even if you love two particular colors, that doesn’t mean they’ll complement each other or even look good on cabinet surfaces.
Instead, follow these tips for getting the two-tone color trend right:
Tip #1: Mix a Bold Color with a Neutral
One of the reasons homeowners love the two-tone look is that it allows them to add a bold splash of color to the kitchen without going overboard. To do this, consider painting your kitchen island a unique, vibrant color, then the balance of the cabinets neutral. Alternatively, paint your base cabinets a dark, rich, dramatic color and then opt for a light, bright, neutral for those upper cabinets. Just keep in mind, when you choose a bold, eye-catching color, it should be paired with a more neutral hue.
Tip #2: Keep Balance in Mind
When painting your cabinets with two tones, another tip to consider involves balance. To achieve a balanced, calm space with the two-tone style, choose two colors with different hues or shades of the same color. Think of a deep, dramatic dark gray paired with a light, neutral gray.
Whatever color you choose, just make sure the lighter shade is on the upper kitchen cabinets and the darker shade is on the base cabinets. This will create the balance you’re after with the darker cabinets anchoring the space.
Tip #3: Use Wood as One Tone
You don’t necessarily have to paint your cabinets two different colors to bring the two-tone trend to life in your kitchen. Instead, consider staining some of your kitchen cabinets, enhancing the beauty of the natural wood in the process. Then paint the remaining ones a compatible color, like cream, sage green, navy blue, or espresso.
Tip #4: When In Doubt, Opt for White (or Off White)
If you’re not sure what neutral to pair with a bolder color, opt for white or a variation of white. There are hundreds of shades of white and cream to choose from. This approach will work to balance the more vibrant cabinet color and create a look in your kitchen that’s harmonious and inviting.
Tip #5: Follow the 60-30-10 Rule
A good rule of thumb to follow when incorporating the two-tone trend into your kitchen is the 60-30-10 rule. This means painting 60% of your cabinets one dominant color, then 30% a neutral, like white. The remaining 10% should be used as an accent color, such as with artwork, area rugs, table linens, and window treatments.
Two-Tone Kitchen Cabinet Color Combos We Love
Choosing color combinations for your kitchen cabinets can certainly be difficult if you’re not a designer. There are almost too many options to consider.
If you don’t know where to begin, then turn to a color wheel for ideas about contrasting colors or choices that complement each other. This will serve as a source of inspiration and give you a sense of what colors go well together and which to avoid pairing.
To help you choose a kitchen cabinet color combination you love, here are a few of our favorite pairings:
White and Dark Gray or Black
Paint your base kitchen cabinets dark gray or black, then the upper cabinets bright white. This will create a clean, crisp look that is sleek and sophisticated.
White and Blue
Another combination to consider is navy or cobalt blue on the bottom cabinets and then white upper cabinets. Add in some sparkle and shine with gold light fixtures and cabinet hardware.
Blue and Brown
If you’d like to stain some of your kitchen cabinets, highlighting their natural wood beauty, opt for a color like light blue for the rest of your cabinets. The blue will energize the space, while the hardwood will keep it warm and grounded.
Blending Neutrals
Another option is to choose different shades of one neutral. This will create a welcoming, classic look that’s layered, visually interesting, and has dimension.
In this case, you can choose from a palette of creams, grays, beiges, and greiges. You can also mix whites and wood tones, layering it with beige, gray, or cream decor. These lighter hues are a great choice for smaller kitchens to make them appear larger.
Green and Gold
This kitchen cabinet paint color combination has become increasingly popular in recent years. With it, you can paint your kitchen island or your base cabinets a dark green. Then, add contrast with a gold paint color on the upper kitchen cabinets, or another neutral, like buttercream.
Other kitchen cabinet color combinations to consider include:
- Dark green with hardwood cabinets
- Olive green and cream cabinets
- Plum and cream cabinets
- Orange and white cabinets
- Beige and black cabinets
Ready to Add the Two-Tone Color Trend to Your Kitchen Cabinets?
At N-Hance®, we’re here to help. Whether you know the colors you want your cabinets painted or aren’t sure where to begin, we can assist. Our cabinet makeover specialists can educate you on our many options, from colors to finishing techniques, hardware, and even cabinet storage solutions. We can even bring samples to your home, so you can see the colors first-hand in your kitchen.
If you have a color in mind that’s not a part of our palette, let us know and we can match it. Whatever you’re interested in, we’ll guide you through the selection process, so you choose colors you love and get two-tone kitchen cabinets that best represent your unique vision and distinct style.
Ready to find out more or bring the two-tone color trend to your kitchen cabinets? Call N-Hance at (855) 642-6230 to set up a FREE consultation and quote.