Annual Homes & Design Issue 2023
Trending paint colors are an appealing investment when it comes to updating a kitchen’s design, however homeowners can be hesitant to commit to a color that may become outdated in a few years. Here, local cabinetry experts share practical ways to introduce color into the kitchen and achieve a trendy, yet timeless design.
Often, much of a home’s color palette leans neutral, so kitchen cabinets are the perfect place to introduce more saturated colors. If one worries about fading design trends, use bolder, more dramatic colors on specific pieces only, such as the island, butler’s pantry, or a custom furniture piece, while the perimeter can remain more neutral and organic. Additionally, nature is always a good inspiration for color. Nature’s neutrals of blues, greens, and browns are not only soothing and comforting, but also tend to stand the test of time. If one still isn’t ready to commit to bolder hues, shift from bright whites towards warmer earthy hues of off-whites, ivory, or taupes, and add depth with warm wood tones.
Color is a very personal preference. For some people that love color, green and blue can be “neutrals” but can add some depth and interest to the eye. In blue, there are navys and midtone blues that are very classic and can go cool or warm, depending on what the homeowner wants. For green, we are doing a wide range of greens from a vibrant emerald green to a smoky soft green that adds some wonderful depth to an all-white kitchen or a lightly stained cabinet. Pick colors that you have always leaned towards – they will never go out of fashion in your home!
I approach a kitchen project as a long-term investment, whether a customer plans on staying in their home or selling it. I recommend adding color that can be changed without a major cost. I like the cabinet material and finish to be a timeless look whether a neutral paint or a stained wood. There are several ways to add color that can be changed without a major cost including the wall color, upholstered furniture, or a light fixture. This is a safe approach to adding color in the kitchen without the risk of changing major components but at the same time creating a balance in color.
Tiled backsplashes are the perfect choice in adding any fun color when designing a new kitchen. It also is the least expensive product in the kitchen to change as color trends change. Another pop of color would be in one’s range selection. Manufacturers like La Cornue, AGA, Kitchen Aid, or Viking offer color choices from navy to aqua to brighten one’s kitchen. You also may choose to match the finish in the hood as well. Just be true to yourself in choosing a favorite personal color! Tile floors in the kitchen are back! This allows you to choose a timeless harlequin pattern in an array of colors or concrete tiles with historical patterns. A painted or lightly stained kitchen is timeless, but I love seeing clients include a pop of color to add their personality to the palette!
