11 Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors That Will Never Go Out of Style, According to Designers

Choose a shade that works with a range of backsplash and countertop materials.

marble kitchen
Credit: Alyssa Kapito Interiors

One of the most time-consuming and costly areas of the home to renovate is the kitchen, which is why it's important to be thoughtful in your design choices when you decide to make a change. While you may tend to focus on the backsplash and countertop materials, the color you paint your cabinets is equally as important. As a major focal point of the kitchen, your cabinets can make or break the space.

Choosing a hue that will never go out of style, rather than opting for what's on trend, will prevent you from wanting to change your kitchen cabinet paint color every few years. When looking for the right shade, consider one that works with a variety of design styles. That way, if you want to give your mid-century modern kitchen an English country vibe in the future, your cabinets will fit the look.

Greige

An interior view of a taupe, champagne coloured shaker style fitted kitchen diner with gold handles, quartz island, gas cooker hob, toaster
Credit: John Keeble / GETTY IMAGES

A mashup of gray and beige, greige is a versatile color that pairs with a variety of countertop and backsplash materials. "This cabinetry color also complements any metal finishes, so hardware, appliances, and fixtures can be changed as the homeowner desires," says Alexandra Peck, owner of Alexandra Peck Design. The everlasting hue's adjustability allows you to make smaller changes to stay on trend rather than having to repaint your cabinets.

Navy

Blue kitchen palette
Credit:

Courtesy of Block Renovation

If you prefer the look of darker cabinets but you're worried about their timelessness, opt for navy—a shade that will never go out of style. "Navy is a classic color that dates back to the old sculleries of England and France in the 1800s," says Peck. "While this color skews more traditional, it also looks elegant in a transitional or modern design aesthetic." Its ability to work in a range of kitchen aesthetics allows navy to remain everlasting as various design styles come and go.

When selecting kitchen cabinet colors, remember that darker shades like navy or black can make a room appear smaller. If you want to use these colors without feeling constrained, balance them with lighter accents or adequate lighting to maintain a sense of spaciousness.

White

traditional white kitchen
Credit:

Courtesy of Bock Renovation

While all-white kitchens are becoming less popular after having had a huge moment, the color will never wholly go out of style—especially when it comes to the cabinets. "Honestly, the only color, in my opinion, that will never go out of style is white cabinets," says Shaolin Low, principal and founder of Studio Shaolin. The shade effortlessly complements all design aesthetics, from traditional to coastal grandmother, meaning your cabinets won't be dated by a specific trend. Plus, the neutral hue allows you to get creative when it comes to metal finishes, décor, and countertop materials.

Sage Green

Kitchen with green vintage furniture, marble countertop with flowers and bowl of cherries, bucket with tulips, cupboard with various mugs, crockery and devices.
Credit: GETTY IMAGES

Look to colors from nature when choosing a timeless kitchen cabinet paint color. "Organic shades never go out of style because they make up our natural environment and complement our interior spaces," says Kerrie Kelly, creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab. One color that accomplishes this is sage green, which is reminiscent of the foliage that surrounds us.

Pale Gray

Coffee Corner Kitchen
Credit:

Malka Thef, Think Chic Interiors

Similar to greige but without the warm undertones, pale gray is another timeless, neutral color that goes well with most countertop and backsplash materials. "Pale gray cabinets paired with silver-toned or black hardware will give a more modern feel, while pairing these same cabinets with warm-toned hardware, like brass, will give the kitchen a more traditional or transitional feel," says Peck.

Cream

Kitchen at modern house with white interior design and cabinets
Credit: brizmaker / GETTY IMAGES

For a color that's as versatile as white but with a little more personality, consider cream. "A warm, inviting cream shade can add a touch of elegance and versatility to the kitchen," says Kelly. "It effortlessly complements various design styles, creating a canvas for endless backsplash, countertop, and hardware possibilities."

Black

High Contrast Galley Kitchen
Credit:

Brad Ramsey Interiors, Paige Rumore

Despite its dramatic hue, black can actually act as a neutral in homes when used effectively. "Classic and bold, black transcends trends, bringing sophistication and drama to kitchen interiors," says Kelly. "Whether used on base cabinets, perimeter cabinets, an island, or throughout the kitchen, it stands the test of time pairing seamlessly with a range of design elements."

Dark Green

coffee nook small kitchen
Credit:

Meghan Bob Photography

Sage green's cozier cousin, dark green, brings the tranquility of nature into the kitchen and offers a timeless connection to the outdoors. "It pairs beautifully with neutrals, metallics, and wood tones, adding a refreshing touch to kitchen cabinetry," says Kelly.

Light Blue

full view of powder blue kitchen
Credit: Rebecca McAlpin

Calm and refreshing, light blue remains a perennial favorite for kitchen cabinetry. "It brings a sense of tranquility and openness to spaces, creating a backdrop that stands fresh and serene through the years," says Kelly.

Taupe

SOFT-PALETTE-CarenRideau_Kennedy_MeghanBobPhoto_KitchenOverall_V2_WEB-horiz-1022
Credit: Claire Flannery / Period Media

"A slightly deeper neutral taupe offers a timeless and elegant look," says Kelly. Staying neutral is never too safe, this allows you to play with accent colors or create a more calming mood in the kitchen. "Its earthy undertones reflect colors found in nature, making it an enduring choice that creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere," adds Kelly.

Muted Seafoam Green

Blue and White, Clean Kitchen
Credit:

RYAN RAY/CC + EM INTERIORS

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For a coastal home, consider going with a more subtle pop of color that aligns with the natural surroundings. "This muted seafoam green is that perfect breezy, beachy color that brings a chill coastal vibe without going overboard. It's one of those timeless shades that always adds a welcoming, playful touch to any kitchen," says Ashley Fonseca at Studio Shaolin.

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