Design Experts Rank the 5 Best Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors for 2025

A kitchen refresh doesn’t always mean a full-scale renovation—sometimes, all you need to do is repaint the cabinets. Whether you’re drawn to deep, moody tones or warm neutrals, this all-important color choice can set the tone for your entire kitchen.

Nowadays, designers are gravitating toward richer, grounded colors and shifting away from cool tones, like crisp whites and icy grays. Pantone's Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, is the perfect example of this move toward classic warmth and comfort.

With those trends in mind, we took a closer look at which cabinet hues will be everywhere in 2025. Here, we spoke with the design pros and got their expert insights on all things color for the kitchen.

Earth Tones

Nothing brings a sense of grounding quite like earthy browns or burgundies. “These tones will definitely make a statement in 2025,” says Kate McGlone, a design expert at Winnings. “They’re perfect for adding warmth and sophistication to your kitchen.”

McGlone suggests a high-gloss lacquer for shades like burgundy and espresso, which will create a sleek, shiny look that reflects light beautifully. For a softer, more modern feel, a satin finish is the perfect choice. "It's less reflective, but it still adds a nice touch of elegance—without being too bold," she says.

Also, remember that your kitchen should reflect your personal style. “If you’re hesitant about bold colors, deep walnut is a great alternative," McGlone adds.

Green

Green has a way of making any kitchen feel fresh and inviting, which is why it never goes out of style. Whether you go for a bold emerald or a muted sage, green cabinets can either be a show-stopping feature or a subtle backdrop.

Green fits perfectly in the ongoing trend towards wellness and sustainability in design, providing a fresh, nature-inspired look, says Andrea Magno, the director of color marketing and design at Benjamin Moore. Soft, neutral greens work well in kitchens with a mix of light and dark finishes, keeping the space balanced and timeless.

If you’re feeling adventurous, a deeper moss or forest green can add depth and drama—especially in spaces with plenty of natural light.

Warm Neutrals

If you love the classic appeal of white and beige but want something a little more inviting, warm neutrals are the way to go. Soft taupes, creamy whites, and sandy beiges strike the perfect balance, brightening up a space and adding subtle warmth.

A neutral base also gives you room to incorporate some deeper hues as you go, says McGlone. Whether your kitchen leans modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, these shades create a flexible backdrop that allows you to switch things up over time.

If you're not sure where to start, McGlone recommends layering in warmth through textured accents, statement lighting, or colorful seating. "Small changes can have a big impact, and they let you ease into the trend without a major commitment," she says.

Peach and Caramel Tones

In the same vein as warm neutrals, McGlone recommends trying peach and caramel tones. “These shades are part of a larger trend toward materiality,” she says. “They bring warmth and character to any space.”

To keep everything feeling balanced, go for a matte finish, especially with softer colors like caramel or clay. But if you’re after a bit more durability and a touch of sophistication, Magno suggests a satin finish. “It’s perfect for daily use, offering a clean aesthetic that complements the welcoming atmosphere that many desire," she says.

Also, don’t forget about the power of wood and warmer metals. Incorporating natural wood tones in your flooring or accent pieces—and adding warm metals to hardware, lighting, or fixtures—can really enhance those warmer shades.

Deep, Dramatic Tones

If you’re looking to make a statement, then bold, deep colors are the way to go. Shades like navy, charcoal, and rich red add instant sophistication and depth, creating a space that feels both dramatic and inviting. "These colors allow you to make a big impact, whether you’re going for a full cabinet refresh or just adding a bold accent," says Magno.

She suggests using a coffee bar, butler's pantry, or island as a place to introduce a saturated, dark cabinet shade. For an even easier way to experiment, try colorful furniture—like a painted dining bench or statement stools.