20 Painted Kitchen Cabinet Ideas to Transform Your Space
Painting my kitchen cabinets was one of the best and most cost-effective decisions I’ve ever made for my home. A fresh coat of paint can completely change the look and feel of your kitchen, making it feel more modern, spacious, and uniquely you.
Whether you’re looking for a subtle refresh or a dramatic overhaul, the right color can make all the difference.
In this list, I’ll walk you through 20 painted kitchen cabinet ideas that will inspire you to pick up a brush and give your kitchen the update it deserves.
1. Classic White
You can never go wrong with classic white cabinets. I find they create a bright, airy feel that makes any kitchen feel larger and more inviting. White is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with any hardware, countertop material, or backsplash design.
A shade like Benjamin Moore’s Cloud White OC-130 offers a soft, balanced look that is both timeless and modern. It provides a clean canvas that allows other design elements in your kitchen to shine.
2. Two-Tone Cabinets
Why settle for one color when you can have two? I love the playful and dynamic look of two-tone cabinets. A popular approach is to paint the upper cabinets a lighter shade and the lower cabinets a darker one. This grounds the space while keeping it feeling open.
For example, pairing a bold lower cabinet color like Behr’s Night Club with a crisp Ultra Pure White on the uppers creates a stunning contrast.
3. Sage Green
Sage green has become a go-to color for a reason. I think it brings a sense of calm and nature into the kitchen, creating a soothing and timeless atmosphere. It’s a fantastic alternative to neutral shades, adding a touch of color without being overwhelming.
This earthy hue works well in modern farmhouse kitchens and pairs beautifully with natural wood tones and brass hardware.
4. Navy Blue
If you’re looking for a color that feels both current and classic, I recommend navy blue. This deep, rich shade adds a touch of sophistication and drama to any kitchen. Navy cabinets work well with a variety of styles, from modern to traditional.
Ashley Montgomery Design often uses deep navy to create a focal point in the kitchen, proving it’s a color that works with everything.
5. Forest Green
For a bold and dramatic statement, I suggest forest green. This deep, earthy color adds depth and richness to a kitchen, especially when paired with white countertops and gold hardware. It creates a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.
Leclair Decor shows how forest green cabinets can anchor a bright white kitchen, matching the island and range hood for a cohesive look.
6. Bold Black
Black kitchen cabinets are the definition of sleek and sophisticated. I find they create a powerful, modern statement and can make a kitchen feel incredibly chic. To prevent the space from feeling too dark, balance black cabinets with light countertops, a bright backsplash, and good lighting.
Pairing black lower cabinets with white uppers is a great way to incorporate this bold color without overwhelming the room.
7. Cheerful Yellow
For a dose of instant happiness, I love yellow cabinets. A bright, sunny yellow can make your kitchen feel warm and welcoming. It’s a bold choice that pays off by creating a unique and energetic space.
If a full set of yellow cabinets feels like too much, consider painting just the lower cabinets or a kitchen island for a fun pop of color, like the neon yellow used by A Beautiful Mess.
8. Dusty Blue
I find dusty blue to be a beautiful, muted shade that adds color while maintaining a serene and timeless feel. It’s a more interesting alternative to gray or white and creates a cohesive look when used on both the cabinets and walls.
This color works particularly well in minimalist or rustic kitchens, creating a soft and understated elegance.
9. Taupe
If you’re looking for a warm and inviting neutral, I suggest taupe. It’s a step up from plain white, adding depth and warmth to the space. Taupe cabinets complement white tiles and grayish countertops beautifully.
This versatile shade bridges the gap between gray and brown, creating a sophisticated and cozy kitchen environment.
10. Candy Pink
For a playful and unexpected touch, why not try candy pink? I think a soft, pale pink can add a subtle hint of fun and personality to a kitchen without being too over-the-top.
It’s perfect for defining a small area, like a home bar within an open-plan kitchen, adding a splash of color that is both charming and chic.
11. Deep Teal
Teal is a fantastic choice if you can’t decide between blue and green. I love how this saturated hue adds a punch of color and character. It pairs well with both warm and cool tones, making it a versatile option for accessories and decor.
Using teal on a kitchen island or lower cabinetry creates a striking contrast against lighter or darker elements in the room.
12. Pearl Gray
For a minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired kitchen, I recommend pearl gray. This light, elegant shade of gray has soft undertones that create a calm and sophisticated look.
It pairs beautifully with light wood flooring, mixed metals, and subtle pops of color, resulting in a clean and modern aesthetic.
13. Powder Blue
Powder blue is a lovely alternative to white that adds just a wisp of color. I find it creates a fresh, airy feel, especially in smaller or basement kitchens. This gentle hue complements gray countertops and white tiling perfectly.
It’s a subtle way to introduce color while keeping the space light and open.
14. Two-Tone Blues
Using two shades of the same color is a clever way to add depth. I like pairing a pale blue with a deep navy. For instance, you could paint the upper cabinets in a light sky blue and the lower cabinets or island in a rich navy.
This technique creates a layered, sophisticated look that is both harmonious and visually interesting.
15. Warm Yellows
If you’re aiming for a cozy and inviting kitchen, consider warm yellow tones. Shades like honey or Hawthorne yellow create a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for the heart of the home.
These colors look stunning on glass-front cabinets, as the warm glow from within adds an extra layer of charm.
16. Soft Greens
For a fresh and natural feel, I often turn to soft greens. Colors like mint or a gentle Guilford Green can make a kitchen feel serene and connected to the outdoors.
These shades are light enough to keep the space bright while adding a touch of personality. They pair well with white and wood accents for a clean, organic look.
17. Two-Tone Neutrals
For a more subtle take on the two-tone trend, I suggest pairing two neutral shades. For instance, you could combine a soft greige like Weimaraner AF-155 on the lower cabinets with a creamy off-white like Etiquette AF-50 on the uppers.
This creates a sophisticated, layered look that adds dimension without being overly dramatic.
18. Airy Light Blues
Light blue is another color that can make a kitchen feel open and refreshing. I recommend shades like Ocean Air 2123-50, which evoke a sense of calm and tranquility, reminiscent of a coastal retreat.
These colors work well in kitchens with plenty of natural light and can be paired with crisp white trim for a classic look.
19. Open Shelving with Color
If you have open shelving, painting the wall behind it is a fantastic way to add a pop of color. I like pairing a neutral shelf color with a bolder background.
For example, a wall painted in October Mist 1495 with shelving in a deeper Forest Floor 1498 creates a beautiful, nature-inspired vignette.
20. Swiss Coffee and Blue
I love the classic and elegant combination of a creamy off-white and a muted blue. Pairing Swiss Coffee OC-45 on the upper cabinets with a shade like Yarmouth Blue HC-150 on the lowers creates a timeless and sophisticated kitchen.
This pairing feels both fresh and traditional, offering a look that you will love for years to come.
Conclusion
I hope these ideas have sparked your creativity and shown you the transformative power of paint. A new cabinet color is an achievable project that can completely revitalize your kitchen.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with color and find the perfect shades that reflect your personal style.
