As part of our ongoing “best of the best” kitchen series, here is a curated selection of inspiring colored kitchen cabinets. While I have a soft spot for classic white kitchens, I also love thoughtful color choices that enhance a home’s character. Well-designed kitchens come in many palettes; the key is choosing colors that suit the house, the room’s finishes, and your personal taste.
Deciding on the best color for cabinets can be challenging. I often imagine several different looks for our own kitchen and can picture many outcomes that would be beautiful. Existing elements—like slate tile in the entry or wood floors in the dining room—should influence the decision, since adjacent spaces help determine what will feel cohesive. Ultimately the right cabinet color is the one that makes your heart skip a beat.
When selecting cabinet color, aim for harmony with the rest of the home and with the kitchen’s materials and fixtures. Consider the style of the house, the amount of natural light, the countertop and backsplash materials, and the overall mood you want: calm and muted, dramatic and deep, or bright and cheerful. Trusting your instincts and choosing a color you truly love will make the space feel personal and joyful.
Through different homes I’ve lived in, I’ve enjoyed both white and colored cabinets—dark gray in one house, a soft green in another. Each choice brought its own charm. Below is a round-up of colored kitchen cabinet ideas ranging from powder blue and navy to sage, emerald, and cheerful yellow. Use these photos as inspiration when imagining color options for your own kitchen.
Colored Kitchen Cabinets
Tips for choosing cabinet color:
- Consider the home’s architectural style and existing finishes so the kitchen feels cohesive with adjacent rooms.
- Test samples in different lighting—colors shift between morning and evening light and under artificial lighting.
- Balance bold colors with neutral countertops, backsplashes, or walls to avoid overwhelming the space.
- Mix tones thoughtfully: darker base cabinets with lighter uppers or islands can create depth without cluttering the palette.
- Choose a color you’ll still enjoy years from now—timeless shades or muted versions of trendy colors often age well.
Explore more posts in this kitchen design series for additional ideas and helpful guidance on choosing cabinet colors.
What kitchen cabinet colors are your favorite?