Finding perfect paint colors for kitchen walls can be challenging. That's because you need to take into account many other elements of the room, such as the color of your appliances, cabinets, countertops, backsplash, and flooring. There's plenty to think about when it comes to color regardless of your kitchen's size. To simplify matters, design experts here agree that choosing a stunning neutral paint color can be just the right inspirational ingredient you'll need for your kitchen.
Overview
- Color Family: Neutrals from light to dark, plus two bolder colors
- Complementary Colors: Consider the undertone of the neutral
- Pairs Well With: Most pair well with white cabinetry, some with darker cabinetry, natural woods, metallic accents
- Mood: Warm and inviting
- Where to Use: Walls, accent walls, cabinetry
Here are 8 of the best paint colors that designers say will make your kitchen an extra joyful space for meal prep time and beyond.
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01 of 08
Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay
The Spruce
Kitchens with an earthy, retro '70s vibe are increasing in popularity. Pair walnut cabinetry with beautiful terracotta walls in a paint called Cavern Clay (SW 7701) by Sherwin-Williams. The warm reddish, almost chocolaty dark neutral color works well with natural wood tones, avocado green, purplish grays, creamy white, and golden yellow.
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02 of 08
Magnolia Homes Cinnamon Sugar
The Spruce
When it comes to painting kitchens, beige tones are often overlooked. Beige walls create a feeling of warmth, which fits right in with the process of cooking. A pretty beige color to consider is Cinnamon Sugar by Magnolia Homes. Its subtle tan base has pink notes that makes a kitchen look cozy but not muddy or yellowish.
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03 of 08
The Spruce Best Home First Frost
The Spruce
An idyllic shade of white paint can be dreamy in kitchens. The Spruce Best Home First Frost (SPR-25) scores big points for being both bright and warm. Because the color has a warm undertone it is the perfect foundation for a modern kitchen with metallic accents in rose, copper, or gold tones. It also flawlessly pairs with natural wood shelving.
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04 of 08
Sherwin-Williams Let it Rain
The Spruce
"No color is off limits for a kitchen, but these days I prefer kitchen walls in serene tones of a pale ocean blue," says Heidi Techner, the program director of interior design at Harcum College. "Let it Rain (SW 9152) by Sherwin-Williams combines elements of an invigorating blue with a calming gray undertone to create a relaxing and restorative energy." She suggests using this color as a neutral. White cabinetry and pine flooring make for beautiful accents when paired with this shade in the kitchen.
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05 of 08
Benjamin Moore Upper West Side
The Spruce
White is sometimes a little too lackluster for a kitchen space. Interior designer Alec Holland says, "One of my favorites is Upper West Side (CSP-70) from Benjamin Moore. It is warm enough to create a little depth and drama without feeling dark or moody. It also looks thoroughly chic with white kitchen cabinetry." When you want a hint of color, but aren't looking to stray far from quiet hues, this taupe is a great darker neutral option.
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06 of 08
Glidden Red Delicious
The Spruce
"Red is a stimulating color making it ideal for a kitchen accent wall because it can stimulate the appetite, and even create an energizing environment for lively conversation," says Harcum College's Heidi Techner. A yummy color worth trying is Red Delicious (00YR 08/409) by Glidden. Pair this classic red, which many consider a darker neutral, with cabinetry in its complementary color of cerulean blue for a truly luxurious look. Or tone down the red with a rich gray or a delicious darker brown (think caramel candy apple).
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07 of 08
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl
The Spruce
"Gray Owl (2137-60) by Benjamin Moore works in most kitchens because it goes with a broad range of colorful cabinetry," says Patrick Planeta, owner of Planeta Design Group. "It makes white cabinets stand out, and the paint shade is also light enough that when paired with darker cabinetry it will not make the rest of the kitchen feel oppressive or heavy." He also appreciates the color's ability to balance tonal differences, which makes this versatile neutral perfect for kitchens with two-toned cabinets.
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08 of 08
Sherwin Williams White Duck
The Spruce
Kylie, interior designer and decor blogger behind Kylie M. Interiors, says White Duck (SW 7010) by Sherwin-Williams is a pitch-perfect blend of beloved greige, which means that it never feels too beige or gray as the light changes throughout the day. The neutral allows white subway tile to sing and provides a clean backdrop for rustic wood accents.
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