As an interior design studio that specializes in custom cabinetry, we’ve obviously seen our fair share of cabinet colors. While there are so many design details that go into a kitchen or bathroom design, for example, it’s safe to say the cabinet color really sets the tone. Because the cabinet color is so important, it can often feel overwhelming trying to narrow down a paint color. Maybe you have already sifted through hundreds of samples or maybe you’re just now getting started! Regardless of where you are in the process, it’s nice to have a little reassurance that your selection will turn out beautifully.
With custom cabinetry, your options are endless when it comes to paint colors. You could hand-pick any color imaginable, and we could do it! However, a color on a tiny paint strip is especially hard to visualize on cabinetry. Luckily, we’ve been working one-on-one with homeowners for years helping them select the right cabinet color for their space, providing them with 3-D renderings to help finalize selections confidently. The best part is that we also get to see these custom designs come to life, giving us a front row seat to how various colors show up on cabinetry in different spaces.
If you’re looking for a few tried and true paint color ideas for your cabinetry project, take a scroll through these designer-recommended colors.
1. Shade Grown by Sherwin Williams
This deep green has been featured in several projects, from kitchens and bathrooms to libraries and laundry rooms. Clients love that it adds a touch of color without being too overpowering. Check out this calming, subdued green at our Eureka, Illinois showroom, where it’s featured on our office built-ins.
2. Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams
Urbane Bronze is one of those colors that seems to adapt to its surroundings. This brownish-gray tends to vary based on lighting and what colors you pair it with, making it a versatile choice for any space. Use this paint color when you want a deep and moody neutral that shows up well on cabinetry.
3. Shoji White by Sherwin Williams
If you don’t already know by now, not all white paint colors are the same. Sometimes choosing a specific white for your cabinetry is one of the most difficult challenges! Shoji White is the go-to when looking for a beigey white that’s not too bright but not too yellow.
4. Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams
If you’ve been to our Eureka showroom, then you’ve seen Iron Ore in our showroom kitchen (pictured above). Iron Ore is similar to Urbane Bronze, but with a cool-toned twist. Think of it as a desaturated navy, occasionally letting its cool tones peak out in natural lighting. In a kitchen, it works well as an accent color for the island or range hood, otherwise making a great choice for a bathroom vanity.
5. Rosemary by Sherwin Williams
Related to Shade Grown, Rosemary is essentially a lighter version of the grayish green. If you’re feeling a little adventurous for a laundry room or vanity color, this could be the perfect pick! This earthy tone pairs well with other nature-inspired elements, such as wood and stone.
6. Dove Wing by Benjamin Moore
In case a creamy white isn’t exactly your goal, here’s another white option, this time with a slightly silver undertone. If you’re needing a kitchen cabinet color that pairs well with other accent colors or wood tones, Dove Wing might be the one! Make sure to set a sample next to any other white material selections (countertops, trim, tile, etc.) to make sure they work together.
7. Stone Hearth by Benjamin Moore
In terms of interiors, “griege” has been all the rage over the last few years. With a shift from cool grays to warmer beiges, Stone Hearth has recently gained popularity, especially for cabinetry. This color is for the homeowner that loves neutrals but shies away from harsh whites or overdone grays. It brings a touch of grounding warmth and can be used in large spaces without overpowering the whole room.
A few tips for choosing cabinet colors:
1. Always take color samples home.
Colors vary tremendously depending on lighting. This means that a color you loved in a showroom might look completely different in your home. Put samples in the actual room they are going to be in to ensure you’ll love the results in your home.
2. View all materials together.
If you’re designing a kitchen, for example, you want to make sure you’re making selections that are cohesive. You should be viewing samples of cabinet colors, countertops, tile, wall color, flooring, etc., all at the same time. You might love materials individually, but it’s best to ensure everything works together before it’s too late.
3. Don’t be afraid to branch out.
You might be tempted to play it safe when choosing cabinetry colors, but if you’re the kind of person that believes your home should cater to you and not just the next person, why not have a little fun? That cabinet color that’s a little outside your comfort zone might end up becoming your favorite feature in your home.
If you’re looking for more design expertise to help with your next cabinetry project, reach out to our Central Illinois design team for one-on-one custom design services. We’d love to help you get the most out of your next home remodel or new build!
