Need help choosing the perfect kitchen cabinet paint color? We’ve talked to the paint color experts to find out exactly what hues are the most popular for kitchen cabinets this year and what trends will dominate in the future.
Sea of Color
Picking a paint color for kitchen cabinetry can be one of the toughest color decisions to make. Color trends have never been as varied as they are today, and in a sea of beautiful color possibilities, it’s agonizing to settle on a final color choice. After all, your choice of cabinet color has to stand the test of time and be a shade that you’ll love for years to come.
We talked with paint color experts at both Sherwin-Williams and MasterBrand Cabinets to shed some light (and color) on the decision-making process. They shared with us the colors that are currently the most popular for kitchen cabinets, the trends they predict for next year, and a few tips for narrowing color choices.
Cabinets in image painted with Sherwin-Williams Dorian Gray SW7017.
Staying Neutral
Stephanie Pierce, director of design and trends at MasterBrand Cabinets, tells us neutrals are as well-liked as ever.
“Whites and grays fall into this category, but so do taupe tones and even deeply saturated colors,” she says. “Taupe tones continue to make an impact in kitchens as opaque or painted finishes are trendy and highly versatile. The varying shades range from a warmer off-white to khaki and pick up undertones of green or blush depending on how they are being used.”
Neutral paint colors work well with most design styles. They also are safer color choices because they easily complement and blend with other tones used in a kitchen, such as flooring and accent colors.
Popular neutral colors to consider for your cabinets are Sherwin-Williams Alabaster SW7008, Creamy SW7012, Accessible Beige SW7036, and Steamed Milk SW7554.
Cabinets in image painted with Sherwin-Williams Requisite Gray SW7023.
Deeper Hues
Deeper cabinet paint colors have been a popular trend this year as well, says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams. Shades like navy, silted teal, dark gray, and rich brown have surged in popularity this year and work best paired with white or neutral walls for contrast.
When using a deeper hue, choose a color with a balanced mix of warm and cool undertones, which will help in complementing surrounding undertones and colors throughout the kitchen.
Popular deeper colors to consider are Sherwin-Williams Naval SW6244, Salty Dog SW9177, Aqua-Sphere SW7613, Spalding Gray SW6074, and Black Fox SW7020.
Cabinets in image painted with Sherwin-Williams Naval SW6244.
Paint Finish Trends
We also asked Sue about trends Sherwin-Williams is seeing in paint finishes and sheens for kitchen cabinetry. She told us a lower-sheen finish is trending — a look similar to matte finish with more of a furniture feel and weathered styling.
Matte or satin paint finishes have less shine but are just as washable as higher-sheen finishes.
Cabinets in image painted with Sherwin-Williams Extra White SW7006 in satin finish.
