When it comes to kitchen design, color is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal. The right hue can transform the look and feel of your cooking space in an instant. While white and gray kitchens will likely never go out of style, there’s something special about infusing bold, vibrant color into the heart of your home.
At the same time, incorporating color into your kitchen decor requires careful thought. The wrong tone can feel dated, distracting or overwhelm the rest of the aesthetic. You want pops of color to feel energizing yet cohesive.
To help inspire you, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite colorful kitchens from the pages of our magazine and books. Read on for a rainbow of stylish real-kitchen ideas and tips for using color effectively!
Why Add Color to Your Kitchen?
Before diving into the photos, let’s look at some of the benefits of embracing color in the kitchen:
- Makes a statement. Using bold or unexpected hues is an easy way to add personality and wow-factor to your space.
- Enhances mood. The color palette you choose impacts how a room makes you feel when you walk in it and spend time there.
- Adds visual interest. Colorful accents and textures break up plain surfaces and make the room more vibrant and inviting.
- Complements your style. From modern to cottage to traditional, color helps underscore and enhance your preferred aesthetic.
- Reflects your tastes. Cooking spaces are deeply personal; allow color to express your style.
- Makes memories. Vibrant kitchens help create an energizing, uplifting backdrop for moments shared with family and friends.
Color Combo Inspiration
When using multiple colors in a kitchen, stick with a simple base palette of one or two main hues, then layer in complimentary accent colors for pops of contrast and visual interest. Some fire-starter color combos include:
- Navy blue, bronze and pale yellow
- Moss green, terra cotta and cream
- Light blue, coral and yellow
- Sage green, pink and gold
- Brick red, tan and dark green
Keep reading for real kitchen examples of these and other vibrant color schemes!
Bold Blue + Natural Wood Tones
This coastal-inspired kitchen designed by Jean Stoffer Design embodies breezy, beach house style with its light blue lower cabinetry, white uppers, and an abundance of natural wood accents. The painted blue island adds striking contrast.
Tips for getting the look:
- Use a pale robin’s egg blue on lower cabinetry to evoke peaceful water views
- Contrast with bright white uppers and an unpainted wood ceiling for an airy vibe
- Add warmth with unstained cedar plank shelves, a reclaimed wood dining table and rattan bar stools
- Incorporate driftwood, shells, woven textures and ceramic fish for playful coastal personality
Muted Green + Rustic Brick
Exposed brick walls make a charming backdrop for the matte olive green cabinetry in this kitchen spotlighted on Remodelista. The muted sage hue feels fresh yet relaxed.
Tips for getting the look:
- Lean into the age of the space by preserving existing brick walls
- Complement with a muted green shade on cabinetry to feel organic but not too loud
- Tie in natural unstained wood accents to underscore the rustic charm
- Add a marble-topped island for contrast and an ornamental brass light fixture for a pop of shine
Retro Blue + Yellow + Wood Paneling
Leaning heavily retro, this bright kidney bean-shaped kitchen designed by Domino showcases glossy mustard yellow lower cabinetry, robin’s egg blue uppers, and warm wood paneling on the range wall. The patterned floor tile amplifies the fun, eclectic energy.
Tips for getting the look:
- Go for high-gloss cabinetry in punchy retro colors like mustard yellow and light blue
- Add interest and contrast with vertical wood paneling on one wall
- Opt for a graphic tile with lines, shapes or patterns to enhance the playful vibe
- Incorporate retro-inspired touches like a curved banquette, ornamental clock and colorful art
Sage Green + Cherry Accents
The soft green lower cabinetry establishes an earthy, organic foundation in this kitchen by Hecker Guthrie. Cherry wood accents on the open shelves, island and ceiling add lovely contrasting warmth.
Tips for getting the look:
- Soften a sleek, contemporary space with muted sage green cabinetry
- Bring in warmth with unstained cherry or walnut accents and open wood shelving
- Choose metals in satin nickel, black or bronze for an elegant touch
- Introduce texture with grasscloth wallpaper, woven shades and ceramic wares
Bold Blue + Natural Materials
This angular blue kitchen by deVol Kitchens feels crisp and contemporary thanks to simple flat-front cabinetry, white quartz counters and a streamlined rectangular island. Pops of natural wood, marble and greenery keep the look serene.
Tips for getting the look:
- Make a bold statement with glossy navy blue cabinetry
- Keep countertops light to prevent the look from feeling too dark and dramatic
- Incorporate natural materials like unstained wood, marble and plants for brightness
- Stick to unornamented stainless steel hardware and accessories for sleek contrast
Vintage Mint + Brass Accents
Designed by Nickey Kehoe, this breezy vintage-inspired kitchen gets its retro charm from mint green cabinetry, classic subway tile, overhead pendant lamps and brass accents. The colorful abstract art energizes the space.
Tips for getting the look:
- Go for a vintage mint green hue on cabinetry to keep the look light and playful
- Use classic white subway tiles as a backsplash to enhance the retro vibe
- Incorporate brass accents on lighting, hardware and fixtures for warmth
- Add colorful abstract art for an eclectic, personalized touch
- Open shelving provides space for displaying glassware and ceramics
Scarlet Red + White Trim
This glossy red kitchen designed by Hecker Guthrie makes a bold, sophisticated statement. The rich hue gives the modern space an infusion of drama and mood. Crisp white trim prevents it from feeling too intense.
Tips for getting the look:
- Opt for a rich, deep red shade on cabinetry to make a bold splash
- Use bright white trim around windows, doorways and cabinet frames as contrast
- Incorporate polished metals like nickel or chrome for sleek contrast
- Add indoor plants for lively pops of green to balance out all the red
- Keep countertops and backsplashes light for balance
Navy Blue + Pink Accents
The matte navy cabinetry in this transitional kitchen by Lauren Liess provides a striking but still neutral foundation for the eclectic space. Pops of blush pink on the walls, island and open shelves provide lovely, feminine contrast.
Tips for getting the look:
- Ground the look with moody navy blue cabinetry to contrast all the light woods
- Use a warm pink shade on an island or accent wall to soften the dark navy base
- Incorporate ivory marble countertops to keep the look airy and bright
- Add unstained open wood shelving for warmth and storage space
- Use a mix of rustic and modern materials and finishes for a collected look
Burnt Orange + Dark Woods
With its glossy burnt orange cabinetry, chocolate leathered granite countertops and dark moody wood floors, this kitchen by Carla Aston packs a dramatic punch. The ornate glass light fixture amplifies the glamour.
Tips for getting the look:
- Make a bold statement with burnt orange cabinetry against dark wood floors
- Opt for a dramatic countertop material like leathered granite
- Add a sparkling glass chandelier to reinforce the elegant atmosphere
- Layer in ritzy accents like crystal glassware, candles and floral arrangements
- Balance all the dark hues with bright white trim
Seafoam Green + Neutrals
The soft seafoam lower cabinetry injects subtle color into this predominantly neutral kitchen by Studio McGee. Crisp white uppers, a marble-topped island and brass accents keep the look light and elegant.
Tips for getting the look:
- Stick to gentle seafoam green on lower cabinetry so the color pop feels quiet
- Use crisp, bright white on uppers, trim and ceilings for contrast
- Choose a marble, quartz or concrete countertop material to continue the soft, organic vibe
- Incorporate brass accents and warm wood open shelving for texture
- Use linen roman shades at windows for softness and privacy
Sage Green + Wood Paneling
Designed by Nickey Kehoe, this warm and welcoming kitchen features a fresh sage green painted brick fireplace wall and wood paneling on the range wall. Open wood shelving, marble counters and brass accents complete the refined yet unfussy look.
Tips for getting the look:
- Paint brick fireplace wall an earthy sage green to define the cooking zone
- Add wood paneling on range wall for warmth and dimension
- Keep cabinetry bright white to contrast all the organic texture
- Incorporate marble counters, open wood shelving and stainless appliances for elegance
- Add brass lighting, faucets and accents for a polished, finished feel
Black + White + Wood
This stunning black and white kitchen by Hecker Guthrie proves that a simple two-color scheme can still have tons of drama and personality. The graphic black and white tile backsplash energizes the bright, airy space.
Tips for getting the look:
- Make a bold statement by staining lower cabinetry a rich black
- Use bright white marble counters and subway tile backsplash for crisp contrast
- Warm up the sleek color scheme with natural wood ceiling beams and open shelving
- Incorporate green leafy plants for an infusion of organic color
- Add pops of shiny metallics for glamour – try nickel, chrome or brass
Navy Blue + Rattan + Plants
With its deep navy cabinetry, woven rattan pendants and abundance of leafy plants, this kitchen by Studio McGee creates a relaxing oasis feel. The white quartz counters keep it looking fresh.
Tips for getting the look:
- Use dark navy blue on lower cabinetry for an enveloping, cozy look
- Lighten up with white quartz countertops, trim and café curtains
- Incorporate natural rattan pendants and counter stools for organic texture
- Display a plethora of plants for lots of lush green contrast
- Add a tranquil rug and avoid clutter for a peaceful vibe
Terracotta + Black Accents
The glossy terracotta kitchen cabinetry in this rustic kitchen adds tons of warmth and vibrancy. Black metal accents on the lighting and hardware provide striking contrast.
Tips for getting the look:
- Go bold with high-gloss terracotta cabinetry for maximum impact
- Use black metal finishes on lighting, hardware and appliances for modern edge
- Add a wood block island for natural contrasting texture
- Choose materials like concrete, stone or marble for organic durability
- Incorporate green plants and vintage-inspired accessories for character
Navy Blue + Metal + White Brick
The matte navy cabinetry in this sleek modern kitchen provides a rich neutral backdrop for the stainless steel surfaces and appliances. Exposed white brick wall adds texture and dimension.
Tips for getting the look:
- Ground the look with matte navy blue cabinets in a streamlined style
- Contrast with crisp white brick wall to add visual interest
- Use stainless steel for a backsplash, vent hood and appliances for sheen
- Opt for white quartz countertops to keep the look light and bright
- Add pops of orange or chartreuse on bar stools or decor items for vibrant contrast
Blush Pink + Blue + Brass
The soft pink cabinetry establishes a warm, feminine base in this charming kitchen by Lauren Liess. Blue geometric backsplash tile provides fun contrast, while brass lighting and accessories add glam polish.
Tips for getting the look:
- Go for a warm, muted pink on the cabinetry for timeless charm
- Add bold contrast with graphic blue and white backsplash tile
- Incorporate brass accents on lighting, faucets and hardware for luxury
- Hang an ornate brass pendant light over the island for visual interest
- Display collections of white dishware for brightness
Olive Green + Walnut Wood
With its olive green cabinetry, walnut accents and marble counters, this elegant kitchen by deVol Kitchens brings together rich, layered textures and neutral hues. The decorative brass lighting feels luxe but not flashy.
Tips for getting the look:
- Enhance the elegance with muted olive green cabinetry
- Contrast with walnut wood accents on open shelving, counters and range hood
- Add a marble slab backsplash and marble counters for organic luxury
- Incorporate decorative brass pendants, knobs and sconces for refine flair
- Keep tableware and decor simple to let the textures shine
Coral + Mint + Brass
The blend of glossy coral pink and minty sage green cabinetry gives this collected kitchen by Nickey Kehoe its distinctly vintage personality. Brass accents underscore the retro charm.
Tips for getting the look:
- Have fun mixing retro color combos like coral and mint green
- Add distressed brass pendants, sconces, knobs and handles
- Incorporate subway tiles, beadboard or checkerboard floors for quintessential vintage flair
- Display glassware and ceramics in open shelving for eclectic charm
- Opt for a solid stone or marble countertop to anchor the colors
Cloud White + Oak Wood
Ethereally white cabinetry gives this light-filled kitchen by Hecker Guthrie an angelic feel. The warm oak wood island, open shelves and flooring provide natural balance.
Tips for getting the look:
- Embrace pure white everywhere – cabinetry, walls, trim, ceiling – for a dreamy vibe
- Bring in oak or walnut wood accents for organic contrast
- Choose stone or marble for countertops to continue the bright, smooth look
- Add crystal clear glass pendant lights to amplify the airiness
- Use lots of large windows and skylights to flood the space with light
Soft Blue + Black Accents
The Robin’s egg blue cabinetry keeps this modern kitchen light and airy, while matte black accents on the uppers, light fixtures and hardware provide chic contrast.
Tips for getting the look:
- Choose a soft, muted blue for cabinetry to evoke an easy, breezy feel
- Add unexpected matte black accents on uppers, hood, lighting and hardware
- Opt for crisp white quartz counters and subway tile to enhance brightness
- Paint the ceiling blue and add blue stripes on backsplash for color harmony
- Incorporate brass, wood and rattan accents for organic variation
Forest Green + White Brick Wall
Against the bright white brick backsplash wall, the deep forest green cabinetry in this kitchen by Studio McGee makes a bold, nature-inspired statement. Open wood shelving adds rustic warmth.
Tips for getting the look:
- Select a dramatic deep green hue for cabinetry to contrast the white brick
- Add open wood shelving for organic texture and storage space
- Opt for a large ceramic farmhouse sink and modern gooseneck faucet
- Choose stainless steel appliances to continue the sleek industrial edge
- Incorporate earthy natural elements like stone, wood, plants and linen
Glass Bottle Green + Marble
Glossy bottle green cabinetry makes a serious style statement in this opulent kitchen by Carla Aston. Gorgeous marble countertops, statement light fixture and glam gold accents reinforce the decadent vibe.
Tips for getting the look:
- Go bold with deep jewel-toned cabinetry like emerald or sapphire
- Contrast beautifully with pristine white marble counters and stately columns
- Add a sparkling ornamental light fixture for serious drama
- Incorporate glam gold accents like hardware, sconces and barstools
- Finish it off with romantic accents like fresh flowers and candlesticks
Vintage Teal + Distressed Wood
With its dusty teal cabinets, reclaimed wood counters and antique-inspired accessories, this kitchen designed by Nickey Kehoe feels wonderfully weathered and collected. The white tile backsplash keeps it looking fresh.
Tips for getting the look:
- Choose a grey-blue distressed teal hue for the lower cabinetry
- Contrast with clean white upper cabinetry for brightness
- Add reclaimed wood on countertops and open shelving for character
- Finish surfaces with brass hardware for an antiqued edge
- Incorporate vintage elements like milk glass vases and ceramic wares
Statement Red + Marble
This gorgeous red and white kitchen by Carla Aston is glamorous enough for a chic New York City apartment. The bold cherry red cabinetry commands attention, while stylish brass hardware and stunning marble counters add sophistication.
Tips for getting the look:
- Make a bold splash with a rich, dramatic red on cabinetry
- Add light and elegance with marble counters, brick backsplash and white open shelves
- Incorporate glamorous brass accents and hardware
- Hang a statement brass and glass chandelier over the island
- Add feminine touches like fresh florals and ornate candlesticks
Pale Yellow + White Trim
Sunny pale yellow painted cabinetry gives this charming kitchen by Studio McGee a cheerful, welcoming energy. Crisp white window trim provides nice bright contrast.
Tips for getting the look:
- Paint cabinetry and walls in the same soft yellow for color harmony
- Frame windows in bright white trim for crisp definition
- Opt for an unstained wood or marble counter material to complement the yellow