If you’re looking to give your kitchen a fresh, modern look, mixing upper and lower cabinet colors can be a game-changing design choice. Gone are the days of all-white or all-wood cabinetry; today, the trend is to combine complementary colors and finishes to create a dynamic, stylish look. Mixing cabinet colors not only adds visual interest but can also enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Let’s dive into seven creative ways to mix upper and lower cabinet colors and transform your kitchen into a modern masterpiece.
1. Go Bold with Contrasting Colors
One of the most dramatic ways to mix cabinet colors is by choosing two bold, contrasting colors for your upper and lower cabinets. For instance, you could pair dark navy blue lower cabinets with crisp white upper cabinets. The contrast between the two colors creates a striking visual effect that makes the kitchen feel more dynamic. To keep the look balanced, you can opt for a neutral countertop or backsplash that ties the two colors together.
Tip: Choose contrasting colors that reflect your personal style—whether it’s bold jewel tones or timeless neutrals.
Product recommendation: Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black Paint for Cabinets – Available on Amazon
2. Use Two Shades of the Same Color
For a more subtle yet still modern approach, try mixing two shades of the same color. For example, you could pair soft sage green upper cabinets with a deeper forest green for the lower cabinets. This creates a harmonious look while still giving depth and dimension to the space. Using two tones of the same color also allows for some flexibility in accessorizing, as you can incorporate a variety of complementary hues in your decor.
Tip: When using the same color in different shades, focus on creating contrast in other elements like lighting, countertops, and hardware.
Product recommendation: Benjamin Moore Aura Paint (Light Sage) – Available on Amazon
3. Embrace the Two-Tone Trend with White and Wood
A classic and popular combination for modern kitchens is pairing white upper cabinets with wood-tone lower cabinets. The white cabinets create a clean, airy feel at the top, while the rich, natural wood tones on the lower cabinets add warmth and texture. This two-tone design works especially well in transitional or Scandinavian-inspired kitchens, where the balance of light and natural materials creates a peaceful, sophisticated vibe.
Tip: Choose a light, neutral wood finish for a more contemporary, minimalistic look, or opt for a dark wood for a deeper, more dramatic effect.
Product recommendation: Rustic Oak Wood Cabinet Stain – Available on Amazon
4. Add a Pop of Color to Lower Cabinets
If you want to keep your upper cabinets neutral but inject a bit of fun into your kitchen, consider adding a pop of color to your lower cabinets. Colors like deep emerald green, mustard yellow, or even coral red can create an eye-catching focal point without overwhelming the space. This approach allows the upper cabinets to remain light and airy while the lower cabinets add personality and excitement.
Tip: When choosing a bold color for your lower cabinets, keep your countertops and backsplash neutral to let the color stand out.
Product recommendation: Behr Marquee Premium Interior Paint (Mossy Green) – Available on Amazon
5. Integrate High Gloss and Matte Finishes
Another way to add interest to your kitchen is by combining different finishes on your upper and lower cabinets. For example, you could go with high-gloss white upper cabinets paired with matte black lower cabinets. The contrast between the finishes not only makes the two colors stand out but also gives your kitchen a more modern and sophisticated feel. High-gloss finishes reflect light, making the upper cabinets appear bright and airy, while matte finishes create a more grounded, understated look for the lower cabinets.
Tip: Incorporate matte or glossy finishes in other areas of your kitchen, like your backsplash, sink, or hardware, to tie the design together.
Product recommendation: Valspar Ultra High Gloss Cabinet Paint (White) – Available on Amazon
6. Create a Balanced Look with Neutrals
If you prefer a more understated and timeless approach, mixing neutrals for your upper and lower cabinets can create a sophisticated and modern kitchen. Think light gray upper cabinets paired with dark charcoal or black lower cabinets. The neutral tones work together seamlessly, allowing other design elements like backsplash tiles, countertops, and lighting fixtures to take center stage. This minimalist approach works well in both contemporary and industrial-style kitchens.
Tip: Use warm or cool tones of gray depending on the overall color palette of your kitchen.
Product recommendation: Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray Paint – Available on Amazon
7. Incorporate Statement Hardware
Once you’ve chosen your upper and lower cabinet colors, don’t forget about the hardware. Mixing finishes for knobs, handles, and pulls can add an additional layer of visual interest to your kitchen. For example, if your upper cabinets are white and your lower cabinets are navy blue, consider pairing matte black hardware with gold accents. This combo creates a stylish contrast that enhances both the upper and lower cabinets.
Tip: Use statement hardware to further personalize the space and make it feel unique to your style.
Product recommendation: Gold & Black Cabinet Pulls Set – Available on Amazon
Conclusion
Mixing upper and lower cabinet colors is one of the most effective ways to achieve a modern and visually appealing kitchen. Whether you’re going for bold contrasts, subtle tonal variations, or playful pops of color, these design choices allow you to personalize your space while maintaining a balanced and cohesive look. By embracing these seven creative ways to mix cabinet colors, you can transform your kitchen into a stylish and functional heart of the home. So go ahead, mix things up, and create a space you’ll love to cook in!
