How To Select A Color Palette For Your Project
Choosing colors and finishes that compliment each other can be a source of stress for some. Read on to discover some simple tips to simplify the process to help you select colors like a pro.
Define Your Styles & Existing Finishes
- First, consider the style within the home or the style that you would like to achieve throughout the home. Review and save images that you consider to define this style. Take note of what you like again and again in these photos and also the things you do not find appealing. Keep a collection or a board (Pinterest, Milanote, or similar) of these images with notes.
- Next, consider any items that will remain. For example, if you have an open kitchen concept and you already own a dining room table that you absolutely adore, then you want to select colors that compliment this item. Are you upgrading all your appliances or flooring? Add swatches of these finishes that will be remaining to your collection of images. This will be a huge help when you to begin define the colors you are going to introduce into the space.
Focus On The Finish Of The Foundation Items
- When choosing new finishes start with the largest item first and then move through the list. For a kitchen this is usually the cabinets, then the appliances, flooring, counters, walls/backsplashes, and finally plumbing, hardware, and lighting.
- Don’t feel like you need to finalize your choice on the one item before moving on to the next. However, if you are looking for a simple approach then try your best to narrow your choices down to two finishes when you are unable to decide.
Consider Cabinet Color Blocking
There’s multiple ways you can showcase your cabinetry. Consider these 6 different looks.
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- Island Only Accents: The kitchen island is in a contrasting color to stand out against the surrounding cabinetry.
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- Color as a Backdrop: One main wall of cabinetry is typically the anchor color that complements the other base and wall cabinets in the space.
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- All Over Bold Use: All cabinet are designed in a bold color choice, creating a dramatic and cohesive look.
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- Blocking Color Sections: Different sections of the kitchen are defined by distinct cabinet colors, typically using up to three colors. Areas can be broken out by use or by layout, such as a island, a cooking zone, drink station, side buffet or serving area, and a refrigerator and pantry surround.
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- Wall Cabinets vs. Base Cabinets: A clear distinction is made between wall and base cabinets using two contrasting colors creating a two-toned effect.
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- Mono-toned, Keeping All Finishes Blended and Neutral: The features using a consistent color palette throughout, with cabinets in one or various shades of neutral tone, creating a seamless and harmonious look.
Reflect on the Mood You Want to Create
Color has a powerful impact on how a space feels. Think about the atmosphere you want to cultivate in your kitchen:
- Bright and Airy: Whites, creams, and light neutrals with pops of soft color can create an open and spacious feel.
- Warm and Inviting: Earthy tones like browns, beiges, and terracotta, along with warmer shades of other colors, can make the kitchen feel cozy and welcoming.
- Bold and Dramatic: Deeper, richer colors like navy, emerald green, or even black, paired with contrasting accents, can create a statement.
- Calm and Serene: Soft blues, greens, and grays can evoke a sense of tranquility.
Refer back to your inspiration images. What moods do the kitchens you love evoke?
Think About Undertones
This is where color selection can get a little tricky, but it’s crucial for a cohesive look. Every color has an undertone – warm (yellow, orange, red) or cool (blue, green, violet).
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- Identify Undertones in Existing Finishes: When considering your existing dining table or potential flooring, try to determine their undertones. Are the whites creamy (warm) or stark (cool)? Do the grays lean beige (warm) or blue (cool)?
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- Match or Intentionally Contrast Undertones: For a harmonious feel, you generally want to stick with either all warm or all cool undertones. However, you can also intentionally contrast them for a more dynamic look (e.g., pairing a warm wood with a cool gray). Just be sure the contrast feels intentional and not accidental.
Don’t Forget Texture and Sheen
Color isn’t the only visual element to consider. The texture and sheen of your finishes will also play a significant role in the overall look.
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- Texture: Matte finishes tend to absorb light and can make colors appear softer and more muted. Glossy finishes reflect light, making colors appear more vibrant and can add a touch of glamour. Consider how the textures of your cabinets, countertops, backsplash, and flooring will interact.
- Sheen: Similar to texture, the sheen level of your paint and finishes will impact how light interacts with the space and how the colors are perceived.
Try this at home!
Never make a final color decision based on a small swatch or an image on a screen.
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- Bring Samples Home: Obtain physical samples of your potential cabinet colors, countertop materials, flooring, and paint swatches.
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- Observe in Different Lighting: Look at the samples in your kitchen throughout the day and evening. Natural light, artificial light, and the direction of light can drastically change how a color appears.
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- Live with the Samples: Don’t rush the process. Leave the samples in your kitchen for a couple of days to see how you feel about them over time.
Consider the Longevity of Your Choices
Kitchen renovations are a significant investment. While it’s tempting to follow the latest trends, consider whether you’ll still love a particular color scheme in five or ten years. Classic and timeless palettes often have broader appeal and can be updated with smaller, less expensive accents over time.
Seek Professional Advice If Needed
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure, don’t hesitate to consult with a kitchen designer. They have the expertise to guide you through the process and help you create a beautiful and functional kitchen that you’ll love for years to come.
By following these tips and trusting your instincts, you can confidently select a color palette for your kitchen renovation that reflects your personal style and creates the perfect heart of your home.
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