Using Color in Kitchen Design Dos and Don'ts

January 15, 2026

The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home. It's where meals are prepared, family gatherings happen, and memories are made. When designing a kitchen, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing a color scheme. Color can set the tone for the entire space, influencing everything from the mood to the functionality of the room. Here are some dos and don'ts for using color in kitchen design to help you create a space that's both beautiful and functional.

DO: Choose a Color Scheme that Reflects Your Personal Style


The first step in choosing a color scheme for your kitchen is to determine your personal style. Are you drawn to bright and bold colors or muted, calming shades? Do you prefer a traditional or modern look? Once you have a clear idea of your personal style, you can choose a color scheme that reflects it.


For example, if you prefer a traditional look, you might choose a classic color scheme like white, beige, and brown. If you prefer a more modern look, you might opt for bold colors like red or blue. Whatever your personal style, make sure the color scheme you choose is one that you'll love for years to come.

DO: Consider the Mood You Want to Create


Color can have a significant impact on the mood of a room. Bright colors like yellow and orange can create a sense of energy and excitement, while muted colors like gray and beige can create a sense of calm and relaxation. When choosing a color scheme for your kitchen, think about the mood you want to create in the space.


If you want your kitchen to feel lively and energetic, consider using bright, bold colors like red, orange, or yellow. If you want your kitchen to feel more relaxed and calm, consider using soft, muted colors like gray, beige, or blue. The mood you create in your kitchen can impact everything from how you feel while cooking to how you entertain guests.

DO: Use Color to Define Different Areas of Your Kitchen


In many kitchens, there are different areas with different functions. For example, you might have a cooking area, a dining area, and a prep area. Using color to define these areas can help create a sense of organization and flow in your kitchen.


One way to do this is to use different colors or shades of the same color in each area. For example, you might use a darker shade of blue on the walls in the cooking area and a lighter shade of blue on the walls in the dining area. You might also use different colors or patterns on the backsplash or flooring to define each area.

DO: Use Color to Add Visual Interest


In addition to creating a specific mood and defining different areas of your kitchen, color can also be used to add visual interest to the space. One way to do this is to use a bold color or pattern on a single wall or a focal point in the room, such as a backsplash or island.


Another way to add visual interest is to use contrasting colors. For example, you might use a dark color on the cabinets and a light color on the walls, or vice versa. You might also use a combination of complementary colors, such as blue and orange or yellow and purple.

DO: Consider the Lighting in Your Kitchen


The lighting in your kitchen can have a significant impact on how color appears in the space. Natural light can make colors appear brighter and more vibrant, while artificial light can make colors appear duller or more yellow. When choosing a color scheme for your kitchen, it's essential to consider the lighting in the space.


If your kitchen receives a lot of natural light, you might opt for bold, vibrant colors that will be enhanced by the sunlight. If your kitchen has limited natural light, you might choose soft, muted colors that won't be washed out by artificial light. It's also important to consider the placement of light fixtures and the type of bulbs you'll be using. Warm white bulbs can create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, while cool white bulbs can create a more modern, industrial look.

DON'T: Overdo It with Bold Colors


While bold colors can add a lot of personality and visual interest to a kitchen, it's important not to overdo it. Using too many bold colors can create a chaotic, overwhelming feeling in the space. Instead, choose one or two bold colors to use as accents or focal points in the room.


For example, you might choose a bright red backsplash or a vibrant blue island. Pairing these bold colors with neutral colors like white, beige, or gray can help create balance in the room.

DON'T: Forget About Functionality


While the aesthetic appeal of a kitchen is essential, it's equally important to consider the functionality of the space. When choosing a color scheme for your kitchen, make sure it won't hinder the practical use of the room.


For example, if you have young children, you might want to avoid using light-colored fabrics or finishes that are difficult to clean. If you do choose a light color, consider using a durable, stain-resistant material like quartz or porcelain tile.

DON'T: Be Afraid to Mix and Match


Mixing and matching different colors and patterns can create a unique and personalized look in your kitchen. For example, you might pair a bold, patterned backsplash with solid-colored cabinets or use two different colors of cabinets in the same space.


When mixing and matching colors and patterns, it's important to consider the overall look of the room. Using too many patterns or colors can create a cluttered, chaotic feeling in the space. It's best to choose one or two patterns and stick with a cohesive color scheme throughout the room.

DON'T: Follow Trends Blindly


Trends in kitchen design come and go, but your personal style and preferences will stay with you for years to come. While it's essential to stay up-to-date on current trends, don't feel pressured to follow them blindly.


Instead, choose a color scheme that reflects your personal style and preferences. If you love bold colors and patterns, don't shy away from using them in your kitchen. If you prefer a more neutral look, stick with shades of white, beige, or gray. Trends may come and go, but your personal style is timeless.

Conclusion


Using color in kitchen design can be a fun and exciting process. By considering your personal style, the mood you want to create, the different areas of your kitchen, and the lighting in the space, you can create a kitchen that's both beautiful and functional. Remember to mix and match colors and patterns, but don't overdo it. And most importantly, choose a color scheme that reflects your personal style and preferences, rather than blindly following trends. With these dos and don'ts in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating the kitchen of your dreams.

And Quaker Cabinets is here to help you with all your design needs! Call us at 267-227-3363 to schedule your free design consultation today!

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