If you’re renovating your kitchen, or designing a new one for a home extension space, there are a number of important considerations to take into account. One factor that shouldn’t be overlooked is the colour of the kitchen. From the flooring to the cabinets and walls, the colours you choose can make a big impact on your kitchen space. So what is the importance of colour in kitchen design? And what should you consider?
What is the importance of colour in kitchen design?
Colour can be important for a number of reasons in the kitchen, including:
- Creating the right atmosphere
- Maximising space and light
- Complementing the home’s overall design
Creating the right atmosphere with the colour of the kitchen
One of the key aspects of choosing colours for a kitchen is that the colours you choose set the tone of atmosphere of your kitchen. Bright, vibrant colours, like yellow or red, can inject energy and cheerfulness into the room, making it feel lively and inviting. These colours are particularly effective in spaces where families gather or for homeowners who want their kitchen to feel social and dynamic. On the other hand, muted tones such as soft greys, blues, and greens can create a more relaxed and serene atmosphere. These shades are ideal for smaller kitchens, as they can make the space feel less cramped and more open. In addition, neutral tones, including whites, creams, and beiges, are timeless choices that evoke cleanliness and simplicity, ensuring the kitchen feels fresh and welcoming at all times.
Maximising space and light with colour in the kitchen
For smaller or more compact kitchens, the use of colour can be very important. This is because some colours can dramatically affect how spacious and bright a kitchen appears. Lighter shades, such as pale whites, soft greys, and pastels, are the most effective for this, making a small kitchen feel larger and airier by reflecting available light. Glossy finishes on cabinets and worktops can amplify this effect, bouncing light around the room. For larger kitchens, or those with plenty of natural light, darker tones like navy blue or forest green can add depth and sophistication without overwhelming the space. These colours, when paired with metallic accents such as brass handles or copper fixtures, bring elegance and modernity.
Complementing the homes overall design
Kitchen design is often connected to the overall architectural style of the home. For traditional properties, such as Victorian or Georgian houses, heritage colours like sage green, cream, or duck egg blue work beautifully with a traditional or rustic design, reflecting the period’s character. These shades blend seamlessly with classic elements such as shaker-style cabinets and wooden worktops. In contemporary homes, bold colour choices such as matte black, deep charcoal, or even jewel tones like emerald green or rich burgundy can make a striking statement. Modern kitchens also lend themselves to contrasting colour schemes, with dark cabinets paired with light worktops or vibrant splashes of colour through tiles, splashbacks, or accessories.
Practical considerations when choosing the colour of your kitchen
Beyond aesthetics, colour can also have a practical impact. Light coloured surfaces can show stains and marks more easily, which may be a concern for busy households. On the other hand, darker colours, while stylish, may require more frequent cleaning to avoid showing dust or fingerprints.
Durability and longevity are also worth considering. Neutral or classic colours are less likely to go out of style and can make a kitchen more appealing to future buyers, particularly as kitchens are often a significant selling point.
For more information about kitchen design, or to check out our range of kitchens, visit us online, or in store today. Here at Homematas, we are Preston’s leading kitchen design specialists.