When it comes to kitchens, trends are always changing. The days of purely white minimalistic kitchens are over (for now) and many of us are choosing to add some welcome colour to our kitchens. The kitchen is the heart of the home, after all, and after a difficult few years it’s no wonder we’re all looking for ways to make our homes more uplifting.
So what are the best shades, and how should you incorporate them (keeping in mind that if you’re planning to sell, or have an investment property, it’s generally best to keep things neutral.)
Easy ways to add colour to your kitchen
Blue, green and grey laminates are all having a moment right now. But you don’t have to rip out your current cabinetry to add them to your space.
Instead, think about painting the cabinets you already have. This can work extremely well if you already love the style of your kitchen. A popular trend is to paint the lower cabinets a darker colour and keep the top cabinets white.
Another option is replacing the tiling with something a little more modern. Mirrored splashbacks in darker shades such as black, grey, or red look smart and will reflect light back into the room and make the space feel larger.
Or you can replace your splashbacks or tiles to give a dated kitchen a more modern feel. Bold colours, geometric patterns and classic glazed tiles all look fantastic, while marble splashbacks are elegant and understated.
What’s the best shade for my space?
When choosing the right colour for your kitchen, it’s important to consider the amount of space you have and how much light your kitchen gets. Remember that dark colours will make the space feel smaller while lighter shades will help to make it feel larger and more spacious.
That’s where a two-tone kitchen (darker cabinets below, white ones above the benchtop) and a mirrored splashback can work well. It’s a way to add some colour without making the kitchen feel totally closed in.
Timber kitchens have been popular for many years and these always look great if your kitchen is large and spacious. However, consider breaking up the timber cabinetry by painting the top cupboards in a light shade or removing them altogether in favour of open shelving. A great stylist’s trick is to use your open shelves to add some interest with colourful ceramics, vases, glass jars, books and artwork – mix up textures, heights and shapes and play around until you have something you’re happy with.
Selling in the next few years? Keep it simple
If you’re thinking of selling your home in the next few years, you don’t want to go overboard with a complete colour change as trends do change quickly. That’s why timber is always a popular choice. In fact, white cabinets with a darker timber benchtop look great and won’t date.
Instead of changing the colour of the cabinetry and tiling, think about adding splashes of colour with items that you can take with you when you sell. For example, why not add an antique kitchen cabinet or dresser if you have the space?
You can paint a free-standing piece of furniture in a colour that you really like (pale pinks, blues and greys all look beautiful) and that works in your current kitchen, and then take it with you when you move.
Another way to add a bright splash of colour is to add a bold and striking pendant light. This can work exceptionally well if you position it over the island bench. It will draw the eye and add some extra light to the work area.
Thinking of moving? Talk to us
Thinking of selling and wondering what you need to do to your property first? Please give the JDH team a call and we’ll be happy to help.
