Table of Contents
Navy Blue
Navy blue, once a symbol of sophistication, has begun to show its age in contemporary kitchens. While it once felt warm and luxurious, this deep hue can now make spaces appear overly themed or dated. Instead, consider transitioning to softer neutrals or richer muted tones that can create an inviting atmosphere while maintaining a timeless appeal.
Opt for a palette that includes warmer, earth-toned neutrals to breathe life into your kitchen while ensuring it remains stylish for years to come.
Mint Green
Mint green has emerged as a fresh alternative in kitchen cabinetry, bringing a playful yet sophisticated touch to the heart of the home. This soft hue pairs beautifully with white upper cabinets, allowing for a light and airy feel. When executed correctly, mint green can evoke a sense of calm while still feeling chic and modern.
Consider using mint green as an accent color against neutral backdrops to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Honey Oak Wood
The once-popular honey oak wood cabinetry has fallen out of favor, often evoking a sense of nostalgia rather than elegance. Homeowners are now encouraged to explore alternatives like warm maple or dark walnut, which can provide the classic, organic feel of wood while elevating the overall design aesthetic.
For a contemporary kitchen, consider Scandinavian-style ash wood for a light and airy feel that still retains warmth and character.
The Hardware Refresh
If painting isn’t an option, swapping your hardware is the fastest way to ditch the “dated” look. We curated these three high-impact finishes to instantly elevate honey oak or stark white cabinets.
Brushed Brass Knobs
Warm gold tones instantly modernize navy or white cabinets. These heavy-weight knobs feel expensive and add a “jewelry” effect to the room.
View on Amazon →
Matte Black Pulls
Sleek, minimal, and fingerprint-proof. The high contrast of black hardware saves “Honey Oak” cabinets from looking too traditional.
View on Amazon →
Satin Nickel Bars
A designer favorite for a reason. These cool-toned pulls bridge the gap between traditional and modern, making even older cabinets look intentional.
View on Amazon →Cherry Red Wood
Cherry red wood cabinetry, once a staple in traditional kitchens, can feel overly vibrant and distracting in today’s design landscape. Designers recommend steering clear of this bold choice, as it may clash with modern aesthetics. Instead, consider more subdued wood tones that complement your overall design vision.
Choose natural wood finishes that convey elegance without overpowering your kitchen’s design.
Mustard Yellow
Mustard yellow, while once a cheerful choice for kitchens, has become synonymous with dated designs. This bold hue can overshadow the elegance of a well-designed space. Opting for softer yellows or creamy neutrals can evoke warmth without the heaviness of mustard, ensuring your kitchen feels inviting and modern.
Integrate muted shades of yellow through accents or decor to keep the space lively without overwhelming it.
Country Red
Country red cabinetry often evokes a rustic charm, but in today’s design world, it can feel out of place and overly kitsch. Homeowners are advised to embrace more sophisticated color schemes that enhance their kitchen’s appeal rather than detract from it. Colors that complement the home’s architecture will provide a more cohesive feel.
Instead of country red, opt for deep burgundies or rich earth tones that resonate with traditional elegance.
Texture & Warmth
Stuck with a color you hate? Use these peel-and-stick solutions to cover dated backsplashes or add the “organic warmth” designers are raving about this year.
Paintable Beadboard
Instantly covers ugly flat cabinet panels or backsplashes. It adds that custom millwork look for a fraction of the cost.
View on Amazon →
3D Subway Tile
Brighten up a dark “Cherry Red” kitchen with a crisp white backsplash. These tiles have actual texture and are heat-resistant.
View on Amazon →
Light Oak Film
Ditch the orange “Honey Oak” for this modern, matte light oak finish. Perfect for covering countertops or cabinet interiors.
View on Amazon →Stark White
While stark white kitchens can appear fresh and clean, they often lack the warmth that makes a home inviting. To counterbalance the coldness of pure white, consider incorporating soft off-whites or creams, which can create a more welcoming environment while still maintaining a polished look.
Mix white with natural wood accents or textured fabrics to add depth and warmth to your kitchen design.
