Colors to Choose for a Kitchen

Decorate a small kitchen in white to make the space feel larger and brighter.

Kitchens can be difficult to decorate because they tend to be irregular spaces, with jutting counter tops, cabinets, and a lot of appliances covering the walls and floors. It's important to pick colors that will be functional but attractive, and that can be coordinated with the appliances and furnishings in the room. Picking a theme will help you choose colors that match and make sense together.

Eggshells

A white and off-white color scheme works best in kitchens that are small and need a lot of light. Choose white ceramic tiles, off-white paint, light or white cabinets and appliances. Lighter colors push back the walls and help create the illusion of space. This is especially important in the kitchen as families often gather here while food is being prepared. The downside of white is its tendency to show dirt and grease. It is difficult to keep a white kitchen looking clean.

Pizza Parlor

For a larger kitchen with a lot of space, create a warm and inviting restaurant-like space with warm colors like deep reds or oranges, combined with furnishings made from natural materials (wooden stools, benches and cabinets) and stone counter tops. Pick one dominating warm color, to be featured on ceramic tiles or painted on the walls, then use accents of other warm colors around the room. Decorate the room in colors that match a theme of warmth and food, like with a spice or pepper motif.

Zesty Green

In a kitchen with little or no natural light, bright greens will bring life and color to the room. These colors coordinate with a salad or fresh veggies theme, so your decorations may include images of lettuce heads and sprigs of fresh growing foods. Use accents of yellow or white, in the kitchen accessories like dish towels and pot holders. Pair green walls with white or yellow counter tops, white cabinets and white appliances.

Utilitarian Kitchen

If you're a serious chef and want only a functional and utilitarian kitchen, consider a color scheme of gray and white. Use stainless steel appliances and provide only minimal decoration with a few functional, ceramic bowls on the counters. Stone counter tops and white cabinets will be in keeping with this color scheme, while providing elegance and sophistication.

References

• I Love India; Choosing Colors For A Kitchen
• Interiordezine.com; Kitchens