Small Kitchen Cabinet Colors That Add Major Style

Most of us can probably agree that remodeling a kitchen is no small feat, especially when the space you're working with is on the petite side. Between appliances, cabinetry, countertops, backsplashes, and more, there are so many design factors to think through--and that's before you've even begun pondering paint colors!

But don't let the prospect of choosing cabinet colors for a compact kitchen overwhelm you. With a bit of strategic planning and inspiration from chic, real-life examples, you can pick a color palette that packs some serious style into your small kitchen.

Key Considerations When Selecting Cabinet Colors

Before diving into specific color schemes, let's go over some of the most important factors to keep in mind as you're making your decision.

Take Stock of Natural Light

The amount and quality of natural light your kitchen receives should play a pivotal role in choosing colors. North-facing rooms that don't get direct sun exposure would do well with colors on the warmer end of the spectrum--think antique white or soft peach with yellow undertones to compensate for the lack of warmth from outside light.

Meanwhile, south-facing rooms awash in natural light can pull off cooler hues like airy grays and blues without worrying about the space feeling cold. Strategic task lighting and pendant lights above key areas like the sink can also help illuminate any dark corners or shadows.

Consider Existing Elements Like Floors and Countertops

Don't choose your cabinet color in isolation--make sure it complements or intentionally contrasts with key existing elements like your flooring and countertops. For example, dramatic dark cabinetry looks stunning against light marble or quartz counters, while vintage-inspired sage green cabinets pop against neutral salt-and-pepper floors.

Matching the undertones of your cabinet color with other materials in the space creates a cohesive, blended look. Contrasting undertones can also look beautiful, just be sure differences in tone don't clash.

Dream Up Your Overall Mood and Aesthetic

Think about the general vibe you want your kitchen revamp to exude. Do you imagine an airy, sun-filled cafe aesthetic with rustic charm? Or perhaps a contemporary, elegant space with rich shades of blue and brass accents? Defining this ahead of time will help guide your color selection.

Also decide whether you want to create a more traditional or modern kitchen. Classic white or beige cabinets suit transitional styles, while unexpected navy or forest green cabinets make a bold, contemporary statement.

Choose Between Timeless Neutrals or Trendy Statement Colors

If you plan on being in your home long-term, lean towards versatile neutrals that will never go out of style. But if you have a bit more flexibility, take some risks with on-trend bold or moody colors to make your small kitchen stand out.

Just keep in mind bolder colors also come with a bit more upkeep--expect to repaint down the line once your next color crush emerges.

Making a Statement With Dark, Dramatic Cabinets

Done right, dark cabinet colors can create a luxurious, enveloping look perfect for small kitchens. Here are some moody hues that pack a stylish punch.

Sophisticated Navy or Cobalt Blue

Deep shades of blue lend an elegant, nautical vibe to kitchens that looks polished yet relaxed. For bonus style points, pair navy cabinets with brass hardware and accessories for that covetable vintage yacht aesthetic.

Pro tip: Finish walls and ceilings in a light, neutral color to keep the space from feeling too claustrophobic.

Sleek Charcoal or Black

Inky super-dark cabinets can be striking, especially offset by lighter counters and backsplash materials. The rich color lends a luxe, grounded feel.

Add visual interest by playing with different hardware finishes: matte black feels modern, while brass offers a hit of warmth.

Warm Espresso, Chocolate, or Mahogany

Deep coffee-inspired brown hues feel inviting and timeless. They work well for traditional kitchen styles, but also pair nicely with contemporary elements.

Accent with natural materials like wood shelving and ceramic cookware to enhance the earthy, organic vibe.

Bathed in Light: Fresh, Airy Cabinet Colors

On the brighter end of the spectrum, lighter neutrals can make compact kitchens feel clean, spacious, and awash in natural light.

Classic Crisp White

It doesn't get more versatile than crisp white cabinetry, which matches any style from farmhouse to contemporary. Avoid looking overly sterile by warming it up with wood accents and creamy backsplash tiles.

Warm Off-White, Ivory, or Beige

Slightly mellowed white tones feel a bit softer and more relaxed. Popular choices like almond white, antique white, and linen white work with both cool and warm paint colors.

Tip: Add dimension by pairing two similar off-white tones, like upper cabinets in almond white and lowers in antique white.

Hazy Light Gray

Light driftwood gray cabinets serve up cottagecore vibes with a side of Scandinavian minimalism. Pair with sage green walls or baby blue tiles.

Pro tip: Choose gray cabinetry with tan, beige, or taupe undertones so the space doesn't read too icy or stark.

The Best of Both Worlds: Mixing Dark and Light Cabinets

Finding it hard to commit to one color direction? The solution might be right in the middle. Combining lighter and darker cabinet colors offers visual depth and dimension while breaking up all that cabinetry.

Dark Lower Cabinets, Light Upper Cabinets

Ground the kitchen with moody cabinets on the bottom half like navy or charcoal. Then literally lift the eye upward with lighter upper cabinets in soft white or pale blue.

This look also elongates the kitchen, since lighter colors draw the gaze up.

Light Perimeter Cabinets, Dark Island

For a kitchen with a central prep island or peninsula, try framing the space in soft white or beige cabinets. Then make the island a focal point with deep emerald green or rich espresso cabinetry.

This defines the distinct spaces while allowing you to enjoy both light and dark colors.

Tips for Maximizing the Impact of Color

To make the most of your cabinet colors, incorporate these strategies tailored to small kitchen spaces:

Two-Tone Cabinets

Consider using two-tone cabinets, with the lower cabinets painted in a darker, richer color and the upper cabinets painted in a lighter, brighter color. This can add depth and dimension to the space, while also creating a visual break between the cabinets and the countertop, which can make the kitchen appear more spacious.

Glass Cabinet Doors

If you're worried about clutter in your small kitchen, consider replacing some of your cabinet doors with glass. This allows you to still store items, but also keeps them visible, which can create the illusion of more space. Additionally, you can choose to display decorative items or kitchen tools that match the color scheme of your kitchen, which can make the space feel more cohesive and intentional.

Bold Backsplash

While it's generally best to stick to neutral colors for cabinets and walls in a small kitchen, consider adding a bold, patterned backsplash. This can create visual interest and draw the eye upward, making the space feel taller and more expansive. Just be sure to choose a backsplash that complements the overall color scheme of your kitchen.

Use Color to Define Spaces

If your small kitchen is open to other rooms in your home, consider using color to define the space. For example, you could paint the walls of your kitchen a different color than the adjacent dining or living area, which can help to visually separate the two spaces and make the kitchen feel more contained.

Colorful Appliances

Another way to add color to a small kitchen is by choosing colorful appliances. This can be a fun and playful way to inject some personality and vibrancy into the space, without taking up too much visual real estate. Just be sure to choose appliances that complement the overall color scheme of your kitchen, and that won't overwhelm the space.

Play With Natural Light

If your small kitchen has access to natural light, consider incorporating colors that complement the light. For example, warm, earthy tones like rust, olive green, or burnt orange can look beautiful in a space that's bathed in natural light. Similarly, cool, calming blues and greens can look stunning in a space that's flooded with natural light.

Consider High Gloss Finishes

High gloss cabinet finishes, rather than matte, can help reflect light around a small kitchen. The sheen plays nicely with both light and dark colors to add luminosity.

Just make sure to incorporate non-glossy textures in the space like wood cutting boards and rattan baskets so it doesn't feel overly sleek.

Choosing cabinet colors for a small kitchen may involve some strategic planning, but the impact can be so, so rewarding. Use the tips in this post to confidently narrow down your options and settle on a color direction.

Remember to account for natural light, existing elements like flooring, and the overall vibe you're going for. Play with glossy and matte finishes, smartly incorporate lighting, and don't be afraid to mix tones. Most importantly, choose something you'll love living with for years to come!