The Thrill of a Blue and Grey Kitchen Makeover
When we decided it was time to renovate our dated oak kitchen, I'll admit I was hesitant about choosing a bold color palette. But the moment I saw a photo of a striking blue and grey kitchen, I was hooked. I could instantly envision standing at a navy kitchen island topped with crisp white marble, looking out at cool grey cabinetry. The combination evoked an energy and personality that our existing space was sorely lacking. What began my research as a "maybe" was now an absolute must: a blue and grey kitchen to bring our culinary space to life!
If you also find yourself drawn to this popular color trend, then you're in good company. Blue and grey kitchens are taking over renovations everywhere thanks to their incredible versatility and intrigue. Unlike stark white or basic wood tones, this color scheme makes a statement. It brings a contemporary twist, coastal charm, or modern edge to any home.
Why Choose a Blue and Grey Kitchen?
So what's behind the blue grey kitchen trend? These cooler hues strike the perfect balance of appealing to broad tastes while still making a unique style statement. They also prove more interesting than flat white or beige backdrops. Here's a closer look at what makes them special.
A Popular and Versatile Color Palette
While trends come and go, blue and grey have holding power. Unlike bold reds or neon greens, these cooler shades appeal to a wide variety of homeowners without feeling overwhelming. Their versatility allows them to fit modern, transitional, coastal, or even more traditional spaces based on the exact tone and application.
Provides Visual Interest and Dimension
By using blue and grey together rather than just one color, kitchens gain greater visual dimension. The pairing adds needed contrast, taking cabinets from flat to fantastic. Different shades and gloss levels also introduce depth and texture.
Feels Calming Yet Sophisticated
Blue naturally evokes feelings of tranquility yet pairs well with grey's subtle sophistication. This makes a blue and grey color scheme ideal for a space like the kitchen that balances busy tasks with relaxation during meals or coffee breaks.
Fits With Almost Any Kitchen Style
From modern to farmhouse and everything between, blue and grey kitchen cabinets complement a variety of design aesthetics. Their versatility means they can transform spaces from rustic to contemporary with ease. Even small kitchens benefit from lighter blue grey tones that recede to feel more spacious.
The Psychology Behind the Blue and Grey Kitchen Trend
The soothing yet exciting combo of blue and grey kitchen cabinets is no accident. The colors actually balance our psychological needs, making this one of the most desirable palettes.
Blue Evokes Feelings of Tranquility and Flow
The color blue naturally brings about feelings of calm and relaxation. Studies show it actually causes the body to produce chemicals that lower heart rates and reduce anxiety. This makes blue an ideal accent in busy kitchen spaces meant for preparing family meals and entertaining guests.
Grey Offers Subtle Neutrality as an Accent
While grey trends more sophisticated than basic white and black, its neutrality still allows it to complement without overpowering. Applied to cabinetry or an accent wall, blue grey kitchens reap these grounding benefits.
Combination Satisfies Desire for Both Colors
Using blue and grey cabinetry allows us to reap the benefits of both tones in one space. The end result feels vibrant yet peaceful, satisfying our psychological thirst for each shade.
Blue Grey Kitchen Color Combinations
One of the joys of mixing blue and grey cabinetry lies in selecting perfect color pairings. Whether you prefer matching hues or unexpected contrasts, the options satisfy.
Matching Shades Across Cabinets
Some homeowners opt to use varying tones of blue or blue grey across all cabinets. For example, navy lowers, a robin's egg blue backsplash, and weathered blue uppers. This cohesive approach allows the whole space to feel saturated in tranquil blue.
Blue Cabinets, Grey Island
One stand-out look gaining popularity features navy, cobalt, or baby blue cabinets paired with a contrasting light or dark grey kitchen island. The two cooler colors complement beautifully.
Grey Cabinets, Blue Backsplash
For another take on the trend, try deep grey cabinets with eye-catching blue subway tile or geometric shapes on the backsplash. This draws attention to the functional space behind a stove or sink.
Navy Base, Light Grey Uppers
Deep blue on bottom cabinets grounds a space while lighter grey up top keeps things airy. The contrast between the two prevents all-dark kitchen gloom.
Varying Tones for Dimension
Don't be afraid to get creative mixing different blue and grey finishes, shapes, and placement. Combining matte and high-gloss cabinet colors adds light play. Square grey island cabinets contrast nicely with rounded blue uppers. Unexpected pops boost dimension.
Cabinet and Hardware Options
Choosing cabinet colors marks only the first step. Selecting complementary finishes and hardware completes the blue grey kitchen vibe.
Blue Cabinets
- Airy pastel blues
- Vintage weathered blues
- Bold cobalt or navy blues
- Contrasting white countertops
Grey Cabinets
- Soft greige tones
- Crisp light to dark greys
- Warm wood or marble counters
Design Styles for Blue Grey Kitchens
Ready to choose your blue grey color combination but not sure what design suits your home? Here are some of our favorite kitchen aesthetics for embracing this trend.
Contemporary
For a seamless modern or contemporary look, flat paneled blue and grey cabinets feel right at home. Crisp lines, high contrast, and minimal ornamentation embody this style.
Transitional
Transitional kitchens blend modern and traditional elements for the best of both. Blue grey cabinets keep things fresh without clashing against other accents like marble subway tiles or bronze fixtures.
Coastal
Bring beach house vibes home with weathered blue, sea glass backsplashes, and whitewashed grey cabinets. Rustic open shelves lined with shells complete the breezy look.
Additional Blue and Grey Kitchen Elements
Cabinet colors might take center stage, but don't forget about complementary design choices to enhance the modern blue grey space.
Subway Tile Backsplashes
Nothing quite completes a kitchen makeover like crisp white or even blue subway tile. running horizontally or in decorative patterns.
Natural Stone Counters
Earthy granite, quartz, or marble counters offset cool cabinets. Grey veining or white backgrounds both pop.
Open Shelving
Open glass shelving introduces another layer of dimension in blue and grey kitchens. Display favorite dishware or books.
Stainless Steel Appliances
Modern kitchens deserve modern appliances. Sleek steel ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers feel right at home with blue grey cabinetry.
Lighting for Visual Impact
Strategic lighting takes blue and grey kitchen transformations to the next level. Illumination draws eyes to key areas while setting off cabinets' high style impact.
Pendant Lights Over an Island
Long hanging pendant lights over kitchen islands anchor the space while directing sightlines up to show off dramatic ceilings.
Under Cabinet Lighting
Strip LED lighting underneath upper cabinets spotlights counters for food prep and entertainting. The glow enhances a modern mood.
Sconces Flanking a Backsplash
Draw even more attention to a vivid blue backsplash or colorful open shelving by installing angular sconces on either side. The focused light highlights shape and dimension.
Tips for Maximum Success
Getting a blue and grey kitchen makeover right relies on smart planning and design. Keep these tips in mind:
Hire an Experienced Contractor
A complex color scheme like blue and grey stands out beautifully when executed properly in cabinetry. But that requires carpentry precision. Hire professionals.
Seek Designer Input
Consult designers on perfecting paint tones and placement to realize your blue grey vision. Their guidance spotlights fine details.
Vibrant kitchen overhauls require more steps like painting or restaining. Build in a few extra weeks to complete the renovation properly without cutting corners.