There’s a reason that two toned cabinets have become so popular! If you’re looking to bring some visual interest to your kitchen, two toned cabinets are a great choice. However, when it comes to selecting a two-tone kitchen cabinet color combination, the right approach is key.
Tips for Choosing the Best Two Tone Cabinet Colors
Even if you love two particular colors, that doesn’t mean they’ll complement each other or even look good on cabinet surfaces. Follow these tips for getting the two-tone color trend right:
Tip #1: Mix Bold and Neutral Colors
One reason many homeowners in Albuquerque love the two-tone look is that it allows them to add a bold splash of color to the kitchen without overwhelming the space. To do this, consider painting your kitchen island a unique, vibrant color, and leave the rest of the cabinets a neutral color. No Island? Paint your base cabinets a dark, rich, dramatic color and then opt for a light, bright, neutral for those upper cabinets. Just keep in mind, when you choose a bold, eye-catching color, it should be paired with a more neutral hue.
Tip #2: Consider Balance
When painting your cabinets with two tones, be sure that you consider balance. To achieve a balanced, calm space with the two-tone style, choose two colors with different hues or shades of the same color. Think of a deep, dramatic dark gray paired with a light, neutral gray.
Whatever color you choose, make sure the lighter shade is on the upper kitchen cabinets and the darker shade is on the base cabinets. The darker cabinets will anchor the space, creating a strong sense of balance.
Tip #3: Use Wood as One Tone
You don’t necessarily have to paint your cabinets two different colors to bring the two-tone trend to life in your kitchen. Instead, consider staining some of your kitchen cabinets, enhancing the beauty of the natural wood in the process. Then paint the remaining ones a coordinating color. Wood tone functions as a neutral color, so feel free to choose a bold color to go with it.
Tip #4: When In Doubt, Choose White
If you’re not sure what neutral to pair with a bolder color, opt for white or a variation of white. If you choose a cool bold color like blue, pick a cool shade of white or light gray. If your bolder color is warmer, choose a creamier white. This approach will work to balance the more vibrant cabinet color and create a look in your kitchen that’s harmonious and inviting.
Tip #5: Follow the 60-30-10 Rule
A good rule of thumb to follow when incorporating color into your kitchen is the 60-30-10 rule. This means painting 60% of your cabinets one dominant color and 30% a neutral, or vice versa. The remaining 10% should come in the form of an accent color, brought in with artwork, area rugs, floral arrangements, window treatments and the like.
Our Favorite Two Tone Cabinet Combos
At N-Hance of Albuquerque, we have helped many homeowners get the two toned cabinets of their dreams. If you’re unsure what direction you’d like to go in, here are a few of our favorite combos for inspiration.
White and Dark Gray or Black
Paint your base kitchen cabinets dark gray or black, then the upper cabinets bright white. This will create a clean, crisp look that is sleek and sophisticated. The best part, you can use any color as your accent color, even switch it up as often as you’d like.
White and Blue
If black isn’t for you, another popular color to pair with white is navy or cobalt blue. A bold blue on the bottom cabinets and then white upper cabinets creates a stunning look. Add in some elegance with gold light fixtures and cabinet hardware.
Blue and Brown
If you’d like to stain some of your kitchen cabinets, highlighting their natural wood beauty, opt for a color like light blue for the rest of your cabinets. The blue will energize the space, while the hardwood will keep it warm and grounded.
Blending Neutrals
Another option is to choose different shades of one neutral, such as a dark gray and a lighter gray. This will create a welcoming, classic look that’s layered, visually interesting, and has dimension.
Green and Gold
This kitchen cabinet paint color combination has become increasingly popular in recent years. With it, you can paint your kitchen island or your base cabinets a dark green. Then, add contrast with a creamy color on the upper kitchen cabinets, and add glamor with gold accents.
Other Kitchen Cabinet Color Combinations to Consider
- Dark green with hardwood cabinets
- Olive green and cream cabinets
- Plum and cream cabinets
- Orange and white cabinets
- Beige and black cabinets
Ready to Add the Two-Tone Color Trend to Your Kitchen Cabinets?
At N-Hance of Albuquerque, we’re here to help. Whether you know the colors you want your cabinets painted or aren’t sure where to begin, we can help you out. Our cabinet makeover specialists are happy to discuss every decision with you, from colors to finishing techniques, hardware, and even cabinet storage solutions. We can even bring samples to your home, so you can see the colors first-hand in your kitchen.
We have a palette of the most popular colors, but if you have a color in mind that’s not a part of our palette, let us know and we can match it. Whatever you’re interested in, we’ll guide you through the selection process, so you get two-tone kitchen cabinets that you love.
Ready to find out more or bring the two-tone color trend to your kitchen cabinets? Call N-Hance of Albuquerque at (505) 314-1997 to set up a FREE consultation and quote.