When it comes to upgrading your kitchen, there are a lot of details that need your attention – kitchen cabinet paint colors, flooring, and even your countertops and backsplash tile. One thing to consider that is often overlooked is the lighting. Did you know that both natural and artificial lighting can have a huge impact on the overall aesthetic of your kitchen? Lighting can also have an impact on your design choices, particularly your cabinet painting color. Here is what you should know before you choose a cabinet paint color for your kitchen.
Why Lighting Impacts Kitchen Cabinet Colors So Much
The perception of color on your kitchen cabinets is heavily influenced by the interplay of natural and artificial lighting within the space. If you’ve ever selected a paint color based on its appearance online or in-store, only to find it looks entirely different once applied to your walls, you’ve encountered this phenomenon. In well-lit environments, colors tend to appear more vibrant, while in dimly lit spaces, they may appear muted or lackluster due to diminished intensity. A blend of natural and artificial light affords greater control over color intensity, enabling you to curate the ambiance that best suits your needs.
What to Know About Natural Light
Consider the lighting dynamics in your home across various times of the day. The shifting position of the sun influences the perception of your cabinet color. Additionally, factors such as the season and orientation of your home can further alter the appearance of the paint color on your kitchen cabinets.
In kitchens with limited natural light, paint colors may appear less vibrant. To accurately showcase the true cabinet paint color you’ve selected, consider incorporating appropriate artificial lighting. Alternatively, opting for brighter hues can enhance the appearance of your kitchen cabinets in such environments.
If your natural light options are limited in your kitchen, there are several strategies to maximize the available light, including:
- Choosing a light, bright paint color for your cabinets
- Skipping window treatments or opting for light, airy window treatments rather than heavy ones
- Hanging mirrors to reflect light
- Pruning shrubs or trees that are blocking sunlight from getting inside
On the other side, with ample natural light in your kitchen, achieving the true color becomes much simpler.
What to Know About Artificial Light
Artificial lighting options can vary in terms of wattage and color temperature, and not all lightbulbs are the same. Here’s what you need to understand about the distinctions between different types of light bulbs so you can select the most suitable option for your home:
- The more incandescent lighting you have in your kitchen, the more intense warm colors will be, while cool colors will be dulled.
- Halogen lighting, on the other hand, tends to act more similarly to natural lighting, so whatever color is on your kitchen cabinets will look truer to life.
- LED lighting comes in many different color temperatures. Depending on the bulb you select, this type of lighting can make kitchen cabinet colors appear cooler or warmer.
- There are even smart lightbulbs to consider which offer multiple settings. These bulbs give you more control over the level of lighting and ambiance in your kitchen. When you’re cooking and trying to read a recipe, you can opt for a brighter light setting. When you’re entertaining or relaxing over a meal with your family, you can choose a softer, cozier glow.
How to Choose Kitchen Cabinet Colors with Lighting in Mind
Remember, the bright fluorescent lights in stores often don’t accurately reflect how colors will appear in your home. Instead of committing to a color in-store, take home several samples and observe them in your kitchen. Assess them at various times of day and under different lighting conditions—turn off the lights, open the blinds, or light a candle. This way, you’ll gain a better understanding of how your cabinets will look in any situation.
Are you struggling to decide on a cabinet color? Look no further than N-Hance of Central Coast. Our experts are well-versed in how lighting interacts with paint, ensuring we recommend hues that complement your kitchen perfectly. Moreover, our cabinet color change process guarantees a flawlessly even color and a durable finish that stands the test of time.
No matter the lighting conditions or your color temperature preferences, N-Hance of Central Coast is here to assist you in creating a kitchen you adore. With a plethora of color options available, including the ability to match any color you provide, we’ll rejuvenate your cabinets and illuminate your kitchen with fresh vitality.
Are you ready to find out more about painting your kitchen cabinets while keeping various lighting options in mind? Call N-Hance of Central Coast for a FREE consultation!