Choosing colors for your kitchen or home goes way beyond picking paint colors for the walls (which is really the last thing you should do). You also have to consider cabinet colors, hardware, lighting, counter tops, the back splash and the flooring! If you aren't planning to replace or repaint cabinets and/or flooring, the existing colors need to work with the new colors. PLEASE do not make the common mistake of getting fixated on matching the color of that one thing and lose sight of the big picture. You have to keep in mind how all of the pieces will work together to create the overall look.
If you’ve remodeled before you know it’s harder than it sounds. Picking the wrong combination of colors and finishes is a costly mistake that you will have to live with for years to come. When selecting materials and colors for a kitchen we pick in this order:
Start with Cabinets
Cabinets cover most of the wall space and will eat up a good chunk of your budget. Should you repaint or replace? Go dark or light? Repainting does not necessarily save you money but it does provide tons of color options. Darker colors hide stains and add warmth while white cabinets can make a kitchen feel light and airy, but they show dirt quickly. Make sure you choose your cabinet color with long-term care in mind.
Countertops
Your kitchen counters is another main surface and big ticket item. Selecting a countertop that is neutral and doesn’t have a busy pattern makes selecting a back splash so much easier and they tend to be less expensive than the marble look. Neutral countertops are also a great choice if you like to redecorate your home often as they coordinate well with most decor.
Backsplash
Your back splash is a great place to showcase your personality and their are plenty of options to choose from. You can keep it classic or add a splash of color to spice things up. In addition to color, you also have to consider the tile pattern, grout color, maintenance and how it is installed.
Paint Color Last!
Since their are thousands of paint colors to pick from always make this your last choice. Once you've chosen the color palette you think will work best, bring the paint chips into the room where it will be used to make your final decision. Lighting makes a big difference in the way color is perceived. Because of this, look at the paint colors several times throughout the day. A color that is bright and cheerful in the natural light might seem dim and grim when it only has an artificial lighting source in the evening.
CONCLUSIONPicking materials and colors for a kitchen can be daunting but it’s not impossible. Don’t try to tackle it all at once but work in the order we have suggested. If you’re struggling or just want a second opinion hire a professional designer like AJM Design+Build experienced in kitchen design to help you sort through the many choices (not your friend, contractor or store rep you met while browsing the aisle).