If you are paying attention at all, you probably know thatpainted kitchen cabinetry is where it’s at – particularly white kitchen cabinetry. Wood finished cabinets date themselves quickly based on the undertone of the wood. Because I frequently stage homes for sale in the Nashville area, I can tell you that dark cherry cabinets are so 1994.
White cabinetry is timeless and works for all kinds of styles – country, european, contemporary, modern.
You may be concerned that an all-white kitchen means no personality, no style, no design. Well, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Here are the top 5 ways The Decorologist personalizes the white kitchen (without making an expensive mistake you’ll regret in 3 years):
1) Bring in a signature color through wall paint. Wall color is easily changed when you or a new owner wants a different look. Not so easy to change out the cabinetry or trendy backsplash.
2) Make a statement with your island. This is a great place to bring in texture, contrasting material, or an interesting color. Again, not as difficult to change when and if you tire of it.
3) Let your lighting take center stage. Make a bold choice in overhead lighting in the kitchen. This is a great way to showcase your personality without making a “permanent” statement.
4) Add personality with a free-standing piece of furniture, like a hutch or a breakfast table. The most timeless and interesting kitchens are those with more than just built-in cabinetry.
5) Add color inside your cabinets or in the back of a hutch. Or add your color through accessories and wall art.Kichler lighting can be added to accentuate the art.
So can you see why white kitchen cabinets are the right choice for your kitchen? If you want to learn more about how to use color in your home, check out my instructional videos here.
Donna Frascaon November 25, 2011 at 8:20 am
A oh Kristie! We have a clash of opinions. How can you be a designer and say that cherry cabinets are so 1994? Some of the most beautiful kitchen designs I’ve seen are with cabinetry that has color – even if it’s just a little. It’s how you design the rest of your kitchen that will make or break the design – or make it look dated. It’s the wall color, the appliances, the tile and the rest of the details in the kitchen that breath life into the potentially lifeless white cabinets.
The problem with white cabinets is that most people do not have white wood in the rest of their home and it just looks odd to have a such a popping white room when the rest of your home is “warm and cozyâ€.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton November 25, 2011 at 10:13 am
Hi Donna! Well, of course my perspective is influenced by my years of real estate staging. Kitchens sell homes, and they make or break a potential home sale. I have seen amazing homes sit for months and months because the kitchen feels too 1970’s, 1980’s, 1990’s, etc. So unless you intend on spending the rest of your life in the same home, I believe it’s important (at least in this room) to make choices that will resonant “timeless” rather than “trendy.”
Thank you for your comment, Donna, and for giving us another perspective to consider 🙂
Reply
Donna Frascaon November 26, 2011 at 3:20 pm
Always a pleasure Kristie, great post 😉
Reply
Maria Killamon November 25, 2011 at 10:33 am
As a blogger when you take a stand with your aesthetic one way or another, you also set yourself up as an expert in that area. The planet beats a path to my door for consults because I say that white kitchens are the be all and the end all, so Donna, you love wood stained kitchens, be the guru on them and what goes with each colour stain and if people aren’t already beating a path to your door, they will.
Awesome post Kristie and of course I agree with you 100% 🙂
Happy Thanksgiving!
x
MariaReply
Kristie Barnetton November 25, 2011 at 11:40 am
Thanks for sharing your opinion, Maria!
xoxo
Reply
Donna Frascaon November 30, 2011 at 8:29 am
Maria, It’s not that I love stained cabinets it’s that I’m more concerned with the white kitchens matching and coordinating with the rest of the home. I’m more concerned with overall design rather than just the color of a cabinet. Why isn’t anyone getting this?
Reply
Julieon May 22, 2013 at 11:54 pm
As a color consultant and a fine artist by training, I do agree with Donna on the overall design of the house instead of concentrating on staging just kitchen. Although I really really LOVE WHITE cabinet, it has to be put into the context of the overall design. — Julie
Reply
Leifon November 25, 2011 at 11:21 am
Kristie, I TOTALLY agree with you! White kitchens are TIMELESS and you can make a white kitchen extremely warm and coxy! I only wish I had used white marble or the dark stained wood as my counter-top. I am getting tired of the same old granite colors. I am mad that I let that sales rep talk me out of it!! 🙂
Happy Turkey DAY! LeifReply
Kristie Barnetton November 25, 2011 at 11:40 am
oooh, that dang granite – another topic for a blogpost!
Reply
Miss Emilyon November 25, 2011 at 11:39 am
White and off-white kitchens are gorgeous. If I was in a cottage style house that’s definitely what I would want. But I do think it depends on the house and the location of the house or dwelling. Some contemporary styles just don’t work with white cabinets. I like both white and dark cabinets, depending on the type of house and the rest of the decor in the house.
Reply
Lindaon November 25, 2011 at 1:03 pm
I have cherry cabinets and HATE them. The cherry has turned orange and even though the house was built in 2000 I absolutely can’t stand them. Painting the cabinets white is one of the first home improvements we will be making in 2012…right after we purchase a new stove which chose yesterday (Thanksgiving) as the day to break down. I’m with you and Maria 100% on this one Kristie!
Reply
Kristie Barnetton November 25, 2011 at 5:48 pm
Linda,
I hope the stove breaking down didn’t ruin Thanksgiving dinner! Thank you for your comment.Reply
Lindaon November 25, 2011 at 7:44 pm
The turkey cooked and then it died. It was a mad dash of microwaved side dishes. We survived. (plus the stove had been on it’s last legs for a while now.)
Reply
rcwheel164on January 21, 2016 at 5:06 pm
What color stove did you get? What color fridge?
BobReply
Sheila Zelleron November 25, 2011 at 7:04 pm
I hear you on the cherry cabinets – if we owned this home we would be painting them out! And I think for me I’d be heading down a blend of white and gray lane… but instead I decorate around them with things like fab bar stools 😉 Great post!
Reply
Maureen Coateson November 25, 2011 at 11:01 pm
I’ve had two white kitchens, one oak kitchen and one cherry kitchen. I’ve enjoyed the aesthetics of all of them for various reasons and have been frustrated with all them for other reasons. White kitchens are awesome, but only when they are pristine. There was nothing more frustrating for me than keeping my white kitchens LOOKING white and clean. Smudges, spills and grease are magnified in white kitchens. My gorgeous Cherry kitchen that I have now, seems to disguise these messes….however, DUST is the killer in a dark kitchen. I am planning to go grey with my next kitchen. I am less concerned about what is timeless (no such thing when it comes to kitchens if you ask me) as I am with functionality, counter space, storage, lighting, clutter, appliances, and ease of care.
Reply
Lindaon November 26, 2011 at 7:10 am
Actually, Maureen has a really good point. No kitchen is timeless. The Realtor I work with for Staging says “any kitchen 10 years or older is seem as dated to a buyer”. It really doesn’t matter what you do as long as you love it.
Reply
Ashleyon November 26, 2011 at 5:06 am
I’m adoring the distressed green birdseye hutch… clicked on your source and it led me to a phone and internet company. Where can I see this?? 😀
Reply
Kristie Barnetton November 26, 2011 at 9:56 am
Ok Ashley, try again. I think I’ve got it fixed!
Reply
Moniqueon November 26, 2011 at 7:48 pm
I love the look of white kitchen cabinets but as Maureen posted, it’s tough keeping white cabinets clean. I have a dog and I think I’d probably have to wipe down or repaint areas of the lower cabinets.
Kristie, what are your thoughts on painting the lower cabinets a darker color and keep the upper cabinets white? Maybe you’ll do a blog posting on this trend? Please.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton November 26, 2011 at 9:02 pm
Good idea, Monique – I will post about that soon 🙂
Reply
Katieon November 26, 2011 at 8:48 pm
I totally love white kitchen cabinets! In fact… I will be adding molding/trim to my “old as God” cabinets and painting them a white wash. Also changing the hardware. Very excited about this project! Hope you had a good Thanksgiving Kristie! XoXo
Reply
Barbaraon November 27, 2011 at 2:07 am
Greetings! Fantastic options for personalizing a white kitchen! It’s all about options and not being stuck with an expensive trend! My dear brother just remodeled his kitchen and his designer chose three different wood finishes…none of them white of course and olive green tiles from counter to ceiling! It looks great now, but what will we say 10 or 15 years from now?
Reply
Libbyon November 28, 2011 at 7:19 pm
I have always been a fan of white kitchen cabinets. In our previous house we inherited cherry cabinets and I lived with them for almost ten loooong years! We had them painted white, and put on new doors which really helped to update the entire room. But, I have to say, that painting dark wood is very tricky. We had a professional do it, and for a few years all was fine. But even with my care, the paint DID start to chip on a few corners. Now, in our new house we were lucky to inherit white cabinets! And, they had been professionally spray painted so it is about as good as it gets. I love them. We went with gray and yellow (walls and ceiling) with touches of orange in the fabrics.
I am a total fan of white! so thank you Kristie!Reply
jaeon December 2, 2011 at 10:00 pm
Love love love! I am going white in my kitchen!
Reply
Noelleon January 20, 2012 at 9:12 am
I also think white cabinets instantly update a kitchen. I live in a rental with a kitchen without any bells and whistles! But I am so glad the homeowner painted the cabinetry white, which gave me a nice blank slate to add my own style to. I really think white gives you that option! Love your design sense!!!
Reply
hershyon February 18, 2012 at 11:49 am
Hi Kristey, love your blog on white cabinet.We are going for white cabinet in our new home.I need your opinion with backsplash.We have crackeled subway tile for backspash.We have installed it in a brick pattern througout only behind the cooktop thought about using a bronze border and a herrigbone pattern in it.Should we go for pattern behind cooktop or continue the brick pattern throughout.The backspalsh.We have bronze light fixtures and faucets.And we have Bianco antico granite with rustic cherry islandc
Reply
Nelly Proceeon March 8, 2012 at 11:05 pm
Hi there – I am faced with a dilema about our outdated blonde oak cabinets. So desperately want to paint them white but our floor, countertops and black splash are all very light tones of brown. Have been thinking we might be better of with Bittersweet chocolate by benjamin moore instead. Just to complement the tile back splash and countertops mainly. Will the white work with these nondescript colours. Love your blog!
Reply
Kristie Barnetton March 9, 2012 at 8:03 am
Hi Nelly,
I love Bittersweet Chocolate – it’s the color of the exterior trim of my house. It’s very dark, though, and will darken up your kitchen substantially. I think I’d go white/off-white if I were you, but if you don’t mind them “reading” as expresso wood cabinets, I’m sure it’ll be fine – go to Pinterest and search dark kitchen cabinets and see what you can find to better help you visualize. Good luck!Reply
Janaon April 14, 2012 at 10:07 am
Hi Kristie,
I love your blog! What are your thoughts on off-white kitchens cabinets? I have Santa Cecilia granite and oil rubbed bronze fixtures in my kitchen but light cherry cabinets (YUCK!). I think off-white would blend better than stark white but I’m scared to make a decision. I would love to hear your opinion on a off white or antiqued white finish.
Jana
Reply
Kristie Barnetton April 14, 2012 at 11:00 am
Jana,
When I say “white” kitchen, I mean any range of “white” which definitely includes off-whites. Look for a shade of white that relates to your granite, if possible. Good luck and thanks for reading!Reply
Debon May 9, 2012 at 8:57 pm
What is your opinion on colored subway tile backsplashes with white cabinet kitchens? I just bought a house and would love to update it with white cabinets. I’m just not sure about the backsplash which would be more timeless – white subway tile or a green glass subway tile? I’m concerned the white tile will be too much white but I wonder if I’ll tire of the colored tile quickly. Thanks in advance for your thoughts! Love your blog!!
Reply
Kristie Barnetton May 10, 2012 at 8:06 am
Deb,
I actually really love green glass tiles with white cabinets. But honestly, they are not as timeless as white subway tile. If you love them and you’ve always loved green, I’m sure it would be fine. As for “too much white,” take a look at some of the white kitchens on my Kitchen pinboard. You can always change your wall color or accessories to freshen up a white kitchen. You might even consider painting your island a “color” – that’s something that would be less $$ and trouble to repaint a few years down the road if you tire of it. http://pinterest.com/thedecorologist/kitchen-design-products/Reply
Debon May 10, 2012 at 9:35 pm
Thanks Krisitie, I was leaning in the direction of the white subway tiles and your response confirmed it!
Reply
Pam Dunnon November 16, 2012 at 9:52 pm
Where can I get my cabinet doors professionally spray painted in the Nashville area?
Reply
Caren Flatenon November 25, 2012 at 4:34 am
I have white cabinets with a white and gray glass tile backsplash. The countertops are black, gray, white, brown mottled Corian. I can’t afford to change that out. I am wondering about the trim? I just had a new window installed in the kitchen. It is white and the trim is birch. Will it look strange to have birch trim in a mostly white kitchen? I am wondering if I should change it out to all white? There will be trim around the two large doorways as well as the baseboard. Most of the white kitchens I see are all trimmed out in white so I am just wondering if it will look tacky to have birch trim with white cabinets and mostly white backsplash? What kind of real wood is white?
Reply
Demytrik Woodforkon December 19, 2012 at 12:43 pm
Hi Kristie
I am a student majoring in residental design and I Love love love your site. I am so glad I found it. I will be taking kitchen design this semester. Thanks so much for the info. Can’t wait to share with my class mates.Happy Holidays
Reply
Kristie Barnetton December 19, 2012 at 12:54 pm
Great Demytrik!
I see you’re in Memphis? I’m Nashville-based, so not too far from where you are studying. Good luck and thanks for reading!Reply
Amandaon January 7, 2013 at 12:40 pm
Please, pleasehelp us choosekitchen cabinetscolor/finish. Our loghouse ismedium to dark stainedlogs..kitchen walls are either stainedlog or sheet rockand there'sone natrual brick wall. Wood trim around windows and doors is stained same as logs. We have two big stained beams in ceiling. Can we do white cabinets or other painted color with stained wood windows and doors? Our floor is large ceramic tiles in a soft offwhite/ creamy/ beigey multi sponged effect.Any suggestion is deeply appreciated!!! We are tearing out cabinets due to a water leak and need to replace this week!
Reply
dog groomon February 4, 2013 at 4:40 am
Great web site you have got here.. It’s hard to find quality writing like yours nowadays. I really appreciate people like you! Take care!!
Reply
Yalenaon February 16, 2013 at 1:24 pm
What is you haveoak trim througout your house? I'm wanting to paint my oak cabinets white, update our appliance, backsplash and counter tropsand also update our fireplace by refacing it and possibly chaning the oak mantle to white (this room opens up to the kitchen.) Is it okay to do this if all of our doors, trim etc. is oak?
Reply
Alisonon March 28, 2013 at 12:37 pm
Hi there!
Lots of great comments here! We are moving to a new home and do want a white kitchen. The designer has suggested we go with MDF for our white kitchen rather than wood and painting. What are your thoughts? I’ve always associated MDR with ‘cheap’ but our designer has told us it’s common now in high end kitchens.Thanks,
AlisonReply
Kristie Barnetton March 29, 2013 at 8:28 am
No, I would NOT do that. They swell if they ever get wet.
Reply
Glenda Pippinon May 27, 2013 at 9:42 am
I have a white kitchen and I HATE it. White kitchens only look good if you don’t use them and are able to keep them in absolute pristine condition. The kitchen is the only room in the house which us predominately white.
The best cabinets I’ve had were cherry and they were so pretty. When we moved from that house the only thing I hated to leave was the kitchen.
Reply
Lauraon June 6, 2013 at 11:35 am
Is it Ok to remodel with off white cabinets and keep the stained woodwork and doors? Painted all the stained woodwork would be my choice but my husband does not agree.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton June 6, 2013 at 11:59 am
I’m with you, but white cabinets and wood trim/doors are better than all wood cabinets and wood trim/doors.
Reply
Jesson June 6, 2013 at 2:12 pm
What is the best/most timeless hardware to go with white cabinets? Oil rubbed bronze? We’re currently painting the cabinets in our farmhouse and I need to make a decision on the hardware. Thanks, Jess
Reply
Kristie Barnetton June 6, 2013 at 4:06 pm
Iron finish, almost black. It may be referred to as oil-rubbed bronze by some manufacturers, but oil-rubbed bronze is often more brownish-coppery.
Reply
Kevin Robertson June 14, 2013 at 3:50 am
This post make a great stand to justify white kitchen cabinets. And I’m inclined to agree. Although my inclination is purely based on my preference for white background.
Reply
Loraon June 14, 2013 at 8:47 am
Hi Kristie,
I love the look of white cabinets but I need them to be durable. The cabinet place I went to said a maple cabinet that’s been painted white will crack over time. He recommended the MDF but I just read your post that MDF can swell with water. If I go with the painted maple how do I keep it from cracking? ThanksReply
Kristie Barnetton June 14, 2013 at 11:04 am
Lora,
I have not heard of that – I’d go and talk to a paint professional – it may be that certain kinds of paint would be a better option.Reply
Ian Ausdenon June 14, 2013 at 11:14 am
Needed to post you one small note to be able to thank you very much over again for all the remarkable tips you have discussed in this post. This has been so unbelievably generous of people like you giving unhampered just what most of us might have marketed for an ebook to make some money on their own, particularly observing that you could have tried it in the event you wanted. All those recommendations in addition performed to turn into easy way to fully grasp that some of us have a comparable desire the same as mine to understand more and more with regard to this matter. I’m certain there are many more enjoyable occasions ahead for those who look at your blog.
Reply
Pam Williamson June 22, 2013 at 1:12 am
Hi, we are in the process of painting our kitchen cupboards and would like to know what color are the cabinets in first picture ? This is the picture of the cream cabinets white subway tiles and black counter. Thanks for the great site!
Reply
VGon July 4, 2013 at 11:51 am
My realtor advised me not to do white cabinets.
Reply
VGon July 4, 2013 at 12:00 pm
Hi All,
My realtor advised me not to do white cabinets for a house that we definitely sell within 5 years, probably three. Opinions? He says that the trend will pass and that we should keep our custom cherry cabs and exotic granite b/c it is a high end house and those things will appeal to our buyer pool more than something trendy. (Also, our area is heavily international so an “american” look might not play well.) I agree with him that our house looks like a “million bucks” but am otherwise conflicted. Would love some opinions…some say the white kitchen is here to stay (and I want to believe it b/c that is what I want) but then again EVERYTHING that was in style in the past has gone out of style now… Please give me your thoughts. This is primarily about being able to sell in a few years to upscale buyers (double doctor families, etc.)
Reply
Kristie Barnetton July 4, 2013 at 7:22 pm
Actually, I think that dark cherry cabinets and exotic granite is much more trendy than a timeless white kitchen. Yes, white kitchens are “on-trend,” but they are certainly not trendy. Dark cherry cabinets and taste-specific granite do appeal to a certain group of people, but that group is getting smaller and smaller (and older). Dark cherry cabinets became trendy back in the early 90’s, so most people under 45 think they are dated. On the other hand, I wouldn’t advise you to completely redo/replace your kitchen if you are really thinking you will be moving in 3-5 years. That’s a huge outlay of money, which would be fine if you planned on living there long enough to enjoy all the construction you will be going through.
Reply
Leeon July 16, 2013 at 3:17 pm
Kristie, does off white work as well as white as far as being a classic?
I have a friend who can get me a great buy on some ivory colored cabinets and I think they would fit well in my home. But they are almost the color of my bisque appliances (pale ivory) and I just wonder if they will work as well as white white as far as being a classic look?
Reply
Leeon July 16, 2013 at 3:20 pm
Here is a pic of the cabinets Kristie. I am putting it in a separate email so you dont have to post a link to the company.
My friend works here so we can get a deal. I think the white white is to modern for our home. The ivory is a little paler than what it appears in the picture. Do you think it would be a good classic?
http://www.cabinetstogo.com/ic280Collectionfrm.asp?prodno=VICTORIA*WCReply
Kristie Barnetton July 16, 2013 at 4:21 pm
Lee,
Off-white will work well, but only if your trim molding is the same color (off-white). If you do white trim, your cabinets will read dirty, or at least more of a color like butter yellow (or whatever the undertone of the off-white is). Good luck with your kitchen!Leeon July 16, 2013 at 4:28 pm
Thanks for your answer Kristie. And for the huge tip on the trim!
What color appliances would you put with the off white cabinets?
For trim I was thinking of Dove White by BM.
What about the ceiling color?So you feel the off white can be as classic as white white? I am thinking of this for resale also and Would hate to make such an expensive mistake….
Kristie Barnetton July 16, 2013 at 5:16 pm
While Dove White is technically an off-white, I still consider it a “white.” It reads white, just a warm white. Yes, it’s classic. I’d do stainless appliances, and the ceiling color depends on many things that I don’t have time to get into! Good luck 🙂
youngbutoldenoughtoknowon September 23, 2013 at 6:36 pm
Many decorators and kitchen design stores are in the business of selling kitchens. They make their livelihood from coming up with new designs and new “must have woods and finishes” to create doubt and dissatisfaction in the minds of home owners. This is happening right now in 2013 because the industry did not do well after the housing bubble burst and went into a slump. This especially comes to bear when you have re-done your kitchen 5+ years ago and suddenly the “industry” tells you that the wood you picked is no longer desirable. But wait, you say! 5 years ago cherry very popular! Maybe I made the wrong choice. Oh no!
Just pick what you like and enjoy it.
I have antiques in my home and live in New England. A white kitchen would have looked sterile. The cherry kitchen I designed looks like its meant to be there.
So pick what you like and don’t worry! Be happy.
Reply
T Jon January 4, 2020 at 6:38 am
yes! It’s all about “fashion” — ie. the ability to make something new the “in” thing…so you can sell home products. Even though white is classic, kitchens that are white will go out one day (not be the “cool” / “in” thing… and something else will come in. Once the millennials are older and another generation comes on the scene, some new kitchen color scheme will evolve…if not sooner.
It’s all about if you give a darn about it…..or if you’re selling, if your buyers will. And you can guarantee that millennial buyers will not prefer a Tuscan kitchen. They view it as the past and not the new. It’s what their parents had.
Reply
Linaon October 16, 2013 at 1:39 pm
Hi i have a cream kitchen can I pick a white backsplash?? Thanks
Reply
DanceDesignon February 14, 2014 at 3:35 pm
I love white kitchens! Doesn’t white go with everything? Of course, one has to be careful about the undertones, but isn’t that true for every color? Why can’t it be planned so that the white undertones match the wood in the rest of the house?
I lived in a 1920’s rental with original white wooden cabinets and Ioved them – and you know that the furniture in the rest of the house in the 1920’s wasn’t white.
Here are some pics of 1920’s-1930s kitchens:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/americanvintagehome/3160564914/in/gallery-blastmilk-72157624767806060/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cluttershop/2094761283/in/gallery-blastmilk-72157624767806060/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/americanvintagehome/3097122842/in/gallery-blastmilk-72157624767806060/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/americanvintagehome/2989443022/in/gallery-blastmilk-72157624767806060/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/americanvintagehome/3321113079/in/gallery-blastmilk-72157624767806060/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/americanvintagehome/3104122346/in/gallery-blastmilk-72157624767806060/When I moved into my home in the 90’s I installed high-quality, solid-wood white cabinets that are still in great shape today. In fact, people think the cabinets are new. The style is what would be considered “transitional” – not ultra-modern, not traditional. I’m planning to install a new countertop and a backsplash (I never put one in because I couldn’t decide what to do – now I know!) but the cabinets are staying for sure.
Thank you, Christie, for a great blog!
Reply
DanceDesignon February 14, 2014 at 3:41 pm
Oops, I apologize!!! I meant to write Kristie. I’m so VERY sorry!!!!!
Reply
Nancy L.on March 26, 2014 at 9:38 pm
I want to install white kitchen cabinets in my new kitchen. My husband doesn’t want them but will go with whatever I want since I am the cook and chief kitchen person. Folks keep saying white is too hard to keep clean. Help! I want to make a good choice. My kids are grown, no inside pets. My current house has medium cherry which I love here but want something new at our lake house.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton March 26, 2014 at 9:44 pm
Nancy,
I can tell you, honestly, there is NOTHING difficult about keeping white cabinets clean. I just wipe them down with a warm wet cloth on occasion. Just because you can’t SEE the dirty on dark wood cabinets, doesn’t mean it’s not there. Without kids and pets – really, really no problem. Hope that helps give you the confidence you need!Reply
NancyKon April 7, 2014 at 2:31 pm
Hi Kristie. We, too, have medium-dark stained bannister, 6-panel doors and fireplace in open great room/hearth room & debating on new cabinetry to replace current medium-dark oak cabinetry. Our wall color is currently (and will remain) an off-white, so I am thinking I can get by with off-white kitchen cabinets. Do you agree? Like some others have mentioned, I’m concnrned about slapping an off-white kitchen in the middle of a room with a lot of stained trim, etc.
Reply
Luisa Brillembourgon April 8, 2014 at 11:12 pm
Hi Kristie,
I want to install white modern kitchen cabinets in my new kitchen. The floor is light off white. What do you think ?
I want a very modern style.Reply
Kristie Barnetton April 9, 2014 at 7:47 am
The floor may look a bit dingy/dirty in comparison to the white cabinets. You could either choose an off-white that matches the floor or perhaps paint your bottom cabinets a different color to the upper white ones. That way you get some visual separation between the upper white cabinets and the floor. Maybe a warm gray on the bottom cabinets?
Reply
Ritaon April 9, 2014 at 12:51 pm
Hi Christie, I love white kitchen. I am in the process of renovation my kitchen. I’ve picked “Could White” for the cabinet colour and brown stain for the island colour. I am thinking of using Ceaserstone “Motivo Lace” for the backsplash. It is very white. I am concerned that the whtie backsplash will make the cabinet look dirty. Your opinion is appreciated. My other options are: 1. change the cabinet collour to Vanilla Milkshake (green undertone), or 2. keep the Cloud white cabinet and change the backsplash to off white stone. Thank you very much for your advice! Rita
Reply
Kristie Barnetton April 9, 2014 at 1:31 pm
If you need to go with a whiter white for the cabinets, take a look at Chantilly Lace. Otherwise, I’d try to find a backsplash that will be similar in whiteness to Cloud White. Good luck!
Reply
Markon April 20, 2014 at 9:49 pm
Great advice and lovely examples you have used. Personally I love white with a feature colour as in the white and lime green kitchen you have used in the post. It really adds a spark of modernism and personality. Mark.
Reply
Kristinon July 30, 2014 at 3:08 pm
I am putting in a white kitchen and am going to have white appliances (stainless handles). Am trying to pick the white paint for the custom cabinets given the bright white appliances. Any suggestions? Thanks.
Reply
Rhondaon August 24, 2014 at 8:43 pm
Since we are getting ready to have our kitchen cabinets painted white, this has been interesting to read. We are having our cabinets painted by professionals who painted our woodwork/trim and new doors white about 8 yrs. ago. So we know they will do a great job. My question is the shelves. I’m thinking about not having them painted because I like the way my dishes, pots and pans, glasses etc. slide in and out with no friction or skidding. But if I don’t paint them, will it look tacky? I think if we paint the inside walls and have the contrasting shelves it will be fine, but have a few doubts. These are very nice, custom oak cabinets so the quality is there.
Reply
Rose Gatterson December 15, 2014 at 9:38 am
I love the idea for white cabinets. I even planned to paint my own in white. I think that the picture with the white cabinets and the green walls is my favorite. Thanks a lot for sharing all of these designs. You helped me a lot to choose the right color for my cabinets!
Reply
Jaime Coveyon February 26, 2015 at 5:02 am
It was really lovely presentation that how white kitchen makes a classy look. Personally I am very much attached with this white color. So definitely this idea of white kitchen is going to like by me. And off course lovely Kristie, the way you have suggested your wonderful ideas that surely going to have a nice impact.
It is surely a wise choice to select this white color.
Wishing from Expression in WoodReply
carolon March 8, 2015 at 9:40 pm
Hi, I have dark stained trim throughout my home. I am about to start a kitchen reno, and I wanted to keep to the character of my home. Would white work? What colour would be nice? I’m getting new appliences, counters and cabinets.
Reply
renataon March 12, 2015 at 8:40 pm
I am wondering if you think a white kitchen would look good in a log home?
Reply
Robbin Sholtson March 25, 2015 at 9:38 am
I am in love with the white kitchen cabinets. For me they always look clean, nice and modern. I think that the white color is the best color for kitchen. This color makes the room look bright and even bigger. Thank you for the interesting article!
Reply
Lesleyon May 3, 2015 at 10:51 pm
I agree with Donna and I don’t. I find that white cabinets are “Trendy” if they were timeless you’d see them more often in the way back 1994. lol That’s not that long ago and that cracked me up. Anyways, I do not care for cherry wood either, but I do like wood the brown stain. Someone commented on dust. I totally agree they show dust and where I live is dusty.
I both like the idea of white and don’t. I am afraid of staining them with spills I still have small children in the home and they aren’t going anywhere soon. I also spill when I juice fruits and veggies. I am afraid they will chip or permanently stain. I am at a loss on a decision and it’s been 5 years. I painted my current cabinets white to get the idea and I hate them. Stains stains stains. What do I do? My home is a mix of wood darks and whites and it’s dark lighting wise in winter. That’s the only reason I lean towards the light cabinet Where to get these nice cabinets, without breaking the bank is also a question on my mind? I live in Idaho.Reply
T Jon January 4, 2020 at 6:44 am
yep, I’ve had both wood-stained and white….and tons of stuff shows on white cabinets, of course. I mean, it’s just like a floor being dark or white. Things show on white. You just have to clean them more often.
Reply
millerchrison August 4, 2015 at 4:24 am
Wow! This Blog is Really Amazing Blog If you are in or around San Francisco and you are looking to update your kitchen with the best cabinets around – Visit Premium Cabinets San Francisco or stop on in our store.
Espresso Kitchen Cabinets in San Francisco | Chocolate Cabinets in San FranciscoReply
linda brownon November 20, 2015 at 7:07 pm
Hi, I keep seeing questions on here about painting kitchen cabinets white with dark stained windows and trim in the rest of the kitchen and the entire house. However, I do not see any responses to that. I bought an old house built in the late 1800s. I am in the process of stripping all the woodwork and going to restain it the original dark color because it is quarter sawn oak and I hate to cover up the beautiful grain with paint. I am on a limited budget and have lots of kitchen cabinets that were put in new in the 80s so the boxes are still in great shape. I had new shaker doors built and had them built in the paint grade because I hate the honey oak color on the boxes so my plan is to paint them white. I am worried though that it will look odd with the dark stained windows and woodwork. PLEASE email me an answer with what you think. thank you.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton November 20, 2015 at 7:36 pm
I don’t see a problem with that, Linda, as long as you repeat some white elsewhere in your space, maybe in the background of some fabric or art.
Reply
Alexon November 29, 2015 at 6:30 pm
White kitchen is always cool look
Reply
Colleenon January 16, 2016 at 9:49 pm
Hello,
I have an 80’s style L shaped oak kitchen and need to update it before I sell. It is a rental property and likely always will be. I plan on replacing the carpet and lino on the main floor with laminate in a medium color. I don’t know if I should paint my cabinets white or stain them dark. What about a combination? I have white appliances and don’t really want to change them.Any help would be appreciated.
Thank you.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton January 18, 2016 at 7:09 pm
Colleen,
I don’t think staining them dark is a good idea. Stripping and staining is very labor-intensive, and the result won’t be updated necessarily. You could paint the lowers a dark charcoal and the uppers white like your trim/appliances? That would be a very updated, fresh look for renters!Reply
Daniels Design Remodelingon January 18, 2016 at 1:37 am
I’m curious about the center ceiling light of the 3rd picture. What is it made of? Looks ideal solution for porches and patios. Thumbs up for those bright kitchen designs, surly the owners are proud.
Reply
Maureenon January 27, 2016 at 2:37 pm
Hi, I am getting ready to have a professional spray my circa-1995 cherry cabinets white and I can’t wait. I am planning on white carrera marble for the counters and a white subway tile for the backsplash. I am having some trouble deciding on the paint color. Can you recommend a BM white? So far I have considered Chantilly Lace, Simply White and Snowfall White. Do you have a favorite white when there is carrera marble on the counters?
Reply
Maureenon January 27, 2016 at 2:40 pm
Sorry, forgot to mention that the floors are dark brown wood.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton January 27, 2016 at 4:35 pm
Maureen,
How exciting for you!!! Here’s the deal – any of those 3 colors are very good, but you MUST look at samples of each with the exact slab of Carrera, as each slab is slightly different. I wish I could tell you which is best, but I can’t be confident in telling you which to pick – you just need to test and see which one relates best. I’m sure your “new” kitchen is going to be stunning – share a photo with us when it’s finished!Reply
Rachelon April 8, 2016 at 7:55 pm
I’ve been told that marble is the worst possible material for kitchen counters.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton April 8, 2016 at 10:46 pm
Which is why you should Quartz. Looks like marble, without the downside to marble.
Reply
Chrison March 8, 2016 at 5:42 am
Hi,
We’re building a new home and I’m going with white cabinets and not doing the island a different color. I’ll introduce color on walls, bar stools, window treatments. Is this enough to break up the all white kitchen. As this is,open concept, there will be no walls and kitchen will be open to Great Room, Sunroom, Nook.All along I was going to do off-white until I noticed in the Model Homes how stark the white trim and moldings looked against the off-white cabinets.
I appreciate your help!
Reply
Joeyon May 1, 2016 at 1:23 pm
White is really in vogue right now when it comes to kitchen cabinets. But make sure to add contrasting elements like darker granite countertops (they do not have to be pure black just darker) and have the back splash coordinate well with the granite color. If you do this you stand to obtain a better return on investment on resale! 🙂
Reply
Seanon July 11, 2016 at 8:29 am
White cabinets! I’m bringing my sledgehammer! Every one of these pictures is awful. Paired with the black counter-tops! You really know how to ruin a house. Clearly, there are some hideous trends out today!
Reply
Kristie Barnetton July 11, 2016 at 4:56 pm
YES, SEAN. How I love ruining houses – that’s why I get paid the big bucks.
Reply
Chuck Leftwichon August 20, 2016 at 1:28 pm
We are in the beginning stages of a kitchen remodel but have some questions. We have an old home built in 1906 that has a lot of quartersawn oak. Our kitchen was remodeled in 2001 just before we purchased it. It is currently white and we plan to stay white. Our custom cabinetmaker has suggested making the cabinets with red quartersawn oak and painting them white. He said some of the grain will show through the paint giving them an older look. He has also advised us they are likely to crack near the joints. He explained the cracks are not in the wood but in the finish that is on top of the wood. Should we have concerns about this ? We also plan on using white bead-board on the walls with soapstone counter-tops and back splash. The appliances will be the new slate grey color by GE. I forgot to mention the floor is tiled about the color of a medium dark wood floor. We thought for hardware we would either go with black or oil rubbed bronze, any suggestion ? We plan on picking a Benjamin Moore White that is pretty white and painting the cabinets, woodwork and bead board all the same color. Also forgot to mention we will use a white farm house sink. I’m trying to get things firmed up with lien waivers is that normally a problem ? Thanks!
Reply
Chuck Leftwichon August 22, 2016 at 9:55 am
Can anyone please respond to my question ? Thanks !
Reply
Gayleon October 18, 2016 at 6:59 pm
Please help! I’m building a new house. I am NOT a decorator, not good at it and when I do make a decision, I always over think it. 🙁 My walls are painted BM Pale Oak throughout the whole house. The ceilings are bright white. The trim, doors, and all cabinetry are BM White Dove. When I look at my crown next to the bright white ceiling, it has a tinge of yellow. And when I look at it on the Pale Oak walls, it looks good but doesn’t pop because it’s a soft, creamy white. Next week my White Dove cabinets are getting installed. If I knew today what I was dealing with, I’d of changed the cabinet color to a more brighter white, along with all the trim and doors. I can not afford to make any changes or my builder will charge me big time. 🙁 It is what it is. Now my new dilemma is the subway tile for the kitchen backsplash. I chose and already bought white, matte subway tile. These tiles are a lot whiter than my soft, creamy white cabinets. :\ Will it be okay to put up white matte subway tiles when the cabinets are creamy white? I’m having a mini meltdown over my bad decisions. 🙁
Reply
Talaton November 4, 2016 at 4:06 am
Hi Kristie, I have a light coloured wood cabinets which look quite used and old. We don’t have a budget to fully change the kitchen cabinet so we are thinking of getting it painted. My choice was white, so I was really happy to see this blog. Do you think white painted cabinets with light wood coloured borders will go with the greyish – green work tops and very light pink patterned tiles. The floor is tiled with light pink patterns. What wall colour will look good with this? At the moment it is light shade of pink. Will really really appreciate if you can advise xxx
Reply
kathyon February 12, 2018 at 4:21 pm
The reason most designers do white kitchens is because they copy what the magazines show. White kitchens are cold and remind me of a hospital room. Just like the pink wood that was in for awhile, it is a trend that will eventually go away. I bought a house with oak cabinets, did not paint them white like everyone suggested and the comments are I love your kitchen, so warm and inviting. I did do a scary thing and painted my kitchen in my last house black and got the same comment – love your kitchen. The commenter in one post is so right, a white kitchen goes against everything else in your house unless it is all white, again like the magazines show you. Yes you get paid the big bucks to do it just like everyone else. When you don’t take a stand you stand for nothing or the color white. Good for you, bad for those who use your advice. The get the same look as every other customer you have. Rubber stamped. I am a consultant as well and I get paid the big bucks to tell people the opposite of what everyone else tells them. It sure is a happier place to be.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton February 12, 2018 at 6:46 pm
Kathy,
I’m guessing this is the first time you’ve read my blog. I am all about color and am currently working on a very colorful kitchen. This post was written 5 years ago, by the way.Reply
Jaicee Aluraon March 6, 2018 at 5:14 am
White kitchens are sterile looking and attractive in my opinion. They are classic with white cabinets. How can granite or any real stone be outdated? It is how the room is put together overall that makes it homey or timeless, regardless of individual components. White cabinets are the right choice for best and beautiful kitchens.
Reply
Amandaon April 25, 2018 at 2:21 am
Interesting article! I love the white kitchen cabinets in the kitchen and I want to add them to my kitchen.I really like the info provided by you. Thanks for sharing.
Reply
Kristie Barnetton April 25, 2018 at 10:45 am
Thanks, Amanda – and thanks for taking the time to comment 🙂
Reply
Tiffanyon August 17, 2018 at 7:12 am
We are building a home, and I’m debating between pure white cabinets with light grey granite and medium brown wood plank vinyl floors (we are in Florida, so hardwood isn’t one of the builder’s choices), or an antique white with brown glaze , tan granite countertops, and the same medium brown floors. Which would you choose??
Reply
Kristie Barnetton August 17, 2018 at 11:08 am
Tiffany,
I’d recommend going with the white cabinets and light grey granite. We are on the backend of the trend when it comes to glazed and antiqued cabinets. The first choice will keep you happier for years to come!Reply
karenon September 17, 2018 at 1:46 pm
Hi Kristie. I’m building a new house and the builder has a cabinet maker so I can really customize versus “stock” cabinets I’ve used in the past. Does it make sense to have the kitchen cabinets painted with the same color as my white trim (baseboard, doors, crown, etc)?
Reply
Kristie Barnetton September 17, 2018 at 2:44 pm
Yes, Karen. It makes perfect sense to use the EXACT same white paint color on the cabinets and trim. In fact, it’s a mistake NOT to do so. If they are different whites, one will look dirty in comparison to the other. Good luck on your new house!!
Reply
