If you’re interested in kitchen remodeling, you might be surprised how much of a difference new cabinets can make. You may not need top-of-the-line appliances for luxury decor if your kitchen has the right bones. Kitchen cabinets are usually seen as the foundation of a kitchen, the framing device around which all other kitchen elements are designed. Plus, a well-designed kitchen cabinet in Orange County makes all the difference when it comes time to sell.
But what type of cabinets are right for your home? There are many styles to consider, including old-fashioned shaker cabinets or minimalist, frameless cabinets. But whatever formation you enjoy, make sure you make a specific design choice: paint them black. While many think that dark cabinets make a kitchen look smaller, we’re here to shed light on the truth. With the right countertops, appliances, and decor, black can be an excellent color for your kitchen cabinets.
The Color Myth: Lighter Cabinets Mean Larger Appearance
There’s a well-known design rule that’s actually a myth when it comes to your kitchen: dark colors shrink a space. What this refers to is an effect wherein dark colors progress toward the eye, and light colors seem to recede from the eye. So, if you paint a room a very dark color, the walls will seem closer to you than they really are. Conversely, bright colors will enlarge a room.
So why doesn’t this rule apply to your kitchen cabinets? Your cabinets aren’t actually part of the wall but are essentially pieces of built-in furniture. Dark furniture and decor are actually recommended for small rooms because the eye is drawn to them, and they seem to have more visual complexity. However, it is good to balance the effect with light-colored walls for that enlarging effect. Just like that, your small kitchen now looks so much larger. Bonus points: if you let natural light in, it creates another enlarging illusion as sunlight adds gorgeous texture to black surfaces to make them seem larger.
The Power of Contrast: Adding Depth and Visual Interest
Contrast is essential to give rooms balance. If you’re hesitant to commit to the look of complex, dark, and mature black cabinets, try adding just a bit of black to the room for color contrast. A black kitchen island, which is incredibly practical for prepping and serving food, makes for a visual centerpiece in a small room and can actually enhance the apparent size of the room because of its central positioning. Even if you opt for a mobile island, it can be a great stepping stone into the world of darker kitchen elements.
Visual Attention
As said earlier, black is unmatched for attracting the eye. Kitchen remodeling experts often use this color to make homes feel more sophisticated and mature. But if you’re concerned about space in your home kitchen, you’d be happy to learn that black is a great partner to other materials that make kitchens look larger. For instance, white backsplash tile with a geometric pattern, glass-front cabinets, and even open shelving are enlarging features in a small kitchen. They also look great with the color black. The matte, flat look of black paint needs the bright and airy contrast that these modern design features lend to small kitchens. Remember that balance is key.
Facts About Finishes
Selecting the right finish for black cabinets can make a world of difference in how they impact a small kitchen. Matte black cabinets, for example, absorb light, which creates a sophisticated, velvety look that minimizes glare and hides fingerprints. These benefits make them a great choice for a sleek and low-maintenance design. On the other hand, glossy black cabinets reflect light, adding depth and dimension that can make a compact space feel more open and airy. A high-shine finish also introduces a modern, upscale vibe that pairs well with metallic hardware and reflective surfaces like glass backsplashes or quartz countertops.
Materials for Black Kitchen Cabinets
Choosing the right material for black kitchen cabinets plays a key role in both style and durability. Solid wood, such as oak, maple, or walnut, provides a timeless and sturdy option, allowing for natural dark stains that showcase the beauty of the grain while keeping the space feeling rich and inviting. For a more budget-friendly yet durable alternative, MDF (medium-density fiberboard) offers a smooth, uniform surface that holds dark hues well without the risk of warping.
Plywood is another strong contender, offering a lightweight yet durable structure that resists moisture, making it a practical choice for kitchens. If you prefer a more industrial or modern look, metal cabinets in black steel or aluminum add a sleek, contemporary edge.
For those hesitant to go fully black, deep-stained wood varieties like espresso or charcoal-stained ash provide a balance between bold design and natural warmth, proving that dark cabinets don’t have to feel overwhelming in a small space.
What Appliances Go With Black Cabinets
Black cabinets create a bold, sophisticated statement in a small kitchen, and the right appliances can enhance their impact while maintaining a balanced aesthetic. Stainless steel appliances are a timeless choice, offering a sleek contrast that reflects light and prevents the space from feeling too dark. For modern kitchens, matte black appliances offer a monochromatic look that blends effortlessly with black cabinetry, creating a cohesive and ultra-sophisticated design.
White or panel-ready appliances can introduce contrast and soften the overall look, especially in kitchens with limited natural light. If warmth and character are a priority, copper or bronze-accented appliances add a hint of vintage charm while complementing black cabinetry’s rich depth. The key is to choose finishes that enhance the cabinets without overwhelming the space, ensuring a kitchen that feels both stylish and inviting.
Countertop Pairings With Black Kitchen Cabinetry
With black cabinets, lighter countertops, such as crisp white quartz or soft veined marble, create a striking contrast that brightens the room and makes it feel more open. If a touch of warmth is the goal, butcher block surfaces or light-toned granite with gold and beige undertones add depth without overpowering the sleekness of black cabinetry. For a bold, seamless aesthetic, dark countertops like honed black granite or soapstone lend a modern, moody appeal while maintaining an effortlessly chic look.
Why You Let the Pros Install Your New Kitchen Cabinets
Installing black cabinets requires precision, skill, and an eye for detail to achieve a flawless finish. Our experienced professionals ensure every cabinet is level, securely mounted, and seamlessly aligned for a sleek, high-end look. DIY attempts or hiring an inexperienced installer can lead to uneven doors, gaps, or even costly damage that takes extra time and money to fix. Our team uses expert techniques and top-quality materials to maximize space, enhance functionality, and create a stunning focal point in your small kitchen. Let us handle the hard work so you can enjoy a beautifully transformed space without the hassle or risk of costly mistakes.
Ready to Go to the Dark Side With Black Kitchen Cabinets? Call Preferred Kitchen & Bath
So, if you’re wondering how to design a kitchen and bath and conserve visual space, choose black cabinetry. But don’t trust your own paintbrush to pull off the look. Entrust your home to a kitchen remodeling expert. If you’re wondering, “Who can I trust to design and construct a kitchen remodel near me?” call Preferred Kitchen & Bath today.