Kitchen trends are always in flux, changing from year to year. Current designs with smooth surfaces and clean lines are both functional and stylish. Often with a neutral palette, these kitchens sometimes also feature a pop of sharp contrast. Here are some ways to use cabinetry to get this effect.

Two-Toned Cabinets

For something different, why not consider two-toned cabinetry with one dark row and the other light? To create drama and impact, though, don't make the colours too similar. This doesn't have to result in dazzling, bright colours—you can simply contrast black lower cupboards against grey upper ones. In this way, light and shade produce the drama rather than contrasting hues. Your kitchen design will have a more classic feel, with broader appeal in the long term.

White Cupboards

If your kitchen walls are dark—charcoal or navy blue, for instance—white cabinets will provide an attractive contrast against the backdrop. Or else, a black slate floor can provide the foil. Add even more visual interest by installing white upper cabinets and cool grey lower cupboards for a two-toned effect. Reserving the darker shade for the below cupboards helps to ground the room, and it avoids a sense of towering upper cabinetry. Lighter overhead cabinets also have the advantage of reflecting illumination around the kitchen, making it brighter. 

Navy Or Black Cabinetry

Instead of all-white cabinetry, create impact using matte black. Or if black does not appeal, navy-blue, forest-green or deep-chocolate all provide chic options. Then set off the cupboards against white benchtops and walls. Pale timber washed flooring will add warmth to the design.

Contrasting Hues For Upper And Lower Rows

If you do want to go all out, skip the neutral shades and opt for complementary colours, which are opposites on the colour wheel, such as blue and orange. Use the cool hue on the lower cabinets in a dark shade—navy for instance, and reserve the warm colour, orange, for upper cabinetry. To unify the design, make sure your kitchen designers use the same handles on all doors.

Differently Textured Doors

Contrasts aren't limited to playing with shade and colour; you can also create diversity through texture. For instance, you could distinguish rustic timber lower doors from sleek glass ones above. While wood grounds the space, reflective glazing will bounce light around your kitchen, creating a brighter and more inviting area.

For more information, reach out to kitchen designers near you.

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