Choosing the right colours and finishes for built-in cupboards is an important aspect of designing a kitchen or any other living space. The right choice of colours and finishes can make the cupboards stand out or blend in seamlessly with the rest of the room. It can also affect the overall mood and ambience of the space. There are several factors to consider when choosing colours and finishes, including personal taste, the style of the space, and the practicality of the finishes.
When selecting colours for built-in cupboards, it is important to consider the overall colour scheme of the room. Neutral colours such as white, cream, and grey are popular choices as they are versatile and timeless. However, bold colours such as blue, green, and red can add personality and character to the space. The finishes of the cupboards are also important as they can affect the durability and maintenance of the cupboards. High-gloss finishes are popular as they are easy to clean and give the cupboards a modern look. However, matte finishes are also a good choice as they are less likely to show fingerprints and scratches.
Understanding Your Space
When it comes to choosing the right colours and finishes for your built-in cupboards, it’s important to start by understanding your space. This includes assessing your style, considering your lighting, and evaluating your space.
Assessing Your Style
Before choosing colours and finishes, it’s important to assess your personal style. Are you drawn to bold, bright colours or do you prefer more muted, neutral tones? Do you prefer a modern, sleek look or a more traditional, rustic feel? Understanding your style will help guide your colour and finish choices.
Considering Your Lighting
Another important factor to consider when choosing colours and finishes is your lighting. Natural light can make colours appear brighter and more vibrant, while artificial light can have a different effect. It’s important to consider how your space is lit throughout the day and choose colours and finishes that will look good in all lighting conditions.
Evaluating Your Space
Finally, it’s important to evaluate your space to determine what colours and finishes will work best. Consider the size of your space, the layout, and the existing colours and finishes in the room. You want to choose colours and finishes that will complement your space and create a cohesive look.
Choosing the Right Colors
Picking a Color Scheme
When it comes to choosing the right colours for your built-in cupboards, it’s important to consider the overall colour scheme of the room. Neutral colours such as white, beige, and grey are popular choices for built-in cupboards as they can easily blend in with any decor style. However, if you want to add a pop of colour, you can opt for bold hues such as navy blue, emerald green, or even bright yellow.
Matching Your Cabinets to Your Countertops
Another important factor to consider when choosing the right colours for your built-in cupboards is matching them to your countertops. If you have a bold or patterned countertop, it’s best to choose a neutral colour for your cupboards to avoid clashing. On the other hand, if your countertop is a solid colour, you can experiment with bolder hues for your cupboards.
Incorporating Accent Colors
To add some personality and interest to your built-in cupboards, you can incorporate accent colours. This can be done through the use of accessories such as knobs, handles, or even a colourful backsplash. When choosing accent colours, it’s important to consider the overall colour scheme of the room to ensure that everything blends together seamlessly. Overall, when choosing the right colours for your built-in cupboards, it’s important to consider the overall colour scheme of the room, match your cabinets to your countertops, and incorporate accent colours to add some personality and interest.
Selecting the Right Finishes
When it comes to built-in cupboards, finishes can make all the difference in the final look and feel of the space. Here are some things to consider when selecting the right finishes for your cupboards.
Choosing the Right Hardware
Hardware can be the finishing touch that ties everything together. It’s important to choose hardware that complements the overall style and finish of the cupboards. For example, if the cupboards have a modern, sleek look, consider hardware with clean lines and a polished finish. On the other hand, if the cupboards have a more traditional look, consider hardware with more ornate details and a brushed finish.
Understanding Different Types of Finishes
There are a variety of finishes to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the most common types:
| Finish Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Painted | A smooth, opaque finish achieved through painting. | May require more maintenance, limited colour options. | May show wear and tear over time, can chip or scratch. |
| Stained | A translucent finish that allows the natural wood grain to show through. | Enhances the natural beauty of the wood, can be refinished if damaged. | Durable, easy to clean, wide range of colour and pattern options. |
| Laminate | A synthetic finish that mimics the look of wood or other materials. | Durable, easy to clean, wide range of color and pattern options. | May look less authentic than other finishes, can be difficult to repair if damaged. |
Mixing and Matching Finishes
Don’t be afraid to mix and match finishes to create a unique look. For example, consider using a painted finish on the upper cupboards and a stained finish on the lower cupboards. Or, use a laminate finish on the backsplash area for a pop of colour or pattern. Just be sure to choose finishes that complement each other and the overall style of the space.
Conclusion
Choosing the right colours and finishes for built-in cupboards can be a daunting task, but it is a crucial step in the process of creating a beautiful and functional space. It is important to consider the style of the room, the amount of natural light, and the overall colour scheme when making these decisions.
Neutral colours such as white, beige, and grey are popular choices for built-in cupboards as they provide a timeless look that can easily be updated with accessories and decor. However, bold colours such as navy blue, forest green, and even black can add a dramatic and modern touch to the space.
When it comes to finishes, it is important to choose a durable and easy-to-clean option such as semi-gloss or high-gloss. These finishes are ideal for kitchen and bathroom cupboards that are subject to moisture and frequent use. For a more natural look, wood finishes such as oak, maple, and cherry provide warmth and texture to the space.
Ultimately, the choices made when selecting colours and finishes for built-in cupboards should reflect the homeowner’s personal style and preferences. By taking the time to carefully consider these options, homeowners can create a space that is both functional and beautiful.
