How to Choose a Colour for Your Kitchen

This month’s blog post is again written by Ger Cooney, a Cork-based interior architect and designer who has consulted on numerous kitchens I’ve painted. This month, Ger will look at how to choose a colour for your kitchen.

Colour for kitchens

Choosing a colour for your kitchen or implementing a colour change can be a major process. After all, colour is such a transformational medium. It instantly creates a mood or gives a lift to an existing scheme. The perception of colour can have a dramatic effect, depending on the environment. Ironically, colour is often one of the first elements you notice but often one of the last to be considered or implemented.

Choosing a kitchen unit or wall colour can often be the deciding factor in creating a successful scheme for your interior. When choosing a colour for your kitchen it is important to select a palette that will enhance the space and make best use of any natural light there may be. This is where it gets tricky as colour choice is subjective and a personal choice.

When narrowing down the options consider how the colour marries with the flooring, worktops and tiles in the case of splash back.

The wall colour is also an important factor to consider. This is the finishing touch, the wraparound that your kitchen needs to be complete. Choosing a colour that enhances your new look is important. Mid-tone neutrals are versatile and won’t pull focus from the cabinets. In many cases, a well chosen wall colour can add flow to a space and act as an ideal backdrop for accessories, particularly those with rich colour.

Alternatively, choosing a statement colour for a kitchen can create a stunning look. If you are not afraid of colour and the space can accept it, then options such as navy, green, black and brown can be very effective. Tempering these options with lighter associated tones can provide a stylish and lasting effect. For a gentler introduction to statement colours, you can limit them to areas such as island units, dressers and occasional furniture.

Bolder colours can be well suited to islands, while walls are often best done in mid-tone neutrals

Testing colours for your kitchen

Testing is important. Be sure to see the colour on a larger swatch, rather than what you see on colour cards or in online brochures. testing your samples and paint colours in a variety of lighting conditions, will give you a clearer indication of the finished result.

Also put thought into the sheen level of the paint as the appearance of the colour will vary. Durability as well as appearance is important so it is always advisable to consult with your tradesperson regarding the paint finishes available.

Along with colour, light is so important. Be sure to see your samples in natural daylight at various times of the day, in order to better gauge the overall appearance and effect.

And finally…

Choose materials, colours and finishes that genuinely bring you some joy and contentment.

Trust your instincts. We spend a considerable amount of time in this key space. It is important to be happy with your choices and that the space can evolve with your needs.

Ger Cooney is a Cork based Interior Architect and Designer. He is also the Chair of the Munster Chapter of the Interiors Association and tutor with the Interior Design Academy of Ireland

Tel: 0861718886
Web: www.gercooneydesign.com
Email: info@gercooneydesign.com
Instagram: @gercooneydesign