Choosing the right cabinet and granite colors to complement stainless steel appliances and hardwood floors can seem daunting. However, with some basic design principles, you can create a cohesive, stylish kitchen that showcases all these elements beautifully. Here are some tips on selecting cabinet and granite colors for a kitchen with stainless steel appliances and hardwood flooring.
Complementary Colors
A foolproof approach is to use complementary colors on opposite sides of the color wheel. For example:
- Blue cabinets with orange/reddish granite
- Green cabinets with red granite
- Purple cabinets with yellow granite
The contrast between complementary colors makes each one stand out. This creates visual interest while tying the whole palette together.
Analogous Colors
Using analogous colors (next to each other on the color wheel) is another harmonious option. Examples:
- Blue cabinets with blue-green or blue-gray granite
- Red cabinets with burgundy granite
- Yellow cabinets with golden granite
Keeping cabinets and granite in the same color family results in a soothing, cohesive look. Variations in shade and tone add subtle interest.
Neutral Cabinets with Bold Granite
For a versatile, timeless kitchen, choose neutral cabinetry paired with granite in a bold hue. Consider:
- White cabinets with ruby red granite
- Light gray cabinets with deep blue granite
- Espresso cabinets with orange granite
The neutral cabinetry acts as a subtle backdrop, putting the focus on the vibrant granite as a statement piece.
Dark Cabinets with Light Granite
The opposite approach also works beautifully. Go for:
- Dark blue cabinets with white granite
- Black cabinets with gray and white speckled granite
- Rich brown cabinets with tan/beige granite
Here, the lighter granite counters temper the dark cabinets, creating balance.
Matching Cabinets and Granite
You can also choose the same color for cabinets and granite for a streamlined, monochromatic look. Options include:
- Navy blue cabinets with blue granite
- Bright white cabinets with white granite
- Dark wood cabinets with brown granite with gray veining
Matching finishes creates a clean, seamless aesthetic. Consider adding contrast through backsplash tile.
Avoid Matching Granite to Floors
It’s generally best to avoid matching your granite directly to hardwood floors. This can make the kitchen feel flat and one-dimensional. Instead, complement the floors with cabinet and granite colors.
Consider Hardware and Lighting
Don’t forget about hardware and lighting when selecting cabinet/granite combinations. Brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze hardware pairs nicely with most colors for a modern or traditional look respectively. And proper lighting (pendant lights, under-cabinet lighting) will accentuate your choices beautifully.
With some thoughtful color pairing, your stainless steel appliances, hardwood flooring, cabinets, and granite can work in perfect harmony for a kitchen that truly sparkles.
FAQs about Cabinet and Granite Colors with Stainless Steel Appliances and Hardwood Floors
What granite colors look best with oak cabinets and stainless steel appliances?
For oak cabinets, good granite options include beige, brown, and tan colors with dark speckles. This maintains a cohesive, natural wood tone throughout the kitchen.
What color cabinets go with stainless steel appliances and dark hardwood floors?
With dark hardwood flooring, try light-colored cabinets such as white, light gray, or beige. Pair with granite in tan, brown, black, or gray tones for balance.
What granite color complements black stainless steel appliances?
For black stainless appliances, bold granite choices like ruby red, electric blue, or vibrant green help the appliances stand out. Darker earth tones like black granite can also create an elegant contrast.
Should you match granite to cabinet color or wall color?
It’s generally better to match granite to the cabinet color rather than the wall color. Since cabinets and granite are right next to each other, the transition between the two finishes should be seamless.
What granite colors look terrible with oak cabinets?
Avoid pairing oak cabinets with very light granites like white, as this can create too much contrast. Stay away from bold greens or blues, which will likely clash with warm oak tones.
What is the most popular granite and cabinet color combination?
White cabinets with gray granite is currently one of the most sought-after combinations. The classic white provides a light base while the gray granite adds depth and sophistication.
Conclusion
Choosing complementary cabinet and granite colors allows you to create a kitchen that highlights your stainless steel appliances and hardwood flooring in a stylish, holistic way. Focus on color theory principles like analogous or complementary schemes. Neutral cabinetry with statement granite or vice-versa can make for beautiful contrast. Just be sure to avoid matching your granite directly to the floors. With some thoughtful planning, you can achieve a kitchen design that delights the eye and works in harmony.