It can be difficult picking a color for your project. “White” is no different. There are so many variations of white. Whether you are painting your house, walls, or cabinets, picking the right shade of white colors can be a challenge.
The most popular white colors we use when painting cabinets are
- Togue white
- Decorators white
- Alabaster white
- Pure white
We have used other whites as well but these four are the most popular. We have done cabinets in many other colors too; black, blue, green, etc.
Occasionally we are asked to glaze a set of cabinets or do a special finish on them but “white” is still the popular choice in Omaha.
One of the most important considerations when picking a cabinet color is lighting. Natural light is important but so is the amount of light you have from light fixtures in your kitchen.
White on cabinets almost always works. It is an important consideration if your kitchen doesn’t have enough light. Dark colors work best in kitchens with lots of light. Can lights and other light fixtures that can have the light direction adjusted work well with dark colors. Adjusting the lighting to accent the cabinets is a nice look.
Four other things to keep in mind are:
- Counter top colors
- Backsplash colors
- Floor color
- Wall color.
One other consideration often overlooked is the color of you appliances. Stainless steel works with everything. Black does not. White appliances with white cabinets may be too much.
White cabinets will make a kitchen look bigger. Darker colors will make the kitchen look and feel smaller.
One more thing to keep in mind is resale value. Refinishing cabinets is an expensive process and while you may like the color a prospective buy may not.
If you stick to the popular white colors or any other white color you will improve the appearance of your home, make the kitchen seem bigger and you will retain good resale value.
White color for walls
On walls, here are some things to consider when picking a white color.
Lighting: The lighting in a room can greatly affect the appearance of a white paint color. A white color may look brighter and cooler in a room with a lot of natural light, while it may look softer and warmer in a room with less natural light.
Undertones: White paint colors can have different undertones, such as pink, yellow, or blue. It is important to consider the undertones of a white color to ensure it matches the overall aesthetic of the room.
Finish: The finish of a paint can also affect the appearance of a white color. A gloss finish will reflect more light and make the white color appear brighter, while a matte finish will absorb more light and make the white color appear softer and more muted.
Coordination with other colors: It is important to consider how the white color will coordinate with other colors in the room. A white color that is too stark may not coordinate well with other colors, while a softer white may work better.
Maintenance: White walls may require more frequent touch-ups and cleaning compared to other colors, as they show dirt and smudges more easily. Consider this when deciding on a white color for your walls.
Overall, it is important to take the time to carefully consider the lighting, undertones, finish, coordination with other colors, and maintenance when picking a white color for your walls.
Room size: A white color can make a small room feel larger and more open, while a large room may feel more cohesive with a darker or bolder color.
Style: The style of the room should also be considered when selecting a white color. A modern and minimalist space may benefit from a crisp, bright white, while a more traditional or antique-inspired space may look better with a softer, off-white color.
Durability: If you are selecting a white color for a high-traffic area or a room with young children or pets, you may want to choose a more durable and stain-resistant paint.
Personal preference: Ultimately, the white color you choose should be one that you love and that makes you feel comfortable in your space. Don’t be afraid to try out several samples before making a final decision.
It doesn’t have to be white
For picking colors start by considering the mood you want to create: Different colors can evoke different emotions and create different atmospheres in a room. For example, if you want a calming and peaceful atmosphere, you might consider shades of blue or green. If you want a more energizing and lively atmosphere, you might consider shades of yellow or orange.
Take into account the size and layout of the room: Lighter colors can make a small room feel larger and more open, while darker colors can make a large room feel more cozy and intimate. You should also consider the orientation of the room and the amount of natural light it gets, as this can affect how the paint color appears.
Consider the existing elements in the room: Think about the color of the flooring, furniture, and other decorative items in the room. You’ll want to choose a paint color that complements these elements and creates a cohesive look.
Test out different colors: Before committing to a paint color, it’s a good idea to test out a few different shades to see how they look in the space. You can buy small samples of paint and paint swatches on a piece of cardboard or paper and see how they look in different areas of the room and at different times of day.
Don’t be afraid to experiment: While it’s important to consider the tips above, don’t be afraid to experiment and try out colors that you might not have thought of initially. Sometimes, the most unexpected color combinations can create the most stunning and cohesive looks.
Use a color wheel: A color wheel is a helpful tool for understanding how different colors relate to each other and how they can be used in combination. The color wheel is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. Primary colors (red, yellow, and blue) are the basic colors from which all other colors are created. Secondary colors (orange, green, and purple) are created by mixing two primary colors together. Tertiary colors (yellow-green, red-orange, etc.) are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color.
Choose a color palette: Instead of choosing just one paint color, consider selecting a color palette of several shades that will work together. This can help you create a cohesive look throughout your home and allow you to mix and match different colors in different rooms.
Don’t forget about trim and accents: In addition to selecting a paint color for the walls, you’ll also want to consider the color of the trim and any accent walls or features. Choose colors that complement the wall color and create a cohesive look.
Consider the style of your home: The paint colors you choose should also be appropriate for the style of your home. For example, a traditional home might look best with more classic, neutral colors, while a modern home might lend itself to bolder, brighter shades.
Get inspiration from nature: If you’re having trouble deciding on a paint color, try looking to nature for inspiration. You can find a wide range of colors in the natural world that can work well in your home, whether you choose to go with a bright, tropical palette or more muted, earthy tones.
Use a virtual painting tool: There are many online tools and apps that allow you to virtually paint a room and see how different colors will look in your space. This can be a helpful way to get an idea of how a color will look before you commit to buying and applying the paint.
Consider the lighting in the room: The lighting in a room can affect how a paint color appears, so it’s important to consider the type and intensity of the light in the space when choosing a paint color. Natural light, artificial light, and the direction that the light is coming from can all impact the appearance of the color.
Think about the long-term: While it’s important to choose a paint color that you love and that works for your current needs and style, it’s also a good idea to consider how the color will look over time. Neutral colors tend to be more timeless and can be easier to live with over the long term, while bold or trendy colors may become less appealing as time goes on.
Use sample pots and test patches: Before committing to a particular paint color, it’s a good idea to buy a sample pot of the paint and test it out on a small patch of wall or on a piece of cardboard. This will allow you to see how the color looks in the space and how it changes under different lighting conditions.
Consider the color of your furniture and decor: In addition to the walls, you should also consider the color of your furniture and decor when choosing a paint color. You’ll want to choose a color that complements these elements and creates a cohesive look.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match: While it’s important to create a cohesive look in your home, don’t be afraid to mix and match different paint colors in different rooms. You can use a similar color palette throughout your home, but vary the shades and tones to add interest and depth.
Take inspiration from your surroundings: If you’re having trouble deciding on a paint color, try looking to your surroundings for inspiration. You can find inspiration in the natural landscape, the architecture of your home, and even in your favorite artwork or fabrics.
Use paint strips: Paint strips, also known as paint chips, are small samples of paint that are typically available at hardware stores and paint stores. These strips can be a helpful tool for comparing different paint colors and seeing how they look next to each other.
Take a look at your neighbors’ houses: If you’re having trouble deciding on a paint color, it can be helpful to look at the houses in your neighborhood for inspiration. You’ll want to choose a color that complements the style and architecture of your home, as well as the colors of the houses around you.
Think about the purpose of the room: When choosing a paint color, it’s a good idea to consider the purpose of the room. For example, a bedroom might benefit from calming, soothing colors, while a kitchen or living room might benefit from brighter, more energetic colors.
Consider the direction of the room: The direction that a room faces can affect the appearance of a paint color, as different parts of the room will receive different amounts of natural light. For example, a room facing north will typically receive less natural light than a room facing south, so you may want to choose a lighter paint color to compensate for this.
Use color swatches and samples: In addition to paint chips and sample pots, you can also use color swatches and samples to help you decide on a paint color. These are larger, more detailed samples that can give you a better sense of how a color will look in your space.
Don’t be afraid to use white: While it may be tempting to go with bold or colorful paint colors, don’t be afraid to use white as well. White can be a timeless and versatile choice that can work well in a variety of spaces and with different styles of decor.
Consider the finish of the paint: In addition to the color of the paint, you’ll also want to consider the finish. Different finishes can create different effects and can be more or less suitable for different types of spaces. For example, a glossy finish might work well in a bathroom or kitchen, while a matte finish might be more suitable for a bedroom or living room.
Use accents to add color: If you’re hesitant to commit to a bold or colorful paint color for an entire room, you can use accents to add pops of color. This can be a good way to incorporate color into your home without making a large investment.
Professional advice: If you are unsure about which color to choose, it may be helpful to consult with a professional designer or paint specialist for guidance like us; The Painting Company. We can offer recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences.
