Kitchen Paint Colors
Choosing kitchen paint colors seems an easy enough task, but once you start looking at the vast area of colors available, it can be a little overwhelming. The kitchen tends to be one of those rooms where people gather for conversation, family games, and holidays. The color of a room can make people feel happy or sad or anxious. Think of that dull green of hospitals that was so common years ago. This has been replaced in many hospitals with bright yellow because administrators realize that color plays a key role in illness and depression.
Home improvement centers and paint stores are full of color samples and cards to help you choose. But there are so many, so here are some kitchen color ideas to help you choose the right one.
First, begin by looking at the other kitchen paint colors in the room. For instance, if your cabinets are a dark colored wood, a bright yellow or green would not be appropriate. Other examples of things to be considered are the presence of stainless steel appliances, countertop colors, whether or not the room has wallpaper or chair rails. Are there windows or doors in the room? Do you want the same colors for those or would you prefer a contrasting color? All these things must be considered before choosing your kitchen paint colors.
The important part of choosing kitchen paint colors is to compliment the other items in the room, not take away from them. For some kitchen color schemes and ideas, first visit your local paint store and get some sample cards. Hold them against the cabinets and appliances in the room to get a general idea of what looks good, what kitchen paint colors you like and what seem to go best with your other furnishings. Ask yourself what exactly you hope to achieve with the new paint color. If you’re looking to make the kitchen seem bigger, choose a brighter color such as a birght yellow or green. If you want a cozier feel, choose a warm color such as tan or muted blue.
Wallpaper can compliment these colors, but choose carefully. Avoid stripes or dots and go for something that will blend in, not be spotlighted. You want people to feel relaxed and at ease during their meals and color can greatly influence this. Don’t choose anything too distracting.
The kitchen should be a peaceful yet happy place and the color you choose will be important. Also, remember that if you already have white trim around doors and windows, these will look great with your new wall paint colors so plan on sprucing these up at the same time. If they are not painted white, this may be a good time to paint them. Nothing looks better than bright white trim! Once you’ve done this, narrow down your choices to two or three colors that you really prefer and then revisit the paint store. Ask for or purchase a small amount of each of the paint colors and then paint a small area of the room with these colors. See the colors in different light situations and at different times of day. Get other family members opinions and ideas.
Once you decide the color, you must then decide what type of finish you want. A flat finish looks beautiful and smooth, but is not good for clean ups. The best paint for kitchens seems to be a satin or semi-gloss paint. This can easily be wiped down and cleaned which is important in the kitchen, where grease, smoke and odors can dull the paint.
Choosing kitchen paint colors can be overwhelming, but with the above tips, you will hopefully have an easier time. Remember also that the employees in the paint store can help you too!
