Imagine stepping into a kitchen where the rich, warm hues of cherry cabinets set a welcoming tone. The right color scheme can transform your space into a harmonious haven that excites the senses and soothes the soul.
Choosing the perfect kitchen color schemes with cherry cabinets isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating an environment where every moment feels special, whether you’re brewing morning coffee or hosting a lively dinner party.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover how to enhance the natural beauty of your cherry woodwork with coordinating colors that elevate both style and mood.
From the understated elegance of neutral palettes to the vibrant contrast of bold hues, we’ll explore a range of options that promise to enchant and inspire. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to:
- Select wall paints that complement cherry cabinets beautifully
- Mix materials and textures for a layered aesthetic
- Choose the right countertops and backsplashes that echo your style
Dive into an array of design possibilities that promise to make your kitchen more than just a cooking space, but a centerpiece of your home.
Kitchen Color Schemes With Cherry Cabinets
| Aspect | Neutral Palette | Bold Contrast | Earthy Tones | Bright and Vibrant |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Color | Light beige or soft gray | Deep navy or black | Olive green or warm taupe | Bright white or pale yellow |
| Countertop Color | White marble or light granite | Black granite or quartz | Dark granite or butcher block | Quartz or speckled granite |
| Backsplash | Subway tiles in cream or gray | White subway tiles | Tumbled stone or mosaic tiles | Colorful or patterned tiles |
| Flooring | Light hardwood or bamboo | Dark wood or tile | Terracotta tiles or warm wood | Light tile or hardwood |
| Overall Ambiance | Calming and spacious | Dramatic and sophisticated | Warm and inviting | Energetic and cheerful |
Cherry Wood Kitchen Cabinets
Image source: Signature Kitchens Additions & Bath
As a kitchen cabinetry staple for decades, cherry hardwood has long been linked with traditional cabinetry. Traditional kitchens have relied on them for ages. However, cherry woodwork, with its range of colors from delicate gold-brown to rich luscious brown-red, has a timeless appeal and doesn’t go out of style, making it a perfect material for hardwood flooring as well.
Cherry hardwood has a beautiful, deep hue that adds a sense of warmth and vibrancy to any room. Its hue can be made more prominent with the right backsplash ideas or muted with neutral kitchen walls. Alternatively, the wood can be dyed or let to darken organically over time, offering a wide range of cherry wood cabinet colors to choose from since the wood is so easy to finish.
Paint Colors That Go With Cherry Wood Cabinets
Image source: Norsk Design-Build
Kitchen color schemes with cherry cabinets that go well together include subdued grays, whites, and reds. Because paint is the most affordable decorating material, and with options like stainless steel appliances and pendant lighting available, the possibilities for matching colors and designs are virtually endless.
There are only a few guidelines to adhere to.
Contrasting and complementary paint colors can be used to enhance your cherry cabinetry. With contrasting colors, it’s possible to make both the cabinet and the tile flooring stand out. Coordinating colors, on the other hand, will lessen the impact of strong cherry wood tones. What color to use for your cherry cabinets depends on the depth of the color in your cabinets and the kind of ambiance you aim to create with warm kitchen palettes.
Paint swatches should be tested on the wall and held up to the wood to confirm that you are satisfied with your choice of color, ensuring your kitchen accents and overall design blend seamlessly.
Cream
Image source: M.J. Whelan Construction
It’s usually a good idea to paint your kitchen walls a warm cream hue to balance off the richness of the cherry cabinets. This neutral kitchen wall color ensures the cabinets, with their deep crimson overtones, take center stage in a room. If you opt for this shade of white, considering adding kitchen accents like a brightly colored runner or an eye-catching pendant lighting to infuse additional color into a modern kitchen.
Gray
Gray, when used with cherry cabinets, offers an eye-catching appearance while staying subtle and understated. This makes it a viable replacement for white as a primary kitchen accent color. Those who find white or beige too monotonous might turn to gray, as it introduces a sense of depth and power to a room, emphasizing the rich wood tones of the cabinetry.
To accentuate the gray color palette, incorporate stainless steel kitchen appliances and polished chrome cabinet hardware.
White
Image source: Passione
The white wall contrasts with the deep hue and crimson overtones of the cherry wood, emphasizing its color and allowing it to take center stage. As the hue of the cherry wood darkens, it becomes more pronounced against a white backdrop. This contrast is ideal for homeowners aiming for a lively vibe and wanting to make a statement with their cabinets.
However, the stark contrast between bright whites and dark cherry cabinets might be overpowering for some. To soften this, one can lean towards warm whites like cream or light tan, which beautifully complement the warm kitchen palette of cherry cabinetry.
This approach can make a small kitchen appear expansive, brighter, and more inviting, resonating perfectly with the rich luscious brown-red of cherry-wood cabinets.
Pale Green
To maximize the potential of a color combination, choosing complementary colors—those positioned opposite on the color wheel—is recommended. Given the red overtones of your dark cherry cabinets, greens act as an ideal counterbalance.
This combination lends depth and visual allure to the space. Additionally, green shades enhance the wood’s color, making its grain more distinct and pronounced.
If your kitchen makeover budget allows, incorporate hardwood flooring to complete this holistic and inviting aesthetic.
Pale Yellow
Image source: Interiors 4 U
Warm and cheery, pale yellow is a great wall paint color choice. It creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere when paired with cherry kitchen cabinetry. Pairing yellow walls with the rich wood tones of red-brown cherry wood infuses your kitchen with a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the overall kitchen accent.
Depending on the tint, yellow can be both formal and captivating. Light hues of yellow resonate well with darker wood tones like the deep crimson overtones of cherry, while darker shades of yellow suit lighter wood shades. Just a couple of coats of this color can elevate the aesthetic of your kitchen renovation.
Navy
Adding a darker shade like navy blue can make the cherry cabinets blend in, making them less noticeable, while creating a warm kitchen palette. The deep hue of red cabinets contrasts with the navy walls, providing a calm ambiance. Opting for this color combination is wise if you’re aiming for a more balanced and subdued look.
To break up the dominance of navy, consider introducing a white tiled backsplash. This ensures that the final design feels intentional and timeless.
Cabinet-Countertop Combinations
As vital as selecting a wall color is, equally crucial is deciding on a countertop color that harmonizes with your cabinets. Selecting the appropriate material is pivotal, as different materials come with distinct benefits. Below, we delve into the best countertop choices that pair splendidly with cherry wood cabinets.
White Countertops
Image source: Boulder Builders
To accentuate your cherry cabinets, white countertops, whether marble or quartz, can introduce a touch of sophistication.
While both are commendable choices, in terms of durability and stain resistance, quartz emerges as the more resilient one. However, both can be striking options, especially if maintained diligently.
Cream-Colored Granite
Cornice accents, antique handles, and cream granite on the counters and backsplash converge to create a timeless and alluring kitchen design dominated by a cherry color scheme.
The cream-colored granite countertop not only offers a neutral surface to the ambiance but also attenuates the intensity of the cherry wood’s crimson overtones.
A harmonious blend of cream granite for the kitchen island and cream quartz for the base cabinets completes the countertop ensemble.
Grey countertops
Image source: Kitchen Magic Remodel
When paired with cherry cabinets, grey countertops infuse your kitchen with a futuristic flair and a warm kitchen palette.
Grey is an excellent color choice for most furniture, especially as an accent to cherry wood tones, but it can be tricky to implement effectively. In terms of kitchen accents, there’s a plethora of grey shades to pick from for your countertops.
The principle is simple: the darker the brown or black elements in your kitchen, like your hardwood flooring, the lighter your grey shade should be.
Some Additional Tips in Selecting the Right Color Scheme with Cherry Cabinets
Image source: HomeSource Design Center
When deciding on the perfect paint or backsplash ideas to accompany any wood, especially the luxurious feel of cherry, there are some straightforward criteria to consider. Highlighting the wood’s hue means selecting a color that complements the wood. Conversely, if you wish to mute the rich wood tones, go for a hue that aligns with the wood’s undertones or a neutral shade.
Neutral tones such as grays, browns, greens, and golden yellows create a warm and subdued backdrop for dark cherry wood.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always ideal to hide your cherry cabinets behind a dark brown shade of paint; this can only accentuate their presence. Attempting to conceal the genuine allure of cherry cabinets, especially with their deep crimson overtones, seems counterproductive.
For those oscillating between a traditional and modern design, consider white walls juxtaposed with dark cherry cabinets. But if the stark contrast between bright white walls and cherry cabinets doesn’t appeal to you, remember that dark cherry woodwork harmonizes beautifully with beige, cream, off-white, and other warm undertoned hues.
Tread carefully with the red color family. A crimson wall amidst an ambiance dominated by red overtones (like those of cherry wood) might overwhelm a space. Moreover, certain hues can clash with the wood’s undertones, undermining the wood’s aesthetic value.
Owing to the reddish overtones of cherry cabinets, it’s prudent to refrain from black as a neutral hue. Pairing them might yield a design that’s visually cumbersome and feels restrictive.
A monochromatic color palette is always a safe bet. You must establish the perfect balance and use the ideal tones for each visual element in your kitchen when you choose a monochromatic color scheme Cherry cabinets are dark, therefore a lighter brown for the flooring, and a tan tint for the walls are appropriate options.
FAQ On Kitchen Color Schemes With Cherry Cabinets
What wall colors complement cherry cabinets best?
Warm neutrals like beige or soft ivory balance the richness of cherry wood, creating a cohesive look. Soft grays can also offer a contemporary contrast, making the cherry tones stand out beautifully.
How do I choose the right countertop for cherry cabinets?
Consider granite countertops with hues that contrast or complement the cherry—think black, deep green, or even soft white. Granite brings durability and elegance, pairing perfectly with the luxury of cherry wood.
Are there specific backsplash ideas that work well with cherry cabinets?
A ceramic or glass tile backsplash in earth tones or subtle greens can beautifully tie together the room. For a more modern approach, consider metallic or white subway tiles to brighten the space while complementing the cabinets.
What type of flooring should I pair with cherry cabinets?
Hardwood flooring in a lighter shade can create an inviting contrast. Alternatively, consider tiles that mirror some of the subtle colors in the cherry wood, like browns or grays, for a harmonious feel.
Can I use bold colors in a kitchen with cherry cabinets?
Yes, bold colors like deep blue or emerald green can add vibrancy and depth, especially as wall colors or accent pieces. These colors make the cherry wood pop and infuse the space with personality.
What lighting options are best for kitchens with cherry cabinets?
Warm, soft lighting works wonders, especially with under-cabinet lights that highlight the cherry’s rich hues. Consider pendant lights with a soft glow for a cozy, inviting kitchen atmosphere.
How do I create a modern look with cherry cabinets?
Incorporate stainless steel appliances and minimalist hardware to inject a modern vibe. Simplify the lines and color palette to focus on sophistication and contrast.
What are some eco-friendly options for pairing with cherry cabinets?
Opt for eco-friendly paint and flooring like bamboo or reclaimed hardwood. These materials are sustainable and add a fresh, modern feel that still respects the natural element of cherry wood.
How do I maximize a small kitchen with cherry cabinets?
Use mirrored backsplashes or glossy finishes to reflect light and open up the space. Choose lighter colors for walls and countertops to enhance the sense of space.
What design trends incorporate cherry cabinets into contemporary kitchens?
Trends lean towards a mix of materials—combining cherry wood with modern elements like concrete countertops or mixed metals in fixtures and hardware to bridge traditional warmth with contemporary sleekness.
Conclusion
Navigating the vibrant world of kitchen color schemes with cherry cabinets can redefine the heart of your home. The richness of cherry wood, combined with the right color choices, not only personalized your culinary space but elevated it into a nurturing and stylish sanctuary.
- Harmonize with neutrals or dabble in bold hues; each palette choice sparks its own magic. Whether pairing with modern stainless steel appliances or opting for the classic elegance of granite countertops, the foundation remains the same—cherry cabinets offer a timeless backdrop.
Embrace the blend of functionality and aesthetics. Let the warm tones of cherry inspire environments that encourage both vibrant gatherings and moments of serene solitude. By carefully selecting complementary colors and materials, your kitchen can transcend everyday cooking, becoming a space of inspiration and comfort. Remember, every element introduced, from paint to lighting, is a thread in the vibrant tapestry of your kitchen’s story.