Cabinet painting is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to give your kitchen a fresh, updated look. But choosing the perfect kitchen cabinet color can be tricky. If you are ready to elevate your space and want something that feels bold yet modern, dark cabinets are where to look.
Our top suggestions for trending dark kitchen cabinet colors
We have seen a steady shift away from classic white kitchen cabinets to black kitchen cabinets or dark, luxurious hues that exude sophistication and warmth. Here are our top picks.
1. Iron Ore SW 7069
First on our list is the timeless Iron Ore from Sherwin Williams. A softer alternative to standard black kitchen cabinets, this charcoal hue offers depth and richness with its gray undertones.
A favorite among our Colorado clients, Iron Ore brings a sense of modern elegance to any kitchen. Its versatility allows it to pair beautifully with both warm and cool elements, making it a go-to for various kitchen cabinet styles.
2. Sealskin SW 7675
For those drawn to the boldness of black, but seeking a more earthy tone, Sealskin is the perfect choice. This deep, rich chocolate shade, with a hint of gray, adds a grounded feel to kitchen cabinets.
The subtle gray undertones prevent it from feeling too warm or dated, making it an excellent match for countertops in red, brown, or cream tones. Sealskin creates a natural yet contemporary aesthetic, and a strong kitchen cabinet color for modern homes.
3. Dark Night SW 6237
Want to experiment with dark cabinet colors without going all-in on a black cabinet color? Try Dark Night, a deep blue-green that adds a pop of color while maintaining inky depth. This sophisticated shade works wonders when paired with white countertops and backsplashes, letting the color truly shine.
For added interest, try two-toned cabinets: Dark Night on the lower cabinets and a light neutral like Gossamer Veil SW 9165 on the uppers for a balanced, eye-catching look.
4. Outerspace SW 6251
If you love the idea of a gray-blue kitchen, Outerspace strikes the perfect balance. This rich blue with strong gray undertones feels refined and sleek, enhancing cooler-toned features in your home.
It’s a fantastic choice if your kitchen has cooler-colored floors or countertops. Outerspace feels timeless and clean, adding sophistication without overpowering the space.
5. Shadegrown SW 6188
Green cabinets have been having a major moment, and Shadegrown offers the perfect earthy, trendy option for 2024. This deep green cabinet shade, with its subtle warm undertones, invites nature inside, making your kitchen feel vibrant and fresh.
Depending on your lighting, it can even brighten your space, especially when paired with warm-toned countertops and backsplash for a cozy, natural look.
Pro Tips for Dark Kitchen Cabinet Colors
Dark kitchen cabinet colors make a bold statement, but can require a little extra care. To keep your kitchen looking its best, avoid matte finishes, which can make smudges more noticeable.
Instead, opt for a satin or semi-gloss finish for easier upkeep. And remember, it’s always better to choose a kitchen cabinet color that feels authentic to your style rather than one that’s simply trendy.
Ready to make a bold move with your cabinets? These deep, rich tones are sure to elevate your kitchen’s look. For more tips and inspiration, including stunning before-and-afters, follow us on Instagram. Or contact us today to transform your kitchen cabinets! Lastly, check out our other blog on cabinet painting colors: Top 10 Benjamin Moore Cabinet Colors for 2024 for more cabinet painting inspo!
If you’re searching for “cabinet painters near me” to help you transform your kitchen cabinets, reach out to our cabinet painting team.
For more options, see our guide to the best Benjamin Moore cabinet colors, or how cabinet color changes a small vs large kitchen.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best dark color for kitchen cabinets?
Iron Ore SW 7069 is the one we recommend most. It is a charcoal rather than a true black, and its gray undertones give it depth and richness without the severity of black, which is why it has become a favorite among our Colorado clients.
Are dark kitchen cabinets replacing white?
They are increasingly the choice people make when they want an upgrade rather than a refresh. The shift has been away from classic white toward black and other dark, luxurious hues that read as sophisticated and warm rather than stark.
Is painting cabinets cheaper than replacing them?
Considerably. Cabinet painting is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to change a kitchen, because the boxes themselves usually long outlast their finish. If the structure is sound, you are paying to change how it looks rather than to rebuild it.
Do dark cabinets work in a small kitchen?
They can, with balance. Pair them with lighter walls and countertops so the room does not close in, or use dark lowers with lighter uppers. Our guide to cabinet color in small versus large kitchens covers the trade-off in more detail.
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