Looking for ideas for your upcoming kitchen remodel? Dive into a trend you’ll notice in kitchens everywhere: two-tone kitchens! Gone are the days of uniform cabinetry. For years now, designers have been combining colors and finishes to create kitchens that are unique to you.
A two-tone kitchen can be created in one of several ways. The first option uses one color for the upper cabinets and another for the base cabinets. Generally, a lighter color is preferred for the upper cabinets to create a spacious feeling. The second option uses one color for the wall cabinets and a pop of color for the island cabinets. In this method, a neutral color is generally used for the wall cabinets, with the color being applied to the island.
Whether you prefer a subtle contrast or a bold statement, this trend offers endless possibilities. Start by exploring our curated collection of two-tone kitchen designs. Then, book a consultation with our designers to bring your vision to life.
Two Tone Kitchens: Colour On The Island
In the examples below, both the upper cabinets and base cabinets attached to the wall have the same colouring. For the most part, these wall cabinets are painted a neutral shade. The colour is reserved for the island, with blues and greens being the most popular choice for the two tone kitchen design trend. Opting for a dark wood stain is also a time-tested choice for this design style.
Two Tone Kitchens: Base Vs Upper
In the gallery below, the two tone kitchen trend takes on a different look. The base cabinets are one colour or stain while the upper cabinets are another. Often, the base cabinets are finished in deeper hues or rich wood stains, grounding the kitchen with a sense of solidity and warmth. The upper cabinets are typically lighter in colour. This helps to open up the space and create a brighter, more airy atmosphere. Once again, the secondary colour in these two-tone kitchens is typically blue, green, or a dark wood stain.
Combining Colours & Finishes
In the galleries featured on this page, you may notice that the designs combine multiple finishes in addition to using two colours. The cabinets that are white or solid colours are finished with either paint or vinyl wrapping. This is a solid finish that provides a smooth, uniform appearance that does not show any wood grain. Paint finishes offer the widest range of colours, and they can be custom colour matched to any sample you provide to us. Vinyl finishes are exceptionally versatile as they are more affordable than painted finishes, and are more durable, too.
On the other hand, the featured cabinets with rich wood colors are typically finished with a stain. Staining is a technique that enhances the natural beauty of the wood by allowing the grain to show through. This finish creates a warm, textured look that brings out the unique characteristics of the wood species you select. Stains can vary from light to dark tones, offering a rustic charm or a more sophisticated elegance, depending on the desired effect.
By combining colors and finishes, you can create a two tone kitchen that’s both stylish and functional. Whether you choose to highlight your island or play with contrasting upper and base cabinets, there’s no shortage of creative options. If you’re looking for more photos, we invite you to browse our ideabooks on Houzz. You’ll find more inspiration there!
