The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Kitchen Paint Colors That Complement Oak Cabinets
Are you tired of your outdated 80s kitchen with honey oak cabinets? Are you looking for a way to freshen up your space without breaking the bank? Painting oak cabinets can be a cost-effective and simple way to update your kitchen, but choosing the right paint color is crucial to ensure a cohesive and stylish look.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best paint colors that go with oak cabinets, tips for choosing the perfect color, and how to transform your kitchen into a modern and inviting space. Whether you want to enhance the warm tones of oak or create a contrast with cooler colors, we’ve got you covered.
Paint Color Tips for Oak Cabinets
Oak cabinets typically have yellow and orange undertones, which can make a room look dated if not paired with the right paint color. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect paint color to complement your oak cabinets:
- Consider the Undertones: Pay attention to the undertones of your oak cabinets (yellow or orange) and choose a paint color that either works with them or contrasts them.
- Warm vs. Cool: Decide whether you want to enhance the warmth of the wood with warm neutrals or tone down the yellows and oranges with cooler neutrals and colors.
Now, let’s explore some of the best paint colors that work well with oak cabinets and can transform your kitchen into a stylish and inviting space.
20 Kitchen Paint Colors That Go With Oak Cabinets
Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray SW-7015
If you want to play off the warm tones of oak cabinets, Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray is a calming and light warm gray that provides a nice contrast to the yellow and orange undertones. This versatile neutral pairs well with gray veined countertops, creating a modern and elegant look.
Sherwin-Williams Rainwashed SW-6211
For a fresh and sea-inspired look, consider Sherwin-Williams Rainwashed, a light and airy blue-green color that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of oak cabinets. This serene hue adds a touch of modernity to your kitchen while creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Benjamin Moore Horizon OC-53
Benjamin Moore Horizon is a subtle blue-gray color that tempers the warmth of oak cabinets, creating a harmonious and balanced look. Pair it with crisp white trim for a fresh and contemporary feel.
Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17
For a timeless and classic look, Benjamin Moore White Dove is a slightly creamy white that warms up oak cabinets in a subtle and calming way. This neutral hue complements oak cabinets without overpowering them, creating a harmonious and inviting space.
Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige SW-7036
If you want to enhance the coziness of your oak cabinets, Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige is a warm, gray-tinted beige that pairs beautifully with earthy colors. Accent your kitchen with sage green or terracotta red to bring out the natural beauty of the oak.
Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172
Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter is a neutral bridge between beige and taupe, with tones that neutralize the warm orange and yellow hues in oak cabinets. This versatile color looks classic next to oak cabinets and creates a sophisticated and modern look.
Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White CC-20
For a pure shade of white that complements oak cabinets, consider Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White. This neutral hue reflects the golden honey color of oak, creating a bright and airy feel in your kitchen.
Sherwin-Williams Kilim Beige SW-6106
Sherwin-Williams Kilim Beige is a warm and welcoming color with pink undertones that accentuate the depth of oak cabinets. This soft and inviting hue adds a touch of warmth to your kitchen, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Sherwin-Williams Comfort Gray SW-6205
Sherwin-Williams Comfort Gray is a tranquil green-gray color that contrasts with the warmth of oak cabinets, creating a relaxed and serene look. This pretty hue adds a touch of modernity to your kitchen, making it a stylish and inviting space.
Benjamin Moore Abalone 2108-60
For a modern and sophisticated look, consider Benjamin Moore Abalone, a soft, light gray paint with a hint of mauve. This subdued color creates a sleek and updated backdrop for oak cabinets, bringing out their warm tones in a contemporary way.
Sherwin-Williams Natural Linen SW 9109
Sherwin-Williams Natural Linen is a creamy beige color with a slight yellow undertone that instantly brightens up any space. This warm hue warms up your kitchen without feeling overbearing, allowing your natural wood cabinets to shine.
Benjamin Moore Silver Gray 2131-60
For a cool and airy look, Benjamin Moore Silver Gray is a mesmerizing blue-green gray that contrasts with the warmth of oak cabinets. Pair it with white countertops and brass fixtures for a modern and stylish feel.
Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog SW-9130
Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog is a stunning green color with hints of blue and green, giving your kitchen a vintage-inspired and moody look. This versatile hue pairs well with slate blue accents and marble countertops, creating a stylish and inviting space.
Benjamin Moore Collingwood OC-28
Benjamin Moore Collingwood is a fantastic neutral tone called greige, which combines gray with beige. This crowd-pleaser has a cool undertone that complements oak cabinets beautifully, creating a harmonious and stylish look.
Farrow and Ball Down Pipe No. 26
For a bold and dramatic look, consider Farrow and Ball Down Pipe, a decadent shade of charcoal gray that contrasts with oak cabinets. This rich color works well with contrasting materials and finishes, creating a modern and sophisticated look.
Sherwin-Williams Canvas Tan SW-7531
Sherwin-Williams Canvas Tan is a warm neutral color that brightens up oak cabinets while maintaining their warm and nostalgic look. This cozy hue creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen.
Magnolia Home Dutch Tulip
Magnolia Home Dutch Tulip is a soft and creamy pastel with a hint of orange that complements all types of wood tones, including oak. This versatile hue adds a touch of zest to your kitchen walls, creating a warm and inviting space.
Farrow and Ball Breakfast Room No. 38
Farrow and Ball Breakfast Room Green is a gorgeous shade that adds a cheerful and fresh vibe to your kitchen. This vibrant green color pops against brown and wood tones, creating a stylish and inviting atmosphere.
Farrow and Ball Clunch No. 2009
Farrow and Ball Clunch is an ivory white color with a slightly yellow base that complements oak cabinets nicely. This fresh and crisp hue creates a timeless and traditional farmhouse feel in your kitchen.
Benjamin Moore Simply White OC-117
Benjamin Moore Simply White is a crisp and lovely white color with warm undertones that brightens up your kitchen. This fresh and bright hue pairs well with oak cabinets, creating an airy and classic look.
Updating Your Oak Cabinets for a Modern Look
In addition to choosing the right paint color, there are other elements you can update to give your oak cabinets a modern and stylish look:
- Update Cabinet Hardware: Consider replacing your cabinet hardware with gold or brass fixtures to give your cabinets a modern and luxurious feel.
- Update Backsplash and Countertops: Consider updating your backsplash and countertops with sleek and modern materials to create a contemporary look that complements the warmth of oak cabinets.
- Update Trim and Door Styles: Ensure that your trim and door styles are modern and simple to prevent your oak cabinets from looking outdated.
Wood cabinets, including oak, are becoming more popular in kitchens in 2024, with darker woods like walnut seeing a resurgence. However, oak cabinets can still look outdated if not updated with simple design changes. By choosing the right paint color and updating other elements in your kitchen, you can transform your space into a modern and inviting oasis.
In conclusion, choosing the right paint color for your oak cabinets can make a huge difference in transforming your kitchen into a stylish and inviting space. Whether you want to play off the warmth of oak or create a contrast with cool colors, there are endless possibilities to create a modern and trendy look. Experiment with different paint colors, textures, and finishes to find the perfect combination that suits your style and personality.
Remember, painting oak cabinets is a cost-effective and simple way to update your kitchen, so don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with the process. With the right paint color and design elements, you can turn your outdated kitchen into a modern and stylish masterpiece that you’ll love for years to come.
