Kitchen Remodeling Color Schemes

Spacious or Cozy

• Light colors reflect light, making a room feel larger whereas dark colors absorb light, making a room feel smaller. If you're looking for an airy, open kitchen, opt for light colored surfaces. If you would prefer a cozy-feeling space, use dark colors.

Warm or Cool

• Warm colors are variations of the shades of the sun: yellows, reds and oranges. These colors bring energy, vitality and excitement into a space. The color red has even been shown to stimulate appetite. If you're looking for a high-energy kitchen, introduce warm colors. Cool colors are the colors you would find on a mountain hike: blues, greens and lilacs. These colors aid in concentration, stimulate the part of the brain involved in problem solving and create a calm, tranquil space. If you're aiming for a serene kitchen space, opt for cool shades.

Traditional Decor

• Color schemes that are used in a traditional kitchen often consist of shades found directly next to each other on the color wheel. These are called analogous colors. For example, mint green, mustard yellow and powder blue are analogous colors. For a traditional look, choose two of the three colors, and use them as accents in an otherwise neutral-colored room. Brown and black granite countertops paired with dark oak cabinets and set against the backdrop of a creamy beige wall would set a traditional backdrop for bursts of analogous colors. Introduce these brighter shades in items such as tablecloths, dishtowels, window treatments and artwork.

Contemporary Decor

• A contemporary kitchen decor can pair colors that shout "Look at me!" Contemporary colors provide precisely that reaction. Contemporary colors are those that are found across from each other on the color wheel. Blue and orange are complementary colors as are mint green and salmon. The old adage that "opposites attract" is precisely what makes these color pairings so visually stimulating. A slate gray countertop, cream travertine tile floor and dove gray walls will set the stage. Introduce contemporary colors through chair covers, small appliances and picture frames.

Modern Decor

• If you want to go a bit more modern with your kitchen color scheme, bring in black cabinets. Lay a marble or dark hardwood floor, install black granite or speckled quartz countertops and use silver hardware. For a sophisticated look, introduce a monochromatic color scheme. Cover the walls in light mocha and the ceiling in soft tan. Use creamy-white accents and accessories around the room.