Cool Ways to Paint Cupboards With Dark Granite Countertops

Choosing Colors

• Whatever paint color you choose for your cupboards needs not only to complement the countertops, but other architectural details like the trim, walls, and floors. Stand back and consider your kitchen. Most likely, cupboards take up much more space than your walls, because in the average kitchen, there is little wall space showing. You want your cupboards to be vibrant, but not garish. Reserve very vibrant colors for the walls, and choose something fun but versatile for the cupboards.

  Pure white is likely to look cool and stark next to dark granite countertops. You can get a lighter look in your kitchen with any light shade of paint. Go to a paint store and pick up as many paint swatches as you like (they're free.) Ask if they have larger swatches. Many paint stores reserve large swatches for professional clients, but should be able to give you some on request. Spread the swatches out on your countertops and see which colors pick up shades in the countertops. Discard the ones that seem to clash. You may find that darker colors further down the swatch may be likely candidates---hold them up to the cupboards to see how the shade compares with the present color.

  You don't have to stick with off white or beige. Muted blues or green shades or darker browns can be versatile enough to complement future wall paint changes, while still allowing dark granite to pop and adding character to your kitchen.

Add Effects

• Consider a two-tone paint job for the cupboards. Use a darker shade for the lower cupboards, and a lighter one for the upper ones. Choose either a color that matches the cupboards, or one that picks up a color in the granite, like French blue or rust.

  If your countertops are plain and not heavily patterned or marbled, painting the cupboard doors or door panels a different shade can be very fun without looking too cluttered. If your countertops have a lot of swirl and pattern, keep your cupboard paint job simple.

  A faux glaze to give an antique or vintage look to cupboards can soften the look of dark countertops. After painting the cabinets, colored translucent glaze is applied with a brush and rubbed off with a rag, leaving a soft patina of color and highlights.