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Post added: 05.16.2023

Two-tone kitchen cabinets - choose the perfect color combination

different tone cabinet doors and frame in the kitchen

A lot of magazines have showcased a two-tone cabinet kitchen design in recent years. It seems deep and interesting and many homeowners wish to apply two colours for their cabinets. At the same time, a lot of people feel unsure about this decision as it can overwhelm the space. And it actually can. But it does not mean you should give up on two-tone colours for kitchen cabinets from the start. The proper aesthetic depends on a number of factors and we’re going to reveal them in this Cut2Size post. 

Kitchens with two-tone cabinets look modern and stylish when properly designed. When the kitchen is spacious, many experts recommend using two-tone cupboards to break up dull, boring rows of units. It helps to add some accents if you use contrasting colours for two-tone cabinets in the kitchen.  Even if you have other centrepieces like a sink in front of the window or a beautiful hob with a chimney hood, the same colour darker and lighter hue cabinets may maintain the vibe. 

In a smaller kitchen, two-tone cabinets can provide a focal point and add visual interest. Since the small space does not allow a lot of detailing and accents, highlighting with the colour can make it comfy and deep. Are you wondering how to achieve this look? Read this post till the end to find out!

How to design two-tone kitchen cabinets

two-tone kitchen cabinets teal and beige

The days of uniform cabinets in a single shade are gone. Among the most popular choices are kitchen cabinets two-tone, including the clean and timeless look of white two-tone kitchen cabinets. However, the possibilities for two-tone painted kitchen cabinets are endless. To create the perfect look for your space, you'll need to consider factors such as colour palette, tone placement, and finishes. By following our expert tips, you'll be able to design your own stunning two-tone colour kitchen cabinets that will impress your guests and make you feel right at home.

  1. Two-tone kitchen cabinets grey and white

Two-tone grey and white kitchen cabinets are classic colours that create a timeless and elegant look. Kitchens should have a clean but homely look. Having white and grey two-tone kitchen cabinets helps to achieve that aesthetic appeal. Aside from giving off a modern yet clean vibe, two-tone gray and white kitchen cabinets are also calming and relaxing to the eye. You can pair two-tone white and grey kitchen cabinets with either white or black appliances. If you are quite unsure of what colour to opt for when doing a two-tone cabinet style, you can start with two-tone kitchen cabinets white and gray. For a more contemporary feel, try using a darker shade of grey or incorporating a patterned backsplash or countertop.

  1. Grey modern two-tone kitchen cabinets


For a modern and edgy look, use a darker shade of two-tone gray kitchen cabinets and pair it with lighter grey cabinets. Grey two-tone kitchen cabinets are perfect for creating an industrial kitchen look. You can pair two-tone kitchen cabinets dark grey and light grey to balance the visual scheme in your kitchen. Moreover, incorporates stainless steel appliances and minimalist hardware for a sleek and sophisticated look.

  1. Two-tone blue and white kitchen cabinets

Two-tone kitchen cabinets white and blue are a popular colour combination in coastal or nautical-themed kitchens. If you want to add a pop of colour to your kitchen but want to do so in a subtle yet visually significant manner, opt for two-tone kitchen cabinets blue and white or two-tone blue and gray kitchen cabinets. Try using a pale blue for the upper cabinets and a bright white for the lower cabinets to create a fresh and airy feel.

  1. Blue two-tone kitchen cabinets

If you want to go bold with your kitchen colour scheme, try two-tone kitchen cabinets blue. This is basically using different shades of blue. Deep navy blue cabinets paired with a lighter blue or even a pale blue can create a stunning and unexpected colour combination. Two-tone blue kitchen cabinets are perfect for minimalist lovers.

Kitchen Cabinets

  1. Two-tone kitchen cabinets brown and white

Two-tone brown kitchen cabinets create a warm and inviting feel in any kitchen. Try using rich, chocolate brown tow-tone kitchen cabinets for the lower cabinets and bright white for the upper cabinets to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Two-tone kitchen cabinets white and brown can be applied in farmhouse-styled and rustic kitchen interiors.

  1. Two-tone kitchen cabinets white and wood

Another colour combination you can use in a rustic or contemporary-inspired kitchen is the two-tone cabinets wood and white. You can achieve this by using a natural wood tone for the lower cabinets and a bright white for the upper cabinets to create a bright and welcoming space. Two-tone white and wood kitchen cabinets are commonly used in small apartments and condo units. This is because modern two-tone kitchen cabinets wood and white give off a modern yet welcoming vibe that makes small spaces appear larger and homely. Use two-tone wood and white kitchen cabinets to transform your dull kitchen into a modern haven where you’ll enjoy spending your time cooking and prepping meals.

  1. Two-tone kitchen cabinets wood

If you want to go all in with a wood-inspired kitchen, use two different wood tones for your cabinets such as two-tone oak kitchen cabinets and two-tone maple kitchen cabinets. Try pairing warm, honey-coloured two-tone wood kitchen cabinets with darker, espresso-coloured wood for a rich and earthy feel. You can also go for two-tone stained kitchen cabinets if you want to subtly change the colour of your cabinets without having to spend a lot on repainting them.

  1. Two-tone kitchen cabinets black and white

Two-tone black and white kitchen cabinets are a classic and timeless colour combination that helps to create a high-contrast look. White cabinets and black countertops provide a classic, contemporary look to any kitchen. The bright white cabinets provide a clean, crisp look that can be paired with black hardware and many different styles of appliances. Black and white cabinets offer the perfect contrast, creating an elegant and sophisticated look.

Two-tone kitchen cabinets black and white

  1. Two-tone kitchen cabinets green and white

Green and white create a fresh and lively feel in any kitchen. Use a light green for the upper cabinets and a bright white for the lower cabinets to create a cheerful and inviting space.

  1. Two-tone green kitchen cabinets

For a more dramatic look, try using two different shades of green for your cabinets. A dark forest green two-tone kitchen cabinet paired with a light sage green can create a stunning and unique colour combination.

  1. Two-tone beige kitchen cabinets

Beige is a versatile and neutral colour that can be paired with many different colours. Try using a warm, sandy beige for the lower cabinets and a cool, pale beige for the upper cabinets to create a subtle yet impactful two-tone look.

  1. Two-tone taupe kitchen cabinets

Taupe is a warm and earthy colour that pairs well with many other colours. Try using a darker, espresso-toned taupe for the lower cabinets and a lighter, sandier taupe for the upper cabinets to create a cozy and welcoming space.

How to incorporate two-tone cabinets into your kitchen

different tone kitchen cabinets and island

There are different ways to incorporate two-tone colours in your kitchen aside from repainting cabinets. Here are ways where you can apply two-tone colours in your kitchen.


AreaIdea
Two-tone kitchen cabinet doorsUse one colour for the upper cabinets and a different colour for the lower cabinets. This creates a high-contrast look and can make your kitchen feel more spacious. For example, you could use white cabinets for the upper cabinets and a rich, dark wood tone for the lower cabinets.
Two-tone kitchen cabinets and islandPaint your kitchen island a different colour than the rest of your cabinets. This draws attention to the island and creates a focal point in your kitchen. For example, you could use a bright blue colour for your kitchen island and a white colour for the rest of your cabinets.
Two-tone kitchen cabinets with peninsulaUsing a two-tone kitchen island with different colours from cabinets can create a sense of separation between your kitchen and dining area. This makes your kitchen feel more open. For example, you could use a light grey colour for your kitchen peninsula and countertop and a dark grey colour for your cabinets.
Two-tone kitchen cabinets with dark countertopsUse a light colour for your upper cabinets and a dark colour for your lower cabinets to create a dramatic effect that will make your kitchen stand out. To complete the look, opt for two-tone kitchen cabinets with black countertops to really make the difference between light and dark pop of colours. For example, you could use white cabinets for the upper cabinets and a deep navy blue colour for the lower cabinets.

 

Incorporating two-tone cabinets into your kitchen is a great way to add visual interest and personality to your space. Whether you're using a classic colour combination like grey and white or going bold with shades like blue and green, there are many ways to make two-tone cabinets work for your kitchen design. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colour combinations and think outside the box when it comes to incorporating two-tone cabinets into your kitchen.

Two-tone cabinets in a small kitchen

Two-tone kitchen cabinets white and wood

Designing a small kitchen can be challenging. If made wrong, two-tone cabinets in a small kitchen can lead to a big mess. However proper incorporation of two-tone cabinets can make a big impact on the look and feel of the space. Here are some key features to keep in mind when using two-tone cabinets in a small kitchen:

  1. Use light colors

In a small kitchen, using light colours for your two-tone cabinets can help make the space feel larger and more open. Light colours reflect more light rays and can create the illusion of more space.

  1. Two-tone upper kitchen cabinets

Consider using a lighter colour for your upper cabinets and a darker colour for your lower cabinets. This creates a sense of depth and can make the room feel more spacious. By using a lighter colour on the upper cabinets, you can draw the eye upward and make the ceiling feel higher.

  1. Small kitchen two-tone kitchen cabinets

When designing two-tone cabinets for a small kitchen, consider using a neutral colour for one of the tones. Neutral colours like white or grey can help create a cohesive and streamlined look that doesn't overwhelm the space.

  1. Add contrast

While using light colours is important, it's also important to add contrast between the two tones. This can be achieved by using different shades of the same colour or contrasting colours. For example, using a light grey for the upper cabinets and a dark blue for the lower cabinets can create a striking contrast that adds depth to the space.

  1. Consider open shelving

In a small kitchen, using open shelving in place of upper cabinets can help make the space feel more open and airier. This can be combined with two-tone lower cabinets for a balanced and stylish look.

Two-tone kitchen cabinet ideas for every style

Two-tone kitchen cabinets grey and white

Two-tone kitchen cabinets are versatile design elements that can work with any style. Whether you prefer a traditional farmhouse look or a sleek and modern aesthetic, there are many ways to incorporate two-tone kitchen cabinets. Here are some ideas for two-tone kitchen cabinets for every style.

Farmhouse two-tone kitchen cabinets

A farmhouse kitchen is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider using a combination of white and wood-tone cabinets to achieve this look. For example, you could use white cabinets on the upper half of the kitchen and natural wood-tone cabinets on the lower half. This creates a cozy and rustic feel that's perfect for a farmhouse kitchen.

Modern two-tone kitchen cabinets

A modern kitchen is all about clean lines and sleek surfaces. Consider using a combination of black and white cabinets to achieve this look. For example, you could use white cabinets on the upper half of the kitchen and black cabinets on the lower half. This creates a bold and dramatic look that's perfect for a modern kitchen.

Rustic two-tone kitchen cabinets

If you prefer a more rustic look, consider using a combination of natural wood-tone cabinets and a bold accent colour. For example, you could use natural wood-tone cabinets on the upper half of the kitchen and a deep navy blue on the lower half. This creates a cozy and inviting look that's perfect for a rustic kitchen.

Coastal two-tone kitchen cabinets

If you love the beachy vibe of a coastal kitchen, consider using a combination of white and blue cabinets. For example, you could use white cabinets on the upper half of the kitchen and light blue on the lower half. This creates a fresh and airy look that's perfect for a coastal kitchen.

Valentina Melnikova
Valentina Melnikova
Lead Designer at Cut2Size
Hi there! I’m a millwork designer and an owner of a kitchen cabinet manufacturing company. With a team of professionals, I work on designing and manufacturing high-end millwork. Combining professional designing and manufacturing skills is what allows us to develop and translate our plans into a reality through our uniqueness and exclusive ideas. Our employees are highly skilled and creative thinkers that also utilize their professionalism and experience to take millwork to the next level. I’m very familiar with the industry and I take on each project from the design to the final product. With that said, if you’re looking for design advice or technician help, you’re in the right place.
FAQ
Can kitchen cabinet doors have a color different from the frame?

It is possible to have kitchen cabinet frames that are a different colour than the doors. However, it is important to think about the style and design of the entire space when you are choosing two-tone cabinet doors and frames. You can use cabinet doors in bright, bold hues to bring a color pop to the kitchen or choose muted tones for a shabby or cottage style.

Can two-tone kitchen cabinets work in a small kitchen?

Yes, two-tone kitchen cabinets can work well in a small kitchen. In fact, they can help create the illusion of more space by using lighter colors on the upper cabinets and darker colors on the lower cabinets. Additionally, using glass-fronted upper cabinets can also help create the illusion of more space.

What color combinations work well for two-tone kitchen cabinets?

There are many color combinations that can work well for two-tone kitchen cabinets, including grey and white, blue and white, black and white, brown and white, and green and white, among others. The key is to choose colors that complement each other and create a cohesive look.

Are two-tone kitchen cabinets trendy?

Two-tone kitchen cabinets are definitely a popular trend in modern kitchen design. They add visual interest, depth, and personality to a space and can be used to create a variety of different looks, from traditional to modern. The trend has been around for several years now, and it doesn't seem to be going away anytime soon.

What are two-tone kitchen cabinets?

Two-tone kitchen cabinets are cabinets that use two different colors or finishes to create a contrast between the upper and lower cabinets, or between the cabinets and the kitchen island or peninsula. This is a popular design trend that adds visual interest and depth to a kitchen.

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