Breaking the mould: unconventional kitchen colours for an impactful look

White is, without a hint of a doubt, the quintessential colour for kitchens. There are many reasons why this trend has endured for so long and remains a favourite among designers and homeowners alike. The allure of all-white kitchens lies in their incomparable versatility and their ability to make a space feel clean, fresh, and bright, which is most all homeowners’ dream. Through their neutral appearance and simplicity, white kitchens provide a perfect backdrop for customisation while exuding an air of effortless elegance that will forever appeal to the senses. 

Therefore, for those who want to achieve a timeless look in the kitchen, white is definitely the safest and most logical choice. For those who don’t want to play it safe, we’ve got other suggestions. While the ode to white kitchens is well-deserved, it’s only fair to recognise that not everyone is a fan of the style. There’s room for many different perspectives in the interior design realm – excuse the pun – and some of them are not that fond of neutrals.  

Colourful kitchens can be just as if not more alluring than their neutral counterparts, as they can help one create unique aesthetics that challenge the norms and stir the imagination. So, if you’re someone who enjoys venturing off the beaten path in interior design, here are some daring alternatives to white kitchens that we’re sure you’re going to appreciate and maybe even try in your own kitchen. 

Black 

Since the purpose is to defy typical kitchen styles and explore unconventional ideas, we find it fitting to go from one extreme to another and start with the boldest concept of them all, that of black kitchens. If you’ve been paying attention to what’s happening in the world of interior design, you might have already heard that this trend has been making huge waves lately with the sophisticated and dramatic designs it brings forth.  

But are black kitchens all they're hyped up to be? Why would anyone go for such a dark colour when people have always leaned towards light and bright hues in the kitchen? While this aesthetic is certainly not for everyone, a well-designed black kitchen is sure to leave a lasting impression (in a good way) on anyone who crosses its threshold. Apart from the striking visuals they provide, black kitchens convey a sense of luxury and refinement, which helps them integrate perfectly with contemporary interiors. 

They’re also extremely versatile and practical, pairing well with a wide array of décor styles and elements and being quite resilient to wear and tear. Ultimately, black kitchens are ideal for making a strong statement and breaking away from traditional design conventions. 

Bright yellow 

After taking you to the dark side of interior design, you might feel the need for something a little lighter, and we’ve got just the thing for you: bright yellow kitchens. Just like black, yellow can be quite a polarising colour, so a bright yellow kitchen is not going to be everybody’s cup of tea, but that’s not the point. While its intensity can be too much for some, the buoyancy that this versatile shade exudes can make it a perfect choice for others. 

According to colour psychology, yellow is usually associated with sunshine, warmth, energy, and enthusiasm, so bringing vibrant yellow hues into the kitchen is sure to make your space look lively and cheer you up even on the gloomiest of days. A mustard yellow kitchen, for example, is not something you see every day, but it can make for a stunning look and add that wow factor to your home. 

Cobalt blue 

Cobalt blue is another colour that’s not commonly used in kitchen design, but that shouldn’t stop you from integrating it into your interiors, be it through cabinetry, flooring, backsplashes, appliances, and even décor elements. This intense and moody shade will add depth to the room and create a modern and sleek appearance that’s guaranteed to turn heads. 

The richness of a deep cobalt blue kitchen pairs well with a variety of colours, so if you find this statement shade a bit overwhelming, you can achieve the perfect balance by incorporating white, grey, pastels, and wood tones. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different colour combinations, as unusual as they might seem until you find the one that’s right for you. The most unexpected pairings can lead to the most stunning results. 

Blush pink 

If you’re looking for a soft and soothing (and non-white) shade for your kitchen, blush pink might be the ideal option for you. This hue is at the same time delicate and charming but also lively enough that it doesn’t go unnoticed, allowing you to add a touch of playfulness to your kitchen design and bring to life a whimsical aesthetic. 

Some might find blush pink kitchens a bit too feminine, but we think they are fun and cheerful in a subtle way and ensure a cosy and welcoming ambience. You can customise them by adding different contrasting elements and features such as brass fixtures, bright decorations, or natural wood tones. Being such a discreet shade, blush pink lends itself to a variety of styles and pairings, giving you the freedom to choose the one that best reflects your taste and personality. 

Shades of red 

We’re going to end our list of suggestions on a high note with one of the most daring colour choices for kitchen design, namely red shades. While designing a kitchen with rich and bright reds exclusively might be a stretch too far, even for the most excentric homeowners, mixing light and softer reds with deeper ones throughout the room could result in a colour-drenched scheme that oozes sophistication and injects character into your space. 

When white doesn’t cut it anymore, dare to be different and give alternative colours a try. Atypical hues might be risky, but they give you the opportunity to express your creativity and create one-of-a-kind designs.