My Experience With Dark Lower Cabinets And White Upper Cabinets

When I was renovating my kitchen, I spent countless hours browsing through Pinterest and home design magazines for inspiration. One trend that caught my eye was the combination of dark lower cabinets with white upper cabinets. I decided to give it a try and I couldn’t be happier with the results.

What is the Dark Lower Cabinets and White Upper Cabinets Trend?

The trend of combining dark lower cabinets and white upper cabinets involves painting or staining the lower cabinets in a darker color, such as navy blue or black, and leaving the upper cabinets white or a lighter color. This creates a striking contrast and adds depth and dimension to the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Guide for the Dark Lower Cabinets and White Upper Cabinets Trend

Choose a dark color for the lower cabinets. Navy blue, black, and dark green are popular choices.
Choose a lighter color for the upper cabinets. White, cream, light gray, or even a light blue or green can work well.
Paint or stain the lower cabinets in the chosen dark color and let them dry completely.
Remove the cabinet doors and hardware from the upper cabinets and sand them lightly to create a smooth surface.
Paint or stain the upper cabinets in the chosen lighter color and let them dry completely.
Replace the cabinet doors and hardware on the upper cabinets.
Admire your new kitchen!

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Dark Lower Cabinets and White Upper Cabinets

Use a high-gloss finish on the upper cabinets to create a modern, sleek look.
Add open shelving or glass-fronted cabinets to break up the solid color and create visual interest.
Incorporate natural wood elements, such as a wood countertop or floating shelves, to add warmth and texture.
Add pops of color with accessories, such as a colorful backsplash or patterned rug.
Choose cabinet hardware that complements the style of your kitchen. Sleek, modern hardware works well with a contemporary kitchen, while more ornate hardware can add a touch of elegance to a traditional kitchen.
Consider painting the kitchen island in a contrasting color to make it a focal point.
Use a darker color on the lower cabinets if you have children or pets, as it will hide scuffs and scratches better than a lighter color.
Combine the trend with other popular kitchen trends, such as subway tile backsplash or a farmhouse sink, for a cohesive look.
Experiment with different shades of dark and light to find the perfect combination for your kitchen.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match materials, such as combining wood and metal finishes, to add depth and interest to your kitchen.

Pros and Cons of Dark Lower Cabinets and White Upper Cabinets

Like any home design trend, there are pros and cons to using dark lower cabinets and white upper cabinets in your kitchen.

Pros:

The contrast creates a visually interesting and dynamic look.
The dark lower cabinets hide scuffs and scratches better than lighter colors.
The lighter upper cabinets create a sense of openness and airiness.
The trend is versatile and can work with a variety of styles, from modern to traditional.

Cons:

The dark color on the lower cabinets can make the kitchen feel smaller and more closed-in.
The trend may not work well in a kitchen with low ceilings or limited natural light.
The dark color on the lower cabinets can show dust and dirt more easily than lighter colors.
The trend may not be timeless and could become dated in a few years.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am extremely happy with my decision to use dark lower cabinets and white upper cabinets in my kitchen. The contrast adds depth and interest to the space, and the lighter upper cabinets create a sense of openness. I chose a navy blue for the lower cabinets and a light gray for the upper cabinets, and I love the way they complement each other. My suggestion would be to experiment with different shades and finishes to find the perfect combination for your kitchen. And don’t be afraid to mix and match materials and styles to create a look that is uniquely yours!

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Can I use a different color for the upper cabinets?

A: Absolutely! While white is a popular choice for the upper cabinets, you can use any lighter color that complements the darker lower cabinets. Light gray, cream, and even pastel colors can work well.

Q: Will the dark color on the lower cabinets make my kitchen feel smaller?

A: It can, especially if you have a small kitchen with limited natural light. However, you can offset this by using lighter colors on the walls and upper cabinets, incorporating natural light sources, and using reflective surfaces such as mirrors or shiny metals.

Q: Is this trend difficult to DIY?

A: Painting or staining cabinets can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, but it is definitely doable as a DIY project. However, if you are not comfortable with painting or staining, or if you have a large kitchen, it may be worth hiring a professional to ensure a smooth and even finish.