15 Small Kitchen Color Ideas for Maximum Style in 2023

By: Andrew Saladino | 4 min
June 4th, 2023

The size of your kitchen doesn't mean you're limited when it comes to design choices. However, it's important to consider the best small kitchen color ideas before you jump into the home remodeling process.

You might stick to neutral colors like white or beige to add brightness. But don't be afraid to explore colorful kitchen ideas, either - these hues can help transform your kitchen into a tranquil or sleek space. You can even choose two-tone kitchen cabinets for the best of both worlds.

Check out these 15 small kitchen paint colors and color schemes to get your design juices flowing.

1. Keep It Light and Bright With Cool Whites + Natural Accents

It's best to stick to neutral colors if you're unsure which small kitchen colors ideas will make your tiny space pop. Cool whites help light reflect in your space and make it appear larger. Tie in natural accents with a wood backsplash or kitchen cabinets.

2. Add a Splash of Bold Yellow to a Neutral Palette

While yellow may not be your go-to choice, it makes the perfect accent color. Go bold and paint your walls sunflower yellow or tone it down with a white and yellow backsplash. Add in even more pops of yellow with faux or real sunflowers and dish towels.

3. Stay On-Trend With a Monochrome Color Scheme

Regardless of the size of your space, you can follow the minimalist kitchen trend with a monochromatic look. Choose a sleek appearance with all-black cabinets, kitchen island, and accessories, or stick to neutrals with an all-white design.

4. Channel the Great Outdoors With Green Cabinets

Pull inspiration from the great outdoors when designing your small kitchen. Green cabinets are bold, but they tie in natural elements to create a cohesive space. Mix wood finishes with moss or emerald green kitchen cabinets and a complementary backsplash.

5. Make a Statement With Navy Blue Accents

Just because your kitchen is on the smaller side doesn't mean you have to stray away from a darker color palette. Strategically place navy blue hues to contrast with an otherwise neutral space. Pair a navy blue kitchen island with matching kitchen cabinets and add a bit of brightness with a white subway tile backsplash.

6. Opt for Delicate Pastels

Pastels are one of the sweeter small kitchen color ideas. Take your whites, taupes, and grays to the next level with pops of dusty rose, mint green, or peach. Nestle pastel accents throughout your space with accessories like vases, dishes, and even pots and pans.

7. Create a Cozy Space With Warm Off-Whites

Embrace the small size of your kitchen by making it feel cozy. Tone down the starkness of white by opting for warmer, off-white paint colors similar to linen or cream. Finish off the look with fresh flowers in clear vases.

8. Stay Cool With Gray Gradients

Create an inviting cooking and entertainment area with shades of gray. Opting for multiple shades of gray creates a monochromatic look with your kitchen appliances and gives your space more dimension due to the similar hues.

9. Bring the Drama With Scarlet Red Cabinets

While red might not be the first color that pops into your mind when deciding between small kitchen color ideas, this bold hue can transform your space. Choose scarlet red cabinets to pair with your stainless steel appliances for a vibrant yet sleek kitchen.

10. Shine Bright With Metallic Accents

There are no rules against mixing metallic accents to make your kitchen shine bright. Swap out your kitchen hardware for copper or gold handles. Complete the cohesive design by installing a metallic farmhouse sink or pendant lights.

11. Trade All-White for Trending Powder Blue Cabinets

Powder blue is a good choice if you prefer neutral shades but still want a hint of color. This hue of blue is a trending kitchen color because it brings tranquility to all spaces - regardless of size.

12. Keep It Classic With a Black and White Color Scheme

There's a reason black and white have been a favorite color palette for years - the sleekness of this pair is timeless, and not too bold or neutral. The darkness of the black adds depth to your small space while the white hues create brightness.

13. Pair Warm Neutral Colors With Mint Green

Combine cool mint green with warm, neutral colors to create a serene kitchen. Opt for mint green kitchen cabinets to introduce color, but add white, gray, and natural wood accents to keep that fresh appearance.

14. Jump on the Two-Tone Color Trend

There's no reason to stick to only one color when choosing between all the small kitchen color ideas. The two-tone kitchen options are limitless - but some hues will make your space look bigger or smaller. You can create depth with black and white, or add brightness with mint green and beige. Neutral tones like taupe and linen will help create a cozy, calm space.

15. Don't Sleep on Black

Black is a color some folks overlook in kitchen design. But when it comes to smaller spaces, black can help your kitchen look sleek and modern while adding depth. Pair black kitchen cabinets and a matching kitchen island with sleek, stainless appliances for an eye-catching aesthetic.

Small Kitchen Color Ideas FAQs

Still trying to decide which small kitchen color will make your tiny space pop? We answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you decide.

What colors make a small kitchen look bigger?

Light colors will make your small kitchen look bigger. Stick to white, beige, and pastels to create the illusion of a larger space.

Should small kitchens be dark or light?

Small kitchens can be dark or light depending on personal preference. Darker shades like black or navy blue create depth, but work better when paired with lighter hues. The mood you're looking to create for your kitchen will help determine whether your kitchen should be dark or light.

What colors work best for small, dark kitchens?

Light colors will help make your small, dark kitchen look brighter. However, if you're looking for a moody, cozy kitchen aesthetic, stick to dark blues, shades of red, and black.

How can you make a small kitchen look high-end?

The right appliances and color scheme will help your kitchen look high-end. Updating hardware and light fixtures to metals like copper or stainless steel is an easy lift. Swapping out your kitchen cabinets and appliances for more modern, sleek options is a bigger project, but worth it in the long run.

If you're ready to take your space to the next level, these small kitchen color ideas can help you visualize your dream home. Before you kick-start your kitchen remodel, make sure to check out our premium kitchen cabinets available ready-to-assemble or pre-assembled.