Cabinetry makes up the majority of the visual space in most kitchens, so it’s no surprise that the cabinetry finishes chosen will have a major effect on the finished product, for better or worse. The good news is that smart finish selection can be used as a problem-solving tool by experienced interior designers to push the design of your remodeled kitchen over the top from just OK to simply fabulous.
As we discussed in another post recently, it’s always best to start your kitchen or bath remodel by choosing the most limiting element. Once you’ve decided on a striking granite countertop or tile backsplash, it’s easier for your other finish and materials choices to fall into place. When it comes to kitchen cabinets, this can take two forms: Installing new cabinets, or painting the existing cabinets. Decorative painting (like the example below by Kass Wilson) offers unlimited possibilities, in addition to being more affordable and less wasteful than a complete gut job.
via Kass Wilson
As you can see in the before-and-after example above, a spacious kitchen containing large expanses of identically-finished cabinets easily creates visual boredom. The problem was solved by painting the wall cabinets in a lovely warm gold tone, and giving the sizable island a faux cherry wood finish. Painting the island a different color provides contrast and creates a focal point in the space.
via Pinterest
Choosing different finishes for the wall cabinets and island is a popular and effective design solution, but there are many other ways you can use cabinet finishes to manipulate the visual weight of a room. For instance, you can draw attention to an elaborate vent hood or architectural element by choosing a contrasting finish from the rest of the cabinetry.
If you are interested in remodeling your kitchen with the help of an experienced interior designer, contact MJN & Associates Interiors today. We would love to discuss your project and help guide you through the kitchen remodeling process.
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