blue office with wallpaper

Design Notes

THE FUTURE OF COLOR

Color can be one of the most striking elements to use in the design world, especially with cabinets, as it often serves as the focal point or at least the dominant feature. Over the years, a wide variety of colors have been used in the home, from traditional white to vibrant shades like olive green and mustard yellows of the infamous 1960s and 1970s. While bold colors took a step back for a few decades, they have been making a solid comeback as homeowners rediscover the vibrancy and pop they bring to a space, allowing them to express their personalities at the same time. There are many ways to incorporate it into your design, whether that be a kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, or even a home office. Let’s explore some of the trending color choices of the bold variety and how they can best serve your needs.

Black

Though you may not consider it a classic color or one that goes with everything, that is exactly what black is. It is a color that never goes out of style and complements various shades and hues, making it an excellent choice for multiple areas within the home. It brings a sense of elegance, simplicity, and a touch of sophistication to the room, so don’t shy away from using black in your design. It makes a wonderful contrast or accent color, especially when paired with white and red. For those who enjoy a more modern or contemporary look, this color is the go-to choice for many designers as it brings a sense of boldness. Some choose to have this as their main color by painting their ceiling or walls entirely black, which can have an excellent effect and make a space feel more intimate, ideal for areas like living rooms, where a sense of connection is the goal. Black is a fabulous choice for high-traffic areas, such as the kitchen or master bathroom, as it lends a sense of luxury. Discuss with your designer the possibility of incorporating black into your project.

white and black kitchen with glass doors

Green

This color has been gaining popularity over the last few years and has made a statement in the design world, as more homeowners seek to incorporate this vibrant shade of nature into their projects. From bathroom vanities to kitchens, it is a fun color that brings the richness and beauty of nature right into the home. Traditionally, green is a color that reflects energy and security, making it an excellent choice for many areas of the house, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and living spaces. It is also a color that runs a wide spectrum of cools and warms, making it versatile for any design or palette. Green works well as an accent color or as a main focal point, allowing you to use it any way you choose. More and more designers are looking to bring a touch of nature into the home, and this shade is made to order. You can transform a bathroom into a spa-like retreat by pairing soft or vibrant greens with light wood tones and adding a few lighting fixtures, giving it the finishing touch. Richer colors are a great way to incorporate a touch of elegance or even a hint of fun into your space. Don’t be afraid to incorporate green into your next project.

green bathroom with mirrors and lights

Red

Seen as a color of passion, red is often used sparingly in design unless you want to make a bold statement in your space, but it can be an excellent choice that looks stunning. Of course, there is no denying that it will grab someone’s attention, but that is part of what makes it such an exciting choice. Using it in a place such as the kitchen is possible, but it is usually best to pair it with a complementary color, such as black or white. Either of these choices balances it out and brings a sense of unity to the design while still allowing it to make a stylish and smashing statement. Black and red are a traditional favorite combination, but white can add a significant wow factor to your space due to its contrast. This color also tells your guests a lot about you, as it represents confidence, self-reliance, and even a hint of optimism. Color is a part of telling your story, and red can certainly be a great help in doing just that. Browse places like Pinterest and Houzz to see how red is incorporated into home design.

red dog room with windows

Blue

This is a more traditional color that appears in many interior design magazines. It is often the go-to pairing for white, gray, and wood, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, but blue is breaking out of its customary shell by exploring new shades. Turquoise, teal, and azure are some homeowners’ favorite colors for kitchen islands, laundry rooms, and bathroom vanities, and they love the results. Soft blues are often associated with a sense of calm and tranquility, while bold or rich tones convey a luxurious vibe. This color pairs elegantly with various wood tones, making it the perfect choice for two-toned kitchens. Drawing inspiration from nature, just as green, can immediately make a home feel more organic and create a relaxing environment, which many crave today as we rush from one place to another. Opting for a blue kitchen island or bathroom vanity is a great choice, and it is a color that blends with numerous design styles, which is another bonus. Since it is such a popular choice, your designer will undoubtedly have plenty of examples to show you for your next project.

Blue kitchen cabinets with gold hardware and white countertops

Jewel tones

This is the true essence of bold and vibrant color choices in the world. Jewel tones can include colors such as purple, teal, amber, pink, and even yellow. These are sure to make a splash in your home as well as conversation starters. It is also a nice break from the traditional color palettes everyone is used to seeing in their neighbors’ homes, which adds a sense of personalization to your space. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box by exploring these colors as options, as they can create beautiful accent pieces, such as built-ins or focal points like a bathroom vanity. Your home is about the things you love, including the colors you adore.

pink laundry room

The future of color

Color is a staple in design, but the shades are up to you. Increasingly, designers are gaining confidence in recommending the use of colors outside the traditional range to provide their clients with a customized experience. Home is the place that reflects you, and that includes the colors you choose.

/onDecember 21, 2018/updatedJanuary 28, 2026/inDesign Notes
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