Pick the Perfect White Paint for Your Cabinetry

11 Min Read

I’m excited to help you pick the best white paint for your kitchen cabinets. White cabinets are a favorite for those wanting a timeless look and a fresh kitchen makeover¹.

Finding the right cabinet paint colors can change your space, making it bright and open. You can choose from cool, crisp whites to warm, creamy off-whites, offering many exciting options¹.

As an interior designer with over ten years of experience, I’ve seen how white kitchen cabinets can refresh a space. They’re versatile, letting you try out different design styles and color mixes.

When picking white paint for your cabinets, think about the lighting, countertops, and backsplashes. For example, cool whites look great with Carrara marble and modern quartz countertops¹.

Top paint brands like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams have many white shades perfect for cabinets. Favorites include Sherwin-Williams’ Extra White, Pure White, and Alabaster, and Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace and Simply White¹².

Key Takeaways

White cabinets offer timeless appeal and versatility
Consider lighting and other kitchen elements when choosing white paint
Popular brands offer a range of white hues for cabinets
Cool whites work well with modern quartz and Carrara marble
Warm whites can create a cozy, inviting atmosphere

The Timeless Appeal of White Kitchen Cabinets

White kitchen cabinets have been a staple in home design for years. They are loved for their ability to make any kitchen look timeless. I’ve seen how white cabinets can make a space feel welcoming and open.

Why White Cabinets Remain a Popular Choice

Homeowners adore white cabinets for their versatility and how they boost a home’s value³. In my experience, they act as a clean backdrop for other design elements to stand out.

Creating a Bright and Spacious Feel

White cabinets are great at making kitchens bright and spacious³. They reflect light, making the area look bigger and more welcoming. This is especially useful in small kitchens where space is at a premium.

Versatility in Design Styles

White cabinets fit well with many design styles. From modern to traditional, they blend in effortlessly³. They work with various countertops, backsplashes, and hardware, making it easy to update your kitchen later.

Design Style	Complementary Elements	Effect with White Cabinets
Modern	Sleek hardware, minimalist decor	Clean, crisp look
Traditional	Ornate handles, crown molding	Classic, timeless appeal
Farmhouse	Rustic accents, open shelving	Warm, inviting atmosphere

While white cabinets need more cleaning to stay looking new, many homeowners think it’s worth it³. They love the timeless beauty and flexibility white cabinets add to their kitchens.

Understanding White Paint Undertones

White paints are not all the same. They have different undertones that change how they look in your space. The main undertones of white are green, pink, yellow, and blue⁴. These undertones can greatly affect your kitchen’s look.

Warm whites have yellow or red undertones, making a room feel cozy. Cool whites lean towards blue or green, giving a fresh look. Neutral whites have little undertones for a clean appearance.

The direction your room faces changes how undertones look. South-facing rooms highlight yellow undertones, while north-facing rooms show blue undertones⁴. That’s why testing paint samples in your space is key.

For cabinetry, consider Benjamin Moore’s White Dove or Sherwin-Williams Pure White⁵. These soft white paints have an LRV of about 85. This means they are bright but also warm⁶.

Sherwin Williams Alabaster is great for a warmer look, with an LRV of 82⁶. Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace is ideal for a true white. It has a bright look with few undertones⁶.

Choosing the right white paint means understanding undertones and how they fit with your space. Take your time to test different shades. Observe them at various times and see how they match your kitchen’s look.

Factors to Consider When Choosing White Cabinet Paint

Choosing the right white paint for your kitchen cabinets is more than just about what you like. I’ve learned from working on many cabinet projects that several important factors are key to making the best choice⁷.

Lighting Conditions in Your Kitchen

The lighting in your kitchen greatly affects how white paint looks. Natural light can highlight undertones, while artificial light can change the shade. It’s smart to test paint samples in different lights throughout the day to make sure it looks good in all settings.

Coordinating with Countertops and Backsplashes

Matching your cabinets with your countertops is key for a unified look. For warm countertops, think about off-white or creamy shades like Sherwin Williams Dover White⁸. If you have cool surfaces like marble or white quartz, Sherwin Williams Pure White with a slight blue undertone is a great choice⁸.

Matching with Existing Trim and Finishes

Matching your cabinets with your trim is important for a cohesive kitchen. If your trim has warm undertones, Benjamin Moore White Dove works well with warm finishes⁸. For a versatile option, Benjamin Moore Simply White is a popular choice⁸.

The sheen of your paint also matters. I’ve found that satin or eggshell finishes are better for cabinets because they hide imperfections⁸. By thinking about these factors and testing samples, you’ll find the perfect white paint for your kitchen cabinets.

Top Benjamin Moore White Paints for Cabinetry

Choosing the right white for your kitchen cabinets is exciting with Benjamin Moore’s 3,500 colors⁹. It’s like going on a journey to find the perfect shade for your cabinetry.

Simply White (OC-117) is a warm white that’s versatile. It was Benjamin Moore’s 2016 Color of the Year. It has a Light Reflective Value (LRV) of 89.5, making it one of the brightest¹⁰. This white looks beautiful and doesn’t seem cold or gray. It’s great for trim, molding, and kitchen cabinets.

Chantilly Lace (OC-65) is a clean, crisp white with no strong undertones. It’s perfect for modern kitchens that want to look fresh and airy. White Dove (OC-17) is a balanced off-white with a hint of yellow. It’s great for traditional or transitional kitchens, making them warm and inviting.

Swiss Coffee is a warm white that adds a cozy feel to any room¹¹. It has creamy undertones, so it’s not too stark but still bright and welcoming for kitchens.

Paint Color	Characteristics	Best For
Simply White	Versatile warm white	Bright, south-facing rooms
Chantilly Lace	Clean, crisp white	Modern kitchens
White Dove	Balanced off-white	Traditional kitchens
Swiss Coffee	Warm, cozy white	Creating inviting spaces

Benjamin Moore suggests using their Advance® Interior paint for cabinets. This paint gives a hard, furniture-quality finish that can handle lots of washing⁹.

Think about satin for stain resistance and durability, or semi-gloss for a subtle look. High gloss is great if you want a shiny finish that’s easy to clean⁹.

While painting cabinets yourself can be fun, experts say to hire a pro for a perfect finish. This ensures your kitchen looks great for years⁹.

Sherwin-Williams’ Best White Paint Colors for Cabinets

Finding the right white paint for your cabinets can change your kitchen’s look. Sherwin-Williams has many beautiful whites for different styles and tastes. Let’s look at some favorites that homeowners and designers love.

Alabaster (SW 7008)

Alabaster is a warm off-white that brings coziness to your space. It has an LRV of 82, balancing bright and soft well¹²¹³. This versatile color fits both traditional and modern kitchens, making the space welcoming but not too bold.

Pure White (SW 7005)

Pure White is a crisp, clean choice that brightens any kitchen. Its LRV of 84 makes it great for a fresh, airy feel¹²¹³. It looks good with many countertops and backsplashes, giving a timeless look that suits many designs.

Extra White (SW 7006)

For a bright and modern look, Extra White is perfect. It has an impressive LRV of 86, making your kitchen feel big and clean¹²¹³. This cool-toned white is great in contemporary kitchens and matches well with sleek, simple designs.

Paint Color	LRV	Undertones	Best For
Alabaster	82	Warm	Cozy, versatile spaces
Pure White	84	Subtle yellow	Fresh, airy kitchens
Extra White	86	Cool	Modern, bright interiors

When picking your perfect Sherwin-Williams white, think about natural light, your decor, and the mood you want. Trying samples in your space can show you how each shade looks in different lights during the day.

Pick the Perfect White Paint for Your Cabinetry

Finding the right white paint for your kitchen cabinets can change everything. It’s important to consider paint selection tips, color testing, and sample boards. Let’s explore expert-approved methods to find the perfect shade for you.

Understanding Undertones

White paints vary in their undertones. They can hint at yellow, blue, or gray. Benjamin Moore’s White Dove OC-17 is a great choice because it balances warmth and brightness. It works well for cabinets, trims, and walls¹⁴. Sherwin Williams Pure White 7005 also offers a unique warmth that many homeowners love¹⁴.

Light Matters

Lighting affects how white paint looks. I suggest testing paint samples at different times. Sherwin Williams Alabaster 7008 has a soft, warm finish, perfect for kitchens from the ’90s and early 2000s¹⁴. Benjamin Moore Cloud White CC-40 adds a cozy warmth, great for kitchens that feel snug¹⁴.

Sample Board Technique

Large sample boards are a big help in choosing paint. Paint a 2×2 foot board with your chosen white and place it in your kitchen. This lets you see how the color works with your space’s lighting and other elements. Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace OC-65 is timeless and contrasts well with various finishes¹⁴.

Paint Color	Brand	Best For
White Dove OC-17	Benjamin Moore	Versatile use
Pure White 7005	Sherwin Williams	Warm undertones
Chantilly Lace OC-65	Benjamin Moore	Clean contrast

The right white for your cabinets depends on your kitchen’s unique look. Take your time with color testing and trust your gut. Your dream white kitchen is just a paint selection away!

How to Test White Paint Colors Effectively

Choosing the right white paint for your cabinets is important. With so many shades, each has its own undertones. It’s key to test colors in your actual space¹⁵. Let’s look at ways to test paint effectively to find the best white for your kitchen.

Using Paint Samples and Swatches

Begin by testing with large color swatches or sample boards. Paint stores have peel-and-stick samples for easy testing. Place these samples in various spots in your kitchen, like near cabinets and countertops¹⁵.

Compare the paint samples with your current finishes. This is vital for a unified look. Colors like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove or Sherwin-Williams’ Alabaster are good starting points¹⁵.

Observing Colors at Different Times of Day

Lighting affects how white paint looks. Watch your samples at different times to see how they change¹⁵. A cool white might look great in bright light but less appealing in dimmer areas¹⁶.

Try different white shades in various rooms. For example, SW Pure White is good for living areas, while a warmer white is better for bedrooms¹⁶. This mix adds depth and interest to your home, preventing it from looking dull.

Remember, testing paint thoroughly is crucial for finding your ideal white. Use large swatches, consider lighting effects, and compare with your current decor. This way, you’ll make a choice that boosts your kitchen’s look.

Avoiding a Sterile Look: Adding Warmth to White Kitchens

White kitchens are a timeless choice, with 95% of kitchens choosing white colors¹⁷. But, how can we make them feel warm and inviting? Let’s look at ways to add warmth and personality to your kitchen design.

Embrace Texture in White Kitchens

Texture is crucial in white kitchens. Using three or four shades of white adds depth¹⁸. A textured backsplash with patterns or tactile materials draws the eye¹⁸. This breaks up the monotony and adds depth to your space.

Incorporate Wood Accents

Wood accents add warmth and beauty to white kitchens. Consider wooden open shelving, a butcher block countertop, or wood-toned bar stools. These elements create a cozy contrast with the crisp white.

Play with Color and Metallics

Add color to your cabinetry¹⁸. Warm metallics like copper or brass hardware prevent a cold feel¹⁷. For a bold look, use a different color or material for your kitchen island¹⁸.

Element	Suggestion	Effect
Paint	Warm white with subtle undertones	Prevents sterile ambiance
Hardware	Copper or brass finishes	Adds warmth and character
Island	Contrasting color or material	Creates focal point
Backsplash	Textured or patterned	Enhances visual interest

Natural light is key in a white kitchen, making it bright and airy¹⁸. If your kitchen is dark, choose warm white paint to avoid a cold feel¹⁷. By combining these elements, you’ll have a warm, inviting white kitchen that’s far from sterile.

Pairing White Cabinets with Other Kitchen Elements

White cabinets are very versatile in kitchen design. Choosing the right elements can make a space look amazing. Let’s see how to pair white cabinets with other kitchen features for a stylish look.

Complementary Hardware Finishes

Choosing the right kitchen hardware can highlight white cabinets. I suggest brass or matte black finishes for a bold contrast. These choices add depth and character, making the kitchen look better.

For a subtle look, polished nickel hardware is a great option. It matches white cabinets well.

Coordinating Wall Colors

Choosing the right wall color is key with white cabinets. White cabinets match many wall colors well¹⁹. Using the same white paint for walls and cabinets makes small spaces look bigger¹⁹.

For contrast, gray and greige colors work well with white cabinets¹⁹.

Incorporating Wood Accents

To add warmth, consider wood elements in a white kitchen. Open shelving, butcher block countertops, or natural wood flooring are good choices. Woods like oak, walnut, and maple are great for kitchens²⁰.

Pairing white cabinets with wood creates a warm, inviting space. It balances the crispness of white with wood’s natural feel.

The key to a great kitchen design is matching colors across all elements. Think about wall paint, cabinets, flooring, island, and backsplash²⁰. By planning each part, you can make a kitchen that looks good and works well.

FAQ

Why are white kitchen cabinets so popular?

White kitchen cabinets are a top choice for their timeless look. They match many design styles and colors, making rooms look bigger by reflecting light. Plus, they work well with different countertops, backsplashes, and hardware.

What should I consider when choosing white paint for my cabinets?

Think about your kitchen’s lighting and the colors of your countertops and backsplash. Pick a white paint that complements these elements. Also, make sure it matches your kitchen’s trim for a unified look.

What are some popular white paint colors from Benjamin Moore for cabinets?

Benjamin Moore offers great whites like Simply White (OC-117), a versatile warm white. Chantilly Lace (OC-65) is a clean, crisp choice. White Dove (OC-17) has subtle yellow undertones, and Swiss Coffee is a creamy, warm white.

What are some top white paint colors from Sherwin-Williams for cabinets?

Sherwin-Williams has top whites like Alabaster (SW 7008), a warm off-white. Pure White (SW 7005) is versatile and crisp. Extra White (SW 7006) is very crisp with blue undertones, perfect for modern kitchens.

How can I effectively test white paint colors for my cabinets?

Use large paint swatches or sample boards to test colors. Place them in your kitchen at different times to see how they look in various lights. Check them with your countertops, backsplash, and flooring for a cohesive feel.

How can I add warmth to an all-white kitchen?

Add warmth with warm white paint colors, like those with yellow or beige undertones. Use natural materials like wood accents and woven baskets. Choose warm metallics for hardware and lighting, and add colorful accessories or plants.

What other elements should I consider when pairing white cabinets?

Consider different hardware like brass, polished nickel, or matte black for contrast. Wall colors can be neutral or bold, depending on your style. Add warmth with wood accents, such as open shelving or a butcher block countertop.