CLASSIC
"Kitchen design with two-toned cabinetry is ranking higher in demand each year and will remain a classic for years to come. When looking back to the 1950s, we started seeing this design technique implemented by designers, which involved contrast with cabinetry, countertops and even appliances. Yellow cabinets and a blue refrigerator combined with a contrasting countertop was not out of the ordinary and equated to a quintessential postwar-age kitchen. As the years have passed, this classic composition of two-tone cabinets has transformed into a more subtle and sophisticated approach. As Sister Parish once stated, 'Innovation is often the ability to reach into the past and bring back what is good, what is beautiful, what is useful, what is lasting.'” Natalie Slavik, YouTopia Designs.
"For years kitchens have had contrasting finishes, in the 'European Country' era it was multiple finishes; we were doing kitchens with as many as five finishes for the 'unfitted' or 'acquired pieces' look. In the current trend of cleaner lines most contrasting colors have been limited to islands vs. perimeter. While we do some kitchens in a single finish; a contrasting island or section of cabinets is still classic and will likely stay. Mixing materials and finishes will likely always be with us. Why? Contrast adds depth, texture, or layers and it breaks up or defines spaces all resulting in interest or a focal point. While this does not apply to all kitchen styles, contrasting finishes likely won’t ever go away completely. Keith Gegg, Gegg Design & Cabinetry.
"Kitchen design more than any other aspect of interior design is in a state of constant evolution. Driven by our need to personalize our environment, we are constantly searching for new ways to express ourselves in the kitchen. The option to change from painted finishes to a stained finish on the island gives clients the best of both worlds while visually separating the two spaces. That is what makes contrasting islands a classic." CJ. Knapp, Yours By Design.
"I have used two-tone cabinets in my kitchen designs for several years. I feel they add interest and dimension to the space. In some designs, I use a contrasting trim on the cabinets that are all one color. By using the two-tone or contrasting trim, it gives a custom look to any price level of cabinets, giving my clients a unique, custom kitchen that fits their budget. If this is not a classic design it should be as it is too good a look to just be a craze." Linda K. Kusmer, Total Interior Designs Inc.
"Contrasting kitchen cabinets are an absolute classic. The contrasting cabinets give the kitchen a creative interest by mixing different design styles, color and textures. This classic look creates depth that brings a warm, inviting feel to the room for congregating. Introducing the concept of contrasting cabinetry makes people hedge on the thought, but, once installed, they love the decision." Deb Bokamper, Ageless Design.
"Selecting different finishes for the island and the cabinetry has been a mainstay in kitchens for years. A natural extension was the move to contrast the upper and lower cabinets to create more of a furniture look and to make a personal design statement. Today's kitchen is about customization and personalization, not cookie cutter design. If the colors selected are classic, then I think the look will stand the test of time." Gigi Lombrano, Gigi Lombrano Interiors.
"Contrasting kitchen cabinets are great way to give a kitchen personality and enhance the overall design of a kitchen. The options for contrasting cabinets are endless: contrasting cabinet doors, a bold color on a kitchen island, contrasting wood stains, contrasting upper and lower cabinet colors, painted cabinets with a stained island, etc. Adding an interesting color to a kitchen island is a great way to introduce a color that is used in other areas of the home. Over the years, contrasting kitchen cabinets styles have changed a little but will likely remain a design favorite for many years to come…definitely a classic!" Barbara Collins, Barbara Collins Interior Design.
CRAZE
"I think the contrasting color on the perimeter cabinetry is more of a craze.A contrasting island color is a classic look and will more likely be in style for the duration of your kitchen’s life.Although, If you choose a painted color on your island, that could me a bit more trendy depending on the color you choose. A stained finish on the island would tend to stay in style. If you’re looking to hit the current designer styles seen on sites like Houzz or Pinterest, try to remember you can always bring designer colors into kitchens with wall paints and accessories which can be easily changed from time to time. Another thing to keep in mind is if you’re looking for a classic and timeless cabinet you should consider a square or beaded inset style cabinet. A well-built inset style cabinet is always a favorite of mine." Bob Burmeister, Marc Christian Fine Cabinetry.
