Gray kitchens have been hugely popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Gray is a versatile neutral that can look modern, classic, or anywhere in between depending on the shade and how it’s used. But an all-gray kitchen can sometimes feel a bit cold or sterile.
The good news is, it’s easy to warm up a gray kitchen and infuse it with personality by adding pops of color. I’ve gathered 21 of my favorite ideas for bringing color into a gray kitchen.
Whether you want to make a bold statement or just add a few subtle colorful touches, there’s sure to be an idea here that inspires you!
1. Paint the island a bold color
One of my favorite ways to add a big dose of color to a gray kitchen is to paint the island in a contrasting hue. Shades of blue and green look especially sharp against gray cabinets. This is a great option if you want to make a statement without overwhelming the space.
2. Add colorful bar stools
Switching out basic bar stools for colorful ones is an easy way to instantly liven up a gray kitchen. Look for stools in a bright, saturated hue like yellow, teal or red. If you want something a little more subtle, opt for stools in a softer pastel shade.
3. Hang colorful artwork
Artwork is an easy way to add color to any room, and the kitchen is no exception. Hang a large colorful painting or print on one wall, or create a gallery wall with several smaller pieces. Abstract art in bold colors can look great in a modern gray kitchen.
4. Display colorful dishes
Why hide your pretty dishes in the cabinets? Display them on open shelving or in glass-front cabinets to add color to your gray kitchen. Choose dishes in a single bold color for maximum impact, or mix and match colors for a more eclectic look.
5. Add a colorful backsplash
Installing a colorful tile backsplash is a great way to add personality to a gray kitchen. Mosaic tiles in shades of blue, green or yellow will really pop against gray cabinets. If you’re not ready to commit to a full tile backsplash, try adding a strip of colorful tile above the stove or sink.
6. Use colorful appliances
Major appliances like the fridge and oven are usually stainless steel or white in a gray kitchen. But you can find smaller appliances like stand mixers, toasters and blenders in just about every color imaginable. Adding one or two colorful appliances is an easy way to brighten up the space.
7. Accessorize with color
Dish towels, pot holders, rugs and curtains are all great opportunities to inject color into a gray kitchen. Look for accessories in bold, saturated hues to really make them stand out. Patterned items can also add visual interest to the space.
8. Paint the walls a pale color
If you want to add color to your gray kitchen but don’t want anything too bold, consider painting the walls in a soft, pale shade. Pale blue, green, pink and yellow can all look beautiful with gray cabinets. This is a nice option if you want to brighten up the space without making a huge commitment.
9. Add greenery
Plants are an easy way to add a touch of natural color to any room. In a gray kitchen, try adding a few potted herbs on the windowsill or countertop. A vase of fresh flowers is also a nice way to bring in some color. Just be sure to choose varieties that don’t require a lot of sunlight, since kitchens can be on the darker side.
10. Use colorful cabinet hardware
Switching out your cabinet hardware is a quick and easy way to add a pop of color to a gray kitchen. Look for knobs and pulls in bright, bold hues like yellow, orange or red. If you want something a little more subtle, try hardware in a metallic finish like brass or copper.
11. Add a colorful kitchen rug
A brightly colored or patterned kitchen rug can really liven up a gray space. Look for a rug that incorporates shades of your accent color to tie the look together. Just be sure to choose a rug that’s easy to clean, since kitchens can be messy places.
12. Paint the inside of cabinets
Here’s a fun idea: paint the inside of your cabinets a bright, bold color! This adds an unexpected pop of color that will be revealed every time you open a cabinet door. It’s a great way to add personality to your gray kitchen without going overboard.
13. Use colorful light fixtures
Pendant lights and chandeliers are a great way to add both light and color to a gray kitchen. Look for fixtures in bright, bold hues like yellow, orange or red. Stained glass pendants can also be a beautiful way to add color and visual interest.
14. Add a colorful kitchen cart
A rolling kitchen cart is a great way to add both storage and color to your space. Look for a cart in a bright hue like teal, red or yellow. You can use it to store everything from pots and pans to small appliances. And when you’re not using it, just roll it out of the way.
15. Use colorful countertop appliances
Small countertop appliances like toasters, coffee makers and blenders come in a wide range of colors these days. So if your major appliances are stainless steel or white, consider adding a pop of color with your smaller ones. A bright red toaster or teal coffee maker can really liven up a gray kitchen.
16. Hang colorful curtains
Curtains are an easy way to add color and pattern to any room, and the kitchen is no exception. Look for curtains in a bold print or bright solid hue. If your kitchen gets a lot of natural light, consider lighter colors that won’t fade in the sun.
17. Add color with fruit
Here’s a simple idea: display colorful fruit in bowls or baskets on your countertop or kitchen table. Lemons, limes, oranges and apples can all add a nice pop of color to the space. Plus, you’ll always have a healthy snack on hand!
18. Use colorful storage containers
If you have open shelving in your gray kitchen, consider using colorful storage containers to organize your dry goods. Glass jars in shades of blue, green or purple can look really beautiful against gray shelves. You can also use brightly colored canisters or tins to store things like flour, sugar and coffee.
19. Add a colorful kitchen mat
A brightly colored kitchen mat can add both comfort and style to your space. Look for a mat in a bold solid hue or fun pattern. Memory foam mats are especially nice if you spend a lot of time standing in the kitchen.
20. Use colorful dish towels
Dish towels are another easy way to add a pop of color to your gray kitchen. Look for towels in bright, bold hues or fun patterns. You can hang them on the oven door, drape them over the sink or just fold them and leave them on the counter.
21. Add color with window film
If your kitchen has a lot of windows, consider adding some colorful window film. This is a great way to add privacy and style at the same time. You can find window film in a variety of colors and patterns. Just be sure to choose a design that complements your gray cabinets.
FAQs
What colors go well with a gray kitchen?
Almost any color can look good with gray, but some of the most popular choices are yellow, blue, green, orange and red. If you want a more subtle look, consider pale shades like blush pink or mint green. Metallics like brass and copper can also look beautiful with gray.
How can I add color to my kitchen without painting?
There are lots of ways to add color to a kitchen without painting the walls or cabinets. Some ideas include adding a colorful backsplash, using brightly colored appliances or accessories, hanging colorful curtains or artwork, and displaying colorful dishes or storage containers.
What’s the best way to add color if I’m on a budget?
If you’re on a tight budget, there are still plenty of ways to add color to your gray kitchen. Some inexpensive ideas include using colorful dish towels, potholders or rugs; displaying colorful fruit; adding brightly colored storage containers; and using window film on your cabinets or windows.
Can I mix and match different colors in my gray kitchen?
Absolutely! In fact, mixing and matching different colors is a great way to add visual interest to the space. Just be sure to choose colors that complement each other and don’t clash. If you’re not sure where to start, consider using a color wheel to find colors that work well together.
I hope these ideas have inspired you to add some color to your gray kitchen. Remember, even small pops of color can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of the space.
So don’t be afraid to experiment until you find a combination that you love!