One trend that’s gaining traction among designers and homeowners alike is colour blocking. Far from being a passing fad, colour blocking is a vibrant and versatile design technique that can make a kitchen not only more visually striking – but also a reflection of your personality and style.
At its core, colour blocking is the art of using solid blocks of contrasting or complementary colours in one space. This design choice breaks away from the conventional approach of matching everything perfectly. Instead, it focuses on boldness and experimentation. In the kitchen, this could mean anything from the cabinets and countertops to backsplash tiles and kitchen islands. But how can you master this technique while maintaining the sophisticated, luxurious feel that high-end kitchens demand? Here’s how.
Understand the Balance Between Boldness and Harmony
Colour blocking is all about creating contrast, but the key to mastering it is balance. To keep the space feeling cohesive, you need to make sure the colours you choose are working in harmony. You don’t need to go overboard with every colour in the spectrum. Instead, focus on two to three contrasting shades that complement each other. Whether you go for a rich, dark colour like navy or charcoal and balance it with lighter tones like cream or soft greys, the key is to find shades that work together while creating visual interest.
Use Colour to Define and Highlight Key Areas
Once you’ve selected your colours, think about how you can use them to highlight or define different areas in the kitchen. Colour blocking doesn’t mean painting everything in blocks – it’s about using colour to shape the space. For example, use one shade to define your kitchen island and another for your cabinets or backsplash. This allows each area to stand out but still flow cohesively as part of the overall design. The goal is to create depth and structure, without overwhelming the space with too many colours or patterns.
Layer Different Tones for Depth and Dimension
Effective colour blocking isn’t just about bold contrasts. It’s also about layering tones to add dimension to your kitchen. Think of combining different shades within the same colour family, such as light and dark shades of blue, or pairing warm tones like terracotta with a deeper burnt orange. This creates layers within your kitchen that are visually stimulating but not jarring. When done right, these layered blocks of colour can create a sense of richness, giving your kitchen an upscale, curated feel.
Keep the Base Neutral for Flexibility
When using colour blocking, it’s often best to keep the base of your kitchen neutral. This could mean having white, beige, or light grey as the foundation for your floors, walls, and major appliances. This provides a clean canvas, which lets the bold colours you introduce really pop. A neutral base also makes it easier to change up the accent colours over time without needing to overhaul the entire space. This method allows you to play with colours while ensuring the kitchen still feels grounded and cohesive.
Amberth, Ashendene Road Project
Consider the Mood You Want to Create
Colour blocking can influence the mood of your kitchen. Warm colours, like reds and oranges, can create a cosy, inviting feel, while cool colours, like blues and greens, can bring a sense of calm and serenity. Think about the mood you want to evoke in your kitchen and how the colour blocking can support that. For example, if your kitchen is used for entertaining, you might want bold, energising colours that spark conversation. If it’s more of a space for relaxing and cooking, softer tones might be more suitable.
Stick to Simplicity for Impact
While colour blocking is bold, simplicity is key. Avoid going overboard with too many colours or overwhelming patterns. The power of colour blocking lies in its ability to create striking, clear divisions in the space. Think of colour as a tool to emphasise different elements of your kitchen, not as a way to fill every inch with colour. Keeping it simple with two to three blocks of contrasting tones will allow each colour to shine without feeling chaotic.
Final Thoughts
Mastering colour blocking in the kitchen is about making bold choices while keeping a sense of elegance and cohesion. By balancing contrasting colours, layering tones, and defining key areas, you can create a space that is both visually exciting and functional. The goal is to play with colours in a way that enhances the kitchen’s design and complements your lifestyle – while maintaining the timeless appeal that high-end kitchens demand.
FAQ’s
What is the best colour scheme for a kitchen?
The best colour scheme for a kitchen combines neutral tones with accent colours. Soft whites, greys, or beiges create a timeless backdrop, while bold accents like navy, emerald, or mustard can add personality without overwhelming the space.
What is the rule for kitchen colours?
A good rule for kitchen colours is to balance light neutrals with vibrant accents. Ensure the tones complement each other, creating a cohesive look that enhances functionality and mood, while allowing bold colours to stand out in strategic places like cabinets or the splashback.
What is the best colour code for a kitchen?
Popular colour codes for kitchens often include soft whites (e.g., RAL 9001), muted greys (e.g., RAL 7035), and deep blues (e.g., RAL 5003). These provide a sophisticated and versatile foundation, with accents chosen to match your desired style.
What is the rule for kitchen layouts?
The key rule for kitchen layouts is the “work triangle” principle, which places the sink, stove, and fridge in a triangular formation for efficient workflow. A layout should also prioritise flow, usability, and enough counter space for prep and storage.
