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Transforming a small kitchen into a bright and airy space is achievable! The power of paint in a small space is undeniable – the right shades can open up the area, reflect light, and set the mood for your entire home. As a Certified Paint Color Expert, I’ve seen how the perfect paint color can make a big difference in a small room, creating an illusion of more space and enhancing the overall room feel.
When dealing with a small kitchen, choosing paint colors with a high Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is crucial. These light colors will ensure that the color scheme is not only visually appealing but also functional, making the space feel larger and more welcoming.
Here are 10 paint colors from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams that I believe are perfect for giving your small kitchen a big personality.
The Best Small Kitchen Paint Colors
1. Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65)
BM Chantilly Lace is a popular choice for its pure, bright white quality without the cold feeling. With an LRV of 92.2, it’s a top pick for small kitchens, creating a crisp, clean look that amplifies the sense of space. It’s the perfect backdrop for both modern and classic kitchen designs, reflecting natural light beautifully.
2. Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist (SW-9166)
Sherwin Williams’ Drift of Mist is an excellent choice for the walls of a small kitchen, offering a light, airy feel that can visually expand the space. As a soft, warm gray with a touch of beige, it provides a neutral backdrop that complements a wide range of kitchen styles and color schemes, from modern to traditional.
Its warm undertones ensure a cozy and inviting atmosphere, which is crucial in a small kitchen, and it pairs beautifully with both light and dark cabinetry, countertops, and appliances.
The color’s adaptability to different lighting conditions and its ability to blend seamlessly with other hues make it a practical and stylish choice for creating a welcoming and spacious feeling in a small kitchen.
3. Benjamin Moore Wind’s Breath (OC-24)
Wind’s Breath offers warmth to a small kitchen without sacrificing lightness. With an LRV of 70.2, it’s ideal for creating a cozy yet airy cooking space. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking neutral shades with a warmer undertone.
4. Sherwin Williams Alabaster (SW 7008)
SW Alabaster, with its LRV of 82, is fantastic for small kitchens, especially those with lower cabinets in darker hues. This color pairs wonderfully with earthy tones and pastel colors, offering versatility in accessorizing and decorating.
5. Benjamin Moore Paper White (OC-55)
Benjamin Moore Paper White is a versatile and soft grayish-white color, ideal for small kitchens due to its ability to make spaces appear larger and more open.
Its subtle cool undertones provide a crisp, clean look that adapts to different lighting conditions, appearing more white in well-lit spaces and slightly grayer under artificial light.
This neutrality allows it to pair well with various finishes and colors, from stainless steel appliances to natural wood tones.
6. Sherwin Williams Sea Salt (SW 6204)
SW Sea Salt is a great choice for small kitchen spaces, offering a hint of color and creating an illusion of more space. This light green-gray harmonizes with both light and dark accents, making it a flexible choice for various kitchen styles.
7. Benjamin Moore Soft Chamois (OC-13)
Soft Chamois, with an LRV of 78.4, is a creamy off-white paint color that offers subtle warmth. It’s an ideal neutral shade for small kitchens, providing a bright and open feel and working well with a variety of color palettes.
8. Sherwin Williams Steamed Milk (SW 7554)
Steamed Milk is a fantastic choice for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in small kitchens. Its LRV of 76 ensures that the space remains light and bright, contrasting nicely with black cabinets or dark countertops.
9. Benjamin Moore Ballet White (OC-9)
Ballet White is a soft, sophisticated cream paint color with a touch of beige. It’s perfect for those who prefer a hint of color in their white paint. With an LRV of 73.6, it reflects ample light to make a small kitchen feel more spacious.
10. Sherwin Williams Greek Villa (SW 7551)
SW Greek Villa, with an LRV of 84, is an ideal choice for small kitchens, offering a warm white with a greige undertone. It’s excellent for making a space feel open and airy, steering clear of the overwhelming effect of darker colors.
Adding Bold Color to a Small Kitchen
If you’re craving bold color in your kitchen, consider using it in small doses. Opt for a more saturated paint color for your kitchen island or through accessories, such as kitchen stools or objects on your shelves. This approach allows you to enjoy pops of color without overwhelming the small kitchen space.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the right paint colors can transform your small kitchen into a light, airy, and inviting space. These ten colors, ranging from crisp whites to soft neutrals, ensure there’s a perfect paint color for every kitchen style.
Remember, a small kitchen doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or the feeling of spaciousness. With these selections, you’re well on your way to creating a beautiful kitchen that feels just right.
