Should countertops be lighter or darker than cabinets? - E&B Granite (2024)

FAQs

Should countertops be lighter or darker than cabinets? - E&B Granite? ›

Experts recommend working with a lighter countertop than a cabinet for the perfect color blend. This combination makes the countertop installation job ideal for the ultimate kitchen outlook. E&B Granite is your trusted go-to custom countertop fabrication and installation expert.

Look for a countertop material that contrasts with your cabinet color. So, if you are installing a dark cabinet, look for a lighter color granite for the countertops. For lighter cabinets, a darker granite would be a better choice. Take your cabinet sample and compare it to various granites in stock.

Kitchen countertops should be lighter than the cabinets if you want that ideal blend of colors. However, that's not mandatory by any means. After all, it's your kitchen, so you should design it how you want it.

One benefit of choosing dark granite countertops is that they hide spills and stains better than lighter shades. This gives you a bit more flexibility when it comes to cleaning your countertops, and it can mean they stay looking great for longer even if they do pick up some stains over time.

Neutral tones, such as beige, gray, and white, are a popular choice for granite countertops. They create a timeless and classic look and complement a wide range of decor styles. Warm-toned granite countertops, such as brown, gold, and cream, can add warmth and coziness to your space.

Decide on either matching or contrasting: Choose between either matching your countertops, cabinets and flooring or contrasting them. Contrasting adds dimension, while matching creates a cohesive finish.

You can choose a light silvery gray to lighten a room or a rich pewter tone to add depth. Both options are timeless. Warm Beige and Gold Granite. Beige and gold granite countertops bring warmth and richness to a space.

-When making your kitchen countertop selections, consider the amount of natural light you have in your space. If natural light is limited, you may want to consider lighter countertops to avoid the space feeling dark and closed off.

Use a White Color Scheme

Not only does this color reflect light well and brighten your space, but it can also make the ceiling height look taller. Whether you use it for wall cabinets, countertops, or everything, this tip alone is sure to give you the appearance of a larger kitchen.

Are darker countertops coming back? ›

Two decades later, and interior designers are reporting a black countertop resurgence. “The color exudes elegance and drama while making a bold statement,” says Joe Carline, a partner at Kligerman Architecture & Design. “Plus, it provides a sophisticated canvas for expressing design ideas.”

Quartz countertops resemble natural stone, but the pattern and hues are much more uniform. This offers cohesion for those who don't enjoy granite's natural flaws. Seams are less noticeable. Quartz is also available in solid colors with little to no pattern.

Adding additional lighting or choosing lighter cabinetry may be necessary to offset the dark countertop. Another disadvantage is that fingerprints and smudges are more visible on black surfaces. If you like to keep your kitchen spotless, you may need to clean your countertops more frequently than you'd like.

Classic white granite, like Kashmir White or Colonial White, imparts a timeless elegance and pairs well with various design styles. Beige and tan hues, exemplified by options like Giallo Ornamental or Santa Cecilia, offer warmth and versatility.

White granite countertops are a classic choice that never goes out of style. However, they can easily be incorporated into a modern, minimalistic kitchen design.

Choose one statement piece

One popular combination is a dark gray or charcoal cabinet partnered with white quartz. However, you can also go in reverse: many homeowners pair a darker, smoky quartz or granite countertop with white or off-white cabinets.

Choose a simple, complementary backsplash tile.

A subway tile in a neutral tone like ivory, off-white, or even greige will complement the granite and actually work to tone it down. Stick with a slightly warmer tone to help it blend in. So if you want a white tile, make sure it's a white with warm undertones.

According to our Standard Kitchen experts, your countertop should complement your floor and cabinets but shouldn't directly match either of them. Read on for more details and kitchen inspiration.

Colors like soft beige, creamy ivory, or light taupe can create a harmonious and welcoming atmosphere. These warm colors complement the brown tones in your granite, resulting in a balanced and inviting kitchen space. Cozy ambiance: Warm cabinet colors create a sense of comfort and intimacy in your kitchen.