7 “Luxurious” Colors That Instantly Elevate Your Kitchen, According to Designers
Luxury countertops, high-tech appliances, custom cabinets — these are all elements that might come to mind when you think of a “high-end” kitchen. However, you should never underestimate the power of the room’s color scheme. “Kitchens are such a central space, and for many homes they are the ‘center’ of the home, so the right color palette can really elevate the whole vibe,” says Matthew Coates, an architect at Coates Design.
As it turns out, the colors you choose have just as much impact on creating an upscale-looking kitchen as the rest of the room’s features. And, according to the experts I spoke to, there are plenty of shades to test out in the heart of your home for a design that’s not only high-end, but that also reflects your true personality. Here are the seven colors and finishes designers say make your kitchen look high-end.
1. Soft White
White is a classic shade that fits an upscale kitchen simply for how bright, clean, and fresh it makes the home feel. “A kitchen in a soft, creamy white looks light and airy, which gives that high-end, spacious feel,” Coates says. “It’s timeless and brightens up the whole space,” Coates says. White is also a great shade to have along your walls, cabinets, or backsplash, as it complements deeper finishes in your cabinet hardware or light fixtures.
3. Deep Blues
Another hue that experts say has a place in a chic kitchen are darker blues like navy. “Deep blue screams old-world sophistication,” says Carolyn Cerminara, founder and principal designer at Cerminara Design. “When you get the shade right, it brings a sense of heritage and luxury to the kitchen. I love using it for cabinetry, and even taking it across walls and trim for a bold, cohesive look.”
Cerminara says her go-to color is Farrow & Balls Stiffkey Blue, which she notes blends beautifully with marble countertops and brass fixtures. “Another great option is Sherwin-Williams Indigo Batik — it’s a bit softer but still gives that elevated, traditional feel. Pair it with polished chrome or brushed gold for a kitchen that feels effortlessly sophisticated.”
4. Greige
If you want to strike a balance between soft neutrals and bold, moody shades, Coates says the perfect color for your kitchen is greige. “It’s that perfect blend of gray and beige, and it gives kitchens a neutral but warm feel,” he says. “I love it because it works well in both modern and traditional spaces. It’s subtle but luxurious, and it creates the perfect backdrop for statement countertops or high-end hardware.” But if it’s a little bland for your taste, consider installing a fun marble backsplash for extra visual intrigue.
5. Charcoal Gray
“If you want something bold but still refined, straight-up charcoal gray is the way to go,” Coates says. Plus, for those who are fans of the industrial aesthetic, this is the color to pick for your space. “It adds a lot of depth without being as harsh as black, making it great for sleek, modern kitchens. Whether on cabinets or a kitchen island, charcoal gives a space an upscale, tailored look.”
6. Walnut
Bringing a sense of wealth and sophistication to a kitchen doesn’t have to come from solid shades. Wood stains work just as well in place of colors with a change in the room’s texture if you use the right shade. “If you’re after warmth and sophistication, walnut is your best friend,” Cerminara says. “It instantly elevates the space, especially when combined with soft white walls — it creates a balance that feels both luxurious and inviting. For something that feels a bit more modern but still elevated, black wire-brushed white oak is a fantastic option. It has that refined edge without feeling too contemporary, and when paired with brass fixtures or black hardware, it’s just stunning.”
7. The Right Hardware
Whatever colors you decide on, you’ll need to complete the look with fixtures that are just as luxe! Whether you go for lighter or darker shades, the experts suggest going with warmer finishes to enhance the feeling of an upscale kitchen. “Getting the finishes right is key to pulling the whole look together. Brass or brushed gold is a must with deep colors to add warmth and a touch of glamour,” Cerminara says. “If you want something more modern, matte black fixtures create a strong, understated contrast.”
“To really boost that high-end look, it’s all about the details and finishes,” Coates says, who also suggests using brass, gold, or black fixtures. “Polished chrome is always a classic choice, especially with whites, and it adds a crisp, clean finish.”
Do any of these “high-end” kitchen colors surprise you? Let us know in the comments below!
Further Reading
The “Beautiful” $3 Flower Tumblers at Walmart People Are Buying 2 at a Time
Tuscan Chicken Is the "Most Delicious" Dinner of All Time, Says Everyone Who's Tried It
