Kitchen Colour Theory: How to Choose the Right Colours for Your Space

19/05/2025

When renovating your kitchen, one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) decisions is choosing a colour palette. But colour isn’t just about looks—it can influence how your kitchen feels, how spacious it appears, and even how comfortable it is to spend time in.

At A Team Kitchens, we use colour theory to help homeowners across the Blue Mountains and Western Sydney design kitchens that not only look stunning, but feel just right. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Colour Theory?

Colour theory is the science and art of using colours in harmony. It explores how different colours work together and the emotional responses they evoke. It’s not just for artists—understanding a few basics can help you create a kitchen that reflects your personality and complements your home.

Warm vs. Cool Tones

Warm Colours (reds, oranges, yellows) create a cosy, welcoming feel. They're great for traditional or rustic kitchens.
Cool Colours (blues, greens, greys) are calming and clean. Ideal for modern, minimalist, or coastal-inspired spaces.

Tip: Neutral tones like whites, beiges, and greys are versatile and timeless, and they pair beautifully with both warm and cool accents.

Colour and Space: Make Your Kitchen Feel Bigger or Cosier

Light Colours reflect light and make small kitchens feel larger and more open. White, soft greys, and pale pastels are great for compact spaces.
Dark Colours add depth and drama, but can make a space feel smaller if overused. Use them for accents, lower cabinetry, or feature splashbacks.

The 60-30-10 Rule

This classic design principle helps create a balanced colour scheme:

60% – Dominant colour (e.g. walls or cabinets)
30% – Secondary colour (e.g. benchtops or splashbacks)
10% – Accent colour (e.g. handles, bar stools, or décor)

This approach ensures your kitchen looks cohesive without being too matchy-matchy.

Popular Kitchen Colour Combos That Work

White + Timber + Black – A modern classic with warmth and contrast
Navy + Brass + Marble – Elegant and sophisticated
Sage Green + White + Natural Wood – Calming and fresh, perfect for a country-style kitchen
Charcoal + Concrete + Matte White – Sleek and urban for contemporary homes

Don’t Forget the Finish

Colour isn’t just about shade—it’s also about texture and sheen. Gloss finishes reflect light and can make a space feel sleek and modern. Matte finishes, on the other hand, offer a more subtle, understated look and are great for hiding fingerprints.

Let A Team Kitchens Help You Get the Colours Just Right

Choosing the right colours can be tricky, especially when trying to imagine how they’ll work together in your space. That’s why we offer free 3D kitchen designs as part of your renovation package—so you can see your colour palette come to life before making any final decisions.

Whether you’re drawn to bold tones or soft neutrals, we’ll help you build a colour scheme that suits your style, your home, and your lifestyle.

Time for a Change?

Contact A Team Kitchens today and let’s create a kitchen that’s beautiful, functional, and full of colour that truly reflects you.