Kitchen Trends for 2018: Two-Toned Cabinets

Updated on: August 01, 2022

Here at Cabinets.com, we are huge fans of a two-toned kitchen, which is where there is more than one finish selected for the cabinetry. By changing up the finish within the space, you add a sense of uniqueness and style.

There are a few different ways in which you can incorporate this popular cabinet trend…

Contrasting Perimeter/Island Cabinets

One of the most common ways to create a two-toned kitchen is to have a contrasting finish on the island while keeping the all the perimeter (wall) cabinets the same. We recommended keeping the perimeter cabinets light as they provide a neutral backdrop for the island finish. The kitchen island, the centerpiece of your kitchen, should be the show stopper! For a more traditional look, you can go for a warm wood stain for the island finish and pair it with a white or alabaster painted cabinet on the perimeter to finish the look.

Upper Cabinets - Shaker II Maple Antique White | Island Cabinets - Shaker II Maple Toffee

For a more updated, modern look, one of our colorful painted finishes would be the perfect choice for your island! Our company favorite, the Naval finish, which is a deep navy blue, offers a modern look to any kitchen!

Upper Cabinets - Baldwin Maple Alabaster | Island Cabinets - Baldwin Maple Naval

Changing up the Upper and Lower Cabinets

Recently, we have seen contrasting finishes between the upper and lower cabinets. It’s a great twist to this kitchen cabinet trend! For balance, our designers recommend keeping the upper cabinets lighter in color, such as white, alabaster, or light gray painted, and have the lowers be a darker shade. If you do the opposite, it looks like the upper cabinets are too heavy for the space.

Upper Cabinets - Shaker II Maple Bright White | Lower Cabinets - Shaker II Maple Ebony
Upper Cabinets - Baldwin Maple Bright White | Lower Cabinets - Baldwin Maple Haze

Same with the design of contrasting perimeter and island finishes, you can have fun with the finish combinations. We see a lot of light painted finishes selected for the top with a darker paint or stain for the bottom cabinets, but you can also switch it up with stained finishes for a more traditional look.

Upper Cabinets - Shaker II Maple Antique White | Lower Cabinets - Shaker II Maple Iron

Two-toned kitchens are an exciting trend in most homeowners are adding to their homes. Talk to our designer on how you can create a two-toned kitchen that is both beautiful and functional!