Top Kitchen Colour Ideas for 2026
Sitting down at the table, morning cup of tea in hand, you take a moment to look around at your outdated kitchen. A new year calls for new home décor, and you know that refreshing your kitchen’s colour palette is the perfect way to transform it into a more vibrant, inviting space.
Choosing a new colour scheme for your kitchen can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re planning a complete kitchen makeover or simply looking to make a few small yet impactful changes (like swapping out your light switches and sockets), these kitchen colour ideas for 2026 will help you create a space that feels fresh and modern without ever going out of style.
Discover the perfect kitchen colour ideas for your home, with insights from our co-founder and resident interior design expert, Ally Dowsing-Reynolds.
Our favourite colour ideas for kitchens in 2026
1. Opt for neutrals with a pop of colour
Neutral kitchens aren’t going anywhere in 2026, but incorporating a playful pop of colour is a great way to add personality and depth. Choose neutral tones like warm whites or soft beiges as your base colour, then add colourful detailing through details like splashbacks, bar stools, or countertop appliances – it could even be as simple as investing in colourful switches and sockets.
One of the best things about this kitchen colour idea is its flexibility. ‘Neutrals provide a timeless foundation, while pops of colour can easily be updated as trends and preferences change over time’, says Ally. ‘This keeps your kitchen feeling fresh, without the need for a full redesign.’
2. Create a soothing space with green
Green has been one of the most popular kitchen colours for some time now, and is the perfect colour if you want your kitchen to feel like a relaxing retreat. Tones like sage, olive, and eucalyptus create a calming atmosphere and feel both contemporary and timeless, working beautifully with natural materials like wood, stone, and brass.
‘In 2026, we’re seeing green used not just as a feature colour, but throughout the entire kitchen’, says Ally. ‘Don’t be afraid to paint your cabinets green – you could even paint your ceilings for a cosy, cocooning effect.’
See our blog on sage green kitchen ideas for more inspiration on how to introduce green into your kitchen.
3. Keep it classic with blue and white
Blue and white is a timeless colour combination that’s been used in kitchens for decades, and it still looks fresh and stylish in 2026. Pair crisp white walls or worktops with blue cabinetry and appliances for a clean, elegant look that is always on-trend.
‘Blue and white is a classic and versatile choice that you just can’t go wrong with’, says Ally. ‘It’s a great combo for traditional country kitchens, but it looks just as beautiful in modern kitchens, too.’
Design tip: The hardware you choose can make all the difference when it comes to the look and feel of your kitchen. Choose antique brass handles for a more vintage look, or opt for sleek black handles to instantly make the space look more modern.
4. Add drama with bold black
If you love to make a statement, a black kitchen might be the perfect choice for you. Bold black cabinetry or feature walls add drama and sophistication, creating a sleek, high-end feel.
‘When balanced correctly, black doesn’t feel dark or heavy’, says Ally. ‘Pairing it with warm pendant lights and metallic accents will ensure the space feels inviting and luxurious.’ Black works best in larger kitchens where natural light can offset the depth of the colour.
5. Be playful with pink
Pink is an increasingly popular colour idea for kitchens, with soft tones like blush, dusty rose, and terracotta adding warmth and personality without feeling overly bold. Pair these shades with neutral backdrops, natural wood, and brushed metal finishes to create a balanced and modern look.
‘Pink is a great choice if you want to inject character into your kitchen while still keeping it elegant and grown-up’, says Ally. ‘Even small touches, like pink accessories, can make your kitchen feel more joyful.’
Check out our pink kitchen ideas blog for more inspiration.
6. Choose calming greys for a modern feel
Grey remains a firm favourite for modern kitchens, and in 2026 it’s all about warmer, lighter shades. Soft greige, mushroom, and stone-toned greys are perfect for creating a calming atmosphere and complement a wide range of interior design styles.
‘Grey pairs well with both cool and warm finishes, which makes it a practical choice if you want flexibility when picking out worktops, handles, and lighting’, says Ally.
See our blog on dove grey kitchen ideas for more inspiration.
Things to consider when choosing a colour scheme for your kitchen
You’ve seen the inspo, but how do you go about actually choosing the colour scheme that’s right for your kitchen? To get it right, there are a few things you should consider:
- Think about your kitchen size: Lighter colours are a great idea for small kitchens, making them feel brighter and more spacious – especially if natural lighting is limited. Darker colours work best in larger kitchens or kitchens with plenty of natural light, adding drama and depth without feeling suffocating.
- Pick a scheme that suits your personality: Your kitchen is the hub of your home, so make it inviting by choosing a colour scheme that reflects your own personality and style preferences, rather than just going with what’s trendy right now. Thinking about whether you prefer calming neutral hues or bold, dramatic colours is a great place to start.
- Consider functionality as well as style: White kitchens are beautiful, but maybe not the best idea for busy family homes. Think about how you plan on using your kitchen, taking practical considerations, such as how often you want to clean, into account – mess and stains are a lot more visible in kitchens with a light colour scheme.
- Make sure it will complement your chosen finishes and materials: Think about how your colours will pair with the other details in your kitchen, like worktops, kitchen door handles, and lighting. Every detail contributes to the overall look and feel of your space, so it’s important that nothing goes unconsidered.
Show us your stylish kitchen interiors
We’d love to see how you’ve used these kitchen colour ideas to give your home a refresh for 2026. Tag us on Instagram @dowsingandreynolds – we can’t wait to see what you come up with!
