If you have oak cabinets in your home, selecting the right paint color for the surrounding walls is crucial. Here are the colors you should steer clear of:
Primaries + Orange
Bright primary colors like red, cobalt blue, and orange can accentuate the yellow tones in oak cabinets, making the space feel overwhelming. Designers advise against using these bold hues as they can clash with the warm undertones of oak. According to Ashley Macuga from Collected Interiors, these colors tend to highlight oak’s less desirable tones, while Melissa Van Zee from Van Zee Design Interiors warns that orange, in particular, can intensify the yellow or orange undertones in oak.
Colors to Use
When it comes to selecting paint colors that complement oak cabinets, muted neutrals and rich greens are excellent choices:
Muted Neutrals
Dusty, chalky colors like gray, sage, and mauve create a stunning contrast with oak cabinetry. Macuga recommends these colors for their deep, muted bases, which enhance the warmth of oak wood. These hues provide a sophisticated backdrop that allows the natural beauty of oak to shine.
Rich Greens
Shades of green, such as celadon, spruce, and moss, pair beautifully with the grain of natural oak. Van Zee suggests opting for richer shades of green to make a bold statement. The organic quality of green hues complements the earthiness of oak, adding visual interest to the space.
Navy Blue
For a touch of drama, consider painting the walls in a complex gray-based navy blue like Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy. Van Zee recommends this classic hue for its ability to create a moody atmosphere. However, ample sunlight is essential to prevent the space from feeling too dark.
White
White walls provide a timeless backdrop for oak cabinets, adding a clean and serene aesthetic to the space. Macuga and Van Zee both endorse white as a versatile pairing for oak, but they advise choosing warmer white tones to complement the wood’s warmth. Shades like Benjamin Moore’s Simply White and Sherwin-Williams’ Alabaster offer a classic yet contemporary look that enhances the visual appeal of oak cabinets.
When pairing oak cabinets with wall paint, consider these expert recommendations to create a harmonious and inviting space in your home.
