Black Galaxy Granite contrasted with Honey glazed cabinets
In the past, you may have heard interior design experts say that dark colors should always be avoided in small spaces. However, as the field of design continues to expand, more designers are willing to challenge these rules and break away from tradition to create unique, memorable spaces. But is it okay to use dark countertops in a small kitchen?
Dark Colors in Small Spaces
The advice to avoid dark colors in small rooms comes from the idea that lighter colors will make the room seem more spacious and open. Darker colors, on the other hand, can make the room seem even narrower and cramped if they aren’t used properly. However, this does not mean that you should never use a dark color in a small space. On the contrary, dark colors can be beautiful even in a small space if you apply them carefully.
Tips for Dark Countertops in Small Kitchens
Deciding to place a dark countertop in a small kitchen may not be the most popular choice among designers or homeowners, but it can be breathtaking if you do it right.
Here are some tips to help you make your kitchen as appealing as possible.
Tip 1: Pair dark countertops with light cabinetry.
In general, having both dark countertops and dark cabinetry will make a small kitchen seem even smaller. However, selecting a lighter cabinet color instead will give you the contrast you need to avoid this problem. The contrast itself can also be striking, making your kitchen more appealing and memorable.
Also read: How to match granite and cabinets
Tip 2: Choose lighter wall colors.
The risk of a kitchen looking smaller because of a dark countertop is nearly as serious as the risk that comes with darker walls. While a lighter wall reflects light and gives the illusion of additional space, a darker wall has the opposite effect. Although dark walls can sometimes be used in a small kitchen successfully, they should generally be avoided if you have already chosen a dark countertop.
Tip 3: Add spaciousness in other ways.
If you have already chosen a dark countertop and you are worried about the size of your kitchen, you can make other small design choices that make it feel more spacious. For example, while some floor patterns may actually make your kitchen look smaller, others can make it look larger. Examples include floor patterns that include large diamonds or chevrons. Choosing cabinetry with glass inserts and maximizing storage space to cut down on clutter can also make your kitchen seem more open and spacious.
Tip 4: Consult a stone design professional.
If you aren’t sure whether you are making the right decision with regard to dark countertops, or if you want to make sure that your dark countertops will add beauty to your kitchen without making it seem cramped, consulting a design professional is the best way to put your mind at ease. A design professional can help you make the best decision based on the specifics of your situation and your design goals.
Dark countertops can be beautiful and are available in a wide variety of different materials, including granite, marble and quartz. Even if you have a small kitchen, you can still use these colors in your kitchen successfully if you make the right choices and plan carefully.
The stone design experts at Arch City Granite in St. Louis will be happy to help you achieve all of your design goals.