Looking to add some pizazz to your kitchen without spending a lot of money?
If so, consider using two tone kitchen cabinets. The best two tone kitchen cabinet ideas is a great way to add some personality to your cooking space while also saving money.
Two tone kitchen cabinets are trending and we’re all taking notice. The sleek, modern look of these beautifully done pieces can be used in any home with ease. We will also provide you with some tips on how to choose the right colors for your home.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
1. Two-Tone Kitchen Cabinets
One of the hottest trends in kitchen design is two-tone kitchen cabinets. This trend features two different colors or finishes for your kitchen cabinets, typically with one color on the upper cabinets and a different color on the lower cabinets.
This can add a unique visual element to your kitchen and can also be used to create a more spacious feel by using a light color on the upper cabinets and a dark color on the lower cabinets.
2. The Best Two Tone Kitchen Cabinet Ideas: Black and White
One popular way to use two-tone kitchen cabinets is to choose two contrasting colors. You could use white on the upper cabinets and black on the lower cabinets. It will make a stark contrast that can really make your kitchen pop.
Also, this combination offers you a minimalist look that can really help make a small kitchen feel more open, stylish, and airy at the same time. Black and white is also a classic color combination that has stood the test of time, so you can’t go wrong with this choice.
3. Use the Coordinating Colors
Another option for two-tone kitchen cabinets is to choose two coordinating colors. For example, you could use a light blue vertically and a darker blue on the rest of the cabinets.
It will bring in a cohesive look that is still unique and eye-catching. You can also complement this look by adding glossy white countertops, white subway tile backsplash, and stainless steel fixtures. Even if you don’t have the budget to make over your kitchen cabinets entirely, you can still spice them up by adding new handles or knobs in a contrasting color.
This small change is an easy way to give your worn-out kitchen a quick facelift.
4. Mix and Match Finishes
Another way to make a unique look with two-tone kitchen cabinets is to mix and match finishes. For example, you could use glossy paint on the upper cabinets and distressed wood on the lower cabinets. It creates an interesting contrast that will really stand out in your kitchen.
You could also use different door styles for your upper and lower cabinets, such as shaker style doors for the upper cabinets and flat doors for the lower cabinets.
5. Use Neutrals
If you want a more subtle look for your two-tone kitchen, you can choose to use neutral colors. For example, you could use white on the upper cabinets and taupe on the lower cabinets. This can create a soft contrast that is still visually interesting.
You could also use beige on the upper cabinets and cream on the lower cabinets. You will have to experiment with different shades of beige and cream so that you can find the one that works best for your kitchen.
6. White and Blue for Nautical Feel
One popular option for two-tone kitchen cabinets is to use white and blue. This bring in a nautical, coastal feel that can be perfect for beach homes or summer cottages. You could use bright white on the upper cabinets and a light blue on the lower cabinets.
Or you could go with more muted tones, such as pale grey for the upper cabinets and blue gray for the lower cabinets. With this option, you’ll want to tie in the rest of the kitchen with nautical touches, such as white or blue dishes, hanging fishnets and light fixtures that look like lanterns.
7. White and Gray for Scandinavian Style
You could also choose to use white and gray for your two-tone kitchen cabinets in order to make a Scandinavian style feel. It is perfect if you want your kitchen to have a more modern or minimalist look. You could choose light grey on the upper cabinets with a darker gray on the lower cabinets.
Or you could choose an even lighter grey for the upper cabinets and add some light gray shaker style doors for your lower cabinets.
8. White and Beige for Warmth
White and beige are the best colors for a kitchen that you want to feel cozy and welcoming.
This is particularly true if your kitchen is quite large, as they will help make it seem more intimate and less like a warehouse. These colors have a soft, natural look that will complement any other décor in the space, from rustic wooden floors to modern stainless steel appliances.
Add more texture by laying down a Persian rug or using wicker chairs. Another added benefit to these colors is that they will make any dirt and grease less visible, as the beige tones are much lighter than white alone.
9. White and Brown for Country Style
Two-tone kitchen cabinets are also a great choice if you want to create a country style feel in your kitchen. One of the best ways to create a country style, is by using natural wood elements.
A classic combination of white and brown, with plenty of wooden cabinets and floors will surely give your kitchen a rustic feel. This combination is regarded as one of the most popular and best two tone kitchen cabinet ideas.
10. Green and Yellow for Bright Look
Although the two-tone kitchen cabinets are mostly applied with light color, you can also apply green and yellow to create a vibrant look.
Few shades of green or yellow like sage or lemon will be enough to give your kitchen a different look if you decide to go for this option.
You don’t have to stop at just one shade either. You can choose two different shades of green or yellow to create a fresh and more vibrant look.
11. Black and Gray for Industrial Style
Another popular choice for two-tone kitchen cabinets is to use black and gray. This can create an industrial feel in your kitchen that is perfect if you are interested in modern styles.
You could choose dark gray on the upper cabinets and a lighter gray on the lower cabinets, such as French grey or slate gray.
Or you could go with a darker black for the upper cabinets and add some light gray shaker style doors for your lower cabinets.
12. Black and Brown for Vintage Style
Two-tone kitchen cabinets can also be a great choice if you want to create a vintage feel in your kitchen.
Consider using the black on the upper cabinets and brown on the lower cabinets. This can create an interesting contrast that is perfect for a classic or retro feeling kitchen.
You could also choose brown with a more modern twist, such as espresso brown, light taupe, or even grey-brown.
13. Black and White for Modern Style
Just like a black and white palette that is simple but stylish, the kitchen cabinet with a two-tone color will also be trendy and modern.
The high contrast between these colors adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your kitchen while make it looks very attractive as well.
Also, it is way easier to combine with any other color that you want. Try to use white as the base tone of your kitchen cabinet, and paint it with black for the top part.
14. Black and Blue for a Bold Contrasts
When choosing the bold look, black and blue is a perfect fit for those who love color.
There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to color, so you shouldn’t be worried about not having many choices.
For example, maybe you want the black cabinets with blue walls and countertops or vice versa. Also, if you’re worried about the bold colors being too much, you can choose to go with black and blue on just the island.
15. Blue and Gray Countertop for Rustic Style
The calming feel will perfectly created by the combination of this blue and gray.
The natural texture will also be nice to complete the kitchen, highlighting the rustic style effortlessly. Opt for the blue in a darker shade and the gray in a dark one too to create an even more dramatic appeal.
With a cabinet with dark gray color and dark blue walls, you’ll surely obtain the rustic look in your kitchen. The last tip on how to create a perfect two tone kitchen cabinets is by combining these two colors into one gorgeous blend.
16. Blue and Green for Retro Style
Blue cabinets can add a touch of striking boldness, while green brings in a natural, vintage vibe.
For a classic look, try navy blue lower cabinets with mint green upper cabinets. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go for an eclectic mix with dark blue and hunter green cabinets paired together.
You can also play with different shades and hues to create depth and dimension in your kitchen.
17. Chevron Backsplashes Tiles for an Eye-Catching Design
This bold, geometric design adds an interesting visual element to your kitchen and pairs beautifully with both light and dark cabinets. Plus, tiles are easy to clean and can withstand tough kitchen conditions.
You can use chevron tiles as a kitchen backsplash or even on the floor for a truly eye-catching design. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different tile colors or sizes to create your own personalized look.
18. Heather Gray and White for Modern Appeal
Heather gray and white is a popular combo that offers some versatility in terms of coordinating with other colors and decor styles.
For a bolder look, opt for all-white upper cabinets and heather gray lower cabinets. Or, for a more subtle approach, try doing heather gray on the upper cabinets and keeping the lower cabinets white.
Another option is to incorporate both colors by doing half-and-half, alternating the cabinet colors throughout the space.
19. Stenciled Geometric Patterns That Stand Out
A bold black and diamond pattern is guaranteed to turn heads and add a touch of edginess to any kitchen. To start, pick two colors that complement each other and have one dominate the upper cabinets while using the other for the lower ones.
You can simply apply the stencil to the lower cabinet, then let it works adorably making the kitchen cabinet looks stunning within minutes.
20. Matte Black and Shiny Chrome Hardware to Add Drama
This edgy combination adds instant drama and luxury to any kitchen. Matte black cabinets create a sleek, modern vibe while chrome hardware adds a touch of glamour. This combo also offers endless possibilities for customization.
Try mixing black lower cabinets with white upper cabinets, or use the black on one wall and a lighter shade on the other. You can also play with the mix of hardware. Get creative and make this combo your own.
21. Two-Tone Design That Show Off a Wood Grain Finish
A wood grain finish, like cherry or oak, adds warmth and natural beauty to any kitchen. Plus, by mixing in a contrasting color like black or white, you can add depth and dimension to your cabinet design.
One idea is to go with white upper cabinets and wood grain lower cabinets, giving the space an airy feel while still adding some rustic charm. Or, try painting your island cabinets a different shade than the rest of the kitchen for an unexpected pop of color.
22. Two-Toned Cabinets in Bold and Pastel Colors to Liven Up the Space
To really make a statement, go for bold, contrasting colors like black and white or navy blue and gold. Or, for a more subtle approach, pair soft pastel shades like mint green and light pink.
Not only will this add visual interest to your kitchen, but it will also give you the opportunity to play with different design styles.
Mix and match eclectic with modern, or play up a country cottage feel to your cabinets. No matter what you choose, the end result will be stunning, and a conversation starter for all of your guests.
23. Refinished Vintage Wood Cabinets for a Classic Look
Consider going for a vintage vibe with refinished wood cabinets in two tones. Paired with white walls and modern appliances, this look combines old-world charm with contemporary style.
Want to make a statement? Opt for bold contrasting shades, like navy and gold. For a more subtle look, choose shades that are within the same color family, like soft gray and pale blue. If you love the look of wood cabinets but are worried about their upkeep, consider opting for wood veneer.
24. White and Gray Floor Tiles to Compliment the Space
The white and gray combo is definitely a winning choice to infuse the classic and elegant style for your kitchen.
The cool tones add a touch of sophistication, while the neutral colors make it easy to mix and match with other design elements in your kitchen.
And if you want to take it one step further, installing gray floor tiles helps tie the whole look together. The tile adds texture to the space, and the color complements the white and gray cabinet colors beautifully.
25. Two-Toned Cabinets in Bright and Earthy Colors for a Contemporary Kitchen
A contemporary twist on the classic all-white kitchen, this trend combines bold hues with neutral tones for a fresh and eye-catching look. Bright colors like navy blue and red add a pop of energy, while earthy shades like sage green and terracotta lend a soothing, natural vibe. Experiment with various color combinations until you find the perfect mix for your unique style.
26. Wood Paneling on the Cabinets to Add Texture
This small change can add depth and dimension to the room, making it feel more cozy and homey. Plus, it’s a unique twist on traditional two-tone cabinet design. You can even play around with the stain or paint color of the wood paneling to match your overall kitchen aesthetic.
Not only will this upgrade give your kitchen a little extra pizzazz, but it also adds functionality by giving you extra storage space on the inside of your cabinets.
27. Matte Black and Gold Hardware for a Glamorous Look
Infuse the glamorous feel to your kitchen with this chic combination of the matte black and gold hardware, which will instantly elevate the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Plus, mixed metal finishes are all the rage right now in interior design.
You could even pair this combo with some black marble countertops for an ultra luxe touch. If that’s too bold for your taste, consider using the matte black as your lower cabinets and keeping the upper cabinets a neutral white or cream color.
28. White and Navy Blue for a Beachy Feel
Conjure up your summer holiday with this gorgeous retro-inspired look. If you want to bring the seaside into your home, then a two tone kitchen cabinet in white and navy blue is a great way to do it.
This bold and vibrant color combination will instantly lift your spirits, making your kitchen feel fresh and breezy all year round. And if you want to make the look a little more nautical, add in some accessories such as shells, ropes and starfish.
29. Yellow Ochre and Black
The warm, earthy tones of the yellow ochre complement the sleekness and boldness of the black for a look that is both eye-catching and soothing. This color scheme also allows for versatility in terms of material choices.
Glossy or matte black cabinets paired with rustic or polished yellow ochre cabinets can result in very different aesthetics. These rich hues create a striking aesthetic that can be dressed up or down depending on your personal style and the overall look you’re going for.
30. Slate Gray and Natural Wood Accents for a Relaxing Space
The cool tones of the gray pair beautifully with the warm wood, creating a visually interesting yet relaxing space. And since slate gray is a neutral color, it allows for more flexibility in terms of choosing additional design elements such as countertops and backsplash materials.
For added dimension, consider mixing matte and glossy finishes for your cabinets to add texture and depth. Not only does this color combination match a variety of design styles, but it’s also a timeless choice that’s sure to impress any visitor to your kitchen.
31. Cherry and White Two-Toned Cabinets for an Elegant Look
These two-toned cabinets offer the perfect contrast, with the bright white providing a crisp clean look while the rich cherry adds warmth and depth.
This combination also pairs well with a variety of countertop materials and wall colors, making it easy to customize the rest of your kitchen design.
And who says you have to stick with just two tones? Add some metallic hardware or accents for even more visual interest.
32. Copper and Bronze Hardware to Add Warmth to the Space
Adding a touch of copper or bronze hardware can really bring warmth and depth to any space. Not only do these metallic hues add visual interest, but they also work well with a variety of color combinations.
For a classic look, try pairing copper knobs with white cabinets. Alternatively, go for an elegant yet edgy look by using bronze handles on dark navy lower cabinets and light gray upper cabinets.
33. Matte Black and Brushed Nickel Options to Compliment Modern Appliances
Matte black and brushed nickel is a striking combination that adds a modern edge to any space. The black adds boldness, while the nickel offers subtle shine for contrast.
This color pairing also has the added benefit of coordinating well with a variety of accent colors and materials.
Whether you choose polished marble countertops or natural wood accents, this duo is sure to complement any design aesthetic.
Updating your kitchen cabinets can totally transform the look of your space, and two tone cabinetry is a great way to add some visual interest. If you’re considering making a change, be sure to check out our list of the best two tone kitchen cabinet ideas. You’re sure to find something that will suit your taste and style.