We are seeing colour everywhere this year – beautiful kitchens in rich deep blues, earthy greens, bold reds and yellows, and vibrant pastels.

So, are we to assume that classic all-white kitchens are now a thing of the past? On the contrary. Though colourful kitchens are definitely a growing trend, the classic white kitchen is still holding its own – so much so that this year’s Pantone colour of the year is Cloud Dancer, a soft, airy neutral off-white. The bright, fresh look and feel of white kitchen cabinetry never really loses its appeal and for many is the goal for their kitchen renovation. However, just as appealing as a white kitchen can be, they can often be stark, cold and sometimes void of personality.

The heart of the home

Kitchens are undoubtedly the heart of a home, and over the years, have morphed from simple utilitarian spaces to rooms that are multi-functional living space reflecting both personal style and creativity. Boasting a more curated aesthetic with high-end finishes, custom designs and advanced technology our kitchens are not only stylish but comfortable. They are a reflection of our lifestyles and are central to our day-to-day life, while having the flexibility to be an upscale extension of our living spaces for entertaining. White cabinetry offers a longevity that trend colours simply don’t. They are an easy commitment, a blank canvass if you will, that can offer you a lot of flexibility when it comes to the aesthetics of your kitchen. However, moving beyond an all-white kitchen can open you up to a world of finishes, colours and inspirations that can see a bit of the current kitchen trends introduced into your space.

Even with all the colour options trending these days, we still find that white kitchens are not only desired but quite often preferred, because of their classic, timeless, simplistic approach. They are sometimes thought of as a safe choice, when considering the costs and longevity of kitchen trends, not to mention the hassles of kitchen renovations. But they are also quite often the wise choice that can carry you through the trends for many years to come. Whether you are drawn to the warmer more earthy whites or cooler, more modern whites, there is undoubtedly an abundant variety to select from for your millwork and accents that will set the tone for your space.

Strategic touches of colour or wood accents

Add dimension to your kitchen with a patterned backsplash tile, or use a bold marble, quartz or porcelain for your countertop, then continue it on your backsplash to really make a statement in your home. An impactful floor tile or warm wood can be a wonderful asset in the space, as can the introduction of mixed metals and hardware.

Adding strategic touches of colour or wood accents to your cabinetry can also enhance and elevate the aesthetics of your kitchen. And let’s not forget accessorizing your space with colourful artwork, furniture or greenery to add some life to those white cabinets. The great thing about adding colour to your kitchen with accessories is the ease with which it can be altered if you have tired of the latest trend colour – the blank canvass of a white kitchen will remain for the next creative inspiration you may have. Kitchen renovations are an expensive endeavour, while revamping some accessories can prove to be far more palatable on your budget and mood.

Simplicity, functionality and style

Today, the movement is towards a streamlined look that highlights simplicity, functionality and style. Though we have moved on from the white-on-white or grey-on-white kitchens, we have not given up on white cabinetry that will always be a favourable, sought-after mainstay option in kitchen design. Instead of dreaming of an all-white kitchen, think about shaking it up a bit with the selective addition of colour, statement lighting, rich wood accents or maybe a great wallpaper or fabric for a window treatment.

When looking for inspiration for your kitchen renovation, look to see how you can introduce a mix of colours, textures and finishes that will create a space that can keep you moving forward trend-wise, while still giving you the white kitchen of your dreams.