The New White

By Rebecca Brown, Design Studio Consultant

It’s timeless. It’s classic. It’s white. And with kitchen design, this color never seems to go out of style. But how do you take something that’s been around forever and make it fresh? Try what we call “the new white kitchen.”

What is the new white?

White kitchens have always been a popular trend among new home buyers, but what used to be an icy white-on-white design trend has since shifted.

The new white formed as a way to break up the monochromatic palette — introducing colors, patterns, and textures to a blank canvas. This trend is a fresh take on the classic white kitchen that adds softness, character, and color to a living space. All while keeping the aura warm, airy, and clean.

All about cabinets

It wouldn’t be a new white kitchen without the white cabinetry. But instead of using the cool whites of past decades, cream- or warm-based tones are the go-to shades. These undertones eliminate the starkness and add a natural warmth to the room.

These hues work for a variety of design preferences. If you’re looking for a contemporary feel, shaker-style and beveled cabinet options add the right dimension and subtle flair you’re looking for. But, if you’re partial to a modern aesthetic, try a flat panel option — made for the perfect sleek look.

The cabinets are the foundation of this trend, but it’s how they’re accented that truly warms them up and adds character.

A dash of color

What’s important to note about the new white trend is that the white cabinets don’t stand alone.

To do this trend justice, other colors and natural elements must be added. So, make use of your kitchen island. Whether you like bright and beachy tints or rich and dark shades, a variety of wood tones work with the new white. Wood tones are a great way to break up the white backdrop — while bringing a natural and inviting element into the kitchen.

If you’re looking for a way to add earthiness as well as color, try adding a pop of green to the island. We aren’t suggesting you paint your island a Kelly or Emerald Green — or any other shade that may overpower the eye. Think more of a sage color that has gray undertones. These muted shades work almost as a neutral. And, they still add vibrancy without distracting from the crisp and clean aesthetic you’ve established.

Look at it this way: the green is here to compliment the kitchen design, not compete against it.

Playing with texture

Color isn’t the only way to separate the sea of white. Texture can be just as impactful.

One of the best ways to add texture is through countertops. Quartz countertops with marble-like patterns are still popular. And the intricate pattern in the stone adds enough variation to keep the white from feeling overpowering. This same texture can even be pulled into the backsplash for cohesion.

Another way to add texture is through tiling the backsplash. Using wood-like ceramic tiles on your kitchen backsplash not only brings in a natural element, its light tone also adds depth and warmth to the space.

You can also play with patterns and shapes. Even when using white tiles, herringboning — staggering tiles in a zig-zag pattern — your backsplash or using geometrically shaped tiles can add an eye-catching design element.

The finishing touches

The finer details can make or break a room. So, don’t neglect hardware, plumbing fixtures, and lighting finishes.

Unlike in classic white kitchens that used chrome and silver finishes, you’ll want to select warmer tones — to keep from cooling down your living space. Enhance that welcoming, airy, and clean feeling by choosing a brushed gold finish.

It isn’t just the color that makes an impact. Using a brushed finish versus a glossier one adds to the softness and cleanliness of this trend. This doesn’t just apply to elements like handles and sinks. Lighting pendants are another way to pull these warm colors into your kitchen while also keeping the room balanced.

Now that you know the ins and outs of the “new white,” try your hand at this trend. Get a fresh look in your brand new home.