When it comes to choosing the right color for kitchen crown molding, there are a few key factors to consider. The color should complement the existing decor, create visual interest, and unify the overall design. With so many options, from bright whites to deep wood tones, selecting the perfect shade can be daunting. By understanding the psychology behind color and the effect each hue has on a space, you can confidently select a paint color that enhances your kitchen’s style. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the benefits of various color schemes, factors that impact the perception of color, and specific recommendations to help you land on the ideal kitchen crown molding color.
First, think about the overall look and feel you want to achieve in your kitchen. Are you aiming for a light and airy coastal vibe with white cabinetry? Or, do you prefer a cozy farmhouse aesthetic with wood stained cabinets? Determining the overall style will help narrow down suitable color families. Also, assess the existing elements – countertops, backsplash, flooring, etc. You’ll want to choose a crown molding color that complements these permanent fixtures.
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How Color Impacts Mood and Feeling in a Space
While it may seem superficial, the psychology behind color is quite powerful. Each hue elicits an emotional and physiological response. The key is choosing a shade that enhances the desired atmosphere in your kitchen.
Cool tones like greens, blues, and grays have a calming and tranquil effect. They remind us of nature – sea glass, sage brush, pebbles in a stream. Greens and blues can make a small kitchen feel more expansive. Conversely, warm earth tones like reds, yellows, and orangesfeel cozy and inviting. They conjure images of flickering fireplaces, harvest and spice. Warm colors spark energy and creativity. Neutrals like white, cream, taupe and brown provide flexibility. They seamlessly blend with any style from modern to traditional. Consider the mood you want your kitchen to convey and choose a color family that aligns.
Factors that Influence Color Perception
The way we perceive color is relative. Surrounding colors, lighting, sheen, and texture impact how our eyes interpret a hue. This is an important concept when selecting a crown molding color. A shade that looks flawless on a small paint chip can appear drastically different on the wall or when paired with cabinets and countertops. Here are a few factors that influence color perception:
- Adjacent Colors – Hues take on different characteristics when placed side-by-side. A gray that looks crisp white alone may appear dingy next to a true white.
- Lighting – Colors look different in natural daylight vs. incandescent bulb light. Make sure to view paint chips at different times of day.
- Sheen – Higher gloss amplifies a color’s vibrancy while matte or eggshell finishes mute and soften the tone.
- Texture – Smooth surfaces allow true color saturation while textured materials absorb pigment unevenly.
These optical effects can drastically impact how you perceive a color. When selecting a hue for kitchen crown molding, view large paint swatches on the wall and pay attention to the effects listed above. This will give you the most accurate impression of how the color will look once painted.
Popular Color Schemes for Kitchens
Now that you know how to properly evaluate colors, let’s explore popular paint choices for kitchen crown molding. We’ll review color palettes that align with common kitchen design motifs.
All White Kitchen
The all white kitchen remains one of the most sought after looks. A white on white color scheme feels clean, bright and modern. When considering whites for crown molding, opt for a true white without yellow or blue undertones. Whites with a hint of gray help crown molding blend with cabinetry. Here are some elegant white crown molding colors:
- Extra White by Sherwin Williams
- White Dove by Benjamin Moore
- Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore
- Decorator’s White by Benjamin Moore
Crisp true whites allow the textures and finishes in your kitchen to shine. For a slightly warmer alternative, Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray adds just a touch of cream for a soft white facade.
Black and White Kitchen
For high contrast drama, a black and white kitchen color scheme delivers. The bold pairing feels modern, edgy and ultra chic. Keep crown molding simple with a true black or bright white paint. Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black or Benjamin Moore’s Onyx deliver inky sophistication. Pair black crown with marble countertops and brass hardware for show-stopping contrast.
Wood Tones
Wood stained or natural cabinets remain popular for their warmth and rustic charm. Matching crown molding to the exact cabinet shade can look monotonous. Instead, opt for a slightly lighter or grayer tone. Benjamin Moore’s Gray Cashmere or Coventry Gray add nice contrast with wood cabinetry. Soft tones like these enhance the wood’s natural patina. For a coordinating accent, paint crown molding the same hue as cabinet hardware.
Blue Kitchens
From navy to powder blue, shades of blue cultivate a soothing and peaceful environment. For a beachy aesthetic try Sherwin Williams Coastal Plain, a breezy medium robin’s egg blue. Pair with white cabinets for a crisp nautical kitchen. Or blend blue-grays like Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl or Hale Navy with warm wood cabinetry. The contrast adds striking visual interest.
Green Kitchen
Earthy green hues give kitchens an organic, nature-inspired feel. Deep emerald or sage greens paired with marble countertops create an ultra luxe look. For a more casual vibe try light greens like Behr’s Celtic or Benjamin Moore’s Spring Leaves. Soft seafoam greens complement white cabinets while providing subtle color.
Non-Neutral Colors
While white and wood tones suit most kitchen designs, don’t shy away from using color on crown molding. For contemporary spaces, vibrant orange, yellow or red crown provide a fun pop of color. In rustic kitchens, deep plummy purples or chocolate browns add drama and sophistication. Most importantly, select colors you personally love. Your kitchen should reflect your unique taste and style.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Crown Molding Color
By now you likely have a color family or two in mind. Here are a few final factors to consider before making a final selection:
Kitchen Size
In small kitchens darker colors tend to feel confining or heavy. Lightreflective whites and soft neutrals keep things airy. Save your favorite jewel tones for spacious kitchens that can handle the dramatic hues.
Natural Light
The amount of natural light your kitchen receives impacts color choice. North facing rooms may require lighter shades to keep things bright. Meanwhile southern exposures can handle deeper more saturated hues without appearing dark or gloomy.
Existing Elements
Match your crown molding color to existing permanent elements – countertops, tile backsplashes, and flooring. You want a cohesive look. For example, pair white crown with white marble counters. Or coordinate greenish-gray crown with slate tile. Tie everything together.
Personal Preference
While suggestions are helpful, choose a color you genuinely love. An soothing green or clean white that fuels your creativity and brightens your mood.
Recommended Paint Finishes
In addition to color, the paint finish or sheen plays a role in the final look. Here are the recommended finishes for crown molding:
- Eggshell – Provides subtle sheen while still hiding imperfections. Easy to clean.
- Satin – A step above eggshell in terms of luster and durability.
- Semi-Gloss – Durable, stain-resistant and easy to wash. Good for accident-prone kitchens.
Flat or matte finishes show imperfections and scuff easily, so they are not ideal for crown molding. Stay in the eggshell to semi-gloss range for the best looking most durable finish.
DIY Painting Tips
Once you’ve selected the perfect color, proper application is key for a professional finish. Here are a few DIY tips for flawlessly painting crown molding:
- Lightly sand glossy molding to rough up the surface so paint adheres better.
- Fill any holes or imperfections with wood filler and sand smooth.
- Wipe away dust before priming.
- Apply primer tinted to match your top coat paint.
- Use angled trim brushes to reach the edges of the crown molding profile.
- Apply at least 2 coats of top coat paint for full coverage.
- Use painter’s tape and drop cloths to protect walls and surfaces.
- Work methodically so wet edges blend together.
With these tips you can achieve smooth professional results. Take your time taping, prepping, priming and painting. The attention to detail will definitely pay off.
Hire a Professional Painter
Painting crown molding can be tedious and time consuming. For fast flawless results, consider hiring a professional painter. They have the tools and experience to:
- Prep surfaces correctly
- Spray paint tricky architectural details smoothly
- Match existing paint colors perfectly
- Install crown molding if needed
- Know which paints deliver the most durable finish
- Complete the job efficiently in 1-2 days
Quality painters utilize top of the line equipment to spray cabinets and trim quickly while protecting surrounding surfaces from overspray. The result is a seamless professional finish done right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular kitchen crown molding colors?
Whites and soft neutral greys are the most popular choices for kitchen crown molding. They blend effortlessly with a variety of cabinetry colors from bright white to wood tones. Soft greens and blues are also common in cottage style kitchens.
Should crown molding and cabinets be the same color?
Matching crown exactly to cabinet color can look monotonous. Slightly lighter or darker complementary shades add nice contrast. However, going too dark risks being visually overwhelming.
Can you paint over stained crown molding?
Yes, you can paint over existing stained or clear-coated crown molding. Proper prep is key – sand thoroughly to rough up the glossy finish and ensure paint adhesion. Prime with a bonding primer before applying paint.
What type of paint should be used on kitchen crown molding?
A durable satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss enamel works best. The subtle sheen is easy to keep clean yet hides imperfections. Stay away from flat paints – they scuff too easily.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal kitchen crown molding color may seem tricky. But armed with the right information – from color psychology to complementary schemes – you can confidently select a hue. Consider the room’s size, light exposure, and permanent elements. Then pick a shade you find beautiful and calming. For flawless results, prime and paint using proper brushwork. Or hire a professional painter to do the job right. With the perfect color and finish, your kitchen’s crown molding will elevate the entire space for years to come.