Mistakes Everyone Makes When Choosing Gray Kitchen Cabinets

While kitchen color trends are predicted to veer towards vibrant and punchy in 2025 — think dark blues, emerald greens, or rich plums, according to UK-based kitchen company Paul Alexander Kitchens — you may be wondering how a gray kitchen will hold up over the years. Often considered a classic color, gray, especially hues with cool undertones, can appear drab when not used correctly, making it a particularly challenging shade for a full set of kitchen cabinets.

Opinions are divided on gray's lasting relevance. Some interior designers argue that the color doesn't hold up to its classic reputation especially if you'll be reselling your home in the near future, while HGTV stars still praise it, going so far as to include it in their lists of timeless kitchen colors. But this difference in opinion shouldn't turn you off from going gray in your kitchen, especially if you have your heart set on it. With its wide range of tonal qualities, gray can imbue your intended aesthetic, whether you're looking to use it as a statement color or as a neutral backdrop — just as long as you know what mistakes to sidestep. By taking tone, contrast, and successful pairings with other kitchen elements into careful consideration, you can end up with a gray kitchen palette with contemporary appeal that will stand the test of time.

First off, avoid gray shades with cool undertones which tend to render a room cold and austere. Aim for warmer tones of gray that feature a touch of burnt sienna or cadmium red. Not totally ready to repaint your kitchen cabinets? You can balance out the gray by introducing warm material elements such as wicker, jute, wood, or rattan. Inject some texture by adding a colorful kitchen runner or a brightly patterned tablecloth. Place hanging plants on top of the kitchen cabinets or along your kitchen countertops for a welcome boost of natural color. Equip your kitchen with the best lighting by using warm tone light bulbs to get soft but sufficient illumination in your kitchen.

Failing to create contrast is another rookie mistake one makes when opting for gray cabinetry. Putting too-similar gray tones together result in a muddled, uninspired palette that sorely lacks depth. Combat this effect by bringing in elements that complement the warm or light tones of your chosen gray. Make dark gray cabinets pop by pairing them with lighter-toned elements, like a sleek white marble-veined countertop. Let lighter grays serve as a subtle backdrop for contemporary, eye-catching backsplash designs.

Finally, the last thing a predominantly gray kitchen needs is stainless steel finishes, which will give your cabinets a dull, washed-out look. Instead, gravitate towards striking matte black or brushed brass cabinet pulls, faucets, or even kitchen appliances. Aside from providing contrast, these striking elements help dial up the drama in an otherwise drab kitchen.