Hilary Farr Proves How Ditching Dark Cabinets Can Really Open Up A Space

If your kitchen still feels cramped no matter how much you declutter, it might be time to stop rearranging and start rethinking — your cabinets could be the culprit. While they can be stylish and dramatic, dark cabinets may be the very thing preventing your space from feeling bright and open. Don't just take our word for it — Hilary Farr has shown exactly how impactful this change can be. In an episode of "Tough Love with Hilary Farr," the HGTV designer transformed a cramped kitchen by swapping out dark wooden cabinets for fresh, airy white ones, proving that ditching dark cabinets can make a huge difference when it comes to opening up a space.

Whether you're considering switching up your current cabinets, or weighing the downsides to the increasingly popular matte black cabinet trend before you redesign — the limiting effect of dark cabinets is worth thinking through. While sleek and modern, dark cabinets can make your kitchen feel smaller and less inviting. If your goal is to create a more expansive atmosphere, you may want to rethink your dark cabinet dreams. Instead, going for some lighter finishes could be the key to making your kitchen feel light, open, and welcoming.

Hilary Farr surprised a couple on her show "Tough Love with Hilary Farr" by completely reimagining their kitchen space, replacing their dark wooden cabinets with sleek, white ones. The transformation was noticeable, instantly making the kitchen feel bigger and brighter. The couple couldn't believe the difference, jokingly noting, "I mean, there's an island that's like its own continent." Farr created this effect by keeping the base of the island dark, providing a bold focal point, while the surrounding white cabinets worked to visually open up the room.

If you're considering a similar change, remember that white cabinets don't mean your entire kitchen needs to be monochromatic. The best countertop materials to use alongside white cabinets are dark granite, wood, or laminate, which provide a good balance to the bright look of the cabinets. To take the design a step further, Hilary Farr recommends adding this to your kitchen when you have white cabinets — a blue tile backsplash. This pop of color breaks up the neutral tones and introduces a fresh, stylish element to the space. By swapping out dark cabinets for something lighter, you can create a more open environment that feels inviting without sacrificing personality or contrast.