Kitchen Colour Trends for 2026

Colour is officially stepping back into the spotlight, and 2026 is shaping up to be a very good year for kitchen design.

If you have ever found yourself holding a paint sample, wondering whether you will still love it five years from now, you are not alone.

Today’s kitchens do far more than handle the cooking. They are places to gather, catch up, work from home, entertain friends, and quietly showcase your design confidence. Colour plays a massive role in how these spaces feel, from calm and comforting to bold and expressive.

Looking ahead to 2026, kitchen colour trends are all about feel good choices, thoughtful design and a little bit of fun along the way.

Warm Neutrals, Elevated

Crisp white has had a long run, but 2026 sees neutrals taking on more warmth and depth. Think soft sandy tones with a blush hint, mushroom-inspired greys and creamy coffee shades that feel inviting rather than clinical. These colours offer a modern look without feeling cold or overly minimal.

How to use them

Warm neutrals work beautifully on cabinetry and large surfaces. Add interest with tactile splashbacks, darker handles or a mix of metal finishes. They are especially effective in open-plan kitchens where flow and cohesion are crucial.

Deep Greens and Woodland Shades

Green continues to prove it has serious staying power. Rich forest greens, mossy tones and muted olive shades bring a grounded, calming feel to the kitchen, making them perfect for islands or base units.

What to pair them with 

Brushed brass handles, pale oak shelves and creamy quartz worktops soften the look and keep it welcoming. The result feels polished yet relaxed, ideal for homes that want character without heaviness. 

Soft Blues with a Calm Edge

Blue kitchens are evolving. In 2026, the focus shifts to gentler, dustier blues that evoke a sense of understated serenity. Picture weathered denim, misty coastal blues and soft slate shades that add depth without demanding attention. 

Where they work best 

These tones suit both classic shaker styles and sleek contemporary kitchens. Pair with light grey or white worktops and subtle chrome fittings for a balanced, timeless finish. 

Black, Done Properly 

Black kitchens are not disappearing, but the approach is changing. Texture is key. Matt finishes, subtle wood grain and tactile surfaces stop black from feeling flat or severe. When paired with warm timber and natural stone, black feels confident and intentional. 

Finding the balance 

Use black on lower cabinets or as a feature, then offset with lighter worktops, reflective metals or well-planned lighting to keep the space feeling open and comfortable. 

Making Colour Work in Your Own Kitchen 

If you love these ideas but are hesitant to fully commit, there are plenty of smart ways to introduce colour without going all in. 

Cabinet Colour Blocking 

Choose one shade for your island and another for the surrounding cabinetry. It is a great way to combine timeless neutrals with more expressive colours. 

Feature Areas and Open Shelving 

Add colour to a single wall, splashback or the back of open shelves. It delivers impact without overwhelming the room. 

Handles, Lighting and Accessories 

Changing handles, pendant lights or bar stools is an easy win. These smaller details can pull a colour scheme together with very little disruption. 

As we move into 2026, kitchen design is becoming more personal, more expressive and far more considered. The best colour choices are the ones that feel right for your home, not just right now, but for years to come. 

If you would like help exploring these colour palettes and making them work beautifully in your space, we would be delighted to help. Together, we can create a kitchen that feels just as good as it looks, today and tomorrow.