Remodeling Your Kitchen? Be Smart about Color

When it comes to decorating and remodeling, most designers suggest using a color scheme that "speaks to you." After all, it's your home; it should be a reflection of who you are. Right?

Sure, you want your home to announce your presence with authority, as the saying goes. But you also want to be smart about it.

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That's why we suggest a neutral palette for your kitchen remodel.

Before you paint your entire kitchen in shades of purple in protest, read the five reasons we say a neutral palette is the smart choice.

1. Make the Most of Your Investment

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A kitchen remodel is one of the most expensive home improvement projects you can undertake. But, it's also one with a great return on investment. When you sell your home, you can expect to recoup around 80 percent of the cost of a minor remodel.

The key, though, is creating a space anyone can envision themselves in. That's why we suggest a neutral palette for cabinets, floors, and countertops. Whites, tans, and grays never go out of style. And, they're the perfect backdrop to whatever colors you choose for the rest of the kitchen.

2. Neutral Colors Make the Perfect Background

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Just because the main color scheme is neutral doesn't mean you can't implement bold colors and designs. In fact, that neutral backdrop creates the ideal canvas for your imagination. Use rugs, curtains, towels, dishes, and decorative items to display your personality and make the room yours.

The best part? It's easy to make changes whenever the mood strikes, or decorate for the season, and your new décor won't clash with your neutral cabinets.

3. When it Comes to Color, Size Matters

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It's common knowledge that darker colors make things look smaller. You can also open up a space by using lighter shades on your walls, countertops, and cabinets. Whites, creams, and pale beiges and grays are great shades for smaller kitchens. These colors reflect light to make an area appear more spacious than it actually is.

4. Neutral Colors Are Versatile

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One of the reasons neutral colors are popular throughout a home is that they create a soothing background that coordinates with any décor, color, or style you want. Whether you prefer a soothing, serene "heart of the family" feeling or bold colors and energy, you can do it.

Does your mood change with the seasons? When you have a neutral background, that's no problem. Just swap out your old décor for new items that reflect your current aesthetic.

5. Neutrals Never Go Out of Style

Nothing dates a home faster than up-to-the-minute styles and faddish colors. Luckily, neutral colors never go out of style or look dated, even if you choose shades that are currently "in."

For example, white paired with a pale, warm gray has been a popular choice for the past few years, in part because the colors pair well with another currently popular item: stainless steel appliances. The good news is that, even if another neutral takes the top spot in a few years, no one will ever look at your white-gray palette and think, "This is so 2018."

Work with a Designer

If you aren't sure how to work with color or make timeless choices for your kitchen remodel, look for companies that handle all aspects of a home improvement project.