White Kitchens: What Everyone Should Know

White is the new white. This is a kitchen scheme that is not going anywhere anytime soon. Which in my eyes is a good thing because it allows us to create kitchen spaces that are classic and timeless--or at least in our 21st-century eyes "timeless". With this in mind, I thought I'd offer a few pieces of advice to keep in mind when pursuing your dream of a white kitchen.

1. Finish is everything.
There are many ways to achieve the color "white", but quality and proper finishing techniques are critical when it comes to creating a white that will stand the test of time.  Professional finishes can range from those that are factory-finished (in the case of box cabinets), shop finished (in the case of custom cabinets), or site finished (in the case of custom and existing cabinetry).  There are distinct features to every process, and every cabinetry type will have its own set of pros and cons.  Because white can be unforgiving in many ways, do your research and make sure you understand the type of finish and the process that will be used in the application you choose.

 The Woodshop of Avon

2. Choose your white carefully

All whites are not created equally, and what looks great in the showroom or on the paint chip may not be the "right white" in your home. A professional designer should always provide expert advice, as well as adequate color sampling to ensure the white is right for your space. Once your cabinets are in, this is an expensive and difficult thing to change, so its important to get it right the first time!

4. Consider a secondary color
There's certainly nothing wrong with doing an all-white color scheme--if you like white, embrace it.  Keep in mind though, that white is less forgiving than other finishes, and depending on your lifestyle can show wear over time.  It may be wise to consider a secondary color or wood species at an island space.  If you have an area that will be the "hub" of entertaining, food prep, and gathering, a darker finish or harder wood could be just the thing to hide life's wear and tear situations.

Source

5. Layer in texture
Either visual or tactile, to add interest and dimension to an all white color scheme. You can do this in subtle, yet effective ways through the use of backsplash material, countertop surfaces or textiles within the space.

Fiddlehead Design Group

Click here for some additional great color advice (and more beautiful photos) on white kitchens.