When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, many homeowners choose the color of their cabinets first; cabinet doors and exteriors take up about 80% of the visible space in your kitchen, so this makes sense. While there are several color schemes that will definitely improve the look of a kitchen with dark cabinets, you’re probably wondering what color tones will suit your kitchen the most. If you have big plans for your home or just want to spice it up a bit, consult a professional kitchen contractor and designer about whether to choose a contrasting look or a cohesive style.

There is an argument to be made about choosing your countertop first, as it tends to be one of the most expensive items in a kitchen remodel. However, to be honest, there is no right or wrong way to go about it.

Which countertop color goes well with dark wood cabinets?


If you chose the color for your cabinets first, the next choice will likely be a matching countertop. There are hundreds of possible cabinet styles and color combinations, as well as thousands of countertop color options. With the seemingly endless possibilities, some may find the process of choosing a combination exciting, while others may find it daunting. Don’t worry! We are here to help.

We’ve given you helpful advice on which countertop color looks best with white cabinets, as well as how to choose a countertop that complements gray cabinets or matches your cherry cabinets. To continue this helpful blog series, we’ll help you match countertop colors with dark cabinet styles.

Choose a light and attractive contrast


It’s hard to go wrong when you pair your dark cabinets with lighter-colored countertops. Whether your personal kitchen style is traditional or contemporary, contrasting your cabinets and countertops will work well with either kitchen design scheme. Plus, lighter countertops do a great job of reflecting more light, helping to brighten the room.

Refresh the layout with vibrant, bright whites


When looking for the perfect countertop for a modern dark cabinetry kitchen, your ideal choice would typically be a single piece or a glossy white design with minimal movement.

This pairing is actually versatile and not limited to modern designs. If you choose a white countertop for your traditional wooden kitchen, it will look great and have the balancing quality we define for light and creamy countertops.

Set a sophisticated tone with cool gray tones


Gray is a popular choice in kitchens as it is a classic and cool color that goes well with a wide variety of palettes.

To pair a gray countertop and dark cabinetry, consider classic or transitional kitchen styles for a blended look.

Choose gold for the perfect combination

Countertop colors with neutral base tones and gold variations look stunning when paired with darker cabinets. Gold tones look especially good on espresso-colored cabinets. Let these colors really shine by choosing a simple edge style for countertops and understated styles for cabinets and hardware. For example, a kitchen might have solid maple cabinets in a classic Shaker-style espresso color and a neutral-toned granite countertop, one of our most popular colors.

Although there are a few exceptions out there, mostly dark cabinets tend to pair best with neutral-toned countertops. If you stick to the color palettes that predominate in these color families, you won’t be disappointed by how they pair with your dark cabinets.

Want expert advice to help you match countertops, cabinetry, and upholstery colors? Potomac Kitchen and Bath is a well-known family company specializing in all aspects of kitchen design. Schedule a free in-home design consultation and our talented team of benchtop installers will bring the showroom to you. That way, you can get the best advice and same-day quote. We work hard to keep your family safe and comfortable during the holidays.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

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