Pros & Cons of an All-White Kitchen Look
Over the course of the past year or two, we’ve all spent more time than ever before in our homes. And that means that some of the most popular design choices in recent times have been called into question. Is the fiddle leaf fig really still the “it” plant? Are graphic floor tiles really for me? And of course, the big one: Are all-white kitchens timeless or trendy?
So today, we’re diving into the world of kitchens because this last question has been circulating quite a lot recently. After all, the general color trend has been moving into warmer and more saturated-color territory. So, you may be thinking that white kitchens are totally trendy. But the truth is that they’ve been around since the 1920s and 1930s (in fact, white was the only color offered at that time!). So, it’s not really a surprise that white kitchens do still remain popular.
Whichever way you lean, it’s definitely a hot debate, and you won’t want to miss it. Read on – it’s your turn to be the judge!
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Argument #1: White Kitchens are Totally Timeless
When it comes to the “timeless” stance on white kitchens, practicality reigns supreme. Typically, opting for a neutral palette as your base in your home is actually the smartest choice for longevity. No ultra-permanent commitments to a whimsical wallpaper or a shockingly-bold floor tile. No frustration at having to re-paint your cabinets yet again as soon as the latest mint/sage/blue/pink (or fill in the blank) color trend shifts.
White Kitchens are Easy to Re-Style
White is, arguably, a classic color. And by using it as a base, you can easily change up your style via all of the surrounding kitchen decor. Tired of a too-traditional look? Update your hardware pulls or light fixtures. Ready to make red your color pop du jour? Pick up a few ceramic bowls and a new teakettle to re-style your kitchen. The possibilities never end. White simply allows you to play with your room’s aesthetic. And for people who get tired of trends easily, it’s a safe bet for your own kitchen.
White Kitchens are Crisp & Clean
Beyond the functional elements of white kitchens, they’re also beloved simply because of their crisp and clean appearance. Ever walk into a too-bold or cluttered kitchen? Automatically feel closed in or unsure where to stand? That’s precisely our point. All-white kitchens feel inherently collected and visually simple. No matter what type of spread or cooking mess is out in full view on the counter, a white room manages to seem intentional and show-stopping.
Argument #2: White Kitchens are OUT
Then again, the camp that believes that white kitchens are a trend that’s heading out the door has some solid points in its column, too. Not only are we seeing a bucking of the typical all-white look, but we’re seeing more and more of its exact opposite: bold and unapologetic color palettes. Rich jewel tones, soft pastels, textured backsplashes, and more are making debuts left and right. And while that can feel trendy, it seems that it’s actually a reflection of more and more people embracing their personal styles and an overall vibe of comfort.
Practicality
To bring it back to the question of practicality, too, white kitchens are, admittedly, more prone to scuffs and dirt. And if you’ve got kiddos, you know exactly what we mean. Darker cabinets do tend to hide the more pressing stains and fingertip smudges.
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Ready for Something New
Beyond this, though, white hit a major stride a few years back. This means it’s a wave that people have been riding ever since. You know the look – white walls and cabinets paired with brushed brass hardware and subway tile backsplashes. And while it’s actually quite a stylish look, it’s definitely one you see just about everywhere you go – including commercial spaces. So the whole white and neutral kitchen look seems to feel, well, a little tired overall. And with people spending so much time at home these days, it does beg the question whether or not the look actually brings people joy, or just feels like a repetition of a Pinterest-popular trend.
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Argument #3: There IS a Middle Ground
But just because white kitchens are being argued over like mad these days, it doesn’t mean you have to either ditch them completely or fight to the bitter end over their value. In fact, there is a happy middle ground that is easily achievable. As far as the color white itself, there are endless variations. And if you love the simplicity and crispness of a white kitchen, but are ready for something a little different than we’ve typically seen, simply stick to those creamy and warm whites instead. That way, you get a soft and neutral white as your base, but your kitchen feels undoubtedly less bright. This allows you to change with the trends in a simple, yet impactful, way.
Warm It Up
Another great way to keep your white kitchen while adding some warmth and color is to simply update your decor pieces. Bring in hints of wood or woven elements for an inviting and contrasting look. And don’t be afraid to pepper in a few hints of color here and there. You’d be surprised at how something as simple as a new piece of artwork, rug, or a vase filled with flowers can totally transform your space.
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So, what’s your verdict? Are white kitchens still fabulous enough to rave about for years to come? Or are you firmly convinced that it’s time to shelf the trend? Let us know your vote in the comments below!
By Megan Johansson, Contributor to Carla Bast Design
10 Responses
Oh boy – it is a debate. Love all your white kitchen examples but the all-charcoal kitchen is gorgeous too! And doing the combo with both is such a great middle ground and still ultimately neutral. I admire the folks doing the super bold color choices but I do wonder about resale? Great post
I have a white kitchen myself but love to inject a little color too. I like your ideas for getting the warmth of wood or a colorful island.
I love rich bold color but have always thought that white kitchens are timeless.
The versatility of white is timeless! Accessorizing with natural warm textured hues is a current popular trend that can give a tired white kitchen a nice boost of warmth! Also, bringing in a bit of color with a beautiful picture, or better yet a colorful carpet runner is on trend and can be a gorgeous addition!!
Gosh, I love an all white kitchen. It IS classic, timeless! …but yet, I wonder about going over to the dark side…which all explains why MY project is not yet off the ground. The plight of a designer (haha)!
I absolutely think a white kitchen is timeless, but love the addition of wood and color accents to warm it up. I’m a big advocate for staying in neutral/classic territory with things that are expensive or messy to change, and personalizing with things that are not so permanent. For myself, I’m contemplating/daydreaming about a black kitchen – neutral color, but dramatic. And I’d lighten it up with backsplash and counter choices and warm metal finishes in the mix
Great post! Every example you gave is on point. Especially when mixed with white, as you discuss and show,..every combination feels fresh and current. It give people looking to do their kitchen great examples of each look.
That’s a great way to dissect the white and/or dark dilemma. You’re absolutely right about the pros and cons of whites. I lived with a white kitchen for many years. I’m not so sure it will ever really go out of favor. Lots of pros!
I loved seeing how you expressed your words in images of your own kitchen design work for your clients, Carla. Such beautiful examples of your points.
And re: an all white kitchen? I will always love it, but I think adding in touches of warmth and color + art that can be changed out is an important element to making it feel joyful and personalized.
And that way, when a client is ready to sell [ if that’s a consideration ], then those personal touches can easily be taken out, to give new potential homeowners space for imagining it with THEIR things.
The eye candy alone in here is worth the read! Putting the images aside, you have made really great points on both sides.
Where I live, we’re still seeing a huge pull to white kitchens however islands, they are a different story! We are designing a lot of islands a different colour or using a wood tone (or real wood). I love when we get the opportunity to add a little pizazz to a space and when clients are bold to step away from and entirely white kitchen.