White color visually expands the space, therefore it is ideal for decorating small kitchens. Designers have been using this technique with success for a long time. With its help they push the boundaries of cramped rooms, turning them into beautiful, comfortable and functional objects. However, in large rooms, especially if the kitchen is combined with the living room, all shades of white are more than appropriate. They fill the interior with freshness, cleanliness and serve as an excellent background for bright accent "strokes". The guidelines in this article will help you create a stylish and elegant white kitchen, no matter the size of the room.
Content
- Features of color - psychology and perception
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Cons of a white kitchen
- Shades of white
- Style selection
- Classic style
- Modern style
- Country style
- Scandinavian style
- Loft style
- Combination of white with other colors
- How to use color in the design of the kitchen
- Choice of materials for surface finishes in white - walls, floor and ceiling
- Floor
- Ceiling
- Walls
- Kitchen set in white - matt or glossy
- Apron
- Dining area furniture
- Lighting features
- Selection of textiles and decor elements
- Do you need bright accents, and how to place them correctly
- Popular kitchen design ideas in white
- White kitchen with a natural shade of wood
- White kitchen with accent wall
- All in white - monochrome kitchen
- White kitchen with a variety of metals
- Conclusion
Features of color - psychology and perception
Calmness, kindness, peace, purity and serenity - this is what white is associated with. It is characterized by perfection and completeness, endless freedom and peace. Most often, this color acts as a background, allowing colored elements to maximize the brightness and richness of colors.
White colors are equally well suited for both modern and classic interior compositions. It allows you to:
- visually expand the space;
- make the rooms located on the north side lighter.
The manifestation of negative associations is also possible. White can symbolize detachment, indifference, coldness, cause a sense of one's own superiority, or, on the contrary, inferiority and inferiority.
Advantages and disadvantages
One of the advantages of white is its practicality. Surprisingly, but on a light background, dried drops, stains, small specks and fingerprints are almost invisible. Therefore, white surfaces cannot be called more easily soiled than colored counterparts. And, of course, facades, countertops, appliances and other elements of black, dark blue, chocolate color, especially in a glossy version, lose to them in this regard. Also, among the advantages of white, the ability can be distinguished:
- organically fit into any style due to its versatility and excellent compatibility with any shades;
- to the visual expansion of space - even the smallest kitchen in Khrushchev, decorated in this color, will create a feeling of lightness, seem more spacious and free;
- to increase the intensity of illumination due to good reflective properties. Glossy and satin headsets with excellent reflective properties will help to maximize this effect;
- to emphasize the shape, color and texture of objects for which they serve as a neutral background. Attention is focused on accents and stylistic subtleties of design;
- smooth out the unsightly clutter - in colorful kitchens it looks much more depressing, more striking.
- visually reduce the weight and bulkiness of furniture;
- reduce the degree of brightness and soothe overly expressive interior details, make the design elegant and at the same time interesting;
- ennoble cheap materials. Any design elements made in white will look expensive and noble.
White interior designs are easy to implement due to the availability of materials. Tiles, paint, furniture in this color are always available.
Cons of a white kitchen
Among the disadvantages are:
- the soiling of furniture and the need for urgent care. Stubborn stains must be wiped off immediately before they can be absorbed;
- whiteness in design can be associated with hospital interiors. In this case, it is better to replace pure white with its shades - pearl, ivory, milky, almond. You can dilute the design by introducing bright accents, natural wood, stone, and organize competent lighting.
Shades of white
White itself is neutral. Nevertheless, there is always a certain proportion of impurity of other shades in it:
- gray color is present in off-white, alabaster, pearl, flour;
- in lunar white - light yellow;
- in "ivory" - bright yellow;
- in snow-white or crystal - blue;
- in floral - pink or lilac;
- creamy, creamy and white chocolate - beige.
The shade of the main background affects the choice of companion colors. It is necessary to take into account the color temperature and combine shades from a warm or cold range.
Style selection
The potential for using white in the interior is inexhaustible. It will easily fit into any stylistic direction from classic and modern to minimalism. When using it, it is necessary to take into account the characteristic features of each flow. Consider examples of the introduction of white in kitchens with different types of design.
Classic style
White shades allow you to create a restrained and at the same time expressive classic setting. As companions to snow-white or ivory, you can choose calm shades of gray, gray-brown, black. These combinations look elegant and unobtrusive, and can be the perfect backdrop for an exquisite decor - chairs with velvet or suede upholstery, picturesque jacquard curtains, elegant crystal chandeliers. A large bouquet of white fresh flowers will be an excellent decoration for a dining table.
Modern style
White looks great in the realm of minimalism with its crisp lines and straight lines. The modern style always successfully fits into the conditions of both small spaces and spacious rooms. Laconic and simple furnishings, made in white shades, allow you to significantly push the boundaries and fill the room with light. As partners for the white base, you can choose gray, black, light wood color. Such a kitchen will look very stylish and fresh.
Country style
The simplicity and naturalness of the rustic theme makes it possible to widely use all kinds of shades of white. Rough painted furniture, as if made by hand, natural tones and unpretentious decor are appropriate here. Plain textiles can be replaced with printed textiles - with a floral pattern, stripes or peas. In this interior, traditional ornament, patchwork or mosaic tiles are always appropriate, which add even more authenticity. A white ceiling can be decorated with rough hewn beams made from natural raw wood.
Scandinavian style
In Nordic interiors, light shades always dominate. They fill it with light, which is always in short supply in the apartments of northerners, and therefore they often refuse curtains. This range makes the design unobtrusive, cozy and spacious. Compact and comfortable furniture made of light wood does not clutter up the space and looks quite expressive. A hog-type tile, porcelain stoneware in the shade of the selected wood is suitable for the apron. Painting in pastel colors will make the interior more comfortable, and a board for notes will turn the wall into a useful surface in demand. The interior should be as light and simple as possible. Hanging cabinets can be successfully replaced with wooden shelves.
Loft style
Loft style in kitchen design is the best choice for connoisseurs of urban chic and non-standard solutions. It is here that all the most daring and extravagant ideas will find application. In the loft, the white color will set off and soothe the shine and brutality of metal, glass, the seeming sloppiness of open brickwork, the roughness of untreated wood. Here you can safely use various combinations of shades, introduce exotic decor and furnishings. A separate area can be highlighted in white - this is one of the ways to create a non-standard urban setting.
Combination of white with other colors
White is a champion in its ability to form spectacular alliances with other shades. With the help of companions, you can select zones with different functionality, fill the room with a special atmosphere. Shades of white can be combined with black, brown, dark blue, green. These combinations allow you to emphasize not only the depth and nobility of dark colors, but also the brightness of whiteness.
White goes well with any color, but the most successful alliances come with:
- blue - reminds of the sea, clear sky, freshness of the sea air. Refusal from snow-white shades in favor of cream, ivory color allows you to muffle the brightness of colors, make the interior more restrained and noble;
- black - the most contrasting of the classic combinations. Such interiors look respectable and stylish, despite a certain austerity. Black glossy facades look especially elegant against the background of white walls;
- red - a bright combination of shades, creates a pleasant joyful atmosphere. Red and white kitchen, depending on the chosen shades, can look bold and defiant when combined white with scarlet, or solid and noble, when cherry, dark red and red-brown are used tones;
- lilac is a wonderful delicate combination that will look equally good in classics, provence and modern styles. White facades against the background of lilac walls look especially fresh and elegant. You can make the headset itself colored. In this case, it is better to leave the top white, and the lower tier to be performed in dark shades of purple;
- green - the combination of white and green brings spring notes to the interior. The shades of green have a calming effect. They cheer up and fill the room with freshness. The alliances of pistachio, olive or salad with milk look the most exquisite. Bright green shades are best combined with snow white. Green can be found in white kitchens as accents, furniture or textiles.
How to use color in the design of the kitchen
White can be present in any element of the kitchen. It can appear in:
- wall or floor decoration - the main thing here is to choose waterproof, as smooth as possible materials. The pronounced texture will make it difficult to care for surfaces. For walls, it is better to use tiles, washable wallpaper, moisture-resistant plaster, PVC panels. As a floor covering, tiles, porcelain stoneware, self-leveling floors, linoleum, moisture-resistant laminate are suitable;
- furniture set and dining group - white facades will decorate any kitchen, and a dining table in this color will make every meal a pleasant experience;
- appliances and plumbing - white - a classic in the design of stoves, refrigerators, washing and dishwashers, sinks. They were originally made in this color precisely because of its versatility and ability to combine well with any shade;
- decorative elements and textiles - white decor in the form of figurines, flower pots, coasters, curtains and clocks makes the kitchen very refreshing.
Choice of materials for surface finishes in white - walls, floor and ceiling
To prevent cleaning a white kitchen from becoming a nightmare, you need to choose the right cladding materials. They must be waterproof and easy to clean.
Floor
Ceramic tiles in light colors, for example, imitation of marble or granite, are best suited for arranging the flooring. A popular solution for black and white interiors is the alternation of black and white tiles in a checkerboard pattern. You can replace the tiles with linoleum with a similar color. A dark floor will give solidity to the space and at the same time preserve the airiness of white furniture. Laminate is a rare guest in the kitchen, but with the right choice and service, it can successfully replace wood and at the same time provide a rich selection of colors.
Ceiling
White ceiling in a white kitchen - this is what interior designers often call for. It can be bleached, painted, suspended, stretched. The main thing is to create a flat white surface that will not distract attention. The ceiling can be made textured by decorating it with plastic or metal panels or tiles. A wooden ceiling will look unusual and expressive in a white interior. It can be left in its native color or painted white or light gray. The latter option will allow him to remain an expressive element and at the same time will not allow him to draw attention to himself. The cover can be complemented with a bright colored insert, which will combine with other accents into a common ensemble.
Walls
Walls can be painted, wallpapered or tiled. So that white furniture does not visually merge with the walls, you can play with the textures and direction of the cladding. There are no restrictions on the choice of material for finishing. The main requirement is that the surfaces should be as resistant to dirt as possible and easy to clean.
Kitchen set in white - matt or glossy
When ordering a white headset, it is very important to decide not only on its style, but also on the types of facades.
Glossy surfaces fit perfectly into modern styles - hi-tech, minimalism. They are in perfect harmony with chrome parts, glass, polished steel and look stylish and impressive. Decent ensembles are obtained in combination with a glossy self-leveling floor and stretch ceiling.
Traditional interiors, as well as Scandinavian and even loft, do not accept gloss and it is better for them to purchase matte furniture. This design does not draw attention to itself, it looks restrained, expensive and noble. On matte facades, stains, streaks and drops of grease are less noticeable. They go well with brickwork and natural wood panels.
Apron
A white apron will favorably set off a headset of any color. Most often, it is equipped using tiles of the "hog" type, laid out in a checkerboard pattern. This is the perfect classic to keep the kitchen whiteness.
If you want to dilute the monochrome composition, choose colored materials. The patchwork tiles will add a touch of the Mediterranean to the interior. Popular tempered glass skins decorated with photo printing will help create a certain mood and set a particular theme.
In a white kitchen, an apron will look harmonious - an imitation of a wood covering. The texture pattern will make the kitchen cozier and will also help hide small dirt.
Dining area furniture
The dining table and chairs are an important part of the kitchen interior. With a lack of space, you can get by with a bar counter. The dining group can maintain the whiteness of the rest of the furniture or act as a color shade. A table and chairs made of wood, transparent, black or colored glass, plastic, metal will look noble and elegant in a white interior. The choice depends on the general style of the room.
Lighting features
A white kitchen gladly accepts and reflects good lighting, filling the room with additional light. It is necessary to include two types of highlighting in the script - primary and secondary. You will need to install a pair of pendant lights above the dining area, several spotlights around the perimeter of the room and additional appliances above the work surface.
Glazed cabinets can be equipped with additional lighting. Glowing doors will add fabulousness and comfort to the food preparation room.
Selection of textiles and decor elements
With the help of well-chosen textiles, you can change the standard white kitchen beyond recognition. The main thing is to select products based on the main style. In a monochrome interior, all textile elements will stand out only by texture - plush or knitted pillows on chairs, a corner sofa or stools, white curtains made of tulle, calico or linen, terry or waffle towels, tablecloth - smooth, embroidered or decorated in the "cutwork" technique, linen napkins with lace trim or braid. The same elements can act as color accents.
Decorative items for the kitchen can be listed endlessly. The interior clock and the phrase with the wish of bon appetite will fill the kitchen with the European spirit. Fresh flowers and greenery will perfectly enliven the pale decoration. Tableware with solid or multi-colored patterns can also act as an accent decor. Black ceramic or glass tableware will instantly create a modern business style. Metal fittings and kitchen utensils also add discreet understated accents. Black pens combined with a matching countertop and a note board are the perfect solution to dilute the white mass.
Colored shades, variegated magnets and flower pots fill boring white interiors with a festive, carefree mood, send them back to childhood.
Do you need bright accents, and how to place them correctly
You can effectively dilute the coldness and sterility of the snow-white interior with the help of bright accents. Liven up your kitchen with colorful dishes, tablecloths, napkins, pillows. Another option is colored appliances - a refrigerator, kettle, toaster or coffee maker.
Gold or silver décor transforms the dining area into a sophisticated and elegant space.
Natural wood will ideally dilute the monochrome white color. Sideboards, countertops, wooden dishes will serve as an expressive accent. Wooden elements - furniture, kitchen utensils - trays, coasters, cutting boards will fill any impersonal interior with warmth and comfort.
Do not be afraid to introduce bright colors into the decoration of the kitchen. After all, it is here that we begin a new day, and it depends on what mood we will be in when we leave the house and spend a new day. Add fiery yellow, orange, light green, fuchsia to the design and you are guaranteed a positive attitude.
Popular kitchen design ideas in white
It is impossible to create a truly beautiful and stylish design without a cool idea. Find inspiration and discover fresh concepts in a selection of real-life interior photos. The examples given will help you think over the optimal layout, choose the right color combinations, and determine the type of finishing materials, furniture and decorative elements.
White kitchen with a natural shade of wood
The advantage of combining a white shade with natural wood is that it is a combination:
- is versatile and suitable for any style;
- fills the interior with natural notes, warmth and comfort.
A white set with a natural wood worktop is the most popular option for kitchen furniture, despite the difficulty of maintaining its work surface.
White kitchen with accent wall
The monotony of whiteness will be favorably set off by an accent wall. It can be painted in bright or dark shades, pasted over with wallpaper with an active print, decorated with photo wallpaper or fresco. The rest of the walls will act as a neutral background base. The interior will become expressive, fresh and stylish. Another advantage of the accent wall is the ability to correct room imperfections. So, with a lack of sunlight, it can be replaced by a yellow or orange wall. A dark surface against a background of white furniture will go a little deeper. Thanks to this, it will seem that the room has expanded somewhat. Photo wallpaper with perspective can create the illusion of increased space. The mirrored surface will increase the illumination and visually make the room twice as large. Horizontal stripes on the walls will push the walls of a narrow kitchen apart, and vertical stripes will raise the ceiling.
All in white - monochrome kitchen
The main advantage of a monochrome interior is the ability to eliminate boundaries and maximize the room. To exclude the similarity of a white kitchen with a ward in a hospital, it is necessary to include a variety of textures in the design. The glossy white kitchen looks very interesting against the background of white brickwork, with a white tempered glass apron. In this form, it least of all resembles an operating room. The snow-white composition can be diluted with other shades of this color - cream, milky, pearl.
White kitchen with a variety of metals
Metal objects are the best help in creating modern minimalist interiors. They emphasize the simplicity of lines and shapes, and harmonize well with other materials, revealing and enhancing their merits. The brilliance and beauty of metallic elements is clearly manifested in the neighborhood of white. He emphasizes their severity and depth. Metal can appear as a plumbing mixer, spotlights, dishes, utensils, household appliances, photo frames. For a stylish kitchen design, you should not take more than one or two types of metal. It can be aluminum, steel, copper.
Conclusion
White shades add sophistication, lightness and elegance to interiors. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with various design solutions and techniques for decorating kitchens in this color in the photo gallery.