In this blog, I’ll share how to create stunning kitchen color schemes that complement cherry cabinets. Their rich, warm tones add elegance, but choosing the right colors is key to avoiding a heavy or outdated look.
A well-balanced palette enhances cherry wood’s beauty through soft neutrals, bold contrasts, or earthy hues. From walls to countertops and backsplashes, every element shapes the final design.
Before choosing colors, consider lighting, kitchen size, and your desired ambiance: cozy and traditional, sleek and modern, or bright and airy. Let’s explore the best combinations to elevate your cherry cabinet kitchen.
Understanding Cherry Cabinets
Characteristics of Cherry Wood
Cherry wood is prized for its rich, natural beauty. Its color ranges from light golden hues to deep reddish-brown, offering warmth and elegance to any kitchen. The natural grain patterns add depth, making each cabinet unique.
One of cherry wood’s most fascinating traits is how it changes over time. It darkens and deepens in color as it ages, developing a richer, more luxurious tone.
Exposure to sunlight speeds up this process, giving your kitchen a naturally evolving look. This characteristic makes cherry cabinets a timeless choice that grows more beautiful with age.
Why Cherry Cabinets Stand Out
Cherry cabinets bring a warm, inviting feel to a kitchen. Their deep, rich tones create a cozy atmosphere, making the space feel welcoming and sophisticated.
You can pair it with neutral shades or bold accents; cherry wood naturally enhances the overall aesthetic. Another advantage is their versatility.
Cherry cabinets complement a wide range of styles, from classic traditional kitchens to rustic farmhouse or sleek modern designs. Their ability to blend seamlessly with different decor styles makes them a favorite choice for homeowners who want both beauty and adaptability.
Choosing the Right Wall Colors for Cherry Cabinets
Neutral Color Palettes
- Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige (SW 7036)
- Benjamin Moore’s Manchester Tan (HC-81)
- Behr Wheat Bread (720C-3)
- Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008)
- Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee (OC-45)
- Behr Cameo White (MQ3-32)
- Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015)
- Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray (HC-173)
- Behr Silver Drop (790C-2)
Neutral shades like beige, taupe, ivory, and grey provide an elegant backdrop for cherry cabinets. These tones gently tone down the wood’s boldness while ensuring that the space feels warm and sophisticated.
They also reflect light well, making the kitchen appear more open and airy, an excellent choice for smaller spaces or those with limited natural light.
Neutrals offer versatility, allowing you to refresh the décor with different accents without worrying about clashing with the cabinets.
Bold Contrast Options
- Sherwin-Williams Naval (SW 6244)
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154)
- Behr Midnight Blue (N480-7)
- Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore (SW 7069)
- Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal (HC-166)
- Behr Cracked Pepper (PPU18-1)
- Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black (SW 6258)
- Benjamin Moore Onyx (2133-10)
- Behr Black Suede (PPU18-07)
For a dramatic and modern touch, deep hues like navy blue, charcoal gray, and black create a bold contrast with cherry cabinets. These colors add depth and a high-end appeal, making the cabinetry stand out as a focal point.
To prevent the space from feeling too enclosed, especially in compact kitchens, balance darker walls with lighter countertops, metallic finishes, or strategic lighting. This contrast enhances the richness of cherry wood while keeping the room inviting.
Earthy and Warm Tones
- Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay (SW 7701)
- Benjamin Moore Italianate (AF-215)
- Behr Burnt Almond (S190-5)
- Sherwin-Williams Sage (SW 2860)
- Benjamin Moore Saybrook Sage (HC-114)
- Behr Riverdale (N410-3)
- Sherwin-Williams Butternut (SW 6389)
- Benjamin Moore Hawthorne Yellow (HC-4)
- Behr Honey Locust (S290-3)
Earthy colors like olive green, terracotta, and muted mustard bring out the natural warmth of cherry wood, emphasizing its red undertones. These tones are perfect for rustic, farmhouse, or Mediterranean-style kitchens, creating an organic and grounded aesthetic.
Pairing these shades with natural materials like stone backsplashes, wooden shelving, or woven textures enhances the overall warmth and depth, making the kitchen feel inviting and well-balanced.
Bright and Vibrant Colors
- Sherwin-Williams Butter Up (SW 6681)
- Benjamin Moore Hawthorne Yellow (HC-4)
- Behr Corn Stalk (M290-3)
- Sherwin-Williams Liveable Green (SW 6176)
- Benjamin Moore Pale Avocado (2146-40)
- Behr Willow Sage (S350-4)
- Sherwin-Williams Tradewind (SW 6218)
- Benjamin Moore Ocean Air (2123-50)
- Behr Morning Sky Blue (530A-2)
For a lively, cheerful kitchen, consider soft yellow, pale green, or sky blue. These hues introduce a fresh energy that complements cherry wood’s warmth without overpowering it.
Best suited for kitchens with ample natural light, these colors create a light, airy feel. To maintain harmony, pair vibrant walls with neutral countertops and subtle decorative elements, ensuring a bright yet balanced aesthetic.
Best Countertop Colors for Cherry Cabinets
Light countertops like white quartz, marble, and light granite brighten the kitchen, creating a fresh, open feel that balances the warmth of cherry cabinets. They work well in both modern and traditional spaces, adding contrast without overwhelming the design.
For a bold, sophisticated look, dark countertops like black granite, deep quartz, and espresso butcher block enhance the richness of cherry wood’s richness. To maintain balance, pair them with reflective elements like metallic fixtures or under-cabinet lighting.
Mid-tone options like cream granite and soft gray quartz provide a seamless transition between light and dark, offering versatility in wall colors and décor. These balanced hues ensure a cohesive and inviting kitchen design.
Choosing the Right Backsplash for Cherry Cabinets
Classic subway tiles in white, cream, or light gray offer a clean, timeless look that highlights the warmth of cherry cabinets. Their simplicity makes them versatile, working effortlessly in both modern and farmhouse-style kitchens.
For a more rustic appeal, natural stone backsplashes like beige travertine or slate add texture and depth. These earthy materials enhance cherry wood’s organic beauty while creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
If you prefer a bold statement, Moroccan, mosaic, or colorful patterned tiles bring vibrancy and personality to the space. To maintain balance, pair these eye-catching designs with neutral countertops and subtle hardware for a well-curated, stylish kitchen.
Flooring Options to Complement Cherry Cabinets
Light hardwood or bamboo flooring creates a beautiful contrast with cherry cabinets, making the kitchen feel bright and open. The lighter tones prevent the space from feeling too heavy while adding a modern and airy touch. This option works well in smaller kitchens or those with limited natural light.
For a more traditional and cozy feel, dark wood or tile flooring pairs seamlessly with cherry cabinets. Rich brown or deep espresso tones enhance warmth and create a sophisticated, classic look. To keep the space balanced, consider using lighter countertops or reflective accents.
If you love a rustic or Mediterranean-inspired kitchen, terracotta tiles or warm wood flooring are perfect choices. Their earthy tones complement the red undertones of cherry wood, creating a rich, inviting ambiance. These materials add texture and character, making the space feel timeless and full of charm.
Conclusion
Cherry cabinets are a timeless and versatile choice that bring warmth and character to any kitchen. Their rich tones create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, whether paired with light, dark, or earthy color schemes.
The right combination of wall colors, countertops, backsplashes, and flooring can either enhance their natural beauty or create contrast for a more modern feel. It’s all about finding the balance that suits your style and space.
FAQ
What hardware looks best with cherry cabinets?
Brushed nickel, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze create a sleek, updated look, while warm gold or brass adds elegance and vintage charm. The choice depends on your overall kitchen style.
Can cherry cabinets work in a modern kitchen?
Yes! Pair them with sleek hardware, minimalist countertops, and neutral wall colors for a contemporary look. Adding modern lighting fixtures and stainless-steel appliances also helps blend traditional cherry wood with modern elements.
Do cherry cabinets change color over time?
Yes, cherry wood naturally darkens and deepens in color with age, especially with exposure to sunlight. This gives the cabinets an even richer tone over time.
How can I update my kitchen without painting cherry cabinets?
You can refresh your kitchen by changing wall colors, upgrading countertops and backsplashes, updating hardware, and incorporating modern lighting. Adding contrasting elements helps create a balanced and stylish look while keeping the warmth of cherry wood.
