The Worst Kitchen Paint Colors, According to Interior Designers

Renovating your kitchen is a big job—it’s both costly and time-consuming. One of the key decisions you'll face is selecting a paint color. Whether it's for the walls or kitchen cabinets, choosing the right color is crucial to avoid regrets, mistakes, or the hassle of repainting. That’s why it's essential to be aware of the colors interior designers avoid. Here are the kitchen paint colors you should steer clear of, according to experts in the field.

Neon Colors

While many trends from the 80s and 90s have made a comeback, some things, like neon paint in the kitchen, are best left behind, says interior designer Amy Switzer. She explains, “There are no strict rules about paint colors for a kitchen, but some people prefer to avoid certain colors due to practical reasons or personal preferences. Personally, I would never use bright neon paint in a kitchen.”

The challenge with neon hues, Switzer explains, is that they're nearly impossible to pair with other elements in the kitchen. “They clash with other design features, and trendy colors may not stand the test of time,” she notes.

That doesn’t mean neon can’t make an appearance in your kitchen—consider adding some fun neon artwork or selecting hot pink or orange upholstery for your seating. Neon can work as a striking accent, but it should rarely take center stage.

Very Dark Paint Colors

While dark paint has its place, the kitchen isn’t one of them. According to Switzer, “Very dark paint colors can make a kitchen feel unwelcoming.” Your kitchen should always feel inviting, not foreboding!

Another issue with dark paint, according to the designer, is that it tends to highlight scratches and imperfections more than lighter shades. If you're already struggling to keep your kitchen looking clean, dark walls might make it even harder to maintain.

Interior designer Audrey Scheck adds that very dark shades can make a kitchen feel cramped and more enclosed. If you're set on incorporating dark tones in a small kitchen, it's better to avoid dark walls and instead opt for dark stone countertops.

Bright and Intense Colors

Creating a cohesive flow between rooms is a common design challenge. According to Scheck, overly saturated colors can make this task more difficult. “We generally advise against excessively bright or saturated colors, as they can overwhelm a space and disrupt the flow of your home's overall aesthetic,” she says.

If you're a fan of bright colors in the kitchen, consider using them in accessories instead. Opt for colorful appliances like a bright toaster, or incorporate vivid plates and serving pieces into your design.

Overly Trendy Paint Colors

When renovating a kitchen, most of us aim for long-term results. Choosing a trendy paint color, however, can make your kitchen look outdated fairly soon. Scheck advises against opting for fleeting trends. “Trendy colors may quickly fall out of favor and not stand the test of time,” she explains. “The key is to select shades that complement your kitchen's design and work harmoniously with the overall color scheme of your home.”