Yellow Kitchen Ideas
May 06, 2021 | Carpet One Floor & Home
A sunny yellow kitchen can make a home feel fresh, fun, and inviting. Whether you decide to take the yellow color throughout your home or you choose to make the kitchen your primary pop of color, there are tons of ways to brighten up your space with the color yellow.
With these yellow kitchen ideas and décor options, you’ll be sure to get inspired and start creating your perfect yellow kitchen in no time!
Yellow Kitchen Design Ideas
A Small Pop of Yellow
Who says you have to go all-in on a yellow kitchen? If you aren’t quite ready to fully commit, there’s no reason why you can’t start with a pop of color! In this kitchen, trendy dark blue cabinets and stainless steel appliances bring yellow stools to life. These brightly colored stools are further accentuated by brass cabinet pulls and a gold light fixture that hangs above the eat-in countertop space. The white marble countertops and white backsplash tile keep this space feeling fresh and light.
Design by REBECCA HAY Photography by STEPHANI BUCHMAN
We love beautiful blue and yellow kitchens. While this yellow kitchen décor is simple, it’s also stylish, light-hearted, and airy. It’s the perfect way to get a pop of yellow against a classic canvas, and you can easily do the same in your home by choosing yellow kitchen décor throughout your space!
Yellow Farm House Kitchen with Pale Yellow Kitchen Cabinets
For a country feel or a unique kitchen look, why not try out the yellow kitchen cabinet trend? You’ll quickly elevate your space and bring the eye to the kitchen as the center focal point of your home. The direction you go with the tone of yellow you choose can make a big impact on how the overall space feels, so be aware when choosing the yellow for your cabinets.
Source: SUSAN SALOMON
In this kitchen, pale yellow cabinets surrounded by traditional wood tones echo the feeling of an old farmhouse. The farmhouse sink, complemented by open shelving and beadboard backing behind are a perfect touch for this pale yellow kitchen that is surprisingly beautiful, chic, and charming. Granite countertops and stainless steel appliances are a nice contrast with all the vivid colors and white in this space.
Bright Yellow Kitchen Cabinets
Pale yellow not quite what you were thinking of when imagining a yellow kitchen? Try out brighter yellow cabinets like the ones in this kitchen, with white paneling and natural butcher block countertops. You'll get that sharp pop of color you're looking for without going to overboard on yellow. The off-white paneled wall, open shelving, and ratan light fixture give this yellow kitchen a cozy cottage vibe.
You can also try using a bright yellow for your lower cabinets or island and using light wood cabinets as well. This will keep the light and airy feel without overwhelming the senses with yellow.
A Black and Yellow Kitchen
Black and gold are tried and true, but what about black and yellow? For the utmost in modern design, try out a black and yellow color palette complemented by natural wood, black metal, and chrome.
Source: ATTICUS & MILO
In this one-of-a-kind kitchen, black lower cabinets, black countertops, and black lighting pair perfectly with a polished yellow island and singular yellow upper cabinet. Stainless steel appliances and sleek metal bar stools keep this kitchen space bold and modern. Thanks to the amount of light shining through large windows, this kitchen offers just the right amount of light, moodiness, and modern flair.
Choosing a Yellow Paint for Kitchen
From mustard yellow to canary yellow, rich and bold to soft pastel hues, choosing the right yellow shade of paint for your kitchen can add warmth and vibrancy to the space. However, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure you pick the perfect shade. Here are some steps to help you choose make the perfect choice for your kitchen:
Determine your kitchen's style and theme: Consider the existing decor and the overall style of your kitchen. Are you going for a modern, traditional, farmhouse, or eclectic look? This will help you narrow down the shade of yellow that complements your kitchen's theme.
Consider the kitchen's lighting: Lighting plays a crucial role in how paint colors appear. If your kitchen receives a lot of sun, you may want to opt for a lighter shade of yellow to avoid overwhelming brightness. For kitchens without much natural light, a warmer or mid-tone yellow can help create a cozy atmosphere.
Sample the paint colors: Always test paint samples on the kitchen walls or wooden cabinetry you plan to paint before making a final decision. Lighting conditions can vary throughout the day, and paint colors may look different under different lighting. Get small samples of the yellow shades you like, paint them on a few different spots, and observe how they look at different times of the day. This is a key step to ensureing you'll love your yellow walls or cabinets.
Consider the size of the kitchen: In a small kitchen, bold or intense yellow paint may make the space feel cramped. In contrast, a larger kitchen can handle bolder shades. If you have a smaller kitchen, you might want to choose a lighter or softer shade of yellow.
Coordinate with existing elements: Take into account your kitchen's existing elements, such as countertops, cabinets, backsplash, and flooring. If you're not looking to get rid of your new stainless steel appliances, you'll want to make sure your new color palette works with those too!. Ensure that the chosen yellow paint complements all the elements you want to keep in your space and creates a harmonious look.
Choose the right undertone: Yellow paints can have different undertones, such as warm or cool. Some yellows may lean more towards orange, while others may have green undertones. Consider the undertones of your kitchen's fixed elements and choose a yellow paint that complements them.
Reflect on the mood you want to create: Yellow is a cheerful and uplifting color. However, different shades can evoke different moods. Lighter yellows tend to feel more airy and fresh, while deeper yellows can create a cozy and inviting ambiance.
Check the paint's finish: All paint comes in various finishes like matte, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss. Consider the practicality and usage of your kitchen when choosing the finish. Generally, satin or semi-gloss finishes are more suitable for kitchens as they are easier to clean and more resistant to stains.
Test for durability: Make sure the paint you choose is suitable for high-traffic areas like the kitchen. Look for paints that are labeled as "kitchen and bathroom" or "washable" to ensure they can withstand the demands of a kitchen environment.
Seek professional advice: If you're uncertain or overwhelmed with choices, don't hesitate to consult with a professional interior designer or a paint specialist who can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your kitchen's specific characteristics.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to selecting the perfect yellow paint for your kitchen, creating a vibrant and welcoming space that suits your style and preferences.
Why Natural Light and Yellow Decor Go Hand-in-Hand
Letting that outdoor light shine in your yellow kitchen is beneficial for several reasons:
Enhances Yellow's Vibrancy: Yellow is a cheerful color, and sunlight helps to enhance its vibrancy. When sunlight shines into the kitchen, it illuminates the yellow elements, making them appear more vivid and appealing.
Accurate Color Perception: Natural light provides the most accurate representation of colors. Artificial lighting, such as incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, can cast a tint on surfaces, altering how colors appear. With light streaming in, you see the true, unaltered shade of yellow in your kitchen.
Creates a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere: The combination of yellow decor and sunlight creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in the kitchen. Yellow is often associated with feelings of happiness and positivity, and the outdoor light amplifies these emotions.
Expands the Space: Natural sunlight has a unique way of making a room feel more spacious and open. When it enters the kitchen, it reduces the contrast between walls and shadows, making the space feel brighter and more expansive.
Boosts Energy Efficiency: Using nature's light during the day can reduce the need for artificial lighting, which helps save energy and lowers electricity costs. Additionally, a well-lit kitchen can improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents while working in the space.
Supports Well-being: Exposure to sunlight has been linked to improved mood and well-being. It can help regulate the body's internal clock and improve sleep patterns, positively impacting overall health.
Showcases Other Elements: In addition to highlighting the yellow decor, sunlight shining in also showcases other elements in the kitchen, such as countertops, cabinets, and accessories. It brings out the best in all the design elements and creates a balanced and harmonious look.
Connects with Nature: Letting in light from the outdoors connects the interior space with the outside world. It allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature and can make the kitchen feel like an extension of the outdoor environment.
Overall, natural light complements yellow decor by making the kitchen feel more welcoming, visually appealing, and energizing. It's an excellent choice for kitchens with yellow color schemes to maximize the benefits of this cheerful and sunny color.
Finding the Perfect Floor For a Yellow Kitchen
When choosing flooring to complement a yellow color scheme in your kitchen, it's essential to consider materials that harmonize with the overall design and enhance the cheerful ambiance. Here are some types of flooring that work well with yellow decor. Explore our flooring guide more on choosing the best flooring for kitchens.
Light-Colored Hardwood Floors Create Warm & Inviting Spaces
Light-colored hardwood floors, such as oak, maple, or birch, can be an excellent choice for a kitchen with yellow decor. Light wood tones create a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the bright and cheerful nature of yellow. The combination of yellow and light wood can give the kitchen a fresh and airy feel. These light wood floors go well in a bright kitchen with pos of yellow.
Light Gray or Beige Tile Helps Yellow Feel Balanced
Neutral-colored tiles in light gray or beige shades can create a clean and elegant backdrop for yellow decor. These colors blend well with yellow and provide a versatile base that can accommodate various design styles and kitchen themes.
White or Off-White Tile Makes Matching Stress-Free
White or off-white tiles offer a classic and timeless look that pairs beautifully with yellow. The light and neutral background provided by white tiles allows the yellow elements to stand out while maintaining a clean and polished appearance. White tiles ialso a great option for your kitchen backsplash.
Light-Colored Vinyl or Laminate:
Vinyl and laminate flooring come in a wide range of colors and patterns, making them a flexible option for a yellow-themed kitchen. Opt for light-colored vinyl or laminate that complements the shade of yellow you've chosen, and look for durable and water-resistant options suitable for kitchen use.
Remember to consider the durability, maintenance requirements, and practicality of the flooring material for a kitchen setting. Additionally, ensure that the flooring color and texture blend harmoniously with the chosen shade of yellow and the overall style of your kitchen. If possible, get samples of the flooring materials you're interested in and place them next to your yellow decor to see how they complement each other in all lighting before making a final decision.
Benefits of Yellow Walls
Painting kitchen walls yellow can bring several benefits, as the color yellow has unique properties that can positively impact the kitchen environment. Here are some of the benefits of painting kitchen walls yellow:
Warm and Inviting Atmosphere: Yellow is a warm and cheerful color that instantly adds a sense of comfort and positivity to the space. In the kitchen, yellow walls can create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for family and guests.
Stimulates Appetite: Yellow is often associated with food and can stimulate the appetite. In a kitchen setting, painting the walls yellow may enhance the dining experience and make the space feel more inviting for meal preparation and enjoyment.
Reflects Light: Yellow is a light and bright color, which means it reflects light effectively. When natural or artificial light shines on yellow walls, it bounces off and spreads throughout the space, making the kitchen feel brighter and more open.
Adds Energy and Positivity: Yellow is a high-energy color that can boost mood and promote a positive outlook. In the kitchen, where many daily tasks take place, this energy can be uplifting and motivating.
While painting kitchen walls yellow can be a fantastic choice for many homeowners, it's essential to consider the specific shade of yellow that complements your kitchen's style and lighting conditions. By choosing the right hue, you can harness the benefits of yellow and create a vibrant and enjoyable kitchen space.
Other Ways to Use Yellow for Kitchen Fun!
Looking to avoid a full kitchen renovation? You can stll add this fun color to your space. Adding pops of yellow to your kitchen in non-permanent ways allows you to experiment with the color without committing to a permanent change. Here are some non-permanent ways to incorporate pops of yellow into your kitchen decor:
Decorative Accessories: Use yellow decorative accessories such as bright yellow dish towels, oven mitts, potholders, placemats, and tablecloths. These items are easy to swap out and can instantly add pops of yellow to your kitchen.
Throw Rugs: Place yellow throw rugs or runners in front of the sink, stove, or kitchen island. Not only do they add a burst of color, but they also protect your floors and are easy to change as your preferences evolve.
Chair Cushions: If you have kitchen chairs with removable cushions, consider replacing them with yellow ones. This will add a splash of color to your seating area without permanently altering your furniture. You can also try out some upholstered yellow dining chaires to brighten a neutral space.
Wall Art and Prints: Hang yellow-themed wall art, prints, or posters on your kitchen walls. You can find artwork with yellow accents or featuring yellow subjects to brighten up your space.
Fresh Flowers: Display a vase of fresh yellow flowers, such as sunflowers or daffodils, on your kitchen counter or dining table. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also bring natural beauty and freshness to the room.
Yellow Kitchen Gadgets: Look for kitchen gadgets and utensils in yellow, such as spatulas, whisks, and measuring cups. These practical items can double as decor when displayed on open shelves or in a utensil holder.
Colorful Dishes and Glassware: Invest in yellow or yellow-accented dishes, glassware, and serving bowls. They can be used for special occasions or displayed as decorative pieces when not in use.
Yellow Curtains or Valances: Hang yellow curtains or valances on your kitchen windows to introduce the color without altering the walls. They can be changed seasonally or whenever you desire a different look.
Decorative Yellow Jars and Canisters: Use yellow-colored or yellow-accented jars and canisters to store pantry items or spices on open shelves or countertops. They serve both functional and decorative purposes.
Remember that non-permanent additions allow you to experiment with the color and easily switch to a different color scheme if you desire a change. These temporary touches can be especially useful if you're not entirely sure how much yellow you want in your kitchen or if you're renting and can't make permanent alterations to the space.
Want to see more design inspiration? Check out our blog where we dive into tons of color topics, give designer advice, and review all kinds of flooring. You won’t be disappointed!