3 Kitchen Paint Colors Experts Promise Will Never Go Out of Style

A kitchen paint color needs to check several boxes: you want it to set an inviting tone, serve as a versatile base for decor and appliances, and complement your cabinetry, countertops, and backsplash. You also don't want it to go out of style any time soon.

If that sounds like a tall order, we're here to help. We enlisted the help of paint color experts to learn which colors will stand the test of time. The list includes three options: classic white, light warm neutrals, and nature-inspired sage green. Below, you'll find their favorite hues to help you create a kitchen design that will always be in style.

1. Classic Whites

There's no kitchen paint color that's more popular or enduring than white. It serves as a blank canvas, reflects light well, pairs with any color scheme, and complements all design styles. Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams, says the brand's top interior tint year after year and their most popular white is Pure White. Kantz describes it as a "timeless crowd favorite" that's extremely versatile thanks to its slight yellow undertone that prevents it from being too stark. "It's the perfect blend of cool and creamy that acts as a neutral base color for any kitchen whether you’re leaning clean and crisp or adding bold pops of color," she says.

To prevent a stark and sterile look, take advice from Erika Woelfel, BEHR’s VP of color and creative services, and opt for a soft white shade such as Swiss Coffee. "It pairs beautifully with wood tones, stone countertops, stainless steel, and both bold or neutral cabinet colors," she says. The gentle off-white hue has a subtle yellow undertone which creates an inviting atmosphere perfectly suited for the heart of the home. "Its versatility and ability to highlight accent colors make it a popular choice for kitchens, adding a bright yet cozy touch to homes everywhere;" Woelfel adds.

A white paint color also serves as a neutral base for seasonal decor and ever-changing decor trends. "White makes it simple to switch up your kitchen aesthetic, whether it be every few years or for seasonal decor—you can throw in pops of color with your kitchen gadgets or art without worrying about clashing," says Ashley McCollum, Glidden paint color expert. Her favorite shade is Glidden’s Delicate White, which is also the brand's most popular white paint color. "With white walls, your colorful kitchenware and decor really stand out; It’s all about showcasing your personality without overwhelming the space," McCollum says.

2. Light Warm Neturals

Light warm neutrals offer are a timeless kitchen staple according to Hannah Yeo, senior manager of color marketing at Benjamin Moore. Her pick is Pale Oak, a versatile neutral with warm gray undertones that evokes a cozy yet luxurious feel. It pairs well with a variety of different cabinet colors and countertop and backsplash materials. "Its adaptable character allows you to create a sophisticated kitchen or inject bold personality through vibrant accent colors," Yeo says. She adds that the hue is a great choice for open-concept layouts since it seamlessly integrates multiple spaces and creates a smooth color flow.

Before you choose a kitchen wall color, consider the color of the cabinetry. "When the most popular kitchen cabinet color is a shade of white, wall colors can expand into a variety of hues that harmonize well with cabinetry and other materials, such as natural wood, stone countertops, or lighting," says Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar. She suggests another light warm neutral: Valspar's Heritage Gray. This transitional light greige shade is a timeless paint color that provides just enough contrast to white cabinets while complementing the natural materials in the space.

3. Sage Green

"For those looking to introduce subtle color while maintaining a timeless palette, a cool sage green like Sprig of Sage is an ideal pairing," Kim says. If you want to add a touch of color, warmth, and personality without overwhelming the space, a nature-inspired sage green hue makes for a lovely choice. "In today’s multi-functional kitchens where families cook, work, gather, and entertain, Sprig of Sage brings a grounded, welcoming energy that balances beautifully with the enduring simplicity of whites," Kim says. It doesn't lean too warm or too cool and ushers in timeless sophistication that will instantly elevate your kitchen.