If you’re looking to complement your kitchen with the latest and most desirable colors, there’s one area you shouldn’t overlook: your pantry. While it may seem like a small part of your kitchen, the color you choose for your pantry can have a big impact on the overall atmosphere and ambience of the space.
Designers Mackenzie Hamwey and Alice Kropovinsky have shared their expert advice on the colors you should avoid when painting your pantry. According to them, there are five shades that won’t do your pantry any favors.
The first shade on their list is white. While white may seem like a bright and clean color, Hamwey and Kropovinsky argue that it can make your pantry area look too sterile and clinical. Instead, they suggest opting for a slightly darker shade, such as a muted gray or taupe, which will add warmth and depth to the space.
Another color that you should steer clear of is bold or bright colors. While they may seem fun and eye-catching at first, Hamwey and Kropovinsky warn that they can quickly become overwhelming in a small space like a pantry. Instead, they recommend choosing more neutral and calming colors, such as soft blues or greens, that will create a soothing and peaceful atmosphere.
The designers also advise against using aged or antique shades in a pantry. While they can add character and charm to other parts of your home, they won’t have the same effect in this particular area. Instead, they suggest opting for fresher and more modern shades, such as crisp whites or light grays, that will give your pantry a clean and inviting look.
Finally, Hamwey and Kropovinsky caution against using overly dark colors in a pantry. While darker shades can create a cozy and intimate feel in other rooms, they can make a pantry area feel claustrophobic and closed off. Instead, they recommend choosing lighter and brighter colors that will make the space feel more open and inviting.
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the right color for your pantry, it’s important to consider the size and function of the space. While some colors may work well in other parts of your home, they won’t necessarily have the same effect in your pantry. By avoiding white, bold colors, aged shades, and overly dark colors, you can create a pantry that not only looks great but also functions well as a storage area for your kitchen.
Pantry paint colors to avoid – according to experts
When it comes to choosing the perfect paint color for your pantry, experts have a few suggestions on what shades to steer clear of. Here’s a list of pantry paint colors that designers say you should avoid:
- Darker colors: While darker colors like black or navy blue may seem bold and stylish, they can make a pantry feel smaller and less inviting. Opt for lighter shades to create a brighter atmosphere.
- White: Although white is a popular choice for kitchens, it may not be the best option for a pantry. The white walls can make the space feel too bright and sterile, lacking the desirable aged and cozy ambience that a pantry should have.
- Bold and vibrant colors: While it’s tempting to add a splash of color to your pantry, avoid using bright and bold shades. These colors can make the space feel overwhelming and take away from its functionality.
- Colors that don’t complement your kitchen: Your pantry is a part of your kitchen, so it’s important to choose a paint color that complements the overall style and color scheme of the area. Avoid colors that clash or don’t harmonize with the rest of your kitchen.
- Aged colors: While an aged or distressed look can add character to other parts of your home, it’s not recommended for the pantry. The pantry should be clean and organized, and using aged colors can give the impression of neglect or a lack of cleanliness.
Remember to take the advice of experts into consideration when choosing a paint color for your pantry. By avoiding these colors, you can ensure that your pantry not only looks better but also creates a desirable ambience for your kitchen.
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Red
Red is an aged color that is bold and vibrant. While it may seem desirable to have a bright and bold color in your pantry, designers advise against using red. Red is a color that can make your pantry feel smaller and cramped. It can also create a sense of urgency and excitement, which is not the atmosphere you want in a pantry.
If you’re looking to create a calm and serene ambience in your pantry, red is not the color for you. It’s also important to note that red can clash with other colors and may not complement the rest of your kitchen. If you want to make a bold statement in your kitchen, there are other shades that designers recommend over red.
Kristina Kropovinsky, a designer at Gardens & Homes Direct, suggests using muted colors like white or grey in your pantry. These colors will create a lighter and more open atmosphere, making your pantry seem larger. They will also complement the rest of your kitchen and create a cohesive look.
Jennifer Mackenzie, an interior designer at Hamwey Interiors, also advises against using red in your pantry. She suggests using darker shades like navy blue or charcoal grey. These colors will create a sophisticated and luxurious ambience in your pantry and add depth to the space.
So, while red may be a bold and attention-grabbing color, it’s not the best choice for your pantry. Consider the advice of designers and opt for muted or darker shades that will create a more desirable atmosphere in your pantry.
Green
If you want to create a calming and refreshing atmosphere in your pantry, consider painting it in shades of green. Green is a color often associated with nature and is known for its calming and soothing effects. According to designer Kropovinsky, green is a great choice for those who want to bring a touch of the outdoors into their pantry.
When it comes to choosing the right shade of green for your pantry, designer Mackenzie advises going for muted or darker tones. These shades of green will create a more sophisticated and elegant atmosphere, perfect for a pantry that is part of a high-end kitchen. Muted greens like sage or olive can create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere, while darker greens like emerald or forest green can add depth and richness to the space.
However, designer Hamwey recommends avoiding bright or bold greens for your pantry. While these colors may seem desirable at first, they can quickly become overwhelming and make the space feel cramped. Instead, opt for greens that are more muted and understated.
If you’re looking for a color to complement your pantry, white is always a safe choice. White can make a small pantry appear larger and brighter, and it works well with any color scheme. Another color to consider is a soft grey, as it can give the pantry an aged, vintage look that is popular in many homes.
In conclusion, green is a great color choice for your pantry if you want to create a calming and refreshing atmosphere. Muted or darker shades of green will add sophistication, while bright and bold greens should be avoided. Consider complementing your green pantry with white or soft grey to create a desirable ambience. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest design advice straight to your inbox!
Blue
Blue is a color that can bring a sense of calm and serenity to any area, making it a popular choice for many rooms in the home. However, when it comes to painting your pantry, blue might not be the best choice. Designers advise against using blue in pantry areas because it can make the space feel cold and uninviting.
While blue is often associated with water and gardens, it doesn’t always complement the atmosphere of a pantry. Pantries are typically small, enclosed spaces where you store food and other kitchen essentials. Painting them in a bright, bold color like blue may not be the best way to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Instead of opting for a bright, vibrant blue, designers recommend choosing shades of blue that are more muted and toned down. These shades can help create a more relaxed and calm ambience in the pantry. For those who still want to incorporate blue into their pantry, a darker shade or a navy blue might be a better choice. These darker shades can add depth and richness to the space without overpowering it.
Another reason why blue may not be a desirable color for a pantry is that it can make the space seem smaller and more cramped. Pantries are often small areas, and using a dark or bold color like blue can make them feel even more enclosed. Opting for lighter shades or even white can help create the illusion of a larger and airier space.
In conclusion, while blue is a beautiful color that works well in many parts of the home, it may not be the best choice for pantries. Designers suggest opting for more muted shades or even lighter colors to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. By choosing the right colors for your pantry, you can create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Yellow
Yellow is a color that many designers suggest avoiding when painting a pantry. While yellow can be a bright and happy color, it may not be the best choice for this area of the kitchen. Mackenzie Hamwey, an interior designer, explains that yellow can make the pantry feel too bright and overwhelming.
“This is a space where you want a calm and peaceful atmosphere,” Hamwey says. “Yellow can make the area seem too vibrant and busy, which is not desirable for a pantry.”
Additionally, yellow may not complement the rest of the kitchen’s color scheme. If the other areas of the kitchen are painted in more muted or darker shades, a bold yellow pantry may not fit in well.
If you’re set on incorporating yellow into your kitchen, there are other ways to do so that won’t overwhelm the space. Hamwey suggests using yellow as an accent color through accessories or small decor items.
For those who want to add a pop of color to their pantry, Mackenzie Hamwey recommends considering shades like white, gray, or even a bold color like red.
- White: White will create a clean and fresh look in your pantry. It will also make the space feel larger and more open.
- Gray: A light gray can add sophistication and elegance to your pantry.
- Red: If you want to make a statement, a bold red can add energy and excitement to the space.
By considering these alternative colors, you can create a pantry that not only complements the rest of your kitchen, but also creates the desired ambience in this important part of your home.
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Bright white
One color that designers say you should never paint a pantry is bright white. According to interior designer Mackenzie Kropovinsky, this shade might seem like a desirable choice for a pantry, but it can actually create a stark and sterile atmosphere.
“Bright white can make the pantry feel more like an operating room rather than a warm and inviting part of your kitchen,” Kropovinsky advises. “If you want your pantry to have a cozy and welcoming ambience, it’s best to choose a color that complements the rest of your kitchen.”
Another reason to avoid bright white in your pantry is that it can show dirt and stains more easily. Since the pantry is an area where food is stored, it’s important to keep it clean and hygienic. A darker or muted color, such as a soft gray or a warm beige, would be a better choice as it can hide any marks or spills.
Designers also suggest that a bright white pantry might not fit in well with the overall style of your home. If you have a more traditional or rustic decor, a bright white pantry might stick out like a sore thumb. Choosing a color that blends in with the rest of your home will create a sense of cohesion and flow.
So, if you’re thinking about painting your pantry, steer clear of bright white. There are plenty of other shades that will create a more inviting atmosphere and complement your kitchen and home style.
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about pantry colors:
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What shades should I avoid painting my pantry?
Designers advise against using bright or bold colors such as red, orange, yellow, or neon shades. These colors can make the pantry feel overwhelming and may not complement the rest of the kitchen or home.
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Are there any specific shades that I should avoid?
While choosing shades for your pantry, it is recommended to stay away from overly dark colors like black or deep navy. These shades can make the space feel smaller and create a gloomy atmosphere.
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Can I use aged or muted colors?
Yes, using aged or muted colors can actually be a desirable choice for a pantry. Colors like muted green or soft gray can create a calming ambience and make the space feel more inviting.
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What if I want to have a feature color in my pantry?
If you want to incorporate a feature color, it is better to choose a lighter shade. For example, a light blue or pastel pink can add a pop of color without overpowering the space.
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Are there any colors that complement a white pantry?
If you have a white pantry, you can consider using colors that will complement it. Neutral shades like beige or pale gray can work well in creating a cohesive and harmonious look.
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What if I like darker colors?
If you prefer darker colors, you can opt for shades like deep brown or charcoal gray. However, it is important to ensure that the rest of your kitchen and home decor can accommodate this choice.
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Where can I get more advice from designers?
You can subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest advice and tips from designers straight to your inbox. Our experts are always happy to help you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding pantry colors.
How can I make my pantry look better
If you want to make your kitchen pantry look better, one of the easiest ways to do so is by using color. The right color can completely transform this part of your kitchen and make it more visually appealing. However, it’s important to choose the right color, as there are some shades that you should avoid using in your pantry.
According to designers, one color that you should never paint your pantry is white. While white may seem like a desirable color for a pantry, it can actually make the space feel bland and sterile. This is because white can easily show dirt and stains, and it may make your pantry feel more like a storage area than a functional part of your kitchen.
Instead of white, consider using brighter colors to liven up your pantry. Bright shades like yellow, green, or blue can add a pop of color and make your pantry feel more vibrant. These colors can also complement the rest of your kitchen and create a cohesive look.
Another color that you should avoid using in your pantry is black. While black may seem like a bold and stylish choice, it can make the space feel dark and gloomy, especially if your pantry doesn’t have natural light. Instead, opt for lighter shades like gray or beige, which can create a more open and inviting atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a more timeless and classic color for your pantry, muted shades like pastel pink or lavender can be a great choice. These colors can create a soft and calming ambience, making your pantry a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of your kitchen.
In addition to choosing the right color, there are other ways you can make your pantry look better. For example, you can add some interesting features like open shelving or glass doors to showcase your pantry items. You can also incorporate aged wood or other natural materials to create a rustic and cozy feel.
If you’re unsure about what color or design to choose for your pantry, it’s always a good idea to seek advice from a professional designer. They can help you create a pantry that not only looks better but also functions well for your needs.
So, whether you prefer bold and bright colors or prefer a more muted and classic look, there are plenty of colors and design options to make your pantry stand out. Just remember to avoid the colors that won’t complement your kitchen and create a space that you’ll love.
What are the best colors for a pantry
When it comes to choosing the right colors for your pantry, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you want to select shades that complement the overall ambience of your kitchen. Depending on the style and theme of your kitchen, you may opt for bright, bold colors or go with more muted, aged tones.
According to designers like Jane Hamwey and Sarah Kropovinsky, white is always a safe choice for pantry walls. White not only makes a small space feel larger, but it also brightens up the area and makes it easier to find what you need. If you’re looking for a more modern and sleek look, a bright color like yellow or green may be desirable.
On the other hand, darker colors like navy or charcoal can create a cozier and more intimate atmosphere in larger, open concept homes. These shades are perfect for creating depth and adding a touch of elegance to your pantry. However, it’s worth noting that darker colors may make the space feel smaller and more cramped.
Another advice from designers is to consider the color scheme of your kitchen. If you have a bright and vibrant kitchen, it would be better to choose a lighter color for your pantry to create a sense of balance. Conversely, if your kitchen features darker hues, a bolder color in the pantry may be a better choice to create visual interest.
Lastly, it’s important to consider the functionality of your pantry. If you use your pantry for storing food items that need to be kept cool, like canned goods or fresh produce, opting for lighter shades like pale blue or mint green can help create a visually refreshing environment.
In conclusion, the best colors for a pantry depend on the specific style of your kitchen, your personal preferences, and the atmosphere you want to create. Whether you choose a brighter color or a darker one, it’s important to ensure that it complements the overall aesthetic of your kitchen and creates a space that is both functional and visually appealing.