One of the greatest things about kitchen design trends is that they are always changing. As of late, many architects, designers, and decorators have been gravitating toward a “mix and match” look that combines two different cabinet colors or two different countertop colors.
While interesting, this trend is easy to get wrong. Keep reading to see if your kitchen space is right for the two-toned look.
Does My Kitchen Work?
Before you get invested in the two-toned look, first take stock of your kitchen layout. Unfortunately, if you only have a single countertop or a handful of small wall counters, the mix and match look probably won’t do your space any favors. But you can always add an interesting tile backsplash for some visual appeal!
An ideal two-toned kitchen is medium to large in size with an island in the middle. Use of the island is so the two-toned style looks purposeful, not accidental, and it gives you space to show off the pop of color while keeping the room balanced.
Cabinet vs. Countertops
Some people get so excited about the two-toned style that they want to mix and match the cabinets and the countertops. While we understand the enthusiasm, it’s best to stick to mixing just one component of your kitchen. Four different colors can quickly turn “interesting” into “hectic.”
By sticking with the two-toned style for just one of the components, you allow the rest of the details to play their important roles in the painting that is your kitchen. If you’re mixing and matching your countertops, your white cabinets are the furthest thing from boring. That shade plays an important role in the overall color scheme of the room.
What Stones to Use
If you decide to go with the two-toned countertop look, you’ll want to choose colors or patterns that complement each other. Stay away from mixing stones that look too similar, as this can cause your mixing and matching to look accidental instead of innovative.
Play it safe by choosing a consistent and solid stone pattern for the countertop near the wall, and jazz it up with an exotic pop of color for the stone on the island. The solid countertop along the wall will create the perfect backdrop for your island to take center stage.
For example, if your kitchen has white cabinets, Absolute Black granite would be a great choice around the perimeter with a pop of white or gray stone for the island.
This rule doesn’t just apply to the stark contrast of black and white, it can extend to earthier colors as well. For example, in a kitchen with warmer tones, you could put Absolute Black granite on the island and use a neutral-colored stone for the perimeter countertops. This way, the Absolute Black slab would act as an anchor to tie the room together.
Soft, dark-gray stones with lighter veins always make a great choice for the quieter half of a duo. This color complements many other shades.
If you’re looking to spice things up a bit, you could always pair a soft, white stone with a bold and confident pop of color for the island—something like a royal blue or a flamboyant red. As long as you choose colors that meld cohesively instead of clashing, you’ll be good to go.
Your Two-Toned Countertops
These tips should give you a good springboard to get started on planning your mix and match kitchen. Before you dive in, it’s essential to consider all of the details in your space to avoid any potential clashing shades. The colors that you choose and the places you put them can make or break your entire remodeled room, so choose wisely and carefully.
But decorating is also supposed to be fun, so don’t forget to trust your instincts and do what feels right for your kitchen. After all, you know what best catches your eye! And at the end of the day, Washington Marble Works is here to help. To talk more about two-toned countertops, get in touch with us today.
