Popular Stained Kitchen Cabinet Colors of 2019
The year 2019 saw a diverse range of stained kitchen cabinet colors trending, reflecting a shift towards both warm and cool tones depending on the overall desired aesthetic. While precise market share data for specific colors is difficult to obtain retrospectively, observational data from design publications and home improvement blogs points towards several dominant shades.
Top Three Stained Kitchen Cabinet Colors of 2019
Analyzing design trends from 2019 reveals three prominent stained cabinet colors: espresso, cherry, and a lighter, more nuanced grayed-walnut. Espresso offered a dramatic, modern look, while cherry provided a classic warmth, and grayed-walnut balanced contemporary style with a touch of traditional elegance. These colors offered varied undertones and levels of saturation, allowing for customization within each palette. For example, Sherwin-Williams offered various espresso shades, ranging from deep, almost black tones to slightly lighter variations with brown undertones. Benjamin Moore provided similar options in their collections, with their “Espresso” offering a deep, rich tone and other shades offering slight variations in warmth or coolness. Cherry shades varied widely, with some leaning towards reddish-brown hues and others displaying more amber undertones. Specific paint brands and color names varied, reflecting the wide range of available options within each color family. Finding exact matches to colors from 2019 requires searching archives of paint manufacturer websites or contacting them directly.
Visual Impact of Dark Versus Light Stained Cabinets in 2019 Kitchen Design
Dark stained cabinets, such as espresso or very dark walnut, created a dramatic and sophisticated atmosphere in 2019 kitchens. This effect was particularly striking in kitchens with lighter countertops and backsplashes, providing a strong visual contrast. Imagine a kitchen with dark espresso cabinets, contrasted by crisp white quartz countertops and subway tile backsplash; the dark cabinets ground the space, creating a feeling of richness and luxury. Conversely, light stained cabinets, such as a lighter grayed-walnut or a lighter cherry, produced a brighter, more airy feel. This approach was often paired with lighter countertops and backsplashes to maintain a cohesive, open look. For instance, a kitchen with light grayed-walnut cabinets, paired with light beige countertops and a pale-colored backsplash, would feel spacious and inviting, especially in smaller kitchens. The choice between dark and light stained cabinets significantly impacted the overall mood and perceived size of the kitchen.
Durability and Maintenance of Popular Stain Colors
The following table compares the durability and maintenance requirements of three popular stain colors for kitchen cabinets in 2019. It is important to note that the actual durability and maintenance needed also depend heavily on the quality of the stain and the application process. Proper sealing is crucial for all stain types to resist water damage and staining.
| Color | Durability | Maintenance | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry | Moderate; prone to scratches and dents if not properly sealed. | Regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Requires touch-ups over time. | Scratches, dents, water rings if not properly sealed; fading with prolonged sun exposure. |
| Walnut | Good; generally resistant to scratches and dents, but still susceptible to damage. | Similar to cherry; regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. | Less prone to scratching than cherry, but still susceptible to water damage if not sealed properly. Can show minor discoloration over time. |
| Espresso | Good; very resistant to scratches and dents due to its deep color masking imperfections. | Regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Less frequent touch-ups needed. | Water rings and staining can be noticeable, even with proper sealing; dust and fingerprints are more visible than on lighter colors. |
Kitchen Design Trends Featuring Stained Cabinets in 2019: Stained Kitchen Cabinets 2019
The year 2019 witnessed a resurgence of stained wood cabinets in kitchen design, moving beyond the traditional and embracing a variety of styles and color palettes. This trend showcased the versatility of stained wood, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into both contemporary and classic kitchen aesthetics. The warmth and natural beauty of stained wood provided a strong foundation upon which designers built diverse and captivating spaces.
Prevalent Kitchen Design Styles Incorporating Stained Cabinets in 2019
Three distinct kitchen design styles prominently featured stained wood cabinets in 2019: Transitional, Farmhouse, and Modern Rustic. These styles, while diverse, shared a common thread of utilizing the inherent beauty of wood to create inviting and functional spaces.
- Transitional: Transitional kitchens blended traditional and contemporary elements, often featuring medium-toned stained cabinets (like cherry or walnut) paired with sleek, modern countertops such as quartz or granite in neutral colors like white or gray. Backsplashes frequently incorporated subtle patterns or metallic accents, and hardware choices ranged from brushed nickel to polished chrome, balancing the warmth of the wood with the coolness of the other materials. The overall aesthetic was sophisticated and refined, effortlessly blending classic elegance with modern functionality.
- Farmhouse: Farmhouse kitchens embraced a rustic charm, frequently utilizing warm-toned stained cabinets (like hickory or maple) with a slightly distressed finish. Countertops were often butcher block or a white-washed marble, complementing the rustic aesthetic. Backsplashes frequently incorporated subway tile or natural stone, and hardware was often black or antique brass, contributing to the overall sense of aged, comfortable elegance. The style evoked a sense of casual warmth and country living.
- Modern Rustic: Modern Rustic kitchens combined the clean lines of modern design with the natural warmth of rustic elements. Darker stained cabinets (like espresso or ebony) were frequently used, paired with countertops like concrete or dark-colored granite. Backsplashes often featured a combination of materials, such as reclaimed wood and metallic tiles. Hardware choices were typically minimalist and matte black, creating a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. This style aimed for a balance between industrial chic and natural warmth.
Contrasting Materials and Colors Used with Stained Kitchen Cabinets in 2019, Stained kitchen cabinets 2019
Successful 2019 kitchen designs demonstrated the power of contrast when pairing stained cabinets with other materials and colors. The contrast enhanced both the warmth of the wood and the unique features of the accompanying elements.
- Light Countertops and Backsplashes: Pairing dark stained cabinets with light-colored countertops (white marble, light gray quartz) and backsplashes (white subway tile, light-colored stone) created a striking contrast that brightened the space and made it feel larger. This combination was particularly effective in smaller kitchens.
- Metallic Accents: Incorporating metallic accents, such as brushed nickel or brass hardware, or metallic backsplash tiles, added a touch of sophistication and visual interest. These accents played off the warmth of the wood without overpowering it.
- Textural Contrast: Combining the smooth surface of stained cabinets with textured elements, such as a stone backsplash or woven bar stools, added depth and visual interest. This approach prevented the design from feeling monotonous.
Visual Representation of a 2019 Kitchen Featuring Stained Cabinets
Imagine a kitchen bathed in soft, natural light streaming through a large window. The cabinets are a rich, medium-toned walnut, their smooth surface reflecting the light in warm hues. The countertops are a creamy white marble, providing a cool contrast to the warmth of the wood. A white subway tile backsplash adds a touch of classic elegance, while brushed nickel hardware provides subtle metallic accents. The flooring is wide-plank light oak, echoing the warmth of the cabinets but maintaining a distinct visual separation. Stainless steel appliances add a touch of modern sleekness. The overall mood is one of relaxed sophistication, a space where light and shadow play off each other to create a sense of calm and inviting warmth. The interplay of light and shadow is particularly noticeable on the cabinets, highlighting the wood grain and creating depth within the space. The overall atmosphere is one of comfortable elegance, a blend of traditional warmth and modern functionality.
Reimagining 2019 Stained Kitchen Cabinet Designs
The kitchen cabinet trends of 2019, while stylish at the time, may now appear dated. However, a complete cabinet replacement is often unnecessary and expensive. This section explores methods for revitalizing 2019 stained kitchen cabinets, transforming their aesthetic to align with contemporary design preferences without the need for a full-scale renovation. We will examine techniques for updating both the finish and the hardware, providing a fresh and modern look to these existing fixtures.
Modernizing Stained Kitchen Cabinet Finishes
Updating the finish of 2019 stained kitchen cabinets can dramatically alter their appearance. Several options exist, ranging from simple cleaning and polishing to more extensive refinishing projects. A lighter stain can brighten a space, while a darker stain can add depth and sophistication. Consider the overall style of your kitchen and choose a stain color that complements it. For example, a warm gray stain can create a modern farmhouse feel, while a deep espresso stain can lend a more traditional, yet updated, look. If the existing stain is significantly damaged or uneven, a complete refinishing process, involving sanding, priming, and restaining, is recommended. This process requires careful preparation and execution to achieve a professional result.
Updating Cabinet Hardware
Cabinet hardware plays a crucial role in the overall aesthetic of the kitchen. 2019 trends often featured specific hardware styles that may now seem outdated. Replacing the hardware is a relatively inexpensive and impactful way to modernize the look of your cabinets. Consider sleek, minimalist pulls for a contemporary feel, or ornate, decorative knobs for a more traditional style. Mixing metals can add visual interest, but ensure a cohesive look by selecting hardware with similar finishes. For instance, combining brushed nickel pulls with matte black knobs could create a stylish and modern contrast. Remember to measure your existing hardware before purchasing replacements to ensure proper fit.
Cleaning and Maintaining Stained Kitchen Cabinets
Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your stained kitchen cabinets. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of grease, grime, and other residues, which can dull the finish and damage the wood over time.
A regular cleaning schedule, ideally weekly or bi-weekly, is recommended. Before cleaning, always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.
- Recommended Cleaning Products: A mixture of warm water and mild dish soap is often sufficient for routine cleaning. For stubborn stains, a specialized wood cleaner can be used. Avoid abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the cabinet surfaces. A wood polish can be used periodically to enhance the shine and protect the wood.
- Cleaning Methods: Dampen a soft cloth with the cleaning solution and gently wipe down the cabinet surfaces. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth and dry thoroughly with a soft towel. Pay attention to areas prone to grease buildup, such as around the stove and sink. For stubborn stains, allow the cleaning solution to sit for a few minutes before wiping.
- Preventing Damage: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools. Always use a soft cloth or sponge to prevent scratching. Protect the cabinets from excessive moisture and heat. Regularly inspect the cabinets for any signs of damage and address them promptly.
