Designing with oak trim and cabinets

7 years ago

Im a few weeks away from closing on a condo that has really nice oak trim throughout and oak kitchen cabinets. I personally have always preferred white trim and greys/Black Paint and accent colors, so designing with the oak is totally throwing me. I don’t really want to paint it white because I really do like the oak and think it’ll be a nice change from what I’m used to, I just don’t know how to paint the kitchen and living room that will compliment the Trim and cabinets. I also don’t mind the current wall colors but I think I want to do something lighter to make the space seem bigger since it is so small.

My Second dilemma is backsplash for the kitchen. Looking at pictures online, most examples I came across with oak cabinets and black countertops the backspace was an earthy stone color, usually in diamon patterns. I’m not totally sold on that, and my thought was solid black backsplash? But again, I don’t want the space to feel smaller. Does anyone have any thoughts/recommendations?

I will include a few pictures.

thank you in advance!

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Comments (3)

jhmarie
7 years ago
Solid black backsplash will suck the light out of the kitchen. Consider cream subway tile - maybe a large format if you want to be different:

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Gray/greens seem to work well with the warm wood. A white with a gray undertone might work too.

I believe this wall paint is BM Maritime White:

However, the cream backsplash and light gray paint might not work great. Maybe white tile with light gray grout lines? - not sure - get samples and think about it - don't get too cool or it will not work with the cabinets.
Jennifer K
7 years ago
A warm near-white tile would work for the backsplash. Pick the pattern and finish based on how much attention you want on the backsplash. Square or subway tile for a demure look, specialty tile for something flashier.

Pick the paint last since it has to go with your new backsplash as well as will the cabinets and floor. The existing colour looks reasonable. So you may just get in colour matched and then lightened if that suits the backsplash you choose.
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gracie01 zone5 SW of Chicago
7 years ago
You already have the small backsplash so you don't need tile, unless you plan on removing what's there.