You may think brown kitchen cabinets are a relic of old-school kitchen design, but this is hardly the case. At their best, brown cabinets can feel warm, inviting and incredibly chic; it’s simply a matter of knowing how to style them. If you’re in need of a few pointers, check out our guide below and find inspiration in our photo gallery.

1. Pair Brown Cabinets with White Countertops

The trend in kitchen design today is to go lighter and brighter, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about using brown. Simply contrast brown cabinetry with white marble or quartz countertops for a look that’s light on the eyes yet still full of character.

2. Go Brown, Sort Of

If you really want to lighten things up, opt for brown cabinets on just the lower level of your kitchen, and use white cabinets above.

3. Channel Modern Organic Style

For an all-natural look that’s simple and uncluttered, choose a light brown wood for your cabinetry and pair them with butcher block or concrete counters. Add in plenty of green houseplants to brighten things up!

4. Choose Light Wall Colors

Painting your kitchen walls white may be an obvious move when you’ve got brown cabinets but you can also go with other soft colors, like a very light blue or a neutral sage green.

5. Pair Walnut and Marble

Walnut wood is gorgeous and this medium-brown stain is also incredibly versatile. Whether you go for a distressed finish or a smooth, rich wood, walnut pairs perfectly with creamy white marble.

6. Be Bold with Dark Cabinetry

If you love contemporary style, opt for dark brown kitchen cabinets in a sleek, modern design. Pair them with stainless steel appliances for a crisp, clean look.

7. Channel a Mediterranean Sensibility

Go for an updated Mediterranean look with rustic, reclaimed wood cabinetry, marble or quartz counters and a colorful tile backsplash. Keep it looking fresh with stainless steel appliances and splashes of turquoise or red.

8. Go for Crisp Contrasts

Dark to medium-brown cabinets are perfect for modern kitchens. For a smooth, minimalist finish, pair them with crisp, solid-white countertops.

9. Choose Sophisticated Espresso

Espresso cabinets are a classic choice for a modern or contemporary kitchen, and for good reason. Pair them with a playful green backsplash or go with neutral tones of tan and beige.

10. Incorporate Subway Tile

One of the best ways to make your brown cabinetry truly pop is by using gleaming white subway tile on your walls. To complete this trendy look, try a dark, textured wood, gold or brushed metal hand pulls and a creamy white sink.