Kitchen cabinet painting trends
What you should know before having the kitchen cabinets in your Charlotte home repainted in 2026
When it comes to kitchen design, cabinetry is one of the most transformative elements of the entire space. In 2025 and heading into 2026, we’re seeing dramatic shifts in both color trends and why homeowners are choosing to repaint rather than replace. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen refresh or just want to keep your home feeling modern and inviting, understanding these trends can make all the difference. At Glenny’s Painting, we’ve seen firsthand how painting cabinets can redefine a kitchen in Charlotte — often for a fraction of the cost of full replacement. Let’s explore the biggest trends shaping kitchen cabinet painting looks today, backed by designer insights and expert analysis.
Why cabinet painting is more popular than ever
Before diving into the trend data, it’s important to understand why so many homeowners are choosing to paint existing cabinets instead of replacing them.
According to recent industry reports: more than 70% of homeowners prefer refinishing or repainting kitchen cabinets to full demolition and replacement when updating a kitchen’s look. Painting cabinets can often cost 40–70% less than buying and installing new cabinetry — a major incentive in a high-cost renovation market (industry averages). In cities like Charlotte, where older 1990s and 2000s homes are abundant, painted cabinets offer a way to modernize a kitchen without a full remodel.
Popular paint colors for kitchen cabinets
Earthy, warm neutral colors are dominating in 2025
Traditional white and cool gray dominated kitchen cabinetry for much of the 2010s — but 2025 tells a different story. Homeowners are now favoring warmer neutrals and earthy tones that feel sophisticated yet cozy. These include shades like:
- Mushroom and warm taupe
- Clay and putty
- Creamy off-whites with warm undertones
These tones warm up a kitchen’s look without overwhelming the space, and pair beautifully with wood floors or natural stone backsplashes. Warmer neutrals create a sense of comfort and timelessness, making spaces feel inviting — a key priority for post-pandemic homeowners.
Greens take center stage — but not just any green
In recent NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) trend reports, green hues on cabinetry are among the most favored colors for 2025. But this isn’t lime green or neon — the trend leans toward earthy, grounded greens such as:
- Sage
- Olive
- Forest green
These hues work beautifully with brass hardware and natural stone, adding a biophilic, nature-inspired aesthetic that feels both modern and rooted in classic materials. Design experts are even predicting that these tones will continue well into 2026 as part of a broader shift toward organic, nature-connected interiors.
Deep blues and dramatic shades add luxe depth
Rich, dramatic colors are no longer reserved for luxury kitchens alone. Deep blues — including navy and stormy teal — are gaining popularity for base cabinets or entire kitchens. These shades offer depth without feeling heavy, especially when balanced with lighter shelving, countertops, or hardware. Muted but confident hues like charcoal and smoky slate also fall into this category, giving kitchens a refined yet expressive look. Using rich tones on islands or lower cabinets while keeping upper cabinets lighter to prevent the space from feeling closed in.
Two-tone cabinets are here to stay
One of the most eye-catching trends is two-tone cabinetry — where upper and lower cabinets are painted in contrasting but complementary tones. Popular pairings include:
- Creamy upper cabinets with navy lower units
- Warm taupe with forest green
- Matte black base cabinets with light, neutral uppers
This approach adds dimension and visual interest without making a kitchen feel busy.
Finish matters just as much as color
It’s not just what color you choose — it’s how it’s finished. Design professionals report increased interest in matte, satin, and textured finishes that give cabinets a richer feel and hide daily wear better than ultra-gloss options. These finishes can also enhance perceived value and longevity when professionally applied — another reason homeowners are turning to experts like Glenny’s Painting.
What’s falling out of favor?
Trends evolve just as fast as tastes do. According to designers, some classic cabinet colors are beginning to lose ground. Stark white is predicted to fall out of favor in 2026 as warmer whites take over. Safe gray, once ubiquitous, is being replaced by richer, more nuanced shades. That’s not to say white and gray are bad. It’s just that homeowners now want personality and warmth in their kitchens, rather than purely minimalist or clinical finishes.
Why Charlotte homeowners should care
Charlotte’s housing market blends everything from historic bungalows to modern builds, and kitchen trends here reflect that diversity. A recent look at regional trends showed a shift toward personalization — homeowners want spaces that reflect their identity, lifestyle, and even comfort priorities as many kitchens double as gathering spaces for families and friends. Painting cabinets — rather than replacing them — allows for this kind of stylistic transformation without the high price tag and waste associated with a full remodel. A professionally painted cabinet job can also increase perceived home value when done right.
The Glenny’s Painting difference
At Glenny’s Painting, we specialize in:
- Professional cabinet refinishing and painting
- Color consulting rooted in the latest trend data
- Durable finishes that stand up to daily kitchen use
- Full project management to minimize disruption
Whether you’re attracted to earthy neutrals, bold greens, rich blues, or two-tone sophistication, our team helps Charlotte homeowners translate trend insights into timeless spaces. View some of our most recent work involving kitchen cabinet painting in the Charlotte area.
Planning your cabinet refresh
Professional cabinet painting is more than just picking a color — it’s a design and performance decision. Top designers and homeowners alike agree that preparation is key for longevity, color choice should balance trend and personal style and professional application ensures lasting results
If you’re considering a refresh, start by exploring trending palettes, then connect with a trusted local professional — like Glenny’s Painting — to bring the vision to life.
Kitchen cabinet painting in 2025 and beyond is about warmth, personality, and sophistication. From earthy greens and rich blues to smart two-tone combinations, today’s trends invite homeowners to express themselves while maintaining resale value and long-term appeal. Ready to update your Charlotte kitchen? Glenny’s Painting is here to help you translate these trends into a space you’ll love — and live in — every day.
