The Best Colors To Use For A Vibrant & Welcoming Kitchen, According To Feng Shui

Anybody who has stood at the hardware store paint counter staring at a sea of paint swatches knows how tricky it is to nail down the right color for the kitchen, especially if you're trying to create a warm, welcoming vibe. Do you go with the white or is that too sterile? Is an orange too 1980s? Will that deep green really pair well with your cabinets? Luckily, there is an easy way to find the right colors to create the cozy, welcoming atmosphere you want: feng shui.

What is feng shui? Translated as "wind" and "water" respectively, feng shui is the ancient Chinese practice of designing spaces, both indoor and outdoor, so they evoke feelings of joy and peace. In the practice, this allows energy (or Qi) to move smoothly through the space, bringing in happiness and prosperity. While there are multiple schools of feng shui, all agree on the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each element is used to create balance in different parts of the home.

The kitchen is unusual because it not only houses all five elements in one space, but it's ruled by the fire element, a.k.a., your stove. This can help your kitchen transform into the vibrant, welcoming space you've dreamed of, but also easily overwhelm the space if you're not careful. The good news? By incorporating warm but subdued colors, you're on your way to a cozy, welcoming kitchen where everyone feels at home.

We get it: it's a natural instinct to reach for the vibrant colors if you want warm, inviting kitchen. But as the kitchen is represented in feng shui by the fire element, adding too many bright, fire-like colors could make the space feel uncomfortable, even agitated. Instead, try calming, nature-inspired shades. Light, buttery yellows are a popular choice because they create warmth without overpowering the space. Soft beiges, mild browns, or sage greens are also good options to counter the fire energy. If your kitchen doesn't get a lot of natural light, a light cream color can soften the fire element while adding brightness.

What about blues? We found differing opinions. Some designers say soft blues can help steady the fire element while others think its water-inspired color could feel jarring in the kitchen. If blue is calling to you, grab a few soft paint swatches and see how it feels. You may need to add a few touches of orange, like dish towels or even a potted plant with orange flowers, to create more balance.

If you're renting and aren't allowed to paint the walls, you can still use these colors to create the inviting kitchen of your dreams. If your lease allows minor modifications, peel-and-stick backsplashes are a great way to incorporate one of these colors. If not, add in textiles (like rugs, towels, or placemats) or change up the color of your dishes and cookware to create that warm atmosphere. Add a bowl of fruit or a plant in your kitchen to help create that welcoming kitchen vibe.