Two tone kitchens, featuring cabinets in two different colors, have been popular in recent years. However, some are starting to wonder if this trend has become outdated. There are arguments on both sides regarding whether two tone kitchens still look modern and stylish or if they now appear dated. Looking at current kitchen design trends can help determine if two tones are still in vogue or on their way out.
The History of Two Tone Kitchens
The two tone kitchen trend became popular in the 2010s. After years of uniform, matching cabinetry, designers began experimenting with mixing and matching paint colors on upper and lower cabinets. This provided contrast and allowed homeowners to incorporate bold colors in a more subtle way. Gray lower cabinets with white uppers became one of the most common two tone combinations. Other popular pairings included navy blue or green below with crisp white above.
The mix and match look was a big departure from the uniformly stained wood or painted monochromatic cabinets that dominated previous decades. Two tone kitchens created visual interest and gave traditional spaces a more updated, modern feel. This versatile trend allowed for creativity and personalization in kitchen design.
Benefits of a Two Tone Kitchen
There are several benefits to choosing a two tone kitchen design:
Contrast – Two tones automatically create more depth and contrast in a kitchen. The upper and lower cabinets will stand out from each other more than they would in a single color. This can make a kitchen appear larger and more open.
Color – Using two colors allows you to incorporate a bolder hue in a balanced way. A bright color on just the lower cabinets prevents the whole space from feeling overwhelming.
Customization – Mixing cabinet colors provides more opportunity to personalize the look. You can choose complementary hues that fit your own style.
Update – Switching from same-color cabinetry to two tones can give a fresh, modern facelift to an outdated kitchen. It makes the space look more trendy.
Accent Features – Two tone cabinets can emphasize certain architectural or decorative features. A contrasting island or range hood will stand out.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Contrast | More depth and visual interest |
| Color | Bolder color in a balanced way |
| Customization | More options for personal style |
| Update | Fresher, trendier look |
| Accent Features | Draws attention to decorative focal points |
Downsides to Consider
While the two tone look offers many style advantages, there are some potential downsides to weigh as well:
Trendiness – The popularity of two tones may fade, leading to an outdated look sooner than expected. Trendy finishes risk looking dated after a decade or so.
Busy – Some feel two contrasting cabinet colors make a kitchen look too busy or distracting. It can be perceived as overly flashy.
Mismatch – If not coordinated properly, the upper and lower cabinet tones may clash instead of complementing each other.
Resale Value – Trendy kitchens tend to have less resale value than those with more neutral, timeless designs. Two tones may turn off some home buyers.
Cost – If changing existing cabinetry, the process of repainting or refacing half the cabinets will increase the cost of the kitchen remodel.
| Downside | Description |
|---|---|
| Trendiness | At risk of looking dated |
| Busy | Can look distracting |
| Mismatch | Colors could clash |
| Resale Value | May turn off buyers |
| Cost | More expensive to change existing cabinets |
Are Two Tone Kitchens Still in Style?
Currently, two tone kitchen cabinets are still considered stylish and modern. Data shows they are not falling out of favor yet:
- In 2020, two tone kitchens were the #2 most popular design after contemporary style.
- Currently, 25% of homeowners opt for two tone kitchens.
- White uppers/dark lowers remain one of the top color combinations.
- Paint companies report steady demand for two tone palettes.
- Online searches for “two tone kitchens” have remained consistent for 3 years.
Two tone kitchens suit many of the current kitchen design trends:
Mixing Materials – In addition to varied cabinet colors, mixing countertop materials like quartz and butcher block is on-trend.
Darker Colors – Deep hues like navy blue and charcoal gray on lower cabinets are fashionable modern options.
Classic White – Crisp white upper cabinets keep spaces feeling fresh and light.
Personalization – Unique color combinations allow homeowners to showcase their personal taste.
Multifunctional – Open concept kitchens that integrate multiple living spaces benefit from two tone delineation.
Predicting the Future of Two Tone Kitchens
It’s difficult to predict exactly when two tone kitchens may start to appear outdated. Interior design trends tend to fade in popularity after 5-10 years on average. Based on this general guideline, two tone kitchens likely have a few more years of looking current and stylish.
However, trends are cyclical. It’s quite possible two tone kitchens will recede for a while and then resurge in popularity years down the road, the way many vintage or retro looks comeback after fading. For example, shaker style cabinets dipped in popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s before becoming trendy again around 2010. The two tone look could follow a similar trajectory.
In terms of longevity, keeping the cabinets timeless rather than trendy will extend the life of a two tone design. Choosing versatile white, black, or natural wood tones over bolder blues, greens, and grays can prevent a kitchen from ever appearing dated.
Conclusion
Two tone kitchen cabinets remain a fashionable, modern option based on current design trends. However, for homeowners who want a more timeless look, sticking to classic neutral colors may be the smarter choice. The verdict on two tones depends on personal style preferences and desired longevity. Those wanting a head-turning contemporary kitchen can still get a stylish look from two contrasting cabinet colors. Yet for resale value and long-term appeal, traditional all-white or wood tone cabinets may outlast the trendiness of two tones. Updating door hardware and opting for mix and match countertops still allows for personality. In the next 5-10 years, two tone kitchens will likely fade from current it-color status to dated relic. But their cyclical return is always a future possibility.