Mix & Match Magic: How to Master the Art of Mixing Cabinet Styles and Colors

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all kitchens. In 2025, homeowners are embracing a more personalized, layered approach to design—especially when it comes to cabinetry. Mixing cabinet styles and colors is no longer a bold move; it’s a smart, stylish way to add depth, character, and visual interest to your space.

At Cabinets and Such, we help clients blend stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinetry in creative ways that reflect their unique tastes. Here’s how you can do the same.

Why Mix Cabinet Styles and Colors?

Mixing styles and finishes allows you to:

• Create visual contrast that draws the eye and defines different zones.

• Highlight architectural features or focal points like an island or pantry wall.

• Add personality and break away from cookie-cutter design.

• Balance trends with timelessness, so your space feels fresh but not fleeting.

1. Start with a Unifying Element

Before you start mixing, choose one element to unify the space. This could be:

• A consistent hardware finish (like brushed brass or matte black)

• A shared countertop material

• A cohesive color palette (warm tones, cool tones, or neutrals)

This anchor helps the different cabinet styles feel intentional rather than chaotic.

2. Play with Color Pairings

Here are a few tried-and-true combinations:

• Navy + White: Classic and crisp, with a nautical edge.

• Sage Green + Natural Wood: Earthy and calming.

• Charcoal + Cream: Sophisticated and modern.

• Black + Oak: Bold yet grounded.

Pro Tip: Use darker colors on lower cabinets or islands to ground the space, and lighter tones up top to keep things airy.

3. Mix Door Styles with Purpose

You don’t have to stick to one cabinet door profile. Try:

• Shaker on the perimeter + slab doors on the island for a modern-traditional blend.

• Glass-front uppers + solid lowers to lighten the visual weight.

• Beaded inset cabinets + flat-panel drawers for subtle texture contrast.

Keep proportions and symmetry in mind—balance is key.

4. Use the Island as a Design Playground

The kitchen island is the perfect place to experiment. Consider:

• A bold paint color that contrasts with the rest of the cabinetry

• A different door style or wood species

• Decorative legs or furniture-style detailing

This creates a natural focal point and adds a custom feel.

5. Don’t Forget Texture

Mixing finishes isn’t just about color—it’s also about texture. Combine:

• Matte and glossy finishes

• Painted and stained wood

• Smooth and grained surfaces

This adds depth and tactile interest, especially in open-concept spaces.

6. Test Before You Commit

Before finalizing your design:

• Order samples of doors, finishes, and hardware

• Create a mood board or 3D rendering

• View everything in your actual lighting conditions

This helps ensure your mix feels cohesive and intentional.

Mixing cabinet styles and colors is one of the most exciting ways to personalize your home. With the right balance of contrast and cohesion, you can create a space that feels curated, creative, and completely your own.

At Cabinets and Such, we specialize in helping homeowners blend stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinetry to achieve stunning, functional results. Whether you're going bold or keeping it subtle, we’re here to help you mix with confidence.

When You Decide to Hire a PROFESSIONAL

Here are some tips to help you get the best results from your space planner or designer when building or remodeling your home.

Before you start, make sure you have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve and how much you are willing to spend. This includes the overall look and feel, functionality and any specific features you want. Communicate these goals and budget constraints to your designer from the outset.

Research and gather inspiration from various sources such as magazines, websites and social media platforms like Houzz, Pinterest and lnstagram. Create a mood board or a collection

of images that reflect your vision. This will help your designer understand your style and preferences.

Select a designer whose style and expertise align with your vision. Look at their portfolio and read reviews from previous clients. A good rapport and mutual understanding are crucial for a successful collaboration. Make sure it's a "good fit."

While it's important to have a clear vision, be open to your designer's suggestions and expertise. They may propose ideas that you hadn't considered but that could enhance the overall design and functionality of your space.

Maintain open and honest communication throughout the project. Regularly check in with your designer to discuss progress, address any concerns and make decisions. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that the project stays on track.

Give constructive feedback on designs and proposals. If something doesn't meet your expectations, explain why and provide specific suggestions for improvement. Positive feedback is equally important to reinforce what you like.

Building or remodeling projects often encounter unexpected challenges. Be prepared to adapt and make changes as needed. Flexibility can help keep the project moving forward smoothly.

Understand that the design process takes time and that there may be delays due to various factors such as material availability or unforeseen issues. Setting realistic expectations can help manage stress and ensure a smoother experience.

While it's important to trust your designer, staying involved in the process ensures that your vision is accurately realized. Attend meetings, review plans and be part of key decisions.

Acknowledge and celebrate the completion of significant phases of the project. This not only keeps morale high but also helps you appreciate the progress being made.

If it's your first rodeo, following some of these suggestions can foster a productive and positive relationship with your space planner or designer, ensuring that your building or remodeling project is a success. Good luck with your project!

Rip out and Replace or Full Remodel?

Deciding between ripping out and replacing your cabinets or doing a full remodel depends on your goals, budget, and the current state of your kitchen. Here are some considerations for each option:

Rip Out and Replace Cabinets

• Cost: Generally, less expensive than a full remodel. You can expect to spend on new cabinets and installation

• Time: Faster than a full remodel. It involves removing the old cabinets and installing new ones

• Scope: Limited to the cabinets. The layout and other elements of the kitchen remain the same

• Impact: Refreshes the look of your kitchen without major changes. Ideal if your current layout works well and you just want an update

Full Remodel

• Cost: Includes new cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances, and possibly structural changes

• Time: Takes longer due to the extensive work involved. Planning, demolition, and construction phases can span several weeks to months

• Scope: Comprehensive. You can change the layout, add new features, and completely transform the space

• Impact: Significant. A full remodel can greatly improve functionality, aesthetics, and potentially increase your home's value

Which Option is Right for You?

• Budget: If you have a limited budget, replacing cabinets might be the better option. For a higher budget, a full remodel offers more possibilities.

• Needs: Consider how much change you want. If you need a complete overhaul, a full remodel is the way to go. For a quick refresh, replacing cabinets is sufficient.

• Time: If you need your kitchen back quickly, replacing cabinets is faster. A full remodel requires more time but offers a more dramatic transformation.

What are your main goals for your kitchen update? This can help narrow down the best option for you!