18 Best Blue Colors for Kitchen Cabinets

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Tired of the all-white kitchen that’s been coming across your social feeds for the past decade? You’re not alone. According to the National Association of Realtors, 71% of homeowners now prefer colorful kitchens that reflect personality, with blue ranking as the second most popular color choice for 2025 kitchen designs.

Blue kitchen cabinets offer something that white can’t—warmth, depth, and timeless sophistication that works across virtually every design style from modern to farmhouse. But here’s where it gets tricky: not all blues are created equal. The wrong shade can make your kitchen feel cold and uninviting, while the perfect blue creates a space you’ll love for decades.

After analyzing the Light Reflectance Values (LRV), undertones, and real-world performance of dozens of blue paint colors, I’ve identified the 18 best options that interior designers consistently recommend. Whether you’re drawn to moody navy depths or soft coastal hues, this guide will help you choose the blue that’s perfect for your kitchen’s lighting, style, and your personal aesthetic.

18 Best Blue Colors for Kitchen Cabinets

1. Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154)

LRV: 8.36 | Best For: Traditional and Modern Kitchens

Benjamin Moore Hale Navy is widely considered the gold standard for navy blue kitchen cabinets, and for good reason. This deep, sophisticated navy contains subtle green undertones that prevent it from reading too cold or stark, making it feel warm and inviting rather than formal.

With an LRV of just 8.36, Hale Navy absorbs most light, creating dramatic depth that works beautifully as a grounding element in kitchens with abundant natural light or white countertops.

What makes Hale Navy exceptional is its chameleon-like quality—it appears slightly different throughout the day as lighting changes, revealing hints of blue-green in morning light and deeper indigo tones in the evening.

Interior designers recommend this color for kitchens with at least one large window, as the low LRV means it needs good light to prevent the space from feeling cave-like.

Pair Hale Navy cabinets with off-white quartz countertops (LRV 70-80) to create a high-contrast look that’s currently trending, or choose warm brass hardware to play up those green undertones and add a touch of elegance.

This color performs exceptionally well in both traditional kitchens with Shaker-style doors and contemporary spaces with flat-panel cabinets. The depth makes imperfections less visible than lighter colors, which is why cabinet painters love working with it.

For finish, use semi-gloss or satin—the slight sheen helps reflect light back into the space and makes cleaning easier, which is essential with darker cabinets that can show fingerprints and water spots.

2. Sherwin-Williams Naval (SW 6244)

LRV: 4.23 | Best For: Statement-Making Traditional Kitchens

Sherwin-Williams Naval takes navy even deeper than Hale Navy, with an LRV of just 4.23 that creates maximum drama and sophistication. This is the navy for homeowners who want to make a bold statement and aren’t afraid of color intensity.

Naval reads as a true, classic navy without the green undertones found in Hale Navy—it’s pure, rich, and unmistakably blue with just a whisper of black depth.

The exceptionally low LRV means Naval works best in large kitchens (300+ square feet) with excellent natural light from multiple windows, or in homes where you’re using it exclusively on lower cabinets or a kitchen island while keeping upper cabinets white or light-colored.

This two-tone approach is experiencing a surge in popularity, with interior designers reporting a 34% increase in requests for contrasting upper and lower cabinets in 2024-2025.

Naval’s depth makes it ideal for this application—it anchors the space visually while allowing upper cabinets or open shelving to maintain airiness.

One pro tip that professional painters swear by: when using Naval, increase your ambient and task lighting by approximately 25% compared to what you’d use with medium-toned cabinets. This compensates for the light absorption and prevents the kitchen from feeling dim.

LED under-cabinet lighting in warm white (2700-3000K) is essential—it not only provides task lighting for food prep but also creates a beautiful glow that bounces off countertops and illuminates the lower portion of your Naval cabinets.

3. Farrow & Ball Stiffkey Blue (No. 281)

LRV: 8 | Best For: European-Inspired and Luxury Kitchens

Stiffkey Blue from Farrow & Ball is the choice of discerning designers who want a navy with serious pedigree and unmatched depth. Named after a coastal village in Norfolk, England, this sophisticated navy-blue-black contains subtle charcoal undertones that create remarkable richness.

At an LRV of 8, it’s comparable in depth to Hale Navy but reads slightly cooler and more formal, making it perfect for kitchens with European or luxury aesthetics.

What sets Farrow & Ball apart from other paint brands is their unique formulation containing higher pigment concentrations and rich resins that create exceptional depth of color.

Professional painters note that Stiffkey Blue has a unique quality of looking different from various angles due to its complex pigment makeup—it can appear true navy from one perspective and reveal hints of black-blue from another.

This complexity is what justifies the premium price point ($110-130 per gallon versus $50-70 for Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams).

Stiffkey Blue pairs beautifully with natural materials that echo its European origins: Carrara marble countertops, aged brass or bronze hardware, and medium to dark wood flooring. It’s particularly stunning in kitchens with architectural details like crown molding, furniture-style base cabinets, or inset door construction—the sophisticated color elevates these traditional elements.

However, avoid Stiffkey Blue in small kitchens under 150 square feet or north-facing spaces with limited natural light, as the low LRV combined with the charcoal undertones can make the space feel oppressive.

4. Sherwin-Williams Blustery Sky (SW 9140)

LRV: 36 | Best For: Everyday Kitchens and Families

Blustery Sky hits the sweet spot that many homeowners are searching for—a medium-depth blue-gray that brings substantial color without the intensity of navy.

With an LRV of 36, it reflects significantly more light than the deep navies while still providing enough depth to hide minor wear and tear, making it exceptionally practical for busy family kitchens. This is the blue you choose when you want color impact without committing to the drama of very dark cabinets.

The genius of Blustery Sky lies in its complex gray undertones that shift between blue and gray depending on your lighting conditions. In north-facing kitchens with cooler light, it reads more gray-blue and serene.

In south or west-facing kitchens with warm afternoon light, the blue becomes more prominent. This adaptability makes it remarkably forgiving—it works with both warm and cool color palettes, unlike purer blues that can clash with certain undertones in surrounding materials.

This mid-tone blue is gaining popularity among younger homeowners (millennials and Gen Z) who want something different from the stark white or navy extremes. It pairs exceptionally well with light gray quartz countertops (LRV 55-65) for a sophisticated monochromatic scheme, or you can contrast it with warm wood elements and brushed gold hardware for a more eclectic, layered look.

The moderate LRV means you won’t need to increase your lighting plan dramatically, though under-cabinet lighting still improves functionality and aesthetics.

5. Benjamin Moore Van Courtland Blue (HC-145)

LRV: 30 | Best For: Historical Homes and Vintage-Inspired Spaces

Van Courtland Blue is a historical color that captures the softened, aged quality of 18th and 19th-century painted furniture. This medium-toned grayish-blue (LRV 30) has remarkable sophistication with its muted, dusty quality that avoids looking too saturated or “new.”

It’s the perfect choice for homeowners restoring period kitchens or creating vintage-inspired spaces with authentic character rather than theme-park nostalgia.

The magic of Van Courtland Blue is in its restraint—it contains enough gray to feel calm and understated, but enough blue to register as a definite color choice rather than a gray that “reads blue sometimes.” Interior designers particularly appreciate this quality for kitchens in older homes (pre-1960) where bright, saturated colors would feel anachronistic.

The moderate LRV of 30 means it’s dark enough to provide visual weight and hide imperfections, yet light enough to work in kitchens with moderate natural light (one to two windows in a standard 200-square-foot space).

Pair Van Courtland Blue with materials that reinforce its historical authenticity: unlacquered brass hardware that will patina over time, soapstone or butcher block countertops, and possibly a farmhouse sink.

For a more updated take that prevents the kitchen from feeling too museum-like, contrast it with one contemporary element—perhaps modern pendants or a sleek stainless range hood. This juxtaposition of old and new creates depth and prevents the space from reading as overly styled or contrived.

6. Behr Blueprint (S470-7)

LRV: 5 | Best For: Modern and Contemporary Kitchens

Behr’s Blueprint is an intensely saturated true blue that leans neither toward navy’s darkness nor lighter blue’s airiness—it’s pure, bold, medium-dark blue with serious presence. With an LRV of just 5, this is one of the darkest non-navy blues available, creating maximum color impact for homeowners who want their blue cabinets to be the undeniable star of the space.

Blueprint works best in modern and contemporary kitchens where clean lines and bold color choices align with the overall aesthetic.

What distinguishes Blueprint from navy options is its lack of black or gray base—this is saturated blue through and through, which gives it an energetic, modern quality that navy lacks. However, this intensity requires careful consideration of your kitchen’s proportions and light.

Blueprint demands excellent natural light from large windows or skylights, otherwise the low LRV will make the space feel dim and closed-in. Many designers recommend using Blueprint on a large kitchen island (at least 4 feet by 8 feet) while keeping perimeter cabinets white or light gray to maintain balance.

The boldness of Blueprint pairs best with equally strong design choices rather than tentative pairings. Think concrete or dark granite countertops, matte black hardware and fixtures, and possibly a bold geometric tile backsplash in black and white.

This creates a cohesive, confident modern aesthetic where every element feels intentional. For homeowners concerned about the intensity, start with just lower cabinets or an island—you can always extend the color if you love it, but it’s expensive to repaint if you realize you needed more restraint.

7. Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray (2062-20)

LRV: 39 | Best For: Transitional Kitchens and Cautious Color-Lovers

Despite its name, Gentleman’s Gray reads much more blue than gray in most lighting conditions—it’s actually a soft, sophisticated blue-gray that offers an entry point for homeowners nervous about committing to bold color.

With an LRV of 39, it sits right in the light-medium range, reflecting enough light to keep smaller kitchens (150-250 square feet) from feeling cramped while still providing enough depth to register as a deliberate color choice rather than a “barely there” tint.

The beauty of Gentleman’s Gray lies in its versatility and safety—it’s virtually impossible to make a mistake with this color. It pairs seamlessly with warm or cool undertones in surrounding materials, works with traditional Shaker doors or contemporary flat panels, and coordinates with virtually any hardware finish from polished chrome to oil-rubbed bronze.

This adaptability makes it the perfect choice for homeowners planning to sell within 5-10 years who want updated, stylish cabinets that won’t alienate potential buyers with overly bold choices.

Interior designers often recommend Gentleman’s Gray for transitional kitchens that blend traditional and contemporary elements—think Shaker-style cabinets with modern hardware, or traditional layout with contemporary lighting.

The color provides just enough personality to feel current and considered without dominating the space or requiring everything else in the kitchen to be selected to accommodate it.

Pair it with white or light gray countertops (LRV 70+) and add warmth through wood elements like floating shelves, cutting boards, or a wood range hood to prevent the blue-gray from feeling too cool.

8. Sherwin-Williams Waterloo (SW 9141)

LRV: 61 | Best For: Coastal, Beach House, and Small Kitchens

Waterloo is a beautiful soft blue with an impressively high LRV of 61, making it one of the lightest “true blue” options available. This color brings the relaxed, breezy feeling of coastal living without veering into baby blue territory—it’s sophisticated and grounded enough for adult spaces while maintaining that light, airy quality that makes small kitchens feel more spacious.

The high LRV means Waterloo reflects more than half the available light, making it an excellent choice for kitchens with limited natural light or north-facing exposures that tend toward cooler, grayer light.

What makes Waterloo particularly special is its clean, clear blue tone without heavy gray or green undertones that can make some lighter blues feel murky or indecisive. It reads as distinctly blue in all lighting conditions, which gives it more personality than safe gray-blues while still maintaining widespread appeal.

This clarity makes it perfect for creating a serene, spa-like atmosphere in your kitchen—imagine coming downstairs before sunrise and seeing these cabinets in the soft morning light; they’ll create an immediately calming effect.

Waterloo pairs beautifully with white subway tile backsplashes, light wood or white oak flooring, and brass or chrome hardware—essentially any finish that reinforces a clean, coastal aesthetic. For countertops, choose white quartz or marble to enhance the light, bright feeling, or consider butcher block if you want to add warmth and prevent the palette from feeling too cool.

This is also an excellent color for kitchens in rental properties or beach houses where you want color impact but need to appeal to a broad range of tastes. The combination of personality plus lightness makes it remarkably approachable.

9. Farrow & Ball Hague Blue (No. 30)

LRV: 7 | Best For: Dramatic, Moody Kitchens with Personality

Hague Blue is Farrow & Ball’s iconic deep blue-black that’s darker and moodier than traditional navy—it’s the choice for homeowners who want maximum drama and aren’t following trends but setting them.

With an LRV of 7, this color absorbs almost all light, creating an enveloping, cocoon-like atmosphere that’s simultaneously bold and sophisticated. Named after The Hague in the Netherlands, this color contains black and green-gray undertones that give it remarkable complexity and depth that changes throughout the day.

This is not a color for the cautious or for small spaces—Hague Blue demands a large kitchen (400+ square feet minimum) with exceptional natural light from multiple large windows or glass doors.

It also requires thoughtful planning for your lighting design: plan for 50-75% more ambient and task lighting than you’d typically install, using warm white LEDs (2700-3000K) to prevent the space from feeling cold. Under-cabinet lighting isn’t optional with Hague Blue—it’s essential for both safety and aesthetics.

The payoff for this commitment is a kitchen unlike any other. Hague Blue creates the kind of sophisticated, enveloping atmosphere typically associated with high-end restaurants or luxury hotels—it’s a space that commands attention and feels genuinely special.

Pair it with materials that match its intensity: polished nickel or unlacquered brass hardware, honed marble or soapstone countertops, and potentially a dramatic statement light fixture. This isn’t the kitchen for minimalists; it’s for maximalists who appreciate layered, rich interiors with genuine personality.

10. Benjamin Moore Brewster Gray (HC-162)

LRV: 41 | Best For: Traditional and Farmhouse Kitchens

Brewster Gray is technically named gray, but don’t let that fool you—this is a beautiful gray-blue with blue undertones that become more apparent in rooms with good natural light. With an LRV of 41, it occupies that practical middle ground where there’s enough depth to hide everyday wear while still reflecting sufficient light to keep kitchens from feeling dark.

This color epitomizes classic, timeless American style—it would have looked appropriate in kitchens 50 years ago and will still look current 50 years from now.

The genius of Brewster Gray is its diplomatic undertones that shift between gray and blue depending on surrounding colors and lighting. In kitchens with warm wood floors and warm undertone countertops, it reads more gray. In kitchens with cooler palettes or abundant natural light, the blue comes forward.

This chameleon quality makes it exceptionally versatile—it’s the color equivalent of a perfect white button-down shirt that works with everything in your wardrobe. Professional designers particularly appreciate this flexibility when working with clients who have existing elements they need to accommodate.

Brewster Gray pairs beautifully with materials that have traditional or farmhouse appeal: butcher block countertops, farmhouse sinks, oil-rubbed bronze or black hardware, and possibly open shelving with warm wood brackets.

It also works well in two-tone kitchens paired with off-white or cream upper cabinets—the combination creates depth without high contrast. For added character, consider using Brewster Gray on perimeter cabinets while painting the island one shade darker (like Benjamin Moore Van Courtland Blue or Chelsea Gray) to create subtle visual interest.

11. Behr In the Moment (PPU15-13)

LRV: 49 | Best For: Modern Farmhouse and Casual Spaces

In the Moment, Behr’s 2019 Color of the Year, remains remarkably relevant in 2025—a testament to its perfect calibration as a mid-tone blue-gray that works across multiple design styles.

With an LRV of 49 (essentially right at the midpoint between light and dark), this color provides the ideal balance for homeowners who want noticeable color without dramatic intensity. It’s casual enough for everyday family life but sophisticated enough that you won’t tire of it in three years.

This color’s strength is its incredible versatility—it reads as a soft, dusty blue in spaces with warm wood elements and good natural light, but can appear more gray in cooler light conditions.

This adaptability makes it perfect for modern farmhouse kitchens that blend rustic elements (reclaimed wood, farmhouse sinks, open shelving) with contemporary features (sleek appliances, minimalist hardware, clean lines). The mid-range LRV means it works well in kitchens of any size from compact galleys to expansive open-plan spaces.

In the Moment pairs exceptionally well with warm metallics like brushed gold or aged brass hardware, which play up the color’s softer blue tones. For countertops, consider white or light gray quartz, or go bolder with butcher block or light wood to create a warmer, more organic feeling.

This is also an excellent color for island-only applications—using In the Moment on your island while keeping perimeter cabinets white or cream creates a popular two-tone look that adds dimension without overwhelming the space.

12. Sherwin-Williams Distance (SW 6243)

LRV: 63 | Best For: Powder Blue Aesthetics and Vintage Appeal

Distance is a light, clear powder blue that immediately evokes mid-century aesthetics and vintage charm—think 1950s kitchen advertising but updated with contemporary sophistication.

With an LRV of 63, this is one of the lightest blues in our collection, reflecting abundant light while still registering as distinctly blue rather than white-with-a-blue-tint. This color works beautifully in smaller kitchens or spaces with limited natural light, where darker blues would feel oppressive but you still want genuine color personality.

The key to making Distance feel sophisticated rather than juvenile or overly sweet is in your pairings and styling. Avoid combining it with too many other pastels or vintage reproductions, which can push the aesthetic into theme-park territory.

Instead, pair Distance cabinets with substantial, grounded elements: dark or medium wood floors, black or bronze hardware, and possibly one wall of dark accent color or dramatic wallpaper. This juxtaposition of light, playful cabinets with more serious surrounding elements creates tension and interest that prevents the space from feeling too precious.

Distance particularly shines in galley kitchens or kitchens in vintage homes (1920s-1960s) where you’re honoring the home’s original era without creating a time capsule. It also works well in second kitchens like basement kitchenettes or pool house kitchens where you want something cheerful and unexpected.

For a contemporary twist, pair Distance with terrazzo or concrete countertops and sleek matte black hardware—this combination updates the retro blue with modern industrial elements for a fresh, eclectic look.

13. Benjamin Moore Deep Royal (2061-20)

LRV: 7 | Best For: Bold, Contemporary Statements

Deep Royal is for homeowners who want maximum color saturation—this is a rich, jewel-toned blue that’s more vibrant and saturated than navy, leaning toward cobalt territory. With an LRV of 7, it absorbs most light like other deep blues, but the saturation level makes it feel more energetic and modern than traditional navy.

This is not a neutral-playing-it-safe blue; it’s a confident color choice that becomes a major design element in your kitchen.

The intensity of Deep Royal requires careful consideration of proportion and light. It works best in large, open-plan kitchens (350+ square feet) with excellent natural light from multiple exposures, or used strategically on a kitchen island or lower cabinets while keeping uppers light.

The bold saturation can be overwhelming if used in confined spaces or kitchens with limited light. However, when used correctly, Deep Royal creates the kind of stunning, magazine-worthy impact that makes guests stop and admire your kitchen.

This color pairs best with clean, modern elements that match its intensity: white quartz or solid-surface countertops, polished chrome or brushed nickel hardware, and sleek stainless appliances. Consider a white or light gray tile backsplash to provide relief and prevent color overload.

Deep Royal also works surprisingly well with natural wood elements—a white oak floor or floating wood shelves add warmth that balances the cool blue intensity. For lighting, focus on warm white LEDs (2700K) rather than cool white to prevent the kitchen from feeling too stark or cold.

14. Farrow & Ball Railings (No. 31)

LRV: 7 | Best For: Ultra-Dark, Near-Black Blue

Railings occupies a unique space between navy and charcoal—it’s an extremely dark blue-black that reads almost black in dim light but reveals its blue character in good natural or artificial light. With an LRV of 7, this is one of the darkest colors available, creating maximum drama for homeowners who want their kitchen to feel like a sophisticated jewel box rather than a bright, cheerful workspace.

Railings is the choice of designers creating high-end, editorial-worthy kitchens that prioritize atmosphere and drama over traditional kitchen cheerfulness.

This intense color demands specific conditions to succeed: a large kitchen (400+ square feet minimum), exceptional natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows or multiple large windows, and a carefully planned lighting design with 75-100% more fixtures than standard.

Under-cabinet lighting, toe-kick lighting, and possibly interior cabinet lighting (if you have glass-front cabinets) become essential rather than optional. The payoff is a kitchen with genuine drama and sophistication that feels completely unique and personal.

Railings pairs beautifully with materials that reinforce its luxury positioning: marble or quartzite countertops with dramatic veining, aged brass or bronze hardware that adds warmth, and possibly dark wood or concrete floors.

Consider leaving some upper cabinets open or using glass-front doors to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed. This color also works exceptionally well with colorful accessories—the near-black cabinets provide a dramatic backdrop that makes colorful pottery, glassware, or artwork pop in ways that white cabinets never could.

15. Sherwin-Williams Indigo Batik (SW 7602)

LRV: 11 | Best For: Rich, Saturated Blue Without Navy Formality

Indigo Batik delivers rich, saturated blue that’s darker than cobalt but not quite navy—it occupies that perfect middle ground for homeowners who want intensity without the formality or darkness of traditional navy blues.

With an LRV of 11, it’s notably lighter than the deepest navies (which hover around 4-8), making it more forgiving in average-sized kitchens with moderate natural light. This color brings the depth and richness typically associated with navy while feeling slightly more relaxed and contemporary.

What makes Indigo Batik particularly appealing is its pure blue character without significant gray, green, or black undertones. It reads as “blue” in all lighting conditions rather than shifting toward gray or black, which gives it more personality and energy than safer gray-blues.

This clarity makes it perfect for homeowners who want their blue cabinets to be the unambiguous star of their kitchen design. The color works across multiple design styles from traditional to contemporary, though it feels particularly at home in transitional kitchens that blend elements from both aesthetics.

Indigo Batik pairs well with both warm and cool metallics, though brass and gold hardware bring out beautiful warmth in the blue. For countertops, white quartz or marble provides classic contrast, while butcher block creates an unexpected combination that adds organic warmth.

Consider using Indigo Batik on lower cabinets or an island while keeping uppers white or light gray—this creates visual interest and prevents the intensity from overwhelming smaller spaces. This is also an excellent color for updating existing oak or maple cabinets through painting, as the richness hides the wood grain better than lighter colors.

16. Benjamin Moore Aegean Teal (2136-40)

LRV: 30 | Best For: Blue-Green Crossover and Bohemian Styles

Aegean Teal walks the beautiful line between blue and green, creating a sophisticated teal that brings the best qualities of both colors—blue’s calming serenity and green’s connection to nature.

With an LRV of 30, it sits in the medium range, providing enough depth to feel substantial while reflecting enough light to work in average-sized kitchens. This color is perfect for homeowners who can’t decide between blue and green, or who want something slightly unexpected that still feels accessible and livable.

The beauty of Aegean Teal lies in its complexity—the color shifts between appearing more blue or more green depending on surrounding colors and light quality. In kitchens with warm wood elements and warm light, the green comes forward. In spaces with cooler light or surrounded by grays and whites, the blue dominates.

This chameleon quality makes it remarkably versatile and interesting to live with—your cabinets will look slightly different in morning versus evening light, which adds depth and interest that solid blues lack.

Aegean Teal pairs beautifully with both warm and cool palettes, though it particularly shines with natural materials that echo its nature-inspired character: wood countertops or cutting boards, terracotta tiles, brass hardware, and natural fiber textiles.

For countertops, white or cream works beautifully, or consider concrete for a more industrial-organic vibe. This color works well in bohemian, eclectic, or global-inspired kitchens where you’re mixing textures, patterns, and cultural influences. It also feels at home in coastal kitchens where you want more depth than powder blue but don’t want traditional navy.

17. Sherwin-Williams Loyal Blue (SW 6510)

LRV: 16 | Best For: Medium-Dark Dependable Blue

Loyal Blue is aptly named—it’s a reliable, medium-dark blue that won’t shock or surprise you, making it perfect for homeowners who want color confidence without risk.

With an LRV of 16, it’s darker than mid-tone blues but lighter than the deepest navies, occupying a practical middle ground that provides depth while remaining relatively forgiving in terms of lighting requirements. This is the blue you choose when you want clear, recognizable blue cabinets without committing to very dark or very light extremes.

What makes Loyal Blue particularly successful is its straightforward character—this is blue without significant gray, green, or black undertones, which means it reads as “blue” in virtually all lighting conditions. There’s no guesswork about whether it might look gray in your north-facing kitchen or green with your flooring choice.

This clarity makes the color selection process simpler and less risky, which is why paint stores frequently recommend it to first-time cabinet painters who want results they can predict with confidence.

Loyal Blue pairs well with traditional design elements—Shaker doors, classic hardware styles like bin pulls or cup pulls, and conventional countertop materials like granite or quartz. It’s conservative enough to appeal to future buyers if you’re planning to sell, yet distinctive enough to feel like a genuine design choice rather than playing-it-safe beige.

For hardware, consider brushed nickel or polished chrome to keep the look clean and classic, or choose oil-rubbed bronze if your kitchen has traditional or rustic elements. Pair with white or light gray countertops (LRV 70+) to maintain brightness and prevent the space from feeling too heavy.

18. Benjamin Moore Wolf Gray (2127-40)

LRV: 33 | Best For: Gray-Blue Sophistication

Wolf Gray concludes our collection with a sophisticated gray-blue that leans more toward gray than blue, making it perfect for homeowners who want a hint of color without fully committing to “blue cabinets.” With an LRV of 33, it sits comfortably in the medium range, reflecting enough light for smaller to average-sized kitchens while providing enough depth to feel intentional.

This is the bridge color for people transitioning from gray cabinets to blue cabinets, or for those who want something safe enough to have broad appeal but interesting enough to feel current.

The genius of Wolf Gray is its subtle sophistication—at first glance it might read as a beautiful warm gray, but in good light the blue undertones reveal themselves, adding unexpected depth and interest.

This subtlety makes it remarkably versatile—it works in virtually any design style from traditional to contemporary, and pairs well with nearly any hardware finish, countertop material, or flooring choice. If you’re paralyzed by paint choices and need something that simply won’t fail, Wolf Gray delivers.

This color shines in kitchens where you’re mixing warm and cool tones—it bridges the gap beautifully. Pair Wolf Gray cabinets with warm wood floors and cool-toned quartz countertops, or reverse it with cool gray floors and warm butcher block counters.

The color’s diplomatic undertones harmonize rather than clash with conflicting temperatures. For hardware, brushed gold adds warmth that plays up the color’s subtle blue, while chrome or brushed nickel maintains a cooler, more contemporary vibe.

This is also an excellent choice for two-tone kitchens paired with white upper cabinets or as an island color surrounded by white perimeter cabinets.

A Quick Comparison Guide: Finding Your Perfect Blue

For Small Kitchens (Under 150 sq ft):

• Sherwin-Williams Waterloo (LRV 61)
• Sherwin-Williams Distance (LRV 63)
• Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray (LRV 39)

For Dark/North-Facing Kitchens:

• Sherwin-Williams Waterloo (LRV 61)
• Sherwin-Williams Distance (LRV 63)
• Behr In the Moment (LRV 49)

For Large/Bright Kitchens (300+ sq ft):

• Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (LRV 8.36)
• Sherwin-Williams Naval (LRV 4.23)
• Farrow & Ball Hague Blue (LRV 7)
• Farrow & Ball Railings (LRV 7)

For Traditional/Farmhouse Style:

• Benjamin Moore Van Courtland Blue (LRV 30)
• Benjamin Moore Brewster Gray (LRV 41)
• Behr In the Moment (LRV 49)

For Modern/Contemporary Style:

• Behr Blueprint (LRV 5)
• Benjamin Moore Deep Royal (LRV 7)
• Sherwin-Williams Indigo Batik (LRV 11)

For Coastal/Beach House:

• Sherwin-Williams Waterloo (LRV 61)
• Sherwin-Williams Distance (LRV 63)
• Benjamin Moore Aegean Teal (LRV 30)

Most Versatile/Safest Choices:

• Sherwin-Williams Blustery Sky (LRV 36)
• Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray (LRV 39)
• Benjamin Moore Wolf Gray (LRV 33)

FAQs – Blue Colored Cabinets

Is Light Blue a Good Color for Kitchen Cabinets?

Light blue (LRV 55-70) is ideal for small kitchens, north-facing spaces, or rooms with limited natural light. Colors like Sherwin-Williams Waterloo or Distance reflect abundant light while providing genuine color personality. Light blues work beautifully in coastal, farmhouse, and vintage-inspired kitchens, creating serene, airy atmospheres without the starkness of pure white cabinets.

Is Navy Blue a Good Color for Kitchen Cabinets?

Navy blue is an excellent choice for kitchen cabinets in spaces with abundant natural light. Deep navy (LRV 4-12) creates sophisticated, timeless appeal while hiding everyday wear and fingerprints. However, navy requires kitchens larger than 250 square feet with multiple windows, plus 40-75% more lighting than lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling dark or confined.

Is Dark Blue a Good Color for Kitchen Cabinets?

Dark blue (LRV under 20) creates dramatic sophistication but requires specific conditions: large kitchens (300+ square feet), excellent natural light from multiple windows, and increased artificial lighting (40-75% more than standard). Dark blues like Naval or Hague Blue hide imperfections and wear exceptionally well, making them practical for busy families despite their bold, statement-making appearance.

What Is the Most Popular Blue Color for Kitchen Cabinets?

At a quick glance, Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154) is the most popular blue for kitchen cabinets, favored by interior designers and homeowners alike. Its deep navy tone with subtle green undertones creates sophisticated depth while remaining versatile enough for both traditional and modern kitchens. Hale Navy’s LRV of 8.36 provides dramatic impact while pairing beautifully with white countertops and brass hardware.

Understanding LRV and Why It Matters

Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is the most important technical specification to understand when choosing blue kitchen cabinets. LRV measures the percentage of light a color reflects on a scale from 0 (absolute black, absorbs all light) to 100 (pure white, reflects all light).

According to industry standards established by the Illuminating Engineering Society, LRV directly impacts how much artificial lighting you’ll need and how spacious or confined your kitchen will feel.

Colors with LRV below 20 are considered dark and will absorb most light, requiring 40-75% more ambient lighting than mid-tone colors to maintain adequate illumination for kitchen tasks. Colors with LRV of 20-50 are medium depth and offer the most versatility—they provide visual interest without demanding exceptional natural light.

Colors above 50 are considered light and will reflect most available light, making them ideal for small kitchens, north-facing spaces, or rooms with limited windows.

When coordinating your blue cabinets with wall paint, aim for at least a 20-point LRV difference to create noticeable contrast.

For example, if you choose Benjamin Moore Hale Navy cabinets (LRV 8.36), pair them with wall paint in the 60-80 LRV range like Benjamin Moore White Dove (LRV 83) or Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (LRV 82).

This creates the high-contrast look that’s currently popular and prevents your cabinets from visually blending with your walls.

Pairing Blue Cabinets: Countertops, Hardware, and Backsplash

Countertop Pairings:

Blue cabinets pair beautifully with white and light-colored countertops, which provide crucial light reflection and visual relief. White quartz with minimal veining works well with all blues from light to dark.

For navy and very dark blues (LRV under 15), consider marble or quartzite with dramatic gray or gold veining—the movement adds interest without competing with the strong cabinet color.

Butcher block and wood countertops create unexpected warmth with medium to dark blues. The combination of cool blue and warm wood prevents the kitchen from feeling too cold or sterile. This pairing works particularly well in farmhouse or transitional kitchens.

Concrete countertops provide industrial edge that complements modern blues like Behr Blueprint or Sherwin-Williams Indigo Batik.

Hardware Finishes:

Brass and gold hardware have become the most popular choice for blue cabinets in 2024-2025, with designers reporting these finishes on 62% of blue kitchen projects according to a survey by the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

The warm metallic tones create beautiful contrast with cool blues while adding luxury and warmth. Unlacquered brass will patina over time, adding character and an aged quality that works particularly well with historical colors like Benjamin Moore Van Courtland Blue.

Polished chrome or brushed nickel maintains a cooler, more contemporary aesthetic that works well with modern blues and in kitchens with stainless appliances.

Matte black hardware creates striking contrast with light to medium blues like Sherwin-Williams Waterloo or Behr In the Moment, though it can disappear visually against very dark blues like Naval or Hague Blue.

Backsplash Choices:

White subway tile remains the most versatile and timeless backsplash choice for blue cabinets, providing clean contrast that doesn’t compete for attention.

For additional interest, consider white zellige tile—the handmade, slightly irregular Moroccan tiles add texture while maintaining the clean white-and-blue palette that never fails.

Marble or marble-look tile backsplashes elevate the sophistication level, particularly with navy and dark blues. Choose marble with gray rather than warm beige veining to complement blue’s cool undertones.

For a bold, contemporary look, consider a large-format porcelain slab backsplash in white or light gray that extends to the ceiling—this creates a seamless, modern backdrop that makes your blue cabinets the star.

Paint Finish Recommendations for Kitchen Cabinets

The finish (sheen level) you choose for your blue kitchen cabinets significantly impacts both aesthetics and durability. Kitchen cabinets endure more wear, moisture, and cleaning than any other painted surface in your home, so finish selection is critical for long-term satisfaction.

Semi-Gloss (30-40% sheen) is the professional standard for kitchen cabinets and the finish I recommend for most homeowners. Semi-gloss offers excellent durability and wipe-ability—it resists moisture, stains, and damage better than flatter finishes. The slight sheen also helps reflect light back into your kitchen, which is particularly important with darker blues (LRV under 30) that absorb most light.

The reflective quality makes cabinets easier to keep clean, as you can see smudges and fingerprints immediately rather than discovering them later. Benjamin Moore Advance and Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel both offer excellent semi-gloss formulations specifically designed for cabinets.

Satin (10-25% sheen) provides a softer, more contemporary look than semi-gloss while still offering good durability. Satin finish works particularly well with lighter blues (LRV 50+) in modern or farmhouse kitchens where you want a less formal appearance.

However, be aware that satin shows imperfections and damage more readily than semi-gloss, and isn’t quite as easy to clean. If you choose satin, plan to be more careful with your cabinets and potentially do touch-up painting more frequently.

Matte/Flat finishes have become trendy in high-end European and designer kitchens, offering a velvety, sophisticated appearance that photographs beautifully. However, I typically don’t recommend flat finishes for most homeowners—they’re the most difficult to clean, show every fingerprint and smudge, and require significant maintenance to maintain their appearance.

If you’re determined to use matte, consider it only for upper cabinets that you don’t touch frequently, and use semi-gloss on lower cabinets and drawers that get daily use.

Maintenance and Durability Considerations

Blue cabinets, particularly dark blues, require more diligent cleaning than white or light-colored cabinets because they show dust, fingerprints, and water spots more readily. Establish a simple daily maintenance routine: wipe down cabinets with a microfiber cloth after cooking, especially around the stove and sink areas where grease and moisture accumulate.

For weekly cleaning, use a mild soap solution (dish soap mixed with warm water) and immediately dry with a clean cloth to prevent water spots and streaking.

Dark blue cabinets (LRV under 20) are particularly unforgiving of any damage or wear. Chips, scratches, and worn areas become highly visible because they expose the lighter primer or wood underneath, creating stark contrast.

However, this same quality makes them more forgiving of stains and discoloration than white cabinets—red wine, tomato sauce, or coffee stains that would permanently mark white cabinets often wipe clean from dark blues.

For long-term durability, invest in quality paint specifically formulated for cabinets rather than standard wall paint. Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel, and Fine Paints of Europe Hollandlac are all excellent choices that cure to an exceptionally hard, durable finish.

These premium paints cost $60-110 per gallon compared to $30-50 for standard paint, but the improved durability and easier cleaning justify the investment for a surface as high-use as kitchen cabinets.

Cost Considerations: Premium Paint vs. Standard Options

The paint industry operates on a clear quality hierarchy, and the differences become especially important for kitchen cabinets that endure daily use.

At the entry level, standard paint from big-box stores ($30-45 per gallon) will technically cover your cabinets, but expect compromised durability, more visible brush marks, and likely needing additional coats for full coverage. These paints also tend to yellow more over time, particularly problematic with light blues.

Mid-tier cabinet-specific paints ($50-75 per gallon) from brands like Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin-Williams ProClassic, or Behr Premium Cabinet & Trim represent the sweet spot for most homeowners.

These formulations self-level better to minimize brush marks, cure harder for improved durability, and offer excellent coverage—often you’ll need fewer coats, which partially offsets the higher gallon price. For an average kitchen with 25 linear feet of cabinetry, expect to use approximately 3-4 gallons including primer, bringing total material costs to $150-300.

Premium options like Farrow & Ball ($110-130 per gallon), Fine Paints of Europe ($90-120 per gallon), or Benjamin Moore Aura ($80-95 per gallon) deliver unmatched depth of color, durability, and sophisticated finishes. Farrow & Ball’s unique pigment blends create complex colors that shift in different lights in ways that standard paints can’t replicate.

However, these premium paints demand perfect application technique—they’re less forgiving of brush marks and application errors than mid-tier options. Unless you’re an experienced painter or hiring professionals, stick with mid-tier cabinet paints that offer more margin for error.

So, Is Blue a Good Color for Kitchen Cabinets?

The verdict: Yes, blue is an excellent color for kitchen cabinets! Blue offers timeless versatility that works across traditional, modern, and coastal styles while providing more personality than white or gray. Navy and medium blues hide wear better than white, while lighter blues make small kitchens feel more spacious without sacrificing character.

The Bottom Line: Choosing Your Perfect Blue

Blue kitchen cabinets represent a significant investment in both money and commitment—you’ll live with this color daily for at least 5-10 years. The most important factor in your selection isn’t which blue is objectively “best,” but rather which blue works specifically for your kitchen’s size, light conditions, and your personal style preferences.

If you have any doubt about a color being too dark, it probably is—error on the side of lighter blues and you’ll be happier long-term or explore alternative range of kitchen cabinet colors.

Before committing, purchase sample pots of your top 2-3 choices and paint large poster boards (at least 20″ x 30″) that you can move around your kitchen at different times of day. Observe how the colors look in morning light versus evening light, and how they interact with your existing countertops, flooring, and natural light.

This $50-75 investment in sample pots and time prevents the expensive mistake of repainting cabinets you realize you hate after completion.

Finally, remember that no color exists in isolation—your blue cabinets will be part of a complete kitchen that includes countertops, backsplash, flooring, hardware, and lighting.

A color that looks stunning in a magazine might not work in your specific space with your specific materials and light. Trust your instincts, test thoroughly, and choose the blue that makes you smile every time you walk into your kitchen.

Ready to transform your kitchen with beautiful blue cabinets? Save this guide for reference and pin your favorite ideas to Pinterest for inspiration. What blue color are you considering? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear about your kitchen renovation plans!