The color green has made a remarkable entry into the world of interior design, and is increasingly making its presence felt in modern kitchens and bedrooms. Between its positive symbolism, its soothing effects and its aesthetic potential, green proves to be an ideal color for transforming a kitchen into a space that is both functional and welcoming.
I don’t have much green at home. It has to be said that the trend is recent. So I’ve only used green in a bathroom and with other bright colors. Eclectic decorating with bright colors is very much “en vogue” at the moment. But here, I’m focusing on green alone. And when I talk about green kitchens, I’m talking about color, not ecological and natural concepts 😅.
I asked myself why and how to integrate the color green into kitchen decoration, presenting photos of kitchens I created with the help of generative artificial intelligence.
Why choose green for your kitchen decor?
Meaning and symbolism of green
Green is a color that naturally evokes nature, growth and vitality. It’s naturally associated with spring and foliage. Psychologically, green is recognized for its calming and soothing effects. It’s also the color to represent hope, open-mindedness and sensitivity.
Current trends in interior design
The popularity of green in interior design continues to grow. Whether in interior design magazines, on Pinterest or Instagram, green kitchens are multiplying, driven by a global trend towards more natural and ecological living spaces, with the color symbolizing this desire for nature. Designers are embracing this color for its versatility and ability to transform the ambience of a room.
Different shades of green for the kitchen
Popular shades
Not all greens are equally fashionable. The 3 below are the ones most frequently seen on social networks and in decorating magazines.
- Sage green: Soft and soothing, sage green is ideal for a relaxing, welcoming kitchen. It blends well with natural materials such as light wood and stone.
- Emerald green: Vibrant and luxurious, emerald green brings a touch of elegance and sophistication to the kitchen. It goes particularly well with gilded metal or brass elements.
- Olive green: Natural and earthy, olive green brings a feeling of warmth and comfort. It’s perfect for rustic or Mediterranean-style kitchens.
How do I choose the right shade?
Choosing the shade for my green kitchen depends on several factors:
- Kitchen size: Lighter shades, such as sage green, are recommended for smaller kitchens, as they visually enlarge the space.
- Natural light: A kitchen well lit by natural light can afford darker, deeper greens, while darker spaces benefit from lighter hues.
- Existing style: It’s important to take into account the current style of the kitchen. Green should complement and not contrast too violently with other colors and materials.
Integrating green into kitchen décor
Paint and wall coverings
Painting is the simplest and most effective way to create a green kitchen. For a balanced look, paint one or two walls green rather than the whole room. Alternatively, green ceramic tiles can add texture and depth, while being easy to maintain.
Furniture and accessories
Green elements or doors are an elegant option. For a more subtle green kitchen effect, consider open shelves painted green, kitchen islands or credenzas. Accessories such as dishes, utensils and textiles (curtains, tablecloths) in green add touches of color without overloading the space.
Plants and natural elements
Plants are a great way to bring green into the kitchen while improving air quality. Potted herbs, hanging plants or vertical planters add life and freshness. Other natural elements such as wood and stone can also be used to create a harmonious, natural ambience.
Case studies and inspiration
Different types of green can transform a kitchen. For example, a modern kitchen with emerald green cabinets and a white worktop creates a sophisticated look.
By contrast, a cottage-style kitchen with sage-green walls and light wood shelves evokes a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mistakes to avoid
To avoid faux pas, don’t overload the space with too much green. A good rule of thumb is to balance green hues with neutral colors such as white, beige or gray. In addition, it’s important to choose shades of green that complement the existing color palette in the home.
Why do I like green in the kitchen?
Aesthetics and ambience
Green creates a welcoming, soothing atmosphere, transforming the kitchen into a space where life is good. It brings a touch of nature indoors, which can be nice in urban environments.
Health and well-being
I’ve found blogs that say “studies show that the presence of the color green can improve mood and reduce stress” but I haven’t found these studies. However, it’s easy to imagine that a kitchen decorated in green, especially with plants, can contribute to better air quality and a certain sense of well-being.
In short, incorporating green into kitchen design offers many advantages, both aesthetically and functionally. This color, with its multiple shades, can transform a kitchen into a welcoming, soothing and elegant space. Whether you opt for subtle touches or bold transformations, green is a versatile, modern choice that promises to enhance the ambience of your kitchen and bring it up to date.
Additional resources
For those who want to go further, here are some books, websites, and stores where you can find ideas and materials for a green kitchen:
- Books: “Home Therapy” by Anita Yokota,”Love Color” by Anna Starmer.
- Websites: Houzz, Pinterest, Apartment Therapy.
- Stores: Maisons du Monde, IKEA, Habitat.
Color palette
Here are a few color combinations, including green, to inspire your projects:
- Sage green and light wood.
- Emerald green and white marble.
- Olive green and stainless steel.
