Wall Wonder: Color Palettes to Complete The Look | I Hate My Kitchen Makeover Series
, by Ryan Casuga,
3 min reading time
From "I Hate My Kitchen" to "I Love My Kitchen" – The Final Step in Your Kitchen Transformation!
Welcome to the final workshop of our "I Hate My Kitchen: Makeover Series!" Over the past several weeks, we've walked you through the transformative power of paint, finishes, and design elements to create a kitchen you truly love.
Today, we’re wrapping up with an expert interior design discussion featuring Amy Howard and renowned designer Mary Corrado, where we’ll dive deep into choosing the perfect colors, finishes, and design tricks to complete your dream kitchen.
Creating a Cohesive Kitchen: Color & Design Insights
💡 Key Takeaways from the Final Workshop:
The importance of color drenching – how painting walls, ceilings, and trim the same color can create a modern, sophisticated look.
How to choose the right colors for your kitchen based on lighting, current trends, and your home’s aesthetic.
Tips on pairing cabinet colors with walls, floors, and countertops for a harmonious feel.
Why texture matters – using milk paint, Venetian plaster, and faux finishes to add dimension.
The impact of hardware and accessories in completing a high-end kitchen design.
🎨 Trending Colors for 2025:
Warm, earthy neutrals (moving away from stark whites and grays)
Deep greens and rich blues for a sophisticated touch
Soft cream and beige tones for timeless elegance
Wood stains and warm brown hues making a big comeback
Color Drenching: Why It’s the Biggest Interior Trend Right Now
One of the most impactful design trends we discussed is color drenching—painting the walls, trim, ceiling, and even cabinetry in the same hue or color family to create a seamless, elegant space.
💡 Why Try Color Drenching?
Makes small kitchens feel bigger and more open.
Creates a cozy, enveloping atmosphere.
Simplifies design choices and adds sophistication.
Highlights textures and finishes beautifully.
✳ Pro Tip: Use foam core boards painted with sample colors to test how different shades look in your kitchen before committing to a full-room transformation!
How to Pair Kitchen Colors & Finishes
1️⃣ Farmhouse Chic Kitchen Palette
Walls: Manor Borne Farmhouse Chic (warm greige)
Cabinets: One-Step Paint Pasha White
Island or Accent:Pulled Grey Finish for added depth
Countertops: Faux Carrera Marble
Flooring: Dark wood or natural butcher block
✨ Perfect for: A timeless, cozy farmhouse look with a modern twist.
Cabinets: Milk Paint in Mafi Coast + Scandinavian Gray
Trim & Accents: Deep Pulled Grey Tones
Countertops: Faux Carrera Marble with subtle veining
✨ Perfect for: A moody, dramatic, and sophisticated kitchen.
Bringing It All Together: Memo Boards & Mood Boards
📌 Mary’s Pro Tip:Start with a memo board! Collect paint samples, flooring swatches, cabinet colors, and inspiration photos. Seeing everything together will help you visualize the final look and avoid costly mistakes.
👉 Try this simple process:
Order sample pots of Manor Borne Wall Paint and One-Step Paint.
Paint foam core boards to test how the colors look in your kitchen.
Pair your samples with cabinet colors, countertops, and flooring choices.
Experiment with different hardware finishes to complete the look.
Final Thoughts from Mary Corrado & Amy Howard
"If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start small! Paint a kitchen island, update your hardware, or choose a fresh wall color before committing to a full renovation. The key is to make intentional choices that reflect your personal style." – Mary Corrado
"A beautifully designed kitchen isn't just about aesthetics—it changes the way you feel about your home. Use these expert tips to craft a kitchen you truly love!" – Amy Howard