Dramatic neutrals

Who says a neutral palette needs to be boring? Think of it as a blank canvas that can instantly come to life with design and decorative elements that will add interest and dimension without veering too far off the quiet path to an inviting serene and simple look in your kitchen.

A neutral palette works very well in a kitchen. It’s a colour scheme that’s almost inherent to most kitchens that typically feature white or wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances, wood or stone floors and light walls. Our kitchens are busy places and the last thing we want to do is add chaos with too much pattern and colour. These kitchens will inspire you to find ways to create a calming neutral aesthetic in the kitchen while introducing muted, unexpected colour for a dramatic yet inviting look.

A beverage centre off the kitchen designed by Master Plan Builders features an eye-popping patterned tiled backsplash in neutral tones with a pop of black for a bit of drama. The beige walls tie the whole together complimenting the light quartz countertop atop dark wood cabinets that feature a Thermador under cabinet wine fridge. The matching floating shelfs contrast beautifully with the medium wood floors. Masterplanbuilders.com @masterplanbuilders

Today, warm grays with brown undertones play a big role in a modern neutral palette that’s warm and inviting. Designer Diane Hyde, of Craven Dunnhill Jackfield skillfully chose a hexagon tile backsplash that picks up the classic neutrals used throughout this unique kitchen to transform the space from ho-hum to one that inspires culinary creativity. Natural wood and green accents bring the space to life. Photo by Future/David Lovatti

Talented Montreal designer Luke Havekes designed his condo kitchen to showcase Quebec artisans for his custom millwork, lighting, and metalwork. His natural wood cabinets and island are accented with dark gray metal fittings and the luxe Afyon Violet Turkish marble slabs from Ciot with dark purple veining top the island, countertops, and backsplash to add the drama. Light beige floors and window coverings define this beautiful neutral palette in the open kitchen design. Ciot.com

Typically made up of beige tones, shades of white, brown, grey, and black, the result of a neutral scheme is pared back and serene in the absence of primary pops of color that can often overwhelm a space. Green is quickly becoming the new neutral as homeowners opt for deeper, natural colors. It's a timeless, organic hue that embraces the raw beauty of the natural world. Benjaminmoore.com