How to Neutralize Kitchen and Bathroom Colors

Neutral tones endure. That's the unchanging reality. If you've incorporated any bold accent hues in your kitchen or bathroom, they'll likely fall out of fashion sooner or later.

Given that you're reading this guide, it's probably because you're currently grappling with outdated colors in your space. Perhaps you're stuck with hunter-green tiles on the floor or a once-popular baby-blue bathtub. Whatever the problematic shade might be, you don't have to live with it indefinitely. Here are some strategies to help neutralize the colors in your kitchen and bathroom.

Decipher Undertones and Their Impact on Color Perception

Undertones significantly influence how a color appears in a room. For instance, certain shades of gray may appear blue, purple, or brown depending on the undertones within the gray itself and the surrounding colors. To make a blue-gray tone look more neutral, consider adjusting the lighting or modifying the adjacent colors. Painting your woodwork white and using neutral-toned bulbs can yield noticeable results.

However, if the primary hue is inherently non-neutral—like pink tile—it will remain pink regardless of adjustments. While you can tweak the environment to minimize the impact of certain undertones, the fundamental color stays intact. For example, if your beige tiles seem pinkish under current conditions, it might be due to undertones; however, actual pink tiles will always look pink.

Revamp Dated Tiles, Countertops, and Fixtures

You don’t necessarily need to replace your tiles or countertops. Refinishing offers a cost-effective alternative. We’ll apply a fresh coat directly over your existing tile and grout, effectively masking the previous color. Transform your tiles into white, gray, beige, black, or any other shade you prefer. Additionally, we can achieve a faux-stone effect to mimic granite for your countertops.

On average, refinishing costs 75% less than full replacement and avoids the mess of demolition. Most kitchen and bathroom surfaces, including manufactured stone and laminate countertops, are eligible for refinishing. For more details about our custom refinishing services, contact Maryland Tub and Tile at 877-717-8827.

Integrate a Single Accent Hue

There's nothing inherently wrong with having an accent color in your kitchen or bathroom. If you enjoy your pink tiles, embrace them! The trick to pulling this off lies in consistency—stick to just one accent color while surrounding it with neutral tones. For example, if you have pink tiles and blue walls, painting the walls white could draw attention to the pink as the focal point.

Neutrals provide a stable backdrop that adapts well across different trends. Having a predominantly neutral foundation makes it simpler to refresh your decor when your style evolves. Keep this in mind as you work toward neutralizing colors in your kitchen and bathroom.

Select Timeless Neutrals

While navy blue is technically classified as a neutral, it doesn't possess the classic versatility of true neutrals like beige, white, or gray. When choosing colors for your bathroom renovation, prioritize shades that will maintain their appeal over time. However, pay close attention to undertones. Test potential colors under your bathroom lighting to ensure longevity.

Updating your space doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you're tackling outdated tiles, experimenting with accents, or rethinking your color palette, these steps can help create a timeless and harmonious environment. With a little creativity and effort, your kitchen and bathroom can become spaces that feel both fresh and familiar.