When designing a kitchen, homeowners often ask a simple but important question:
Should the pantry cabinet match the upper cabinets or the lower cabinets?
The truth is that both options can work, and the best choice often depends on the overall design style and personal preference.
However, there are a few design considerations that can help homeowners decide which option makes the most sense.
Matching the Pantry With the Lower Cabinets
One option is to match the pantry cabinet with the lower cabinets.
This approach can create a bold and visually interesting kitchen design, especially when the upper and lower cabinets use different colors.
For example:
- darker lower cabinets
- lighter upper cabinets
- pantry matching the lower cabinets
This creates a stronger contrast in the kitchen and can make the pantry feel more integrated with the base cabinetry.
A potential drawback
When the pantry matches the lower cabinets, the crown molding at the top of the pantry may change color if the upper cabinets are a different finish.
For some people, this color transition can feel visually distracting.
Not everyone notices it, but some homeowners are very sensitive to these details.
Matching the Pantry With the Upper Cabinets
Another approach is to match the pantry cabinet with the upper cabinets.
This option often creates a more consistent visual line across the upper portion of the kitchen.
When the pantry matches the upper cabinets:
- crown molding typically remains the same color across the kitchen
- the upper cabinetry feels more continuous
- the overall design may appear more balanced
Because of this, matching the pantry with the upper cabinets is often considered the safer design choice, especially for homeowners who may eventually sell their home.
Which Option Is Best for Resale Value?
If resale value is a consideration, many designers recommend matching the pantry with the upper cabinets.
This tends to create a cleaner and more cohesive appearance that appeals to a wider range of buyers.
A consistent upper cabinet line can make the kitchen feel more polished and less visually complex.
But Remember: It’s Your Kitchen
While resale considerations are important, your kitchen should ultimately reflect your own taste and style.
If you prefer the look of the pantry matching the lower cabinets, there is absolutely nothing wrong with that design choice.
In fact, using different cabinet colors intentionally can add personality and character to the space.
The most important thing is that the kitchen feels right to you.
Final Thoughts
Both approaches can work well in a kitchen design.
Matching the pantry with the upper cabinets tends to create a more consistent look and is often considered the safest choice for resale.
Matching the pantry with the lower cabinets can create a more dramatic design and add contrast to the kitchen.
Ultimately, the best decision is the one that aligns with your personal style and how you want your kitchen to feel.
Planning a Kitchen Renovation?
If you’re located in Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, or the Greater Toronto Area, our team at Attimo Kitchen Refacing can help guide you through kitchen design decisions like cabinet color combinations and layout planning.
With more than 23 years of experience, we help homeowners create kitchens that look beautiful and function well for years to come.
