It’s official – we can’t get enough of colour in kitchens. Every playful shade has its place, whether butter yellow, sky blue, or primary red, but figuring out how to incorporate these kitchen trends can be tricky.
While painted cabinets and walls will drench a space in a particular shade, it will require a weekend spent DIYing or calling in a professional to help. If it’s not in the budget and time doesn’t allow for painting, these easy and speedy tips for adding colour to a kitchen will add plenty of joy to a space with limited investment.
Whether you have an hour spare to move decor around or a weekend to try a DIY hack, you can put the paintbrush down and try these tips instead.
1. Keep crockery on display
One of the simplest ways to introduce a new kitchen colour scheme is by showcasing everyday pieces of kitchenware – it’s a clever decor trick that doubles up as practical storage.
Open shelving in lieu of wall cabinets acts as a focal point in your design and is a useful spot for storing everyday cooking items that you need to reach for.
‘Ceramics, fresh flowers, coloured glassware, and artisanal cookware displayed on open shelving or worktops are an effortless way to introduce seasonal colour. Rich greens, earthy terracottas, or buttery yellows can soften the room and create a layered, lived-in feel,’ explains Tom Howley, creative design director at Tom Howley.
The beauty of this is that you can make use of things you already own, and also add decorative touches that you collect along the way, whether on holidays or at antique markets.
Addison Ross Ltd UK
Cherry Bobbin Salt or Pepper Mill
No one does cherry red like Addison Ross. Their bobbin salt and pepper mills are ideal for adding a pop of colour.
H&M
Large figurative stoneware serving bowl
Artichoke themed tableware never dates – whether it’s for decor or to serve food on, you won’t regret this purchase.
Jamie Oliver
Big Love Stoneware Super Server
This bowl from Jamie Oliver’s Big Love brand will add joy to any table or worktop.
2. Use removable coverings
While perfect for rental kitchens, removeable surface coverings and faux tiles are also handy for adding colour without committing.
Whether you want to try out a particular colour palette without it being permanent, or you just don’t want to call in tradespeople, adhesive worktops and tiles are a great way to trial a look and incorporate colour.
There are so many more to choose from now, too. Colourful tile stickers can be used along an entire span of wall as a backsplash or in a smaller area to freshen up a scheme on a budget.
These pink peel and stick tiles from Amazon are a handy hack for adding colour and come in at under £35.
3. Layer rugs and textiles
Just because a kitchen is a practical space, it doesn’t mean you can’t include lots of soft furnishings. Textiles not only add warmth to a kitchen, but they are also a simple way to add colour to a cooking space without turning to a tin of paint.
‘Bar stools upholstered in luxurious fabrics, patterned runners, or Roman blinds offer an opportunity to add depth and contrast. These softer furnishings bring in colour and can be updated over time, making them an ideal choice for homeowners who like to refresh their interiors without major changes,’ Tom Howley adds.
Rugs are an easy way to incorporate a new colour into the design or pull out an existing one within the scheme. Layering rugs beneath a dining table or adding a runner between cabinets will bring a design to life.
John Lewis
ANYDAY Plain Jute Rug
If you want to add subtle colour in natural hues, you can’t go wrong with a jute rug.
Amazon
Xsivod Runner Rugs for Hallway
Runner rugs are perfect for kitchens – this flatweave style will be practical and add a pop of colour.
Ruggable
Morris & Co. Strawberry Thief Indigo Rug
Morris & Co’s Strawberry Thief pattern is a classic that will never date – the muted deep hues will make a statement.
Searching for specific colour inspiration? The edible kitchen colour trend will tap into food-inspired palettes that look stylish in 2026.
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