Best Colors to Paint Your Kitchen

Andrea Schumacher, HGTV.com

Choosing paint colors can be a time-consuming and frustrating process when there are so many shades to choose from. The good news is that are certain colors that work best in specific rooms.

When it comes to kitchens, white, gray, blue, red, yellow, and green really shine. Each of these shades can do something different for the room, but they all help create a warm and welcoming space.

Warmer colors such as red are believed to stimulate the appetite and are an excellent option for kitchens. Red is incredibly versatile and there are multiple shades that would really pop in a kitchen, either on the cabinets or the walls.

Most people start their days in their kitchens, and white can really energize a room. It feels fresh and clean, and an all-white kitchen will really wake you up the minute you step in it. You can also have more fun with your countertops and backsplash in an all-white kitchen and choose brighter colors or designs for those.

Gray is a neutral that's been taking center stage lately in many homes. It often gets categorized as being too cold, but with the right shade, it can work wonders in a kitchen. Best of all, it pairs beautifully with a wide array of other colors and is the perfect base to build upon in a kitchen. It also works well as a countertop or cabinet color.

Blue is another color that works well in kitchens. When lighter shades of blue are used, they can create a crisp, clean look and are recommended for walls, cabinets, or even the ceiling. Blue is an invigorating color and works best when used sparingly; otherwise it can overpower a room. Dark blues also work well in kitchens, but it's important to accent the rest of the room with hints of white, gray or other neutral tones to keep it from feeling too intense and dark.

Like a ray of sunshine, yellow can instantly brighten up a room. Also believed to make people hungry, yellow has a soothing quality and will instantly make people feel calm and happy in your kitchen. A good option for small spaces, yellow can make rooms feel bigger and brighter, and it pairs well with white and gray accents.

Green is also a smart shade to use in the kitchen. There are many different shades to choose from including mint and apple green, which pair nicely with white and wood accents. If you're willing to be more adventurous, try emerald green, Pantone's Color of the Year for 2013. A striking shade, it can add a jolt of energy to the kitchen when used for an accent wall, cabinets, an island or even the floor.