A classic white colour scheme is logical in a kitchen. If you're going to prepare and eat your food in a designated space, you want that space to appear clean and welcoming. White allows homeowners to achieve a bright, trendy look that will help their home design stand the test of time.

That said, a white colour scheme isn't for everyone. While white cabinetry is always beautiful to look at, some households with children or pets may find that messes and scuff marks make the choice impractical. Maybe you're simply looking for a little more pop than a fully neutral kitchen can provide. Fortunately, you have no lack of attractive alternatives when deciding on a design.

We'll detail seven different options you should consider for your kitchen, whether you want a creative look or an alternative classic. From soft grays to sea glass greens, you'll find exactly what you're searching for.

1. Soft Grays

If your initial intention was a white colour scheme, you may hesitate to choose something radically different. The subdued quality of soft gray tones is inoffensive, and you'll find that with the proper decor, it establishes a modern look and feel. It's not an enormous leap, but rather a small step from white cabinetry.

2. Rich Browns

Lending warmth and cosiness to a kitchen space, a rich brown colour scheme is the perfect complement to your morning coffee. You'll find you're safe in your choice, as earth tones are more neutral than bright reds or blues. They also coordinate beautifully with a diverse variety of furnishings.

3. Rousing Reds

The right red will add flair and spice to your kitchen, but it's important to stress — only the right red will work, and it's better used as an accent. Make sure you've chosen a smart shade before moving forward with this complicated colour. If used well, it can create a bold look that speaks to the homeowner’s personality. Beautiful cherry wood finishes or a two-toned approach to the kitchen will help you balance a red shade with more calming design elements.

4. Sunny Yellows

Light yellows give a kitchen a friendly appearance, matching with many lighter species of wood used in cabinetry. You'll also enjoy other advantages with a yellow palette, as the colour is excellent at reflecting ambient light. It'll lend your space a natural feel and take some of the gloom from the room.

5. Vintage Blues

A colour more common in retro designs, blue can still work wonders in your kitchen. Many people seem to think so, as blue cabinetry is an emerging trend among homeowners. If you're looking to add a dash of personality to your space, a little something to make it memorable, blue is visually arresting. When used thoughtfully, darker shades can create elegance while lighter shades suggest warmth and serenity.

6. Sea Glass Green

You should consider a sea glass colour scheme if you're renovating a coastal home. These subtle shades will make your kitchen feel fresh as an ocean breeze. With a few choice decorations — like a rope frame chandelier or rustic ship wheel — you can completely transform the room into an experience.

7. Elegant Blacks

As far from a classic white colour scheme as you can possibly get, black has enormous potential within your kitchen. It's best for homeowners who want their space to feel elegant and sophisticated, but proper balance is essential. Too much black in a kitchen will make it appear small, so pay attention to the size of your kitchen as well as its level of natural light.

The Fundamentals of Kitchen Design

If you've browsed the alternatives above and found one you feel has promise, you've taken an important first step. While it's helpful to pay attention to basic design guidelines, it ultimately comes down to your taste. What fits your home, style and personality best?

A vintage blue might suit you, or maybe you'd prefer to make a bold break from convention with a hot shade of red. You don't need a classic white colour scheme to make your kitchen beautiful. As long as you're happy with the final result, you've made the right decision.