How To Match Existing Kitchen Cabinets: Expert Tips & Tricks

How do I match existing kitchen cabinets? Matching existing kitchen cabinets involves carefully assessing the style, color, finish, and hardware of your current cabinetry and then finding or creating new cabinets that closely resemble or complement them. Whether you’re expanding your kitchen, replacing damaged units, or just updating the look, this guide provides expert tips and tricks for achieving seamless integration.

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The Challenge of Matching Kitchen Cabinets

Blending new cabinetry with existing units can be tricky. Cabinets are more than just boxes; they are a combination of style, materials, finishes, and hardware that all contribute to the overall look of your kitchen. Time, sunlight, and daily use can also affect the color and finish of existing cabinets, making a perfect match even more difficult. However, with careful planning and attention to detail, you can achieve cabinet consistency and create a cohesive kitchen design.

Why Match, Not Just Replace?

Many homeowners choose to match existing cabinets rather than replace the entire kitchen for a few key reasons:

• Cost Savings: Replacing all cabinets can be a significant expense. Matching allows you to update or expand your kitchen without a full renovation.
• Preserving Style: You may love the existing style of your kitchen and want to maintain its character.
• Phased Renovations: Matching allows you to update your kitchen in stages, spreading out the cost and disruption.
• Environmental Considerations: Reusing existing cabinets reduces waste and the environmental impact of a full replacement.

Key Elements to Consider When Matching Kitchen Cabinets

To successfully match existing cabinets, you must carefully consider several key elements. These include style, color, finish, hardware, and the overall design of your kitchen.

Style: Finding Similar Cabinet Doors

The style of your cabinet doors is one of the most noticeable elements. Here’s how to approach matching kitchen cabinet styles:

• Door Style Identification: Determine the style of your current cabinet doors. Common styles include:
  • Shaker: Simple, clean lines with a recessed panel.
  • Raised Panel: Features a raised center panel, often with decorative details.
  • Flat Panel: A minimalist style with a flat, unadorned door.
  • Glass Front: Doors with glass panels, often used for display cabinets.
  • Slab: A smooth, frameless door.
• Sourcing Matching Doors:
  • Original Manufacturer: Contact the original cabinet manufacturer if possible. They may still offer the same style.
  • Custom Cabinet Makers: A custom cabinet maker can create doors that precisely match your existing ones.
  • Online Retailers: Many online retailers offer a wide selection of cabinet doors in various styles and materials.
  • Local Cabinet Shops: These shops can often replicate door styles and finishes.

Color: Blending Cabinet Colors

Matching the color of your cabinets is crucial for a seamless look. Here are tips for blending cabinet colors:

• Professional Color Matching: Take a cabinet door or drawer to a paint store and have them use a color-matching system. This will provide you with a precise color formula.
• Consider Undertones: Pay attention to the undertones of your existing cabinets. Are they warm (yellow, orange, red) or cool (blue, green, gray)?
• Aging and Fading: Remember that your existing cabinets may have faded or yellowed over time. Adjust the color match accordingly.
• Sample and Test: Always test the color in your kitchen under different lighting conditions before applying it to all the new cabinets.
• Glazing and Antiquing: If your existing cabinets have a glaze or antiqued finish, replicate this effect on the new cabinets.

Finish: Harmonizing Cabinet Finishes

The finish of your cabinets affects their appearance and durability. Here’s how to achieve cabinet consistency through finish matching:

• Identify the Finish Type: Determine whether your cabinets have a painted, stained, or natural finish.
• Sheen Level: Match the sheen level (matte, satin, semi-gloss, gloss) of the existing cabinets.
• Surface Preparation: Properly prepare the surface of the new cabinets before applying the finish. This may involve sanding, priming, or cleaning.
• Application Techniques: Use the same application techniques (brush, spray) as were used on the existing cabinets.
• Topcoat Protection: Apply a durable topcoat to protect the finish and ensure longevity.

Hardware: Matching Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware, such as knobs and pulls, can significantly impact the overall look of your kitchen. Coordinating kitchen cabinetry includes:

• Style Consistency: Choose hardware that complements the style of your existing cabinets.
• Finish Matching: Match the finish of the hardware (e.g., brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, stainless steel).
• Size and Spacing: Ensure that the size and spacing of the new hardware are consistent with the existing hardware.
• Consider Functionality: Choose hardware that is comfortable to use and appropriate for the size and weight of the cabinet doors and drawers.

Wood Grain and Material

Different wood species have different grains and textures. It’s important to consider these when integrating new kitchen cabinets:

• Wood Species: Identify the wood species of your existing cabinets (e.g., oak, maple, cherry, birch).
• Grain Pattern: Match the grain pattern as closely as possible. This is especially important for stained cabinets.
• Material Consistency: If possible, use the same material for the new cabinets as the existing ones.

Steps to Take When Matching Kitchen Cabinets

Achieving a seamless match requires a systematic approach. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Assess Existing Cabinets: Thoroughly examine your existing cabinets, noting the style, color, finish, hardware, and wood species.
2. Gather Samples: Collect samples of your cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware to take to paint stores, cabinet makers, or retailers.
3. Consult Professionals: Seek advice from paint specialists, cabinet makers, or kitchen designers.
4. Obtain Quotes: Get quotes from multiple sources for the new cabinets, doors, or refinishing services.
5. Compare Options: Carefully compare the options and choose the one that best matches your existing cabinets and fits your budget.
6. Test and Approve: Before committing to a large order, test a sample door or finish to ensure it matches your expectations.
7. Install Carefully: Install the new cabinets with care, ensuring they are properly aligned and integrated with the existing units.
8. Final Adjustments: Make any necessary adjustments to the color, finish, or hardware to achieve a seamless look.

Dealing with Discontinued Styles or Colors

Sometimes, matching existing cabinets is complicated by discontinued styles or colors. Here’s how to handle these situations:

• Custom Solutions: A custom cabinet maker can replicate discontinued styles and create a custom color match.
• Refacing: Consider refacing your existing cabinets to update the doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes.
• Creative Blending: Instead of trying to match exactly, consider complementing existing cabinets with a slightly different style or color. This can create a unique and stylish look.
• Accent Cabinets: Use the new cabinets as accent pieces, such as a kitchen island or a bar area, and choose a contrasting color or style.

Strategies for Unifying Kitchen Cabinet Design

If a perfect match isn’t possible or desired, there are several strategies for unifying kitchen cabinet design and achieving a cohesive look:

• Color Palette: Use a consistent color palette throughout the kitchen, incorporating the colors of both the existing and new cabinets.
• Hardware Consistency: Use the same hardware style and finish on all cabinets, regardless of their color or style.
• Countertops and Backsplash: Choose countertops and backsplash materials that complement both the existing and new cabinets.
• Lighting: Use lighting to highlight the best features of your cabinets and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Accessories: Use accessories, such as decorative items, plants, and artwork, to tie the entire kitchen design together.

Table: Matching Scenarios & Solutions

Scenario	Challenge	Solution
Expanding Kitchen	Matching style, color, and finish to existing cabinets	Contact original manufacturer, custom cabinet maker, professional color matching
Replacing Damaged Cabinets	Finding exact replacements for damaged units	Check manufacturer inventory, search salvage yards, consider refacing if replacements are unavailable
Updating Kitchen Look	Integrating new cabinets with existing ones	Complementary styles, contrasting colors, focus on hardware and countertops
Discontinued Cabinet Style/Color	Replicating a style that is no longer available	Custom cabinet maker, refacing, creative blending with different styles

Complementing Existing Cabinets Instead of Matching

Sometimes, aiming for a perfect match can be more trouble than it’s worth. Instead, consider complementing existing cabinets. This involves choosing cabinet colors and styles that work well with, but don’t exactly copy, what you already have.

Choosing Complementary Colors

When blending cabinet colors, consider these strategies:

• Monochromatic: Use different shades of the same color to create a subtle contrast. For example, if your existing cabinets are a light gray, you could add darker gray or charcoal cabinets.
• Analogous: Choose colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. For example, if your cabinets are blue, you could add green or purple cabinets.
• Complementary: Choose colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. For example, if your cabinets are yellow, you could add blue cabinets.
• Neutral Accents: Use neutral colors, such as white, black, or gray, to create a bridge between different cabinet colors.

Mixing Cabinet Styles

Don’t be afraid to mix different cabinet styles for a unique look. Here are some ideas:

• Island Contrast: Make your kitchen island a focal point by using a different cabinet style than the perimeter cabinets.
• Glass Door Accents: Use glass-front cabinets to showcase decorative items and add visual interest.
• Open Shelving: Incorporate open shelving to break up the monotony of solid cabinet doors.
• Two-Tone Cabinets: Use one color for the upper cabinets and another color for the lower cabinets.

The Importance of Professional Assistance

While it is possible to match existing kitchen cabinets on your own, seeking professional assistance can save you time, money, and frustration.

Kitchen Designers

Kitchen designers can help you:

• Assess your existing kitchen and identify the style, color, and finish of your cabinets.
• Develop a design plan that integrates the new cabinets seamlessly with the existing ones.
• Source matching or complementary cabinets, doors, and hardware.
• Manage the entire renovation process, from design to installation.

Cabinet Makers

Cabinet makers can:

• Create custom cabinets that precisely match your existing ones.
• Reface your existing cabinets with new doors and drawer fronts.
• Repair or refinish damaged cabinets.
• Provide expert advice on cabinet materials, styles, and finishes.

Paint Specialists

Paint specialists can:

• Match the color of your existing cabinets with a high degree of accuracy.
• Provide advice on the best type of paint and finish for your cabinets.
• Help you achieve a professional-quality finish.

Achieving Cabinet Consistency: A Summary

Matching existing kitchen cabinets is an art that requires attention to detail and a good eye. By carefully assessing the style, color, finish, and hardware of your existing cabinets, and by following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you can achieve a seamless integration of new and old. Whether you choose to match exactly or complement existing units, the goal is to create a cohesive and stylish kitchen design that reflects your personal taste and enhances the value of your home.

FAQ: Matching Kitchen Cabinets

• What is the best way to find the exact color match for my cabinets? The best method is to take a cabinet door or drawer to a paint store with a professional color-matching system. They can analyze the color and create a custom formula for you.

• Can I mix different wood species in my kitchen cabinets? Yes, you can, but it’s essential to do it thoughtfully. Ensure the wood tones complement each other or create a deliberate contrast for visual interest.

• Who is the best professional to hire for matching kitchen cabinets? It depends on your needs. A kitchen designer is ideal for overall design and sourcing, a cabinet maker for custom work and refacing, and a paint specialist for color matching and finishing.

• Are there any common mistakes to avoid when matching kitchen cabinets? Yes, avoid neglecting undertones, not testing colors in different lighting, and overlooking the impact of hardware.

• Is it more cost-effective to match or replace my kitchen cabinets? Matching is generally more cost-effective, especially if you only need to replace a few cabinets or update the look. Replacing all cabinets can be expensive.