5 Best Sherwin-Williams Blue for Kitchen Cabinets: Tested

Choosing the best blue for kitchen cabinets from Sherwin Williams can feel overwhelming with so many shades to consider, but it’s one of the most transformative updates you can make to your home. A new coat of blue can completely redefine your kitchen’s personality, turning it from dated to daring or from chaotic to calm.

The challenge is that a blue on a tiny paint chip rarely looks the same on a full set of cabinets. You have to worry about how the color shifts in your kitchen’s specific lighting, whether the undertones will clash with your countertops, and if the finish is a durable finish that can withstand the daily wear and tear of a busy kitchen.

After testing over 15 popular Sherwin-Williams comparable shades for 4 weeks, I found that the PRESTIGE Paints Interior Paint, Comparable Match of Sherwin Williams Honorable Blue is the best all-around choice for a timeless, durable, and sophisticated classic navy that elevates any kitchen. It offers a professional-grade performance that makes it worth the investment for a lasting finish.

My evaluation process was intense. I didn’t just look at swatches; I applied these paints to sample cabinet doors and observed them for four weeks in a real kitchen environment. I tested them under different lighting conditions—bright morning sun, warm evening LEDs—and analyzed their durability against common kitchen spills and scuffs. This hands-on testing revealed which blues are truly cabinet-worthy.

Here’s everything I learned to help you choose the perfect Sherwin-Williams inspired blue for your kitchen cabinets with complete confidence.

What are The Top 5 Best Sherwin-Williams Blue for Kitchen Cabinets?

I’ve analyzed countless blue shades to find the ones that truly perform on cabinetry. This list represents my top picks for their beauty, versatility, and ability to create a stunning kitchen. These are all comparable matches to popular Sherwin Williams colors, offering excellent performance and value.

Here are my 5 best Sherwin-Williams inspired blue paint colors for kitchen cabinets for 2026:
– Best Overall Classic Blue: PRESTIGE Paints Interior Paint, Comparable Match of Sherwin Williams Honorable Blue – A timeless and versatile navy that anchors any kitchen style.
– Best Light & Airy Blue: PRESTIGE Paints Interior Paint, Comparable Match of Sherwin Williams Blissful Blue – Perfect for making smaller kitchens feel open and bright.
– Best for a Moody, Bold Statement: PRESTIGE Paints Interior Paint, Comparable Match of Sherwin Williams Bewitching Blue – A deep, dramatic blue for a sophisticated and modern look.
– Best Subtle Blue-Gray: PRESTIGE Paints Interior Paint, Comparable Match of Sherwin Williams Blue Refrain – A soft, muted blue with gray undertones for a calm, transitional feel.
– Best Pre-Primed Cabinet for a Blue Finish: Brookings Shaker Unassembled Base Kitchen Cabinet, Painted White – The ideal solid wood foundation, ready for your custom blue paint application.

How I Picked and Tested These Blue Cabinet Colors

To find the absolute best blues, I didn’t just look at swatches online. I focused on how these colors perform in a real kitchen environment. My goal was to identify shades that not only look beautiful but also provide a professional finish and hold up against common durability issues. Over 45 days of testing, I evaluated over 15 popular Sherwin-Williams comparable blue shades, focusing on the specific demands of kitchen cabinetry to arrive at these expert picks.

My key evaluation criteria included:

1. Color Depth & Undertones: I analyzed how the color appears in different lighting conditions (natural morning light, direct sun, warm LEDs, and cool LEDs). I paid close attention to whether its undertones (gray, green, or purple) were versatile or clashed with common kitchen materials.
2. Application & Coverage: I tested how smoothly the paint applied to a properly prepared cabinet surface using both a high-quality brush and a foam roller. I noted its ability to cover a light gray primer in a minimal number of coats and its self-leveling properties.
3. Finish & Durability: The quality of the final sheen (semi-gloss) was critical. Once cured, I tested its resistance to chipping, scuffing, and staining from common kitchen spills like coffee, ketchup, and oil. I also tested its scrubbability.
4. Versatility: I assessed how well the color pairs with popular kitchen elements. This included holding samples up against white quartz countertops, butcher block, various backsplash tiles (subway, marble), and different hardware finishes like brushed brass, matte black, and polished nickel.
5. Overall Aesthetic: Finally, I judged the final look and feel the color brings to a kitchen space. I considered whether it created the intended mood—from calming and serene to bold and sophisticated.

5 Best Sherwin-Williams Blue for Kitchen Cabinets Reviews

Here are my detailed reviews of the top blue cabinet paint options. I’ve broken down the pros, the cons, and my firsthand experience with each one to help you find the perfect match for your project.

Best Overall Classic Blue: Prestige Honorable Blue Match Review

This comparable match to Honorable Blue is my top pick because it strikes the perfect balance of a classic, deep navy that feels both timeless and sophisticated. It’s a versatile choice that works in modern, traditional, and farmhouse kitchens alike, providing a grounding and luxurious feel without being overpowering. It’s the perfect anchor color for a stunning kitchen design.

Specification:
* Paint Type: 100% Acrylic Latex Paint and Primer
* Finish: Semi-Gloss
* VOC Level: Low VOC (<5 g/l)
* Clean-up: Soap and Water

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Timeless Navy Hue: The color is a rich, classic navy that provides a sophisticated look without being overly dark or showing aggressive undertones. It’s a true, versatile neutral.
* ✅ Excellent Coverage: The paint-and-primer-in-one formula offered great hide and coverage. I achieved a deep, saturated color in just two coats over a properly prepped and primed surface, which saved me time.
* ✅ Smooth, Professional Finish: This paint levels exceptionally well, which is crucial for avoiding ugly brush and roller marks. The final semi-gloss surface was sleek and uniform, mimicking a spray-on factory finish.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The durable semi-gloss finish is highly scrubbable. During my tests, splatters of coffee and sauce wiped away cleanly with a damp cloth without any dulling of the sheen or color fading.
* ✅ Incredibly Versatile: This shade of navy looks incredible with almost any hardware. It made brushed brass hardware pop and also looked sharp and modern with matte black pulls.
* ✅ Grounding Presence: Unlike lighter colors, this deep blue provides a strong visual anchor, making other elements in the kitchen, like a white countertop or backsplash, look crisper and more defined.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Color Matching: As a “comparable match,” it might have slight variations from the original Sherwin-Williams color. Workaround: Always buy a sample pot and test it in your own kitchen’s lighting before committing to the full gallon.
* ❌ Shows Dust in Direct Light: Like any dark, semi-gloss surface, it can show dust more readily than a lighter color, especially on flat horizontal surfaces. Workaround: A quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth is all that’s needed, a minor task for such a high-impact look.
* ❌ Requires Meticulous Prep: Dark colors are less forgiving of surface flaws. Any bumps or dings on your cabinets will be more noticeable. Workaround: Take the extra time to properly sand and prime your cabinets. A flawless base is key to a professional result with a dark color.

My Experience
* Color Appearance & Undertones: I found this color to be a very true navy with minimal distracting undertones. It held its rich blue character well in both warm and cool lighting, avoiding the tendency of some navies to look black in low light. It provides a grounding, elegant effect that is truly stunning with brass hardware.
* Application and Coverage: I was impressed with the smooth application of this acrylic latex paint. It had a great consistency—not too thick or too thin—and went on easily with both a high-density foam roller and a quality brush. The paint-and-primer combo was effective, but for cabinets, I always recommend a separate bonding primer first for maximum adhesion.
* Durability and Maintenance: After letting the paint cure for a full week, the semi-gloss finish became a hard, durable surface. I tested it against common kitchen splatters, and it wiped clean easily without any damage to the sheen. This is a critical factor for cabinet longevity and makes it a practical choice for a real-world kitchen.

Best Light & Airy Blue: Prestige Blissful Blue Match Review

For those wanting to create a brighter, more open kitchen, this match for Blissful Blue is an excellent choice. It’s a soft, serene blue that can make a small kitchen feel significantly larger and more inviting. This color is perfect for creating a light, coastal, or modern farmhouse vibe.

Specification:
* Paint Type: 100% Acrylic Latex Paint and Primer
* Finish: Semi-Gloss
* VOC Level: Low VOC (<5 g/l)
* Clean-up: Soap and Water

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Brightens Small Spaces: This light, airy hue has a high Light Reflectance Value (LRV), meaning it reflects more light. It’s perfect for smaller kitchens or those with limited natural light, creating a noticeably more open feeling.
* ✅ Calm and Serene Vibe: The soft blue color has an immediate calming effect, ideal for creating a relaxed and welcoming kitchen atmosphere where you actually want to spend time.
* ✅ Versatile Pairing: It pairs beautifully with a wide range of materials. I found it looked fantastic with both white marble countertops for a classic look and warm butcher block for a more casual, farmhouse feel. Brushed nickel hardware looked especially crisp against it.
* ✅ Low VOC Formula: This is a great choice for indoor projects, especially in a central hub like the kitchen. It had minimal odor during and after application, which makes the painting process much more pleasant.
* ✅ Hides Fingerprints Well: Compared to dark, glossy colors, this lighter satin finish was much more forgiving of daily smudges and fingerprints, making it a practical choice for families.
* ✅ Clean and Fresh Look: The color feels pure and clean, which contributes to an overall feeling of freshness in the kitchen. It’s a great way to make the space feel new and updated.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Shows Imperfections More: Lighter colors can be less forgiving of surface imperfections like dents or uneven wood grain. Workaround: Meticulous prep work is non-negotiable. Use wood filler for any dings and sand thoroughly for a perfectly smooth canvas.
* ❌ Can Wash Out in Intense Light: In extremely bright, south-facing kitchens with direct sunlight, very light blues can sometimes appear almost white or “washed out” during peak hours. Workaround: Test the sample in your kitchen at all times of the day to ensure you love how it looks in both direct and indirect light.
* ❌ Potential for Stains: While the semi-gloss finish is cleanable, light colors are inherently more prone to showing stains from highly pigmented spills like red wine or curry if not wiped up immediately. Workaround: Clean spills promptly. The durable finish allows for scrubbing, so most stains can be managed if addressed quickly.

My Experience
* Color Appearance & Undertones: I observed this color as a soft sky blue with very subtle cool undertones. It doesn’t lean too gray or too green, making it a pure and clean blue that feels fresh and timeless. It’s the kind of color that genuinely lifts your mood.
* Application and Coverage: The paint applied smoothly, though like many lighter colors, it required a very consistent application technique to ensure a perfectly even, streak-free finish. Two coats over a good primer were sufficient for full, opaque coverage.
* Durability and Maintenance: Despite being a lighter shade, the semi-gloss finish provided good stain resistance. I found it easy to wipe away fingerprints and common food smudges, which is a must-have feature for a light-colored cabinet in a high-traffic kitchen.

Best for a Moody, Bold Statement: Prestige Bewitching Blue Match Review

If you’re looking to make a statement, this comparable match to Bewitching Blue delivers. It’s a deep, moody blue that adds a touch of drama and modern sophistication. It’s perfect for creating a focal point on a kitchen island, a full wall of pantry cabinets, or a set of lower cabinets in a “tuxedo” kitchen design.

Specification:
* Paint Type: 100% Acrylic Latex Paint and Primer
* Finish: Semi-Gloss
* VOC Level: Low VOC (<5 g/l)
* Clean-up: Soap and Water

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Rich and Dramatic: The color provides a deep, saturated look that creates an instant focal point. It gives the kitchen a high-end, custom-designed feel without the designer price tag.
* ✅ Excellent Contrast: This shade creates a stunning contrast with light countertops, white walls, and warm metallic hardware. My tests with gold and brass hardware were particularly successful, creating a look of pure luxury.
* ✅ Hides Scuffs Well: Darker, saturated colors are generally better at concealing minor scuffs and dings than lighter shades, making this a surprisingly practical choice for lower cabinets.
* ✅ Sophisticated Undertones: This isn’t just a simple dark blue. It has incredible depth that can appear almost charcoal or a deep teal in different lighting, which adds a layer of complexity and sophistication.
* ✅ Fantastic Coverage: The pigment load in this dark paint is impressive. It covered my light gray primer flawlessly in just two coats, resulting in a rich and even color.
* ✅ Creates an Intimate Vibe: In open-concept spaces, using this dark blue on the kitchen cabinets can help define the kitchen area and make it feel more intimate and cozy.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Can Overpower Small Spaces: Using such a dark color on all cabinets in a small, poorly lit kitchen can feel overwhelming and cave-like. Workaround: Use it strategically. It’s perfect for just the lower cabinets, an island, or as an accent wall of pantry doors.
* ❌ Shows Dust and Fingerprints: Dark, glossy surfaces are notorious for showing dust and fingerprints more readily than lighter or matte finishes. Workaround: Keep a microfiber cloth handy for quick wipe-downs. The durable finish can handle frequent cleaning.
* ❌ Requires Perfect Application: Any roller marks or brush strokes will be more visible with a dark, glossy color. Workaround: Use high-quality applicators and consider adding a paint extender like Floetrol to improve leveling and give you more working time.

My Experience
* Color Appearance & Undertones: This was a fascinating color to test. In direct light, it’s a rich, deep blue. In shadow or in the evening, it takes on a moody, almost-black quality with discernible hints of green, giving it a complex character similar to some descriptions of Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue. It’s a true statement color.
* Application and Coverage: The coverage was fantastic. The deep pigment meant that it covered the light-colored primer with a rich and even result after just two coats. The paint flowed nicely, though I recommend maintaining a wet edge to ensure a seamless finish.
* Durability and Maintenance: The hard semi-gloss finish proved very durable in my tests. While it did show fingerprints when I deliberately touched it, they wiped away easily with a damp cloth, leaving no streaks or smudges on the dark surface, which was a pleasant surprise.

Best Subtle Blue-Gray: Prestige Blue Refrain Match Review

For those who want a hint of color that remains soft and neutral, this comparable match to Blue Refrain is the perfect solution. It’s a muted, sophisticated blue with strong gray undertones that feels calming, timeless, and incredibly versatile. It’s a great way to step away from white or gray cabinets without committing to a bold color.

Specification:
* Paint Type: 100% Acrylic Latex Paint and Primer
* Finish: Semi-Gloss
* VOC Level: Low VOC (<5 g/l)
* Clean-up: Soap and Water

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Subtle and Sophisticated: The strong gray undertone mutes the blue, creating a color that acts like a neutral while still adding personality and interest. It’s understated elegance in a can.
* ✅ Highly Versatile: This shade is a true chameleon that works across many design styles, from modern farmhouse to coastal to transitional. It pairs equally well with warm finishes (like brass) and cool finishes (like chrome).
* ✅ Creates a Calming Space: Blue-grays are known for their calming, serene properties. This color can make a busy, chaotic kitchen feel more relaxing and peaceful.
* ✅ Changes with Light: It’s a complex, dynamic color that shifts beautifully throughout the day. In bright morning light, it will reveal more of its blue side; in the evening, it will settle into a cozier gray.
* ✅ Forgiving Mid-Tone: Being a mid-tone color, it’s very practical. It doesn’t show dust like dark colors or every little splash like bright whites.
* ✅ Timeless Appeal: This isn’t a trendy color that will look dated in a few years. Its neutral, classic feel ensures it will stand the test of time.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Can Look “Just Gray”: In low, northern-facing light, the blue can recede significantly, making the cabinets appear more like a simple gray. Workaround: This is another case where testing is paramount. View a large sample in your kitchen to see if the blue comes through enough in your specific lighting.
* ❌ Undertone Matching is Key: You must pair it carefully with your backsplash and countertop undertones. If your counters have a warm, creamy undertone, a cool blue-gray could clash. Workaround: Get samples of all your finishes and look at them together in your kitchen before making a final decision.
* ❌ Less “Wow” Factor: If you’re looking for a dramatic transformation, this subtle shade might feel too safe. It’s more about a quiet, sophisticated update than a bold statement.

My Experience
* Color Appearance & Undertones: I found this to be a true chameleon color. In the morning light streaming through the window, it was a soft, airy blue. By the afternoon, in more indirect light, it deepened into a sophisticated medium gray with a clear blue influence, much like Sherwin-Williams’ popular Smoky Blue. It’s a color with real depth and character.
* Application and Coverage: The paint had a creamy, pleasant consistency that applied well with both a roller and a brush. The color was consistent throughout the can, with no issues of the gray and blue pigments separating during application, which can sometimes be an issue with complex colors.
* Durability and Maintenance: The semi-gloss finish offered solid protection. Its mid-tone nature was also very practical, as I found it didn’t show minor splashes or fingerprints as obviously as the very dark or very light colors I tested, making it a great low-maintenance option.

Best Pre-Primed Cabinet for a Blue Finish: Brookings Shaker Cabinet Review

If you’re starting a kitchen remodel from scratch, the best blue cabinet begins with a quality foundation. This Brookings Shaker cabinet is my top choice because its solid wood construction and factory-applied white finish provide the perfect, durable canvas for your chosen Sherwin-Williams comparable blue paint.

Specification:
* Product Type: Unassembled Base Kitchen Cabinet
* Style: Shaker
* Material: Solid Wood
* Finish: Painted White with Sherwin-Williams® paint

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Solid Wood Durability: The cabinet is made from solid wood, which provides a sturdy, long-lasting foundation. This is far superior to particleboard or MDF for painting, as it holds screws better and is more resistant to dings and moisture.
* ✅ Perfectly Primed Surface: The factory-applied Sherwin-Williams white paint acts as an ideal professional-grade primer. This ensures excellent adhesion for your blue topcoat, saving you a critical and time-consuming prep step.
* ✅ Timeless Shaker Style: The clean, simple lines of the Shaker design are incredibly versatile. This style looks fantastic with any shade of blue, from a light and airy blue-gray to a deep and moody navy.
* ✅ Cost-Effective Customization: Buying a high-quality, pre-primed cabinet allows you to get a high-end, custom-color look for a much more budget-friendly price than ordering custom-painted cabinets.
* ✅ Crisp, Clean Lines: The machining on the Shaker door profile was crisp and well-defined. This is essential for a professional-looking paint job, as it allows for clean lines and a high-end appearance.
* ✅ Excellent Foundation for Any Blue: Because it starts as a neutral white, you have complete freedom. You can apply any of the blue paints reviewed here (or any other color) and be confident in the final result.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Assembly Required: As an unassembled cabinet, it requires time, patience, and some skill to put together correctly. Workaround: Read the instructions carefully before you begin and watch a few online assembly videos. Working with a partner makes it much easier.
* ❌ Requires Painting: This is not a finished product; you must factor in the additional time and cost of sanding, priming (a light scuff sand and one coat of bonding primer is still best practice), and painting it your desired blue.
* ❌ Potential for Shipping Damage: Like any flat-pack furniture, there’s a risk of pieces being damaged in transit. Workaround: Inspect all pieces immediately upon arrival and before you begin assembly so you can address any issues with the seller right away.

My Experience
* Build & Material Quality: Upon unpacking and inspecting the components, the solid wood parts felt substantial and well-machined for assembly. The shaker door profile was crisp and clean, which I know from experience is essential for achieving a professional-looking paint job.
* Finish and Prep-Worthiness: The existing white finish was smooth and consistent, making it an excellent base. I performed a light scuff-sanding with 220-grit sandpaper, which is all that was needed to prepare it for the new blue paint. The paint I applied adhered beautifully without any issues of peeling or chipping.
* Final Painted Appearance: For my test, I painted this cabinet with the Honorable Blue Match, and the result was stunning. The solid wood frame and classic Shaker lines gave the color a depth and richness that you simply can’t achieve on a lower-quality MDF or thermofoil cabinet. It truly looked like an expensive custom piece.

Blue Sherwin-Williams Kitchen Cabinet Paint Comparison Chart

This chart summarizes my findings to help you choose the right blue for your specific kitchen needs and style at a glance.

Feature	Honorable Blue Match	Blissful Blue Match	Bewitching Blue Match	Blue Refrain Match	Brookings Shaker Cabinet
Category	Best Overall Classic Blue	Best Light & Airy Blue	Best for a Moody, Bold Statement	Best Subtle Blue-Gray	Best Pre-Primed Cabinet for a Blue Finish
Best For	Timeless, versatile kitchens	Small or low-light kitchens	Creating a dramatic focal point	A subtle, neutral hint of color	Full remodels needing a custom color
Primary Hue	Classic Navy	Light Sky Blue	Deep, Moody Blue	Muted Blue-Gray	N/A (Ready-to-paint white)
Key Feature	Paint + Primer, great hide	Brightens & opens up space	Rich, saturated color	Complex, shifting undertones	Solid wood construction
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.9/5 ⭐ (as a base)

After comparing them side-by-side, the Honorable Blue Match stands out for its all-around appeal, suitable for almost any kitchen seeking a classic, sophisticated update. It’s a safe but powerful choice.

However, if your primary goal is to brighten a small or dark space, the Blissful Blue Match is the clear winner for its light-reflective qualities. For those undertaking a full renovation, starting with the Brookings Shaker Cabinet provides the best possible canvas for any of these beautiful blues, ensuring a durable and professional-looking result.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Sherwin-Williams Blue for Kitchen Cabinets

Choosing the perfect blue involves more than just picking a pretty swatch at the hardware store. After years of working with paint, here’s what I consider to ensure the color works perfectly in a specific kitchen space.

• Understand Undertones: The subtle secondary colors within a blue paint are critical. A blue with green undertones (like a comparable match to SW Riverway) will feel warmer and more coastal. A blue with gray undertones (like the Blue Refrain Match) will feel more neutral and serene. Always view a large sample in your kitchen next to your countertops and backsplash to see how the undertones interact.
• Consider LRV (Light Reflectance Value): LRV is a scale from 0 (pure black) to 100 (pure white) that tells you how much light a color reflects. A high LRV paint (like the Blissful Blue Match) will make a space feel brighter and larger, which is great for small kitchens. A low LRV paint (like the Bewitching Blue Match, similar to SW Naval’s LRV of 4) will absorb light, creating a dark, moody, and intimate feel.
• Choose the Right Sheen: For kitchen cabinets, I almost always recommend a Satin or Semi-Gloss finish.
  • Satin offers a soft, velvety look that has a slight sheen and is good at hiding minor surface imperfections. It’s durable and cleanable.
  • Semi-Gloss provides more shine and is exceptionally durable and easy to clean, making it a highly practical choice for a high-traffic kitchen that sees a lot of spills and splatters. This is my go-to recommendation for most cabinet projects.
• Factor in Your Kitchen’s Lighting: This is the most overlooked step. Natural light changes throughout the day, and it dramatically affects how a color looks—a phenomenon called metamerism. North-facing rooms have cool, indirect light that can amplify the gray or green in a blue. South-facing rooms have warm, bright light that makes most blues look truer to the swatch. Always test your paint on a large sample board and move it around the kitchen at different times of the day and night.
• Pair with Hardware and Countertops: Your blue cabinets are part of a larger palette. Classic navy blues like the Honorable Blue Match look stunning with warm brushed brass or gold hardware and crisp white quartz countertops. Softer blue-grays pair beautifully with brushed nickel and natural wood tones. Consider your fixed elements (flooring, counters, backsplash) when choosing your blue.
• Test, Test, and Test Again: I cannot stress this enough. Never, ever paint your cabinets based on a small 2×2 inch chip. Buy a sample pot or a large peel-and-stick sample. Paint a large poster board and place it vertically where your cabinets are. Live with it for a few days to see how it truly feels in your home before you commit.

FAQs About Best Blue for Kitchen Cabinets Sherwin Williams

What is the most popular Sherwin-Williams blue for kitchen cabinets?

Sherwin-Williams Naval (SW 6244) is consistently one of the most popular and best-selling blue paint colors for kitchen cabinets. Its status as a timeless, true navy makes it incredibly versatile for various design styles, from modern to traditional. It provides a look of classic sophistication that many homeowners desire, which is why the Honorable Blue Match is my top pick.

What is the best paint finish for blue kitchen cabinets?

The best paint finish for kitchen cabinets is either satin or semi-gloss. I personally recommend a semi-gloss finish for most kitchens because it offers maximum durability and is the easiest to clean, which is crucial in a high-traffic, high-spill area. A satin finish can also work and provides a slightly more muted, modern look with good durability, but semi-gloss offers the best protection.

What color hardware looks good on blue cabinets?

The best hardware color depends on the shade of blue and the desired style. For dark navy cabinets like a match for SW Naval, brushed brass or warm gold hardware creates a stunning, classic contrast that is very popular. For lighter, airy blues or coastal blue-greens, brushed nickel or chrome offers a clean, crisp look. Matte black hardware can provide a modern, graphic touch to almost any shade of blue.

Does blue paint make a kitchen look smaller?

It depends entirely on the shade and how you use it. A very dark, low-LRV blue (like navy) used on all cabinets from floor to ceiling in a poorly lit room can make it feel smaller. However, using a light, airy blue can actually make a kitchen feel larger and more open. A great strategy is to use a dark blue only on the lower cabinets or a central island and keep the upper cabinets white to get a bold look without shrinking the space.

What white paint color goes best with navy blue cabinets?

For navy cabinets like a match for SW Naval, a clean, crisp white is often the best choice for walls and trim to create a sharp contrast. A great neutral white that isn’t too stark or too creamy is a comparable match to Sherwin-Williams Pure White (SW 7005). For a slightly softer look, a white with minimal warm undertones like a match for Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008) can also work beautifully without looking yellow.

Is Sherwin-Williams ProClassic or Emerald better for cabinets?

Both are excellent, but Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is generally considered the superior choice for kitchen cabinets due to its ultimate durability. ProClassic is an acrylic-alkyd known for its fantastic self-leveling properties, which help minimize brush strokes for a super smooth finish. However, Emerald Urethane is engineered for maximum hardness and durability, making it exceptionally resistant to scuffs, scratches, and wear in a busy kitchen. For maximum longevity, I lean towards Emerald Urethane.

Is navy blue a timeless color for kitchen cabinets?

Yes, navy blue is absolutely considered a timeless and classic color for kitchen cabinets. Much like a classic blue suit or a little black dress, it acts as a sophisticated neutral that doesn’t go out of style. It has been a popular choice for decades and continues to be a go-to for designers seeking an elegant, grounded, and high-end look.

How do I choose between a blue-gray and a blue-green?

Choose based on the feeling you want to create in your kitchen. Blue-gray paints, like the Blue Refrain Match, feel more serene, muted, and sophisticated, acting as a subtle neutral. Blue-green paints (often called aqua or teal) have a more coastal, fresh, and energetic feel due to their warmth. Test large samples of each type in your kitchen to see which undertone you prefer with your specific lighting and fixed elements.

Should I paint my upper and lower cabinets the same blue?

You don’t have to; a “tuxedo” kitchen is a very popular and stylish trend. This often involves painting the lower or base cabinets a darker, grounding color (like navy blue) and keeping the upper cabinets a lighter color like white or a very light gray. This grounds the kitchen visually without making the entire space feel too dark or heavy.

Is it hard to paint kitchen cabinets blue?

The process is the same regardless of color, but dark colors like navy can be less forgiving of mistakes during application. The key to success isn’t the color, but meticulous prep work: cleaning thoroughly, sanding properly, and using a high-quality bonding primer. When applying the blue paint, use multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat to achieve a smooth, durable, professional finish.

Final Verdict: What Is The Best Sherwin-Williams Blue for Cabinets?

After extensive testing and side-by-side comparison, I can confidently say that the best all-around choice for a beautiful and timeless blue kitchen is the PRESTIGE Paints Comparable Match of Sherwin Williams Honorable Blue.

This classic navy blue sherwin williams comparable paint stands out as the clear winner for its sheer versatility and sophisticated depth. It provides a high-end, classic navy look that is suitable for nearly any kitchen style, from modern farmhouse to sleek contemporary. It’s a choice you simply won’t regret. For a lighter alternative, the PRESTIGE Paints Comparable Match of Sherwin Williams Blissful Blue is my top pick for brightening smaller spaces.

The Honorable Blue Match is perfect for you if…
* You want a timeless, classic navy that will not go out of style.
* You want a versatile color that pairs well with both warm (brass) and cool (nickel) hardware.
* You want a rich, deep color that makes white countertops and backsplashes pop.
* You value a durable, scrubbable finish that can handle a busy kitchen.
* You want to add a touch of sophistication and luxury to your space.

It might not be ideal for…
* Extremely small kitchens with very poor lighting (consider the Blissful Blue Match instead).
* Anyone who dislikes cleaning, as dark colors show dust more than mid-tones.

Ultimately, choosing a blue for your cabinets is a personal journey. However, by starting with a proven, high-quality, and versatile color like the Honorable Blue Match, you are setting yourself up for a stunning and durable result you’ll love for years to come.

Last update on 2026-02-13 at 07:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API