Sage Green Kitchen Cabinets: A Fresh Take on a Classic Look

sage green kitchen with stone flooring and large arched window at the end of the room. There is a sage green island and wooden shelving

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, colors come and go, but some shades have the power to captivate and endure. One such color that has emerged as a favorite in recent years is sage green.

This soft, muted hue, reminiscent of the culinary herb from which it takes its name, has been making waves in homes across the globe. It’s a color that seamlessly blends the freshness of nature with a sense of classic elegance, so it is no surprise that sage green kitchen cabinets are currently one of the most searched colors for a kitchen.

sage green kitchen with wooden worktops — STENSUND sage green kitchen – IKEA

Sage green’s charm lies in its ability to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It’s a color that resonates with the growing trend toward embracing natural elements, sustainability, and mindful living.

From living rooms to bathrooms, this adaptable shade has found its place. But perhaps one of its most stunning applications can be seen in the heart of the home – the kitchen.

Sage Green Kitchen Cabinets

sage green cabinets with sage green shelving in the kitchen

Sage green kitchen cabinets are more than just a fleeting trend; they offer a fresh take on a classic look. The gentle grace of this color provides an aesthetic that’s both timeless and timely, making it a choice that resonates with a wide range of homeowners.

In this blog post, I will explore the unique allure of sage green kitchen cabinets, delve into design possibilities, and provide inspiration for those looking to add a touch of serenity to their culinary space.

Whether you are considering a complete kitchen overhaul or simply looking to update your cabinetry, a sage green aesthetic may be the fresh inspiration you’ve been seeking.

What Color is Sage Green?

Sage green is a soft and subtle shade that sits somewhere between light green and grey. It’s named after the culinary herb sage, which features a muted green color with grey undertones.

The hue is often associated with wisdom, tranquility, and nature, embodying a gentle connection to the Earth’s natural elements.

In a space like a kitchen, where functionality meets creativity, sage green adds a touch of grace and sophistication. Whether paired with crisp whites, warm wooden textures, or even bold accent colors, sage green kitchen cabinets provide a grounding base that elevates the entire room’s ambiance.

Its ability to both standout and blend in makes it a preferred choice for those seeking a fresh yet timeless look, providing a balance that’s rare to find in a single color.

Are Sage Green Kitchen Cabinets the Right Color For You?

a sage green kitchen with wooden flooring, silver fridge and white metro tiles with wood elements — Image: farmhouseliving.com

Colors have a profound impact on our emotions and behaviors, and sage green is no exception. As a color that blends the freshness of green with the calming influence of grey, sage green is often associated with feelings of peace, balance, and well-being.

Sage green’s qualities include:

A calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety.
Connection to nature.
Encourages balance, perhaps due to its position between the energizing effect of greens and the neutral character of gray.
Enhances creativity, helping to clear the mind and encourage fresh thinking.
Has a sophisticated and timeless appeal.
Makes a room feel light and airy.

Deciding if sage green kitchen cabinets are the right choice for you involves considering various factors that align with your personal preferences, lifestyle, and overall design goals.

a large kitchen with arched window and black frame. There is brick tiles on the floor and a sage green kitchen with huge white butler sink — Sage green cabinets can work with many natural materials and colors

Do you lean towards natural, muted colors and appreciate a connection to nature in your living space? If yes, sage green may appeal to you.
Consider the existing design style of your kitchen and home. Sage green can complement modern, traditional, rustic, or eclectic styles.
A sage green aesthetic is versatile and pairs well with many colors, such as whites, creams, browns, and even bolder hues. Assess whether it would blend seamlessly with your existing color scheme.
Think about how you want your kitchen to feel. If you desire a calming, sophisticated, and timeless space, sage green could be an excellent fit.
Sage green cabinets can be forgiving with daily wear and tear, but consider the finish and quality of paint or materials if durability is a concern.
Evaluate how the color will look under your kitchen’s lighting. Sage green tends to look warm and welcoming under natural light, so if your kitchen has large windows and bifold or sliding doors, sage green kitchen cabinets are perfect.
Consider painting a small section or using removable wallpaper in sage green to see how it looks before making a final decision.

The Current Trend of Natural Colors

a sage green kitchen with grey stone flooring — Shaker Ermine Kitchen – Wren

The modern design landscape has seen a significant shift towards embracing natural colors and materials. This trend is rooted in a growing awareness of sustainability, a desire to connect with nature, and a movement towards mindfulness and well-being in living spaces.

Sage green epitomizes this trend with its soft, muted quality that reflects the natural world. It embodies a sense of serenity and offers a visual connection to the outdoors. In a kitchen setting, it can create a space that feels both contemporary and timeless, exuding warmth and sophistication.

Sage green beautifully complements natural materials like wood, stone, and jute. It enhances their textures and brings out their inherent beauty.

Pairing sage green kitchen cabinets with a wooden countertop or stone backsplash, for example, can create a cohesive and harmonious look.

How to Choose the Right Shade

a sage green kitchen with shelves and lots of drawers

Choosing the right shade of sage green for your kitchen cabinets can be an exciting yet potentially overwhelming decision. Various factors can influence how the color appears and feels in your space.

Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect shade:

1. Understand the Undertones

Sage green can have undertones of grey, blue, yellow, or even brown. Assess your kitchen’s lighting, existing colors, and overall vibe to decide which undertone would best complement your space.

2. Consider Lighting

Natural Light: Different shades may appear differently under varying lighting conditions. If your kitchen receives a lot of natural light, the color might appear lighter.

Artificial Light: Different artificial light bulbs (LED, incandescent, etc.) may cast different hues on the color. If possible, test the color under the lighting you use most in your kitchen.

3. Look at the Color in Context

Consider the other colors in your kitchen, such as countertops, flooring, and appliances. Bring swatches or samples of those colors when selecting the shade of sage green.

4. Choose Several Sample Shades

It’s often beneficial to select several shades that appeal to you initially. Most paint stores offer small sample cans or swatches that you can take home.

5. Test the Color in Your Space

Paint small sections of your cabinets or a piece of poster board with the sample shades. Observe them at different times of the day and under different lighting conditions.

6. Consider the Finish

The finish (matte, semi-gloss, gloss) can affect how the color appears. Matte finishes can make the color appear softer, while glossier finishes can intensify it.

7. Think About the Overall Design Style

Consider the style you’re aiming for. A deeper, more muted sage may lend itself to a rustic or traditional look, while a brighter or lighter shade may fit a more contemporary design.

8. Consult with a Professional

If you feel stuck, consider consulting with an interior designer or a color specialist at a paint store. They can provide expert advice tailored to your space and preferences.

9. Use Visualization Tools

Many paint brands offer online tools where you can upload a picture of your space and virtually “paint” the walls or cabinets to see how different shades might look.

sage green kitchen cabinets with wooden worktops — A sage green kitchen with barely there pink walls helps soften the look

Choosing the right shade of sage green requires some research, experimentation, and consideration of your space’s unique characteristics. By understanding the undertones, considering lighting, testing samples, and seeking professional guidance if needed, you can find the shade that brings your vision to life.

Whether you opt for a soft, muted sage or a more vibrant hue, taking the time to explore your options will ensure that your sage green kitchen cabinets become a cherished feature in your home.

Complementary Colors and Materials to Pair with Sage Green Cabinets

a sage green kitchen with white quartz kitchen countertops and a large butler sink — White is one of the best colors to use with sage green cabinets. Image: @louiseroehome

Sage green is a versatile color that can be paired with a wide variety of complementary colors and materials. So, what colors go with sage green kitchen cabinets?

Here’s a guide to help you select the perfect combinations to enhance the aesthetic of sage green kitchen cabinets:

Complementary Colors:

a sage green kitchen with cream wall units, open shelving and a terrazzo under counter backsplash — Creams, browns, wood tones, and this fabulous terrazzo island kickboard all work wonderfully with the sage green cabinets. Image: Magnet Dunham in Misty Moors

White and Cream: These neutral shades create a clean and airy feel, making the sage green pop without overwhelming the space.
Soft Grays: Gray can bring out the muted elegance of sage green and add a contemporary touch.
Earthy Browns: For a warm, rustic feel, consider natural wood tones or deep browns.
Navy Blue: A bold choice, navy can add depth and create a rich contrast with sage green.
Soft Pinks and Blush: These gentle hues can create a romantic and feminine touch.
Gold Accents: Gold hardware or accents can add a luxurious flair to sage green cabinets.

Materials to Pair with Sage Green Cabinets:

sage green kitchen with white cooker hood and marble backsplash — Pair sage green cabinets with a marble backsplash. Image: @homeatspringbank

Wood: Different shades of wood, from light oak to rich mahogany, work beautifully with sage green. Wooden countertops, shelves, or floors can add warmth and texture.
Marble: White or light-colored marble countertops with subtle veining can provide a luxurious and classic look.
Concrete: For an industrial or modern touch, concrete countertops or floors can be a striking choice.
Stainless Steel: Appliances and fixtures in stainless steel add a sleek, contemporary feel.
Glass: Glass tiles for a backsplash or glass-fronted cabinets can create an open and airy vibe.
Brass or Copper: These metals can be used for hardware, fixtures, or accents to add warmth and sophistication.
Natural Textiles: Consider linen window treatments or jute rugs to enhance the natural feel of sage green.

Tips for Choosing Complementary Colors and Materials

a sage green kitchen with wooden worktops, metro tiles, wooden floors and pops of pink — I think pink works amazingly well with a sage green kitchen, you can add flowers, artwork, or pink kitchen accessories

Consider the Overall Style: Think about the overall design style you want to achieve, as this will guide your choice of colors and materials.
Use a Color Wheel: A color wheel can help you identify complementary and analogous colors that might work well with sage green.
Sample and Test: If possible, bring samples of materials and color swatches into your space to see how they work together.
Balance is Key: Strive for a balanced look by using bold colors or materials sparingly and grounding them with neutrals.

How to Balance Sage Green with Other Elements

a sage green island with cream kitchen cabinets — Using gold or brass kitchen hardware works perfectly with sage green. Image: deVol

Balancing sage green with other elements in the kitchen ensures a harmonious and unique space. While sage green is a versatile and calming color, striking the right balance with other colors, materials, and design elements can make all the difference.

Mix various textures and materials like wood, metal, glass, and natural stone to create visual interest and depth without relying solely on color. If using bold or contrasting colors, consider their proportion in relation to sage green.

A small amount of strong color can create a focal point without overpowering the sage green. Select hardware, lighting, and accessories that complement sage green. Copper, brass, or gold can add a touch of luxury, while stainless steel adds a sleek, modern touch.

sage green kitchen with a botanical backsplash and gold trim

If using patterned tiles or textiles, ensure they harmonize with sage green rather than compete with it. Subtle patterns often work best in maintaining balance.

Sage green kitchen cabinets offer a versatile foundation for various design styles and can be paired with many colors and materials. From classic elegance with marble and gold to rustic charm with wood and earthy tones, the possibilities are nearly endless.

Experimenting with different combinations and considering your overall design vision will help you create a kitchen that’s not only trendy but also timeless and uniquely yours.

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How to Accessorize and Style

sage green kitchen cabinets with an arched window and pink flowers — Pops of color in the form of flowers, vases, and botanical prints help the kitchen come alive.

Accessorizing and styling around sage green cabinets allow you to accentuate this calming hue and create a cohesive design that resonates with your personal taste. Utilize complementary colors like soft creams, grays, or earthy tones for items like curtains, rugs, and dish towels.

If you have the space, think about placing vases, bowls, or framed prints that resonate with the sage green theme. Botanical prints or artworks with similar hues work best. Incorporating plants and fresh herbs (like sage!) can help enhance the sage green cabinets and botanical prints.

sage green kitchen with shelving, herringbone tiles and a black range cooker — Black kitchen appliances work well with sage green

And don’t forget your kitchen appliances. Stainless steel or black appliances often pair well with sage green. Alternatively, vintage or colored appliances can create a unique look if they align with the overall design.

Finally, consider open shelving to display your favorite pieces. Choose shelves with natural wood or reclaimed scaffold boards to enhance the natural look and display items like dishes, glassware, or decorative pieces that complement or contrast with sage green.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

sage green kitchen cabinets with vintage artwork and a wooden table with rattan chairs

When it comes to incorporating sage green cabinets into your kitchen, there are several options available to suit different preferences, budgets, and design considerations. Here’s an overview of the primary ways to achieve the sage green look for your kitchen cabinets:

1. Painting Existing Cabinets:

DIY Painting: If you have wooden cabinets in good condition, you can paint them yourself using sage green paint. This is often the most budget-friendly option.
Professional Painting: Hiring a professional to paint your cabinets ensures a high-quality finish and can be a good option if you’re unsure about doing it yourself.

2. Purchasing Pre-painted or Custom-painted Cabinets:

Pre-painted Options: Many manufacturers and retailers offer pre-painted cabinets in various shades, including sage green.
Custom Options: If you’re looking for a specific shade or finish, some companies offer custom painting services to match your desired color.

3. Laminates and Veneers:

Laminate Cabinets: These are available in a wide range of colors, including sage green, and provide a durable and budget-friendly option.
Veneer Finishes: If you prefer a more natural look, you can explore wood veneers stained in a sage green shade.

4. Two-Toned Cabinets:

Mixing sage green with other colors on upper or lower cabinets can create a dynamic and balanced look. This approach can be achieved through painting or purchasing cabinets in two different finishes.

5. Custom Cabinetry:

If budget is not a constraint, you can work with a cabinet maker to design custom cabinets in the exact shade, style, and finish of sage green that you desire.

6. Temporary Solutions:

Removable Wallpaper or Vinyl Wraps: These offer a way to try out sage green without committing to a permanent change. They’re available in various shades and can be removed without damaging the underlying surface.

7. Consult with Design Professionals:

If you need assistance selecting the best option for your space, consider working with an interior designer or kitchen specialist. They can guide you through the process and help you find the right solution.

Considerations for DIY vs Professionals

Budget: Different options come with varying costs, so consider your budget when exploring possibilities.
Durability: Assess the quality and durability of the materials, especially if your kitchen sees heavy use.
Style and Aesthetics: Ensure the chosen option aligns with the overall design and style of your kitchen.
Environmental Concerns: If sustainability is important to you, look for options that use eco-friendly materials or finishes.

a sage green kitchen with sage green wall, vintage artwork, a wooden table and rattan chairs

As you contemplate your next kitchen renovation or update, consider the grace and versatility that a kitchen with sage green cabinets can bring to your home. This delightful shade offers a fresh and contemporary twist on a classic, timeless look, seamlessly blending the tranquility of nature with modern design sensibilities.

Not only is sage green aligned with the rising trend of using natural and earthy tones, but it also offers flexibility in accessorizing and styling.

With numerous options for hardware, complementary colors, materials, and accessories, you can craft a kitchen that’s uniquely yours, reflecting your personality and lifestyle.

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, I will receive a very small commission if you click through and make a purchase. These links help to pay the editorial costs of writing a blog. For more information, read my full affiliate disclosure here.

I also use Artificial Intelligence Image generators to create some of my images. These are to show you examples of my ideas and inspiration when I cannot produce the real images myself.

FAQs

What color worktop with sage green kitchens?

White and cream offer a classic and timeless look that brightens the kitchen and contrasts gently with sage green. They can make the space feel larger and more open, especially in smaller kitchens.

Are sage green kitchens a trend or a timeless choice?

While sage green has seen a surge in popularity, it’s considered a timeless color due to its natural, muted tone. It can adapt to various styles, from modern to rustic, making it a versatile choice.

What lighting works best in a sage green kitchen?

Natural light enhances the true color of sage green. For artificial lighting, warm white LED bulbs can complement the green by creating a cozy and inviting ambiance.

How do I incorporate sage green into an existing kitchen color scheme?

Introduce sage green through smaller elements like a backsplash, and accessories, or by painting a single accent wall. This allows for a pop of color without overwhelming the existing palette.

Sage Green Kitchen Cabinets: A Fresh Take on a Classic Look