Designing a restaurant kitchen involves more than just choosing the right equipment and layout—the colours you select for the space play a crucial role in creating a functional, hygienic, and visually appealing environment. The right restaurant kitchen colours can impact everything from staff productivity to the overall cleanliness of the space. For restaurant owners in New Zealand, this Jim’s Painting guide will help you understand how to choose the best colours for your kitchen while aligning with modern trends.
Why Colours Matter in Restaurant Kitchens
Colour psychology isn’t just for front-of-house spaces. The colours in your kitchen can:
- Enhance productivity – Certain colours, such as soft yellows and greens, create an energising yet calming atmosphere for staff.
- Convey cleanliness – Light and neutral tones emphasise cleanliness and hygiene, which is essential for health and safety standards.
- Reduce stress – Muted colours can help reduce stress in high-pressure kitchen environments.
- Reflect your brand – The kitchen is an extension of your restaurant’s identity, and its colours should complement the overall aesthetic.
With these benefits in mind, let’s explore the best restaurant kitchen paint colours and how to use them effectively.
Best Colours for Restaurant Kitchens
1. Bright Whites – The Ultimate Classic
White is a go-to choice for restaurant kitchens because it conveys cleanliness and simplicity. Bright white walls make a space feel larger and allow staff to spot dirt or spills instantly. When paired with stainless steel appliances and countertops, white creates a professional and modern look.
Tip: Use a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish to make walls easy to clean and resistant to stains.
2. Neutral Tones – Versatile and Timeless
Neutral tones like beige, light grey, and soft taupe are perfect for creating a balanced and calming kitchen environment. These colours pair well with most materials, making them a practical choice for any restaurant style.
Popular combinations: Pair light grey walls with darker flooring or cabinets for a modern contrast.
3. Soft Blues – Calm and Collected
Soft blue shades, such as sky blue or powder blue, bring a sense of calm to busy kitchens. They can help reduce stress among staff while adding a subtle touch of colour to the space. Blues also pair well with white or grey accents for a clean, cohesive look.
Best for: Seafood restaurants or establishments with a coastal theme.
4. Energising Yellows – Boost Productivity
Yellow is known for its uplifting and energising qualities. Using a soft, buttery yellow can make your kitchen feel warm and welcoming while keeping your staff motivated. Be cautious with overly bright shades, as they can become overwhelming in a high-activity environment.
Where to use: Consider adding yellow as an accent colour on walls or trim rather than using it as the primary colour.
5. Earthy Greens – Fresh and Inviting
Earthy greens, like sage or olive, create a natural and organic vibe in the kitchen. These colours can inspire creativity and connect the kitchen space to fresh, sustainable ingredients.
Ideal for: Farm-to-table restaurants or those focusing on healthy dining options.
6. Black and Charcoal – Sophisticated Accents
While dark colours like black or charcoal aren’t typically used as the primary kitchen colour, they make excellent accent tones for cabinetry, shelving, or trim. When paired with lighter shades, dark accents add depth and a sense of sophistication.
Pro tip: Use matte finishes to prevent fingerprints and smudges from showing up on darker surfaces.
How to Choose the Right Paint Colours for Your Restaurant Kitchen
1. Consider Functionality
Functionality should always be the priority in a commercial kitchen. Choose durable paint finishes that are easy to clean and resistant to moisture and heat. Semi-gloss and high-gloss paints are ideal for high-traffic areas, as they withstand wear and tear better than matte finishes.
2. Match Your Brand
Your restaurant’s kitchen colours should reflect your brand’s identity. For instance, if your restaurant’s theme is modern and sleek, opt for neutral tones or soft blues. If you focus on fresh and natural ingredients, greens and earth tones are a great fit.
3. Assess Lighting
Lighting plays a critical role in how colours appear in your kitchen. Test paint samples under both natural and artificial lighting to ensure the colours look consistent throughout the day.
4. Balance Aesthetics and Practicality
While it’s tempting to choose bold or trendy colours, practicality is key in a restaurant kitchen. Opt for colours that promote cleanliness and won’t show stains or grease easily.
5. Think About Space Size
If your kitchen is small, lighter colours like white or soft pastels can make the space feel larger. For larger kitchens, you can experiment with darker tones to create a more grounded and cohesive look.
Trends in Restaurant Kitchen Colours for 2025
Eco-Friendly Palettes
Sustainability is a growing trend in New Zealand, and eco-friendly palettes featuring greens, browns, and off-whites are becoming popular. These colours align with environmentally conscious values and create a natural, earthy ambiance.
Minimalist Neutrals
Minimalism continues to dominate in 2025, with restaurant owners favouring neutral palettes that emphasize simplicity and functionality. Think white walls paired with natural wood cabinetry or metal accents.
Custom Branding Colours
More restaurants are incorporating custom branding colours into their kitchens, ensuring consistency between front-of-house and back-of-house spaces. This approach reinforces brand identity and creates a cohesive design.
Where to Apply Colour in a Restaurant Kitchen
- Walls
Choose lighter colours for the walls to create an open and inviting feel. For accent walls, consider a slightly darker shade to add depth. - Cabinetry and Shelving
Paint cabinets in neutral or bold colours to add personality without overwhelming the space. - Ceilings
Don’t neglect the ceiling—a light colour can make the space feel taller, while a bold colour adds a unique design element. - Flooring
While flooring is typically more functional than decorative, its colour should complement the overall palette. Darker flooring hides stains and wears better than lighter shades.
Tips for Maintaining Restaurant Kitchen Paint
- Use Durable Paint Finishes
Semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes are easier to clean and resist stains better than flat or matte paints. - Regular Cleaning
Keep walls and surfaces clean to maintain a fresh and professional appearance. Use appropriate cleaning products to avoid damaging the paint. - Schedule Touch-Ups
Even with durable paint, high-traffic areas may require occasional touch-ups to keep them looking their best. - Consult Professionals
Hire experienced commercial painters who understand the unique demands of commercial kitchens. They can recommend the best products and techniques for long-lasting results.
Conclusion
Choosing the best colours for your restaurant kitchen involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and brand alignment. From classic whites to calming blues and energising yellows, the right colours can create a productive and hygienic environment while complementing your restaurant’s overall design.
Ready to transform your restaurant kitchen? Jim’s Painting NZ specialises in professional commercial painting services tailored to commercial spaces. Whether you need durable finishes or expert advice on colour selection, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today at 0800-454-654 to discuss your project!