The same cabinet can look different in the same room depending on the various sources and types of light in the room. Light impacts cabinet color by shifting its perceived undertones, vibrancy and depth based on the light’s temperature and source. In this post we will explore how light impacts cabinet color.
At the heart of the matter is that paint and stain reflect light rather than emit it. How that light is reflected depends on the source and attributes related to that light source. For example, the same cabinet can look drastically different under morning sunlight compared to artificial light. When choosing a cabinet finish, it is critical that you have sample of the finish so you can see how it will look depending on different light in the same room.
The illustration below demonstrates two cabinets that are the same color. However, the cabinet to the left is largely lit by a natural light. The cabinet to the right is mostly lit by artificial light. To an untrained eye, one might think the cabinets were painted in different colors.
There are three characteristics that most impact the color of the cabinet:
- Natural Light & Orientation
- Artificial Light Temperature
- Finish & Intensity
Let’s explore each.
Natural Light & Orientation
The direction your kitchen faces determines the “truest” color profile of your cabinets throughout the day.
- North-Facing: Receives consistent but cooler, bluish light. This can make warm colors look flatter and cool colors (like gray or navy) look even colder.
- South-Facing: Flooded with intense, warm light all day. This makes dark colors appear brighter but can make light-colored cabinets feel overly stark.
- East-Facing: Very warm and bright in the morning, turning cooler and cast in shadows by the afternoon.
- West-Facing: Dull and shadowy in the morning, but bathed in an intense, warm orange-red glow by the evening.
Artificial Light Temperature
Artificial bulbs are measured in Kelvins (K), and their temperature can intentionally enhance or correct your cabinet’s appearance.
- Warm Light (2700K–3500K): Emits a yellow/red glow. It enhances earthy tones like wood grains and beiges, but can make cool-toned cabinets (like crisp whites or blues) look sallow or muted.
- Natural/Neutral/Daylight (3500K–5000K): Mimics natural daylight and is the best choice for seeing cabinet colors as they truly are.
- Cool Light (5000K+): Has a bluish tint. It makes white cabinets look sharp and modern, but can exaggerate “cold” undertones in gray or navy, sometimes making them feel clinical.
Prime Cabinetry has blog that clearly demonstrates how different artificial lighting impacts the perceived color of the cabinets.
Finish & Intensity
The physical properties of the cabinet finish also dictate how it interacts with light.
- Glossy Finishes: Reflect light, making colors appear more vibrant and energetic, especially in bright rooms.
- Matte Finishes: Absorb light, keeping colors softer, more stable, and better at hiding small imperfections.
- Intensity: Brighter light increases contrast and vibrancy, while softer, dimmed lighting creates moodier, more subdued tones.
The illustrations below illustration how a matte finish on the left absorbs light creating a softer look. On the right the gloss finish reflects the light creating a more vibrant space.
Bishop cabinets offers paints, stains and Modern Materials (Thermally Fused Laminates) in many colors and sheens. Those finishes will look different depending on the light in the room. We can’t stress enough how important it is to observe finish samples in your home prior to purchasing.
About Bishop Cabinets
Bishop Cabinets has been manufacturing for over 60 years. Click here to learn more about our capabilities and latest offerings that align with the latest trends in cabinet finishes.
Our Vision Statement
“To create beautiful and functional cabinets through innovation, growth, and a commitment to keep family values at the core of everything we do.”