Should Bathroom and Kitchen Cabinets Match?

The Case Against Matching Cabinets: The Pros 

1. Style Cohesiveness and Flow 

Matching your bathroom and kitchen cabinets can create a sense of design consistency throughout your home. For example, you can choose the same style of cabinetry but opt for different countertop materials to add visual interest while still maintaining a cohesive look. Or, you can select the same style of cabinetry but with different finishes, such as painted cabinets in the bathroom and stained cabinets in the kitchen. This approach is particularly popular and effective in homes with open floor plans, where a seamless flow between spaces is desired.

2. Higher Resale Value 

Consistent cabinetry throughout your home can positively impact its resale value. Potential buyers often appreciate a well-coordinated and cohesive design. It suggests a well-maintained and thoughtfully designed home. Matching cabinets can create a sense of unity and sophistication that appeals to a wider range of buyers.

3. Cost Efficiencies 

By choosing the same style and finish for both your bathroom and kitchen, you can simplify the ordering, production, and delivery processes. This approach can also make the decision-making process easier because there are fewer items to consider. Secondly, if you ever need to replace a cabinet or door in the future, having matching cabinets can make it easier to find a perfect match. Plus, purchasing cabinets in bulk for both rooms may result in cost savings from your supplier.

The Case Against Matching Cabinets: The Cons

1. Limited Choices 

While matching cabinets can create a cohesive look, it may also limit your design choices. If you choose the same style and finish in both rooms, you might miss out on the opportunity to create unique and personalized spaces. Matching cabinets can also lead to a sense of monotony, especially if you have a large home with multiple bathrooms and a spacious kitchen.

2. Higher Cost 

Depending on your chosen style and finish, matching cabinets across multiple rooms can be more expensive than selecting different options for each space. Higher-end materials and finishes can also be more costly when applied to a larger area, like the bathroom and kitchen.

3. Wear and Tear 

Bathrooms and kitchens have different levels of humidity, moisture, and usage, which can affect the wear and tear on your cabinets. If you choose the same cabinets for both rooms, you may find that the cabinets in one room show signs of aging or damage more quickly than the other, leading to a mismatched appearance over time.

Tips and Considerations

1. Proximity of Spaces 

Consider the proximity between your bathroom and kitchen when deciding whether to match your cabinets. If the spaces are close together or visible from one another, matching or complementary colors and finishes can create a more harmonious look.

2. Bathroom Size 

The size of your bathroom can also influence your cabinetry choice. In smaller bathrooms, using lighter colors or glazed finishes can help prevent the space from feeling cramped or stuffy. Matching your bathroom cabinets to a darker kitchen cabinet might not be the best choice in this case.

3. Functionality 

When selecting cabinets, don’t forget to consider what’s practical. For example, if you have young children, you may want to choose a more durable and low-maintenance cabinet material for your bathrooms, while opting for a more delicate or intricate design in your kitchen.

4. Home Style 

Look at your home's overall style when deciding on cabinetry. Aim for consistency in style across your different vanities, even if they don't match exactly. You can mix elements from different design eras while still maintaining a cohesive look by using the same color palette, complementary countertop materials, and cohesive fixtures and backsplashes.

Ultimately, the decision to match your bathroom and kitchen cabinets depends on your personal preferences, budget, and overall home style. While matching cabinets can create a cohesive and sophisticated look, it's not the only option. Combining different but complementary styles and finishes can also result in a beautiful and personalized space. The key is to find a balance that works for you and your home.

Professional Consultation

If you're still unsure about whether to match your bathroom and kitchen cabinets, consider consulting with a design professional or cabinetry specialist. They can assess your space, listen to your preferences, and provide expert recommendations based on your unique situation. Many design and cabinetry professionals offer in-home consultations, 3D renderings, and material samples to help you visualize your options and make an informed decision.

In the end, the most important thing is to create a home that you love and that reflects your personal style. Whether you choose to match your bathroom and kitchen cabinets or choose a mix of complementary styles, the goal is to create a space that is both beautiful and functional for you and your family.