Looking to brighten up your kitchen with a fresh coat of paint? The versatile white color Chantilly Lace has become increasingly popular for kitchen cabinets. This soft, cool-toned white can lend kitchens a bright, airy feeling. But is it the right choice for your space?
With its barely-there gray and blue undertones, Chantilly Lace reads as a clean, crisp white without appearing sterile. While many stark whites can feel cold or clinical, Chantilly Lace has enough depth to feel welcoming. Its soft cool tone creates a relaxing vibe, perfect for winding down in after a long day.
What is Chantilly Lace Paint?
Chantilly Lace is a pristine white paint color with subtle hints of blue and gray. It has an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 81, meaning it reflects a significant amount of light. While still quite bright, it is not as stark or sterile as brighter whites like Extra White or White Dove.
Compared to other popular whites, Chantilly Lace is crisper and cooler than warmer paint colors like Swiss Coffee or Vanilla Custard. It lacks the yellow undertones of those colors. Chantilly Lace is lighter and brighter than popular greige colors like Revere Pewter or Agreeable Gray.
Why Use Chantilly Lace for Kitchen Cabinets?
There are several benefits to choosing Chantilly Lace paint for your kitchen cabinets:
- It brightens up the space, reflecting light and creating an airier feel.
- The cool crisp white provides a clean, versatile backdrop for accent colors.
- It coordinates beautifully with a variety of design styles from modern to traditional.
- Chantilly Lace complements both cool and warm color schemes.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks with Chantilly Lace kitchen cabinets to keep in mind:
- Like any crisp white, it does show dirt, dust, and grime more easily than darker paint colors.
- The lack of bold color may feel limiting in terms of design options.
- Its appearance can change quite drastically in different lighting conditions.
Design Ideas for Chantilly Lace Kitchens
When working with a cool, subtle white like Chantilly Lace it is essential to incorporate texture and accent colors to add visual interest. Here are some tips:
Color Coordination
While cool-toned white cabinets can look stunning with Chantilly Lace walls, it’s crucial to ensure they complement each other well. Consider these color coordination strategies:
- Under-cabinet lighting highlights the cabinets, making the colors stand out.
- Hardware in a coordinating or contrasting tone adds pops of color.
- Colorful accents like a tile backsplash tie the whole space together.
Texture
Chantilly Lace is smooth and clean, so texture adds necessary depth. Try these textural elements:
- Natural butcher block island
- Subway tile or stone backsplash
- Cozy textured rugs and window treatments
Design Styles
Chantilly Lace works well with these popular kitchen styles:
- Modern: Pair with bold colors and materials like stainless steel.
- Transitional: Warm woods and accent colors keep it relaxed yet sophisticated.
- Farmhouse: Butcher block and open shelving add rustic charm.
Best Practices for Painting with Chantilly Lace
Achieving an elegant, flawless Chantilly Lace finish requires proper preparation and application:
Surface Prep
- Clean surfaces thoroughly then sand to rough up the finish.
- Prime using a high-quality primer like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3.
Application Tips
- Use a high-quality tapered trim brush for cutting in edges.
- Roll on paint using a short nap or foam roller.
- Apply two coats minimum for best coverage.
Finish Options
- Eggshell finish minimizes scuffs on cabinets.
- Consider a richer finish like satin on lower cabinets.
Our Verdict: Ideal for Bright, Airy Kitchens
In summary, Chantilly Lace offers a gorgeous, versatile white for kitchen cabinets. The barely-there gray undertones provide depth without appearing stark. It creates a relaxed yet sophisticated look.
We feel Chantilly Lace works best in kitchens with plenty of natural light. For darker spaces, it may read too cool and crisp. Combine it with warm woods, black hardware, and pops of color for balance. And don’t shy away from texture – it brings life to the subtle white.
Carefully prep cabinets and opt for an eggshell finish to minimize visible scuffs and fingerprints. Test paint samples first to ensure the white appears as desired in your specific lighting. With proper application, Chantilly Lace provides a breathtaking, light-filled kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions about Chantilly Lace
Does Chantilly Lace have blue undertones?
Yes, Chantilly Lace has very subtle cool undertones of blue and gray. This keeps it from reading as stark white.
What paint finish should I use with Chantilly Lace?
An eggshell finish is ideal for kitchen cabinets in high-traffic areas. It helps conceal scuffs while still providing a hint of sheen.
Chantilly Lace is very versatile. Look for crisp cool colors like light blues, greens, and grays. But warm neutrals and even bold, vivid colors can also pair nicely.
