Planning a kitchen renovation is such a challenging task. You have to think about the pairing, design, and cost. The most important and costly component in a kitchen is cabinetry. It takes around 35% to 40% of the total. Today, we see two famous colors mainly used for kitchen cabinets. Black and white. Both provide a classical, elegant, and unique look. Which one works well depends on your visual preferences.
Black attracts many homeowners. It makes a bold, shady look that really brings something unique to the kitchen. Some pair them with matching shades, while a few use them in a contemporary style in contrast. If you like black cabinetry or are thinking of remodeling your kitchen, this guide shows whether it costs more than white. This factor plays an important role in finalizing the decision. Therefore, we will learn about the cost comparison between black and white cabinetry and the reasons for the cost variation.
Price Comparison of Black vs White Kitchen Cabinets
The comparison below shows which cabinetry is more expensive with the help of real-time stats:
| Cabinet Type | Black Cabinets (Per Linear Foot) | White Cabinets (Per Linear Foot) | Difference |
| Stock Cabinets | $150 to $300 | $100 to $250 | Black costs slightly more |
| Semi Custom Cabinets | $300 to $650 | $250 to $600 | Both prices are close |
| Custom Cabinets | $650 to $1,200 | $600 to $1,100 | Minimal difference |
| Painted Finish | $200 to $500 | $150 to $400 | Black finish costs a bit more |
| Thermofoil Finish | $100 to $250 | $80 to $200 | Black wins |
| Wood Stained Cabinets | $400 to $900 | $350 to $800 | Very similar range |
| High Gloss Finish | $500 to $1,000 | $400 to $900 | Black gloss costs more |
| Matte Finish | $300 to $700 | $250 to $650 | Small price difference |
Black Kitchen Cabinets Are More Expensive Than White
Black kitchen cabinets can cost more compared to white cabinets. And many homeowners think the same. However, it does happen in all cases. Sometimes their prices are similar, especially when the cabinets are of the same quality, brand, and material. This directly indicates the factors that influence the price.
The thought of “black drawers are too expensive” comes to mind when we see black cabinets in luxury kitchens. To practice high-end remodels, many homeowners pick them. This way, they achieve a visually appealing look without spending much. Commonly, this is why homeowners generally consider black cabinetry a high-priced choice. But the truth is, color alone does not determine whether cabinetry costs more. Other factors also increase or decrease the price, including:
- Wood used for cabinets
- The hardware
- The brand
- Drawer panels
- Customization Level
For instance, traditional black ready-made cabinetry costs less than black modern customized cabinets.
In the market, you can find black drawers that are higher in price than white ones, while others aren’t. And the reason can be:
- They have a more premium, quality finish.
- Some manufacturers charge more for specific color options.
- Black cabinets are sometimes sold only in a luxury collection.
- The materials and craftsmanship may differ between two cabinets that look similar.
- Availability and demand also influence pricing.
How Color Affects Cabinet Pricing
Now, we will understand how color is more than just a visual choice. Knowing it helps show its importance in cabinet pricing. So let’s get started reading:
Paint and Finish
You may note that the light, minimal paints do not require as many coats as darker ones. For a smooth, even finish, multiple coats of black paint are applied to cabinet surfaces. More flaws can become visible in some areas that require more labor and time during production. They are not as forgiving as lighter shades. Therefore, their production costs can be slightly higher.
Pigment
Deep color pigments are more concentrated than lighter ones. This can also increase manufacturing costs, especially for custom and semi-custom cabinets, where the finish is applied carefully and precisely.
Protection and Coating
On dark cabinets, fingerprints, dust, and scratches are more visible. For this reason, some manufacturers give them a fresh sealing and protection layer. This makes them look good over time and reduces such visual marks. It can be the reason why they ask for more money than others.
Market Demand
The most affected factor is the trend, and black drawers are gradually becoming popular for kitchens and bathrooms. When something comes into demand, its price increases automatically. Luckily, some brands also give discounts on homeowners’ requests.
When White Cabinets Can Cost More Than Black
Black cabinets may feel pricier, but white cabinets have their own cost factors. That can easily match or even exceed that pricing. Here is how this actually happens:
Flawless Finishing
A finish that is properly even and clean is harder to achieve than it looks. The fingerprints and smudges may not show on them, but the yellowish tint or imperfect coat immediately becomes prominent. When they require more effort, they cost more.
Custom White Shades are not Cheap
The local, basic whites may be cheaper than black cabinetry, but the specific, customized ones are not. Common examples include warm white, antique white, and cream. They are considered a custom color that the fabricators make on order. And custom products always make you pay extra, no matter how simple the color seems.
White Lacquer and Shaker Styles
As I mentioned before, the cabinet design and type play a significant role in price beyond just color. Shaker style has secured a position in the market over the years. And with white lacquer, their price can be similar to that of black-finish cabinets.
Maintenance Cost
White cabinets can have grease, stains, and discoloration with the passage of time, especially in a busy kitchen. You feel the real cost that many white cabinet owners face when you repaint and refinish them after a few years. And black cabinets hardly have such issues.
Which One Provides Value?
If you’re deciding between white and black kitchen cabinets, understanding their long-term value can help you make the right investment. Black cabinets also offer aesthetic appeal, but they may require more maintenance. And some buyers don’t like such darker colors. So, both increase home value over time. You should choose cabinets that align with your preferences, visual goals, and overall kitchen coordination, including complementary kitchen accessories.
Black cabinets perform well if you are looking for something bold, eye-catching, and modern for your kitchen. White cabinets are a good choice if you like a clean, warm, and inviting appeal. And when resale value is important to you. No drawers will prove the wrong choice if they are easy to maintain and give your dream look.
Transform Your Kitchen and bath Into a Masterpiece with our premium cabinets
Creating beautiful, functional spaces with custom cabinetry that combines innovative design with superior craftsmanship. From concept to completion, we bring your vision to life.
Kitchen Design
Custom Cabinets remodels
Bathroom Design
Vanities & storage solutions
3D Design
Visualize before you build
Installation
Professional & precise
Black Kitchen Cabinets FAQs
Here are the answers to some common questions about the black kitchen cabinetry:
In which kitchen style do black cabinets work best?
Black cabinets can be used in modern, industrial, and minimalist kitchen styles. They feel complementary when you coordinate them thoughtfully with surrounding components. In contrast, they give a minimal, balanced, contemporary, and statement look. Using them with similar shades creates a darker, more aesthetic, and sleeker kitchen appearance.
Do black cabinets make a kitchen look smaller?
Yes. Black cabinetry is a dark tone that can make a kitchen feel compact, especially in a space with no natural light. Use proper lighting, bright walls, or reflective countertops if you want to install them in a small kitchen.
Are black cabinets harder to install?
No, they do not require any special treatment for placement, whether as lower cabinets or upper cabinets. They can be installed in the same way as other color cabinets. But the designers may need to consider lighting and layout carefully to avoid the space feeling smaller visually.
What countertop is commonly used for black kitchen cabinets?
This depends on the effect you want to achieve. Solid wood, MDF, laminate, and thermofoil naturally combine with black kitchen cabinets. The most common materials I see used with them are quartz, black granite, marble, and soapstone.
Do black cabinets go out of style quickly?
No, black cabinets can not go out of style. They are considered classic drawers to balance an all-white kitchen look or to make a bold statement. Cabinet style trends can change, but not the color when used thoughtfully and in a planned way.
Visit Our Showroom!
Experience the Tivoli Design Group’s showroom in Pine Brook, NJ. Discover our wide collection of kitchen cabinets, countertops, tiles, and accessories all in one place. Call Now!
Final Words
Today’s article highlights that black cabinets are more expensive when their design is premium. The pricing is enhanced by the quality of the finish, material durability, and precise craftsmanship. So, white cabinetry pricing can be the same when it’s custom-made, features demanding panels, and uses quality materials. This shows that the paint or color is not the only factor that decides which cabinets will be more expensive.
The right choice for your kitchen depends on your style, budget, and the quality of your cabinet installations. Refinishing cabinetry at resale time is a pro tip for those who prioritize resale value. No doubt both colors will remain in style for years. But personally, I feel that the matte black cabinet look gets more attention. We expect that it will become a common color in all kitchen styles, instead of just luxury and modern.
