So you’ve got honey oak cabinets, and you’re staring at paint swatches like they hold the secrets of the universe. Been there!

Here’s the thing about Anew Gray Pianted Cabinets that I’ve come to understand while working on my sister’s kitchen: they’re like that friend who gets along with everyone at the party.

This dreamy, chameleon-like gray doesn’t compete with your wood tones. Instead, it gives them a refined backdrop to shine.

Why Anew Gray and Honey Oak Cabinets Are Such a Good Pair

Think of Anew Gray as the best wingman for your honey oak cabinets. This isn’t just any gray; it’s got warm undertones that whisper sweet nothings to those golden wood grains.

Comparing grays from Sherwin-Williams, such as Agreeable Gray and Anew Gray, reveals how they complement other shades.

It’s got just enough beige in its DNA to complement those warm wood tones without clashing.

The result is that my sister’s cabinets look intentional, not like a relic from 1995.

Plus, this color shifts beautifully throughout the day. Morning light makes it feel fresh and airy, while evening gives it a cozy vibe. It’s like having two different kitchens in one.

Anew Gray with Honey Oak Cabinets

1. Light It Up Right

Your lighting can make or break this pairing. Warm white LED bulbs around 3000K bring out Anew Gray’s beautiful undertones while making your honey oak look rich and intentional.

Cool lighting? That’s trouble. Those crisp 5000K+ bulbs will turn your oak orange and make Anew Gray look cold and blue. Under-cabinet strips are game-changers, too; they make your oak grain pop with gorgeous warm light.

2. Hardware Matters

Time to ditch that original brass hardware. It’s sending mixed 1995 vibes with your modern gray walls.

Oil-rubbed bronze splits the difference perfectly, warm enough for oak, graceful enough for gray. Matte black creates a stunning contrast and feels totally current.

Pick your lane and stick with it throughout the space. My sister’s cabinet pulls, faucet, and light fixtures all speak the same language now.

3. Add White Accents

White is the perfect mediator between honey oak and Anew Gray. It gives both colors breathing room and prevents things from feeling too heavy.

Fresh white trim is non-negotiable; yellowed builder white throws off your whole classy vibe. White subway tile backsplash bridges the gap beautifully.

Consider painting upper cabinets white for that trendy two-toned look while keeping your oak lowers as the star.

4. Layer Your Textures

Texture adds personality and depth to your perfect color combo. Natural materials work best here.

A jute rug grounds the space while linen curtains add softness. Woven baskets on open shelving bring function and style.

Mix smooth and rough textures; your sleek walls need contrast from chunky knit throws, rough wooden cutting boards, or textured ceramics.

5. Don’t Forget the Ceiling

The ceiling is your fifth wall, and ignoring it is a missed opportunity.

Paint it a shade lighter than your Anew Gray walls for cohesive grace, or go bold with crisp white for contrast: it makes your space feel taller and brighter.

Update your ceiling fixtures, too. A dated light can undo all your beautiful choices. Choose something that complements your new vibe, sleek pendants, modern flush mounts, or recessed lighting with those perfect warm bulbs.

Tips and Tricks That Make All the Difference

Sometimes it’s the little things that turn a good room into a great one. These insider tricks will take your Anew Gray and honey oak combo from nice to “wow, who’s your designer?”

• Test paint in different spots: Anew Gray can look completely different on a north-facing wall versus one that gets afternoon sun. Paint large swatches and live with them for a week.
• Use the 60-30-10 rule: Let Anew Gray dominate (60%), honey oak be your secondary (30%), and add a pop color as your accent (10%). Maybe sage green or navy blue?
• Mirror placement is everything: Position mirrors to reflect light onto your cabinets. It’ll improve those beautiful wood grains and make the space feel bigger.
• Layer your lighting: Ambient, task, and accent lighting each play a role. Under-cabinet strips make your oak glow, while pendant lights add personality.
• Bring in plants: Greenery looks incredible against both gray walls and honey oak. Snake plants, pothos, or herb gardens add life and freshness to the space.

Conclusion

Anew Gray brings out their best qualities while giving your space a fresh, modern feel.

This pairing proves you don’t need a full kitchen renovation to get a completely new look. Sometimes it’s about working with what you’ve got and making smart choices.

So grab that paintbrush and get ready to fall in love with your kitchen all over again!