Undertones
The first step to selecting the perfect white for your space is understanding that all white paint colors have undertones; some yellow, some gray, some peach, some blue, and so on. These undertones are not super obvious when you look at the white paint on its own but are enhanced when placed alongside other items in the space such as countertops, backsplash, wall color, etc. Choose the paint color for the cabinetry last, once all of the other selections have been made. This approach will make it easier to see which white paint will work best for your kitchen.
Lighting
Another key consideration is lighting. While most of your initial selections will be made within showrooms or at stores, it is important to look at your final selections together in your home before officially committing. The natural lighting your space gets in addition to the existing ambient and task lighting can make selections look different than they did under the fluorescent lighting under which they were likely initially selected. Looking at your paint options in your home during different times of the day is also a good idea. It will allow you to see firsthand how the color may change throughout the day. Because the color you select will live in your home day in and day out, considering your home and its unique lighting will give you a realistic preview of the final results.
Wood Species
Finish samples are also very important. Cabinets can be made out of many different wood species all of which have their undertones. For example, cherry wood has red undertones, while walnut has a more brown tone. It is imperative to have a sample made with the color you select painted on the wood species you will be getting. If you are painting your existing cabinets, paint a small portion of one of the cabinets, let it dry, then see what you think before pulling the trigger on the whole space.
