Renovating a kitchen can be one of the most daunting tasks when designing a home—but not for these AD100 decorators. Their imaginations are sparked by the infinite array of palette combinations that can be expressed through wall paint, backsplashes, countertops, cabinets, and even flooring. Each element conveys personality in the most used room in the home. While many of our favorite designers prefer crisp, white kitchens, others explore deep, moody hues as accents. For Shawn Henderson, black and white is a popular combination that “always makes an incredibly chic and strong statement.” When it comes to adding glamour, Jamie Drake suggests using gold for countertops and storage. “Why not make the kitchen cocktail-party-friendly by using gold accents?” he asks—or rather, dares—us.

View the slideshow to see how these 19 designers approach color for the kitchen in their own unique way.