Color scheme books are handy when you can't afford a full-on remodel. Although if you are looking for big changes, this book also goes into color options for countertops and fixtures and tile rather than just paint on the walls.

One downside is that it does assume you have the sort of kitchen "where family and dear friends gather, talk, relax, cook, and perhaps enjoy a glass of wine at the end of a long day." A lot of us have a kitchen without space for even the cook to sit down, let alone host a gathering. It would be nice to find a book with ideas for cramped kitchens too.

The section with before-and-after photos where the only change is from white walls to colored was very helpful and thus way too short. Useful tips on how the sorts of lighting will change the color and even a warning to take into account any colorblind family members.

A wider range of styles and tastes than these books usually offer, maybe because this one isn't tied to a specific magazine. ( )