Is there a color more universally associated with happiness than yellow? It can represent energy, excitement, and strength too – but as far as cheerful accent colors go, yellow is possibly the strongest candidate out there. This post looks at two homes with otherwise neutral palettes effectively brightened by small yellow accents . The first home enjoys a creative and artistic style with vivid lemon yellow accessories and architectural details. The second home shows off a minimalist all-white interior with a single pale yellow focal point that transforms the entire atmosphere.
Visualizer:Olya Berkova
First, let’s take a tour through an apartment in Minsk. Olya Berkova visualized this interior style for a young family with an active lifestyle and that intense energy reflects through every detail. Its neutral palette utilizes the blue side of the grayscale spectrum, using its natural contrast value to make the exciting yellow accents stand out even more. It’s filled with artwork and fabulous geometric patterns, soft furniture and sharp decoration.
The artwork is edgy and fun, sometimes monochromatic and sometimes bright yellow.
It’s also incredibly current on a number of trends, taking the vertical wood niche to the next level by stretching it from floor to ceiling and including a warm faux fireplace beneath the television. The poufs and nesting tables are always in style.
Brighter yellows emphasize functional focal points, like the sofa and the television housing. Lighter yellows make up the primary accents such as the pale tones used on the rugs and curtains.
Throughout the home, you’ll notice creative fixtures from the prolific lighting company XAL. Featured here are long panels from the MINIMAL LED line.
A sturdy barn-inspired sliding door makes it easy to conceal the office.
Very cute! This spacious closet uses bold blocks of color for a bold effect – rather than trying to make the storage blend in like so many minimalistic homes, this one uses its utilitarian features for artistic expression.
You don’t need to paint a wall to participate in the chalkboard wall trend. This chalkboard is made from a simple painted board or canvas, easy to recreate at home.
In close proximity, the kitchen and dining spaces remain distinctly divided by the transition of flooring materials and a bright yellow border that outlines the table area. The two spaces do share some elements, like the bookshelf that could be used to store items intended for use in either area.
Small prints of typography, architectural drawings, abstract art, and symbols make an interesting focal point above the cozy corner bench.
A small herb garden brightens the windowsill. Subtle marble countertops draw a sharp contrast against the matte black cabinet faces below, making the marble look even more radiant in the sunlight.
Another smart source of contrast comes from the square overhead cabinets and the cylindrical stove hood.
Glass doors maintain an open line of sight between the dining and living spaces while adding a sound barrier to use when needed.
Wood and stone give the compact bathroom an outdoorsy vibe updated with contemporary fixtures and minimalistic hardware. Its organic theme stands apart from the pop art vibe throughout the rest of the home.
It’s simple, spare, and stylish.
Angular elements ensure the bathroom retains its streamlined aesthetic. Circular features like the vessel sink and the creative mirror arrangement contribute to its lighthearted appeal.
Visualizer:Alain Ponkratova
This next apartment concept was visualized by Alain Ponkratova for a young man with smart tastes. Exposed brick and light wood floors set a comfortable scene, its monochromatic interior brightened by the presence of a delightful lemon yellow sofa. The only color comes from this single sofa and a few vibrant stacks of books but these expertly applied details make all the difference. Fine art and sculptural accessories accentuate certain focal points where needed.
Fun patterns keep things exciting, from the bold prints on the pillows and rug to the subtle shape of the ceramics. Stylish nesting tables ensure the space retains its fresh and open feeling with streamlined legs for a lighter look.
Of course, it’s hard to have a home this sharp without some extra space for storage. These cabinets are sleek and simple with a single wooden panel to spice things up.
The circular wine holder makes a nice display piece. Decor that serves a purpose is a welcome addition to any table.
A bookshelf beneath the television shares some of the living room’s decor with the dining room, while creating an implied division between the two areas.
Another implied boundary comes from the transition from the living room rug to the stripe of wood flooring for the dining space and finally geometric white tiles in the kitchen.
Much like how the living room featured a bold stripe of black, the kitchen also makes a striking impression with its row of black cabinet faces that frame the workspace so well.
Glossy white cabinets, a glass range hood, and wooden backsplash perfectly follow the apartment’s material theme.
The chairs, of course, are a mid-century design by Charles and Ray Eames.
From this angle, it’s easy to see that the home doesn’t have a sprawling floorplan. Yet it pulls off a spacious aesthetic through simplicity and carefully tailored design.
Here’s a peek at the entryway – it’s incredibly bright and minimalistic, offering a dramatic and refreshing first impression to visitors.
As spectacular of an effect the bright yellow sofa created in the living room, the subtle yellow tones of the white wine seem to offer a fitting parting view.
Do you love cantilever architecture? This home features a dramatic contrast between heavy forms and open voids, balancing its weight as if to taunt gravity while offering borderless interactions with the world outdoors. The architects and interior designers at NOTT visualized this concept for a residential property in Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine, and the result sparks a sense of curiosity in a the most wonderful way. An expanse of glass wraps around each side of the first level shielded only in select places by natural wood cladding, hiding a comfortable and welcoming interior within. And the views? Spectacular from every angle!
The outdoor dining area also enjoys overhead cover, illuminated by recessed lighting for easy entertainment at night. The pillars solidify the strong Le Corbusier influence at work here.
Dramatic and brilliantly composed through and through – and shows that there’s always more to explore in the world of minimalistic modern architecture.
Because the courtyard gardens are so uncomplicated and refined, even the slightest change in season would affect the color and shadows found among the stones. With each corner turned, something new reveals itself.
Although the gardens lack any vivacious blooms or especially exotic plants, these little recessed courtyards are sculptural in their beauty. Tending and tidying the stones offer a relaxing source of weekend meditation.
Imagine waking up in the bedroom that occupies this cantilever volume and experiencing the sunrise from its luxurious vantage point.
Even the paths to and from the house are covered for a pleasant experience anywhere on the property. With multiple points of access from anywhere on the grounds, the possibilities for interaction seem limitless.
Just gorgeous! While the kitchen island would ordinarily block the sun, this angled skylight bathes the kitchen workspace in warm and natural illumination.
Check out that incredible staircase between the firewood and the sofa arrangement.
While the pillars in the previous photo hinted at Le Corbusier, the open glass walls are more reminiscent of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
Architect:NOTT
Let’s start with an especially eye-catching scene. The upper volume looks mysterious and opaque from this angle, while the living room and kitchen are clearly visible through the large black-framed windows.
Generous overhang protects the patio seating arrangement from rain and harsh sun, and as demonstrated in this photo, provides a nice covered path for walking the dog or getting a little exercise.
There will never be a shadow in any corner long as the sun is shining thanks to the unique indoor/outdoor interplay.
Overlooking the manicured lawn and distant waterfront sits the spacious and comfortable dining table, furnished with Flow collection chairs by Jean-Marie Massaud and illuminated by a series of pendants.
In some rooms, the outdoors surrounds the occupant on all sides. Here, in front of one of many fireplaces, residents can keep an eye on kids playing in the pool or can soak up the light from the partially screened patio.
Each angle offers a unique perspective of the beautiful landscape outdoors.
Here’s our first peek into the interior. The theme is simple and minimalistic with light wood paneling and stone details. Here, the living room enjoys a bold rug and distinctive lighting choices including the iconic Fortuny stage lamp and a group of drawstring pendants.
Each outdoor seating area looks out onto a fantastic view, like the rock garden just across the patio from these cozy cocoon-like lounge chairs.
Three seating arrangements can accommodate a number of guests outdoors. And by sliding open some of the windows, the boundaries between indoors and out simply disappears.
Dark isn’t the first theme that comes to mind when designing a kitchen. Stereotypical assumptions are of white and bright kitchens matched by light wood—something like the color of breakfast pancakes. Have you ever thought otherwise? Perhaps something like a modern dark kitchen?
We’ve got a collection of stunning spaces sure to switch up your vision. This black kitchen design inspiration is the sexiest interior design can muster. All divulging in shades of black, navy, or dark brown, they add what white kitchens cannot—a seductive allure that says sleekness and sophistication at the same time. Take a peek at some brilliant interiors on the darker side to see if a modern luxury black kitchen could be for you.
Modern Dark Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire Your Next Renovation
1. Make it an All Black Kitchen
Visualizer:Design At Sketch
Almost completely covered in black, a few minor elements shine in chrome and wood in this kitchen interior. We love how the textures do the talking, especially through the matte table under black wood-panelled walls. But having an open approach like this means that every one of your accessories on display—including knives, wine glasses, mugs, cutting boards, teapots, cookie jars, etc.—need to be on point.
2. Add Wooden Elements
Visualizer:Bogdan Tovstyy
This black beauty edges towards wooden elements. We see a speckled floor, a white wall, and a central bench. Rounded black lamps hover over the island, providing functionality and style. If you’re wondering how visual intrigue is added to this modern black kitchen… a huge credit goes to the abstract art!
3. Complement the Black Kitchen with Orange
Source:Vancouver House
A bit of curve rounds out the hard edges—adding some much-needed warmth. This wave-design bench leads up to an orange-hued enclave in this black-and-silver interior. The burnt orange sure makes a design statement (apart from the unique central island).
4. Keep Your Dark Modern Kitchen Simple
Visualizer:Panda Fox Studios
A simplistic look makes this black kitchen a winner. We see the basics: a light floor, a black minimalist island, and sleek cabinetry. But the contrast between light and dark keeps the ambiance interesting, while the large window welcomes plenty of natural light.
5. Make it Dark… Or Not?
Visualizer:Who Cares Design
If you’re eyeing a dark kitchen aesthetic but are hesitant to make the change, this is it. Introducing more light, this black kitchen is hardly dark at all. Black benches, cabinetry, fixtures and stools are intersected by large-panel windows, a white shelving stand and light flooring.
6. Make Use of Asymmetry in the Black Modern Kitchen
Visualizer:Visual Method
This modern black kitchen takes another angle on this kaleidoscopic space, breaking all spatial boundaries. Black and glass alternate in this chic kitchen as the interesting ceiling design keeps the space unconventional. We’ve also got to appreciate the cherry blossoms, doubling as decor even within the interior.
7. Factor in Some Warmth
Source:Modulnova
This warmer-looking kitchen makes a move to brown. It strategically achieves the purpose with the use of wood. This not only introduces natural textures but also makes the ambiance inviting. Talk about a modern style that’s equal parts welcoming!
8. Place a White Island in a Black Modern Kitchen
Visualizer:Jean Regauer
An instant way to brighten up a dark kitchen (we mean, get the best of both worlds)? This kitchen space shows us how by using a white island on a black floor. The backsplash further enhances this dark-and-light effect, while the cowhide rug adds just the right amount of coziness.
9. Make Marble Your Best Friend
Architect:Chamberlain Javens Architects
If you’re looking to create a modern luxury black kitchen, you know what you’ve got to do: Go big on marble! This natural stone adds the luxe factor to any space, especially as a large, central island, as seen in the kitchen above. You can also add it through the backsplash.
10. Make it Mysterious
Visualizer:Tomek Michalski
You can double the visual intrigue in your all black kitchen by adding some mystery. In this kitchen, mood-lighting sets the scene in black and grey, while a marbled bench acts as the hero. The back inlet and flooring create contrast and depth. Taken together, these elements make the space an interesting one.
11. Layer Gray and Gold
Visualizer:Mitaka Dimov
Black kitchens are cool, but what if we layer in gray and add accents of gold? This stunning kitchen space uses gray flooring to add diversity to the otherwise black palette. The thick gold panel is one way that makes the space look incredibly high-end.
12. Add French Style to Black Kitchen Design
Visualizer:Aeroslon
Make your kitchen both modern and French with traditional black cabinetry. In this space, standing armoires act as sinks, and all other displayed items remain black. The stark white clock can surely act as the focal point of the space!
13. Consider Soft Elements
Visualizer:Julia Sultanova
Rough, light wood and low-hanging white lights set this kitchen interior a world apart. You can also notice a layer of light gray cabinetry, adding variation to the otherwise dark color palette. These elements factor in softness to the black kitchen design.
14. Let the Accessories Do the Talking
Photographer:Mikko Ryhänen
In this black-and-wood creation, the accessories take center stage in adorning the interior. We love the houseplant, but the crockery deserves a special mention for doubling as decor. The light oakwood backdrop further warms the space up.
15. Consider a Matte All Black Kitchen
Visualizer:HDR Designer
Neat square panels perfectly line up to emphasize the stark black minimalism that is at play here. We love how the cabinetry is matte black with no hardware, adding a sense of simplicity. The herb planters are a healthy green addition to bring the otherwise simple space.
16. Add Some Stencilling to Black Kitchens
Visualizer:Julia Sultanova
Fine lines and stencilling set this monochromatic space apart. Lined by black magnetic lights, black stencils and glossy white facades, it makes its mark on a light wooden floor.
17. Build a Shape Out of Black
Visualizer:Huso
18. Create a Modern Dark Kitchen with Gradients
Visualizer:Mario Nogueira
If you’re wondering how the intrigue in this space is working… It’s the gradients from black, to charcoal, to light grey. White surrounds in the walls and a monochromatic hanging light. This clever design technique makes sure the space is anything but boring, even if it’s using mere neutrals (minus the stunning orange dining chairs, of course).
19. Leverage Black Textures
Visualizer:Nefeli Kallianou
One instant way to add interest to a black kitchen is with textures, as seen in this metallic matte kitchen. This accounts for decorative presence in the light and bright space, providing character to an otherwise simple room.
20. Work on the Functionality of the Modern Dark Kitchen
Visualizer:İbrahim Ethem KISACIK
This dark modern kitchen makes sure it’s as functional as is stylish. The central island is paired with a black dining table, while all necessary appliances are fixed into the cabinetry. We also see pendant lights and lighting under the hood providing just the right illumination.
21. Create a Modern Classic All Black Kitchen
Visualizer:A&L Interior Design
Folks seeking an inviting all black kitchen can look towards this modern classic space. It merges contemporary elements (through sleek black cabinetry) with traditional ones (as seen in the wooden backsplash) to bring together the best of both worlds.
22. Put Essentials on Display in Your Modern Black Kitchen Interior
Visualizer:Polygon
Yet another kitchen that uses black and wooden elements to create a dark-themed interior. What sets this one apart is the hanging pans. They do offer easy access as the residents cook, but they also double as decor! (Note how the pans also use black and wooden elements to stay coherent with the theme).
23. Add the Industrial Style to the All Black Kitchen
Via:Emotion School
Industrial style lovers, rejoice! This is THE inspiration to set up your favorite interior design style, the dark way. This kitchen uses rustic wood and exposed elements for the ceiling to create an industrial black kitchen interior.
24. Make a Statement with Black Chunky Lamps
Via:HomePicture.in
All eyes on the two chunky lamps hanging in this monochromatic setting. They do add focus but also allow the contrasting white inset to shine. Not to forget the central island, providing plenty of storage space.
25. Make Room for Keepsakes
Visualizer:Maxim Goryachev
There’s nothing like personalizing your space to who YOU are. This kitchen serves the purpose by adding keepsakes and heirlooms. Also, black leaves room for details, so it’s one of the best colors to use if you’re hoping to display knick-knacks.
26. Use Black to Add Intimacy
Visualizer:Helen Bank
Who says dark colors make small spaces feel smaller? We only see black adding luxury to this compact space (with some credit to the white flooring adding brightness). This kitchen—with black marble backsplash—speaks opulence, and for all the right reasons!
27. Enhance Black Kitchen Design with Patterns
Visualizer:Ksenia Lenski
This black kitchen interior makes a design statement with the patterned marble island. Its sleek metallic legs lift it off the floor, creating an illusion of space. Simultaneously, the textured inset makes sure visual interest is added.
28. Don’t Forget a Black and White Rug
Visualizer:Nada Aboelrous
If you’re not in for a complete kitchen renovation, simply painting your cabinets black and adding a black-and-white patterned rug will achieve the purpose! We love how this kitchen keeps sets the base with white and tops it with black.
29. Let the Lighting Make a Statement in the All Black Kitchen
Architect:Artpartner Architects
When everything else is understated, letting the lighting create a statement is a good idea. This matte black kitchen interior uses rod lighting to do the talking. It sticks to the all black kitchen color scheme, though!
30. Tone it Down
Visualizer:Valeria Mosolova
This open floor plan uses dark gray throughout, showing us that black can work in more spaces than the kitchen 😉 It sure makes a design statement for those cooking and dining—or lounging!
31. Consider a Black and Wooden Bar
Visualizer:Amir Emami
This is the ultimate modern luxury black kitchen! After all, what’s better than displaying your favorite collection of beer right behind the black kitchen island? The low-hanging pendant lights also add to the black kitchen design.
32. Add the Gothic Vibe
Visualizer:Sebastian Lorio
This dark-gray kitchen is super simple with its sleek, hardware-less cabinetry. Well, except the far left end. Here, we see a statement piece of art and intriguing layered lighting created a focal point.
33. Stick to the Minimalist Style for Black Kitchens
Visualizer:Miguel A. Ramos
This compact kitchen space follows the simple rule: white walls paired with black cabinetry and an island. Even in this nook, the space is able to make a style statement while providing optimal functionality. The window here gives a contrasting element of light to the otherwise dark modern kitchen.
34. Layer Lighting in the All Black Kitchen
Visualizer:Tatiana Durnescu
We see shades of gray and black coming together to bring this modern dark kitchen to life. What we especially love is the multiple types of lighting, all layered together to bring visual interest to the space.
35. Set the Backdrop For Your Living Space
Visualizer:Sasha Zolotukhin
