You can’t go far wrong in applying a modern neutral grey as a base for your decor scheme - or can you? Actually yes you can. Too much of a good thing can become monotonous or dull, too little and your interior design may come across as half-hearted and wishy-washy. So, what to do? These two beautiful attic apartments have achieved the perfect balance, using high volumes of grey balanced out with brightest white and base notes of black. Accessories have been carefully curated into interesting collections to make the schemes appear anything but boring. Take these two home tours to look and learn how to hit it just right.
Visualizer:Rohit Aurora
The visualizations of our first interior were made based on an actual home . A grey gallery wall has been created down one side, where a flat screen television blends in with a menagerie of frames that are each a different size and depth. The picture frames contain monochrome art prints and photography to meld with the palette of the room. At the end of the gallery wall a concrete planter adds another shade of grey.
To balance out the shade, large areas of white have been used on walls, ceilings and accessories. A couple of chocolatey tones warm things up a little here too. Over the sofa, a small decorative wall mirror reflects natural light from an adjacent large window.
provide the only splash of vibrant colour, and they are threaded at regular intervals throughout this apartment layout.
There are many, many home accessories inside this apartment; from the large gallery of pictures to random decorative vases and stacks of books. The smooth grey colour scheme holds all of these items together neatly as one cohesive and sophisticated collection.
Between the busy living room and a kitchen/dining area there is an area of calm. This is a home office spot, equipped with a simple black desk and chair.
The kitchen itself is made up of modern flat-fronted charcoal coloured cabinets, with a grey countertop and backsplash.
The dining suite comprises of a round black table encompassed by six light wood Scandinavian style chairs . The Wegner style Wishbone chairs sit atop a textured grey area rug to clearly define the eating area.
Above the table, a wire framed dining pendant light further anchors the eating zone in place.
Another flourish of light wood tone is found in the form of a full length entryway mirror and a small bench. Around the corner is the master bedroom.
Inside the master suite we’re greeted with more grey and black with live green accents.
Heavily patterned wallpaper over one small section adds a little flourish to the scene. A bedroom wall sconce introduces a flash of metallic at each side of a classically tufted and winged grey headboard.
Grey tiles provide durable flooring at the front doorway.
are a great base for contemporary white fixtures like this solid white faucet.
The kitchen sink has a matching white finish too.
Gold fixtures add richness to a grey and white scheme.
A neat nook holds a set of coat hooks.
The wood flooring has a greyish hue to the grain.
Designer:Design Rocks
Attic apartment number two gets added oomph from a large dose of honey coloured wood tone over it’s industrial grey base. Concrete living rooms provide a strong and edgy approach to a grey palette.
A ceiling mounted fireplace acts as an unusual focal point at the head of the room, but a bespoke storage unit with wooden cabinet doors competes for attention. The unit holds a stack of logs for the adjacent wood burning stove.
Two swing arm wall lamps stretch out over the dining area creating an unusual look.
A long breakfast bar is installed as a second eating area, above which a length of wood tone disguises the underside of an overhanging mezzanine level.
The wood cladding continues down over and around a door.
The bathroom is a more subdued affair, to promote relaxation.
Beyond the black and grey breakfast bar, the kitchen has notes of brown.
Beyond an glazed wall we can spy a multitude of indoor plants .
A few plant specimens have made it through into the main living area to become part of the scheme.
The indoor garden makes a tranquil sitting area with the introduction of a bright teal accent chair.
This lighting scheme draws attention to a textured wall and a set of handy wall mounted storage cubbies. The bathroom basin also has an interesting texture to its outer edges.
A wooden hallway takes us to a wood staircase, guarded by lion head wall art.
The balustrade is a wood and glass combo.
The staircase leads up to the mezzanine balcony where we find an extensive row of white gloss closets beneath black ceiling beams.
At the end of the closet run, a master bedroom reveals an interest in the equine, with monochrome horse murals applied over concrete walls.
A series of wood panels have been applied across the headboard wall to create an attractive feature. The same design has been implemented on a partially dividing wall at the foot of the bed, which also holds a built-in TV screen. A simple black wire frame table acts as a bedside unit. A trio of industrial lights are suspended above it.
You don’t need to have bags of space to live comfortably in style. This collection of four apartment tours has interiors that are all of modest proportions but that each have their own fabulous attributes. A large dose of their design boosts come from a scattering of small feature walls that either stand alone or butt up against each other for contrasting effect. Some are bespoke partial dividing walls that separate and conquer. By picking out small sections and dividing up wall space, a limited area is broken in a way that makes it appear larger, and rooms that were once devoid of architectural features become packed with interest.
Visualizer:Z.Design architecture
Our first home design, with an area of 66.3 square metres, is the most minimal of the four. Despite its minimalist aesthetic, the home still shows character through an installation of wood that extends from across the floor to cover an entire wall behind the television in the lounge. This feature wall brings a lot of warmth to the scheme, which is otherwise made up of large areas of white and scattered grey accents.
This transparent modern coffee table design keeps the area looking spacious, and shows off the wood tone beneath. Below the TV a concrete hearth brings a hint of industrial style to the scheme.
The sofa is of a modular design that allows for fluctuations in layout. It has deep seats but a low back and no armrests attached, which prevents the large piece of furniture from appearing too bulky for the small space. Behind it a section of concrete ties in with the hearth opposite.
In contrast to the wood covered lounge, the kitchen and dining area are decorated completely white. White floor and walls, white kitchen units, and a white dining table set .
Behind the white table and modern dining chairs , a pillar of concrete breaks the stark white canvas.
A small dining table light creates an interesting feature as it ascends the wall beside the eating area.
work well in an open plan layout as they always look clean and uncluttered. This plain white handle-free design benefits from some soft lighting located underneath the wall cabinets.
White panels make up the backsplash in the kitchen and extend all the way up to the ceiling. The effect of this treatment is that the matching white cabinets appear as though the are extruding from the wall.
The bedroom is of an incredibly unique and bespoke design, where a platform bed manifests almost like a drawer that has been pulled directly out of the wall. A huge spherical bedroom pendant light glows like a full moon above it.
At the head of the bed a glazed panel is installed as a transparent dividing wall. On the opposite side of this clear divide a study area has been created, where a computer desk and chair is pushed up to the glass. A generous built-in closet covers the back wall from floor to ceiling.
From above we can see how the extended side of the platform bed and the white linear desktop complement one another. The bedside table is of a contrasting circular design, which matches a nearby pouffe and the overhead orb pendant shade.
The minimalist bathroom has a pure white scheme.
Just a couple of wooden accents pepper the look.
Designer:Konzept Architekci| Visualizer:Nika Buzko
Modest size apartment design number 2, covering 42.4 square metres in Krakow, Poland, introduces a strong accent colour that is used liberally around the space.
Green inspiration has been taken from beyond the windowpane, and the black window frames inspire dark notes throughout the scheme too.
A black slatted wall and botanical artwork blends the indoors with the outdoor view.
The breakfast bar is backed with a green glass panel and the home entryway is an emerald hallway.
In the master bedroom suite a green headboard has been softly lit along its edge beneath a circular wall design.
Botanical art appears in this space too, continuing the theme.
Although not huge, the bathroom fits double bathroom vanity sinks and a walk-in shower.
An interesting lighting feature extends up one wall and across the ceiling.
Visualizer:Mottu
Our third tour is a modern concoction of grey, white and beige.
Concrete elements add an edgy feel to a cosy palette.
Just a singular small accent wall painted in a warm colour transforms an icy space.
Sliding doors are a good idea for small spaces, so that they do not encroach on limited floor space upon opening.
Cool concrete over the bathroom floor is juxtaposed by a warm beige ceiling.
A white vanity unit extends to include a set of drawers at one side for storing cosmetics, toiletries and spare towels. A wide full-length mirror on the door visually doubles the space.
Visualizer:Mariya Alferova
Our last home is a tiny studio apartment that has a strong monochrome theme running through, lifted by a good dose of rustic wood tone.
Beneath two industrial dining pendants , a wooden bar table runs directly into a wall decorated with chalkboard paint. The treated wall makes a handy place for scribbling grocery lists and meal plans.
The kitchen is just three grey units and two wood shelves that are matched by a wooden countertop. A console with a geometric patterned front provides extra interest and divides the cooking space from a desk area.
Four industrial bar stools provide a very sociable eating area in the tiny kitchen. Mirrors on the opposite side of the room reflect the kitchen to help the living space appear larger than its actual proportions.
A partial dividing wall has been created with a combination of vertical wood slats and horizontal shelves.. These let the natural light flow through from the lounge window into a second home office area. String lights provide ambient lighting over the lounge wall, which becomes a bedroom by night.
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
