Dark red is a powerful and emotive color, capable of reflecting a vast spectrum of moods and intents. And while it is very bold, it’s a relatively painless color to work into a home: dark interior palettes seem to provide a sweet spot with just the right amount of room for error and experimentation. This post looks at three homes with very different styles, unified by their red color themes : the first home features stunning industrial decor, the second home focuses on invoking a specific emotional and visual atmosphere, and the third home derives a strong identity from its rich layered textures and eclectic furniture.
Chalkboard paint offers a convenient place to write notes and reminders and, as demonstrated here, a place to display impromptu artwork.
Notice how the floor lamp and the pendant chandelier both feature red cords – sometimes the smallest accents can make all the difference when decorating around a focal point as fabulous as that sideboard.
Low lighting, comfortable wood tones, and a brilliant red sideboard give the formal dining space a far warmer and more passionate personality that stands in contrast to the streamlined living room space.
Tiny hints of red reflect the contrasting warm theme of the dining room.
Open, bright, and spacious. Ample sunlight highlights the blue undertones to the gray decor theme.
Architect:Alexander Shapovalov
This home gains its dramatic aesthetic from the combination and contrast of textures used throughout. The living room emphasizes clean lines and glossy materials like polished steel, softened only by fabrics in cool gray tones. Strong vertical lines draw the eye toward the bold red accent piece in the dining room – a lovely focal point against the creative feature wall. The difference in color temperature between the two rooms creates a sense of visual drama that hooks the viewer right from the first glance.
Here’s a few illustrations that deconstruct the layout of the home to make it even easier to see how the entire home is affected by the addition of a single central fireplace, from the main living areas to the mezzanine private spaces upstairs.
Natural light filters in through a long narrow window positioned near the ceiling, its high angle creating dramatic shadows on the textural concrete and wood surfaces.
A pendant light and lantern cast a warm glow in this atmospheric bathroom.
Around the corner, the bedroom has its own private space prepared beneath a gorgeous skylight. The red rug beneath the bed continues the subtle red color theme used throughout the rest of the home.
It also houses a small office that enjoys the same lovely view.
Above the open living room atrium, a convenient balcony level overlooks the atrium below - the perfect spot for getting cozy with a good book!
Visualizer:Dmitry Tisnoguz
Let’s start with this stylish modern apartment with a strong industrial theme, designed for a young couple with creative modern tastes. The open layout living room features a laidback ‘converted warehouse’ vibe, enhanced by an eclectic choice of furniture and accessories drawn from a great variety of eras and styles. It doesn’t shy away from using strong red accents and accessories – especially to draw attention to the overall industrial theme.
Wrapping into the kitchen and providing a convenient niche for the stove and hood, the designer ensured the fireplace goes beyond connecting the fireplace visually but functionally as well.
A peek around the side of the modern fireplace reveals a concrete dining table extended from the kitchen the area.
Dark red accents add spice and color the smooth concrete surfaces. Red is a color traditionally associated with life and vitality and enhances the reflective home concept in general.
Historically the heart of any Belarusian home, the interior spaces seem to revolve around the central fireplace as a nod to the sustaining role that stoves provided when they were still used for all the home’s cooking, heating, and drying.
Architect:Artem Tiutiunnyk & Chernova Yuliya
This stunning atmospheric home was a project to identify, analyze, and reimagine the definition of Belarusian style, drawing on many traditional features and adapting them to an ultra-modern aesthetic. The concrete exterior certainly demonstrates a gorgeous minimalistic style that could be nothing but contemporary but you’ll also notice a few traditional Belarus traditions like the shutters and the shalevka (thin wood planking) magnificently transformed to suit today’s tastes.
Bamboo and concrete dining pendant lights (by Bentu Design) perfectly tie together the concrete table and the wood-paneled cabinetry.
Lightweight chairs in painted red metal and white balance the heaviness of the table and throw a cheerful spin on the arrangement. Also note the amazing newspaper print backsplash to the left – this would be a fun DIY project to recreate at home with old newspapers and a cut sheet of clear acrylic.
The industrial dining table, perhaps the centerpiece of the room, is an updated take on the iconic workbenches designed by French machinist P. Hure in the late 1800s through 1940s.
With the help of a white folding screen, residents can separate the living and dining areas for a more formal or intimate dining experience.
Check out those awesome light switches to the left! Follow the red cords in the next photos to see how they route so cleanly and attractively from light to light across the ceiling.
An efficient office occupies a compact spot in the corner. Geometric pendant lights illuminate the warm wood paneled alcove, stylishly furnished with the Chair One with four-star base by Konstantin Grcic.
Exposed brick and knotty wood floors play an important role in establishing a warm and welcoming vibe in the main social areas considering the cool tones of the concrete used elsewhere.
Some of the distinctive accessories featured here include typographical prints to the left, a vintage Adnet mirror to the right, and the contemporary and very industrial Dear Ingo chandelier by Ron Gilad.
Art Deco is a distinctively ornate style that originated in France before rising to international popularity in the 1920s through the 1940s. Yet its elaborate aesthetic continues to influence contemporary design and architecture – the sharp geometric patterns, the love of bold color, and the emphasis on modern manufacturing and technology haven’t gone anywhere. The only thing that’s changed is the implementation. This post features two homes with awesome art deco interiors , so if you’ve been looking to infuse your home with a little Great Gatsby flair, this post has plenty of art deco inspiration to make it happen.
Visualizer:Maxim Tsiabus
Let’s start with an apartment that emphasizes the use of color in art deco design while taking a subtle approach to the precious metals and luxurious materials associated with the style. This home enjoys a gorgeous yellow and purple color theme, two tones perfectly suited to demonstrating the playful side of opulence. Classical elements like paneled doors, herringbone floors, and cabinetry in sultry dark wood help to support its vintage inspiration while perfectly modern furniture makes the space feel fresh and relevant to today’s tastes.
The living room shares its clean and open design with a formal dining space, both linked by the purple textiles and brass accents. The kitchen is only partially divided from the social areas, visible through its wide doorframe and the convenient serving window to the left.
Most of the decorative elements include simple but curvaceous metallic accents. Luxury materials have always been a staple of art deco decor but moderation is the key to achieving the understated effect demonstrated here.
While a central rug and ample pillows soften the sofa area, the dining space achieves its comfortable appeal with graceful lines and tufted upholstery.
Even the architectural elements tackle the compromise between traditional and modern features effectively. Here, time-honored ceiling molding carries out the functional purpose of hiding the curtain rods from view.
On the table sits a collection of mid-century stackable candleholders in chrome by Fritz Nagel. These modular candelabras also double as a kinetic sculpture when arranged to create pivot points.
It’s nice to see the incredible range between the contemporary features, the Art Deco inspired accessories, and lavish details. From here you can see a peek of the gorgeous blue and green hallway – we’ll take a closer look just a bit later in the post.
Perhaps the most distinctive arrangement contained in the open layout living room is this formal dining set. Geometric lamps illuminate the angular table from above, while a series of three bouquets along a thin white table runner offer a practical yet unmissable source of decor for the table.
Opulence is a hallmark of the Art Deco style and the hallway holds nothing back. The wallpaper is a work of art in itself, rich with color and texture highlighted by the series of stylish wall sconces . The table serves as both a comfortable waiting area and a convenient place to write quick notes or sign forms.
Dramatic marble floors immediately grab attention with their checkered pattern. One wall consists of storage cabinets paneled with mirrors, the beveled edges hinting at vintage influence.
Here, purple joins blue and green to create a surprisingly cheerful color theme that stands in contrast to the seriousness of the materials used throughout the home.
Dramatic dark marble sets a sophisticated tone for the kitchen, with striped cabinet detailing offering a subtle touch of Art Deco style.
From this angle, the cabinet details catch the light – brass stripes turn an ordinary decorative touch into an effective source of tasteful luxury.
Metallic fixtures and ceramic storage jars also reflect traditional decoration choices from the Art Deco era. It’s hard to go wrong with minimalistic vessels like the ones pictured here in white.
Visualizer:Bach Nguyen
Our second home takes an eclectic yet minimalistic approach to Art Deco decor, featuring numerous classical elements interpreted through a smart contemporary lens. A concept for the Sunrise City apartment project, this home occupies a spacious 147 square meters yet maintains a streamlined furniture arrangement to maximize empty space. Rather than utilizing large storage features or expansive seating areas, this home keeps things simple and relies instead of luxurious materials and fine art to tantalize the eye.
The open plan living room and kitchen spaces incorporate a mixture of classically inspired furniture and French influence alongside current pieces from top designers.
Powder-blue cabinetry sets a relaxing backdrop for the dining arrangement, located at the central kitchen island. Louis XVI chairs seat the far side and the near side enjoys the grand stylings of its gorgeous scrollwork apron bench.
Once again, powder-blue tones lend their tranquility to help foster a revitalizing atmosphere. Scrollwork above the bed and exciting brass lighting emphasizes the art deco theme.
Quatrefoil was a common pattern in the Art Deco era. Here, it makes an appearance as a playful accent wall. Note how the built-in storage is exceptionally modern - you don’t need an old home to enjoy vintage design styles.
Guests peering in at the entrance may not immediately sniff out the Art Deco inspiration but there are subtle architectural signs, like the curved corner shelves and the paneled walls. The bright orange coat stand makes the first impression though, and a friendly one at that.
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
