Many people think of dark spaces when they hear the description “ loft .” Well, these four duplex lofts are anything but dark! With massive windows and duplex floor plans, each of these homes is open and full of natural light. High ceilings, open kitchens, and staircases enclosed with glass, make these homes look bright and inviting. Another aspect to the design is the use of darker neutrals. Even though each of the spaces uses black or charcoal, they still look less “cold” because of the sunshine pouring through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Some go a step further and add green pillows and red love seats to add more life!
Visualizer:Studio 25
This duplex loft located in Moscow used to be a furniture factory! Two gray couches match perfectly with the art on the wall.
If you look upwards you’ll notice there’s a beautiful lofted space above the living room. Bookshelves are built in and books are artfully displayed. The glass used instead of a wooden rail makes the space feel larger.
In this image, you can see the stunning dark wooden staircase. The black bike contrasts well with the concrete walls and the glass railing adds a modern aesthetic to the old furniture factory.
Large industrial windows are softened up and transformed into livable space with white drapes. This allows the light to come into the space diffused softly.
Each kitchen in these lofts is sleek and doesn’t have a lot of hardware. If you look closely, you’ll notice the appliances are built-in. The black kitchen table and chairs contrast well with the light wood cabinets.
This picture captures the dramatic beauty of the glass railing on the wooden staircase. Underneath you can see that the space is used for storage. The bookshelf shortens in length as it rises up with the stairs. Some pops of color are used to warm up the dining room with accents on the bookcase.
Curious how an old factory was turned into a home? This floor plan lets you get a feel for what the home looks like when you’re walking around inside.
Visualizer:Natalia Juszczyk
The red loveseat is the perfect addition to this room! It’s energy changes the feel of the room and is picked up by other accents. You notice the red in the paintings, throw pillows, and even kitchen accessories.
Lower-to-the-ground furniture pieces contrast well with the large black-framed window. Art is hung higher than the window and makes the space seem even larger!
A black staircase, dining chairs, and window frames all work in this bright white space. If the space was any other color, these colored items may look too heavy. The whiteness of the room is anchored by the darker pieces.
The use of symmetry in this duplex loft brings attention to the few anomalies in the room. The couches on either side of the red love seat mimic one another and the black chairs in the kitchen look symmetrical. This makes the black staircase and red love seat stand out.
An oversized window makes for a fun place to sit and watch the world go by. A stack of books and a few lamps encourage lounging and making the most of this space.
Even though the kitchen is chic and streamlined, the two accents work with the rest of the loft. The gold lamp matches the others used by the window and the red tea kettle matches the red love seat.
Visualizer:Natalya Shevchuk
Looking down on this gray and white loft you can see that there is a lot going on in this open floor plan. A dining table and chairs buts up against a floating couch. There is more seating facing the large white framed windows and you can see a glimpse of the kitchen in the back.
In this new angled image, you can tell that the living space has a lofted upstairs. There is room for a bedroom and an in-home office. The use of glass walls makes the home look open and architecturally stylish.
This bedroom makes the most of its large windows. The angled wood flooring leads the eyes straight to the back of the room where the wall is filled with windows. A chair is placed in front of the windows with a lamp for reading.
This tan bedroom is kept neutral to draw the attention to the large windows and view. A simple piece of framed art is hung above the bed and there are built-in bookshelves to hold items on the right.
This space could be for an adult or a teen. The floor-to-ceiling bookshelf separates the space from the rest of the home and the dinosaur statue gives the room a sense of adventure. The view doesn’t hurt either!
This home office has a great view of the windows downstairs, even though it’s elevated on the second floor. Large glass walls open up the space but also give the owner the ability to pull the drapes for privacy.
The angled wood floors continue into the curated walk-in closet. This closet has a space for everything and is perfect for those who like to see all of their clothing options in one place.
Yet another angle of the downstairs highlights the entertainment center. A flatscreen TV is mounted in the center of storage blocks. White lanterns hung in the center of the living room match the white framing of the large windows.
Sleek and simple, this kitchen works with the rest of the space perfectly. There is no hardware and the appliances are built-in. The staircase is worked into the architectural design and shelving is placed between the steps.
White subway tile lengthens this understated bathroom. With lack of storage space, a basket is placed to catch dirty towels and clothing.
Designer:Jodie Miller, Myra Jewell, and Jesse Holloway
This last space makes the most of its large windows. A platform elevates the kitchen and dining space and adds more tiers to the room. Upstairs you can see there is a home office with built-in shelving. The windows are the highlight and the natural light is expanded by the whiteness of the walls.
Bookends are a fabulous way to decorate a home library so that it matches your interior. While many book collections look somewhat eclectic on their own, the right combination of ornaments and bookends can bring the entire room back in line with your chosen aesthetic. The first half of this post is dedicated to pop culture and geeky themes, and the second half covers serious choices for a variety of decor styles. Whether you’re looking for housewarming gifts or just want to tidy up your office or reading nook, we hope this collection will offer a variety of bookends to suit your needs.
Game of Thrones Bookend:
Hand-painted and exceptionally intricate, this Game of Thrones bookend could easily stand by itself as a collectible decoration. Each purchase only includes one so you can pair this with one of the other 7" GoT bookend.
Game of Thrones Dragon Eggs Bookends:
Each purchase includes all three bookends – each one stands 7 inches tall, and when placed together, the combination immediately grabs attention at over one foot long.
Game of Thrones Direwolf Bookends:
Guard your George R. R. Martin collection with these handsome “carved” direwolves, representative of the Stark family. Their classic design doesn’t scream “memorabilia” which makes them versatile in any setting.
Lord of the Rings The Argonath Bookends:
Now let’s move into some LoTR goodies! These statues feature the dramatic Gates of Argonath that stand on either side of the river Anduin. These were originally packaged with a special edition DVD set, so these would make a great gift for anyone who loves hard-to-find collectibles.
The Hobbit Bookends:
These resin bookends originated from a limited edition Bluray set ($155) featuring The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. This is another hard-to-find collectible considering the limited run of the Bluray set.
Harry Potter Hogwarts Express Bookends:
How gorgeous! These bookends are hand painted in incredible detail. The idea is rather clever too, creating the illusion that the Hogwarts Express is exiting a tunnel that runs from one side of your Harry Potter book collection to the other.
Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets Basilisk Bookend:
Hand painted detail stands out with enough beauty to serve as a standalone statue or a bookend. This bookend is sure to please longtime Harry Potter fans, especially the ones fascinated by the mythological creatures found throughout the series. By the way, if you are a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss out our feature on Harry Potter home decor .
Dragon Bookends:
But what about bookends for fans of fantasy in general? These dragon bookends could pair well with a number of series. Fans of gothic decor or medieval themes may also find these to be a neat addition to any bookshelf.
Medieval Knights Bookends:
Standing at 8 inches tall and weighing almost two pounds, these intricate knights will dazzle with their highly detailed battle armor and bronze detailing.
Katana Sword Bookends:
Do you know somebody who would love to be a ninja? These magnetic bookends hide within the cover of your favorite books, and the katana blade and handle attach magnetically.
Star Wars Stormtrooper Bookends:
Although some may argue that Stormtroopers were somewhat incompetent compared to the Clonetroopers that preceded them, it’s still hard to ignore a pair of pulse rifles when they’re pointed right at you. These sculptures are so detailed they look almost like collectible figures.
Portal Bookends:
If you read every book on that long-neglected reading list, there just might be cake. It’s not a lie, promise. This pair of Portal-themed bookends shows a test subject leaping through your entire library.
Book Hero Metal Bookend:
Neat! “Falling” bookends work by placing the slanted end inside of the book, between the cover and the pages. The decorative part, a superhero in this case, appears to float by itself because of its magnetic attraction to the slanted bookend portion.
Super Gal Metal Bookend:
This cool Supergirl bookend works the same way.
Iron Man Bookends:
Three pounds of metal help make these bookends just as strong as Iron Man himself.
Batman Bookends:
Read along with Bruce Wayne with these heavy and stylish bookends. These would make a nice housewarming gift for somebody who collects graphic novels based on the comic books.
Stunning Silhouette Style Bookends:
Basically, no matter which genre you prefer to read, there are surely heavyweight steel silhouette bookends to thematically suit your library. The look? Perfect for minimalists and modern design fans.
Evolution Bookends:
Don’t worry science geeks – we wouldn’t leave you out! With streamlined silhouettes based on the March of Progress, these smart bookends just might represent the intellectual evolution that accompanies a love for reading and learning.
Knowledge Bookends By Karim Rashid:
Based on a 3D representation of Rashid’s own head, these rubber-coated stone resin bookends feature a hidden surprise on the interior side. Fans of modern interior design will recognize the name and appreciate these bookends for the works of art they are.
Pineapple Bookends:
These, along with the previous bookends, mark the transition to designer wares intended for serious interior styles. These artistic pineapple-shaped bookends would work well in a vintage, cottage, or modern interior style.
Concrete Planter Bookends:
Crafted from solid concrete, this desktop planter works well as a standalone organizer for pens or business cards. Or, purchase a pair and keep your reference materials tidy right on your desk or nearby shelf.
Stop Hand Bookends:
Very sculptural and smooth, these minimalist hand sculptures work wonderfully as bookends. Consider adding these to your minimalist or classically inspired home library.
A to Z Bookends:
Can you imagine how amazing these would look in the classroom or school library? Consider these as a gift to the cherished teachers in your life, or maybe consider these as a housewarming gift for a fan of typography.
Open Book Bookends:
Here’s another option for educators. These brightly colored bookends would look great in a classroom setting for younger children. They’re hand painted, durable, and include non-skid glides so they stay in place around even the heaviest books.
Bird Bookends:
How sweet are these little birds? A whitewash finish completes the resin sculptures, making these ideal for a classic cottage or Scandinavian style interior.
Owl Bookends:
Rotund, charismatic owls make wonderful bookends or standalone decorations for anyone who loves owls. Consider placing these against a darker background to make them stand out even more.
Antique Owl Bookends:
Made from durable resin with an antique bronze finish, this adorable pair of owl bookends will look great in a traditional or rustic interior. Check out our big list of owl themed decor to complete the look!
Cat Bookends:
While we’ve written many articles about accessories for bird and owl fans, it’s time to give cats some much-needed appreciation! These super-sturdy bookends are weighty and look like real cast iron.
Cute Cat Bookends:
Cement and PVC combine to create weighty cat bookends with an incredible depth of expression, capturing the boundless contentment of joyful kitties. These would make a nice gift for a proud cat owner.
Dachshund Dog Bookends:
How long is your dachshund? It depends on the breadth of your library! This bookend set comes in an attractive gift box so you can send it directly to your favorite dog owner.
Bronze Finish Horse Bookends:
Majestic rearing stallions stand at 8 inches wide and 9 inches tall, their bronze finish drawing the eye to the ultra-smooth detailing. These would look wonderful in a classically decorated home library.
Deer Bookends:
As one of the weightiest bookends in this collection, these brass and wood deer will securely hold any book collection with their combined weight of 6 lbs. The set includes both the buck and the doe, making them a wonderful wedding or housewarming gift for the right couple.
Stag Bookends:
Consider these bookends for a classic, cabin, or Nordic-inspired interior design. Don’t forget to check out our big list of faux deer head home decor to find the perfect complementary accessories.
Hippo Bookends:
Constructed from carefully sculpted resin and finished with electroplated nickel, this stunning pair of hippos would enhance any modern or luxury interior. Together, these bookends weigh over 20 pounds – suitable for even the most extensive home library collection.
Whale Tale Bookends:
An aged finish gives these resin bookends the appearance of weathered reclaimed wood. Whether you’re decorating a nautical themed interior or just love to the works of Herman Melville, this beautiful whale is a nice addition to your bookshelf or mantle.
Zuny Animal Bookends For Kids:
Synthetic leather skins and heavy iron pellet filling contribute to the most unique set of bookends ever created for children. Of course, even adults could fall in love with these expertly constructed and ultra-charismatic bookends.
More Children’s Bookends:
From the designers at Fiona Walker England, these high-end book stoppers are hand-sewn from organic lamb’s wool felt. These luxury bookends are expensive but sure to become a treasured heirloom.
Globe Bookends:
Books can take an avid reader to the farthest reaches of the Earth. These globe-shaped bookends make this idea even more tangible. Travel aficionados would enjoy these as a gift, but they’d look wonderful in any nautical or classically themed home.
Industrial Style Gear Bookends:
Finally something to suit industrial interior decor! These gear sculptures stand at 15 inches tall, and despite the weathered aesthetic, the metal alloy construction is 100% rustproof.
Steampunk Octopus Bookend:
Cast resin comes to life with a hand-painted bronze and copper finish. Jules Verne fans are sure to appreciate the octopus theme, but these are right up the alley of steampunk and nautical design fans as well.
Steampunk Aviator Bookend:
Steampunk fans and engineering enthusiasts alike are sure to enjoy this aviator bookend. The body is made of cast resin with realistic bronze and steel accents, all painted by hand.
Cast Iron Eiffel Tower Book Ends:
Heavy cast iron offers sturdy support for the personal library belonging to an avid traveler or dedicated Francophile. Paired together, they make a wonderful standalone sculpture.
Minimalist Building Shaped Bookends:
These pared down representations of the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building would make a lovely addition to an urban-themed home or would serve as a nice gift for a homesick New Yorker.
Nautical Bookend:
Here’s another fantastic choice for travel aficionados, this time in the form of a classic schooner. Nautical accent collectors would love this one, along with anyone who has a penchant for pirates.
Bicycle Bookends:
Are you looking for a gift for the cyclist in your life? These decorative bookends just might fit the bill. Each one is crafted by hand by skilled artisans.
Antique Brass Bicycle Bookends:
Crafted from resin but finished with a rustic hammered brass finish, these cyclist-themed bookends would make a neat addition to a cycling fan’s desk or bookshelf.
Agate Bookends:
Geodes are such a magical mineral formation – the complicated patterns and colors guarantee that each specimen will be unique. These bookends are made from two geode quarters: sturdy, weighty, and infinitely beautiful.
Triangular Marble Bookends:
Stone is always a tasteful yet understated material for decorative purposes. These bookends feature the distinctive veining of tan marble or sandstone, and are heavy enough to hold together even your most substantial books.
Minimalist Wood Bookends:
These simple bookends would look fabulous in a variety of interior styles, ranging from Scandinavian decor to organic or minimalist homes.
The End Bookend:
Fin! Ende! Happily ever after! This bookend seems like the perfect way to end this list – but it’s also a clever way to end your bookshelf.
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
