When designing a functional kitchen, the ‘working triangle’ should be kept in mind - that is, the distance between your sink, stove and fridge. An L-shaped kitchen lends itself perfectly to this triangular tip, being two sides of a triangle to begin with. An L-shaped layout works best in small and medium sized spaces, which fly closer to the work triangle efficiency guideline of spreading workstations at no more than 1200mm apart. A great kitchen is not all about rules though, it’s equally about how that space feels and inspires you to create fabulous food. This collection brings ideas for cabinet placement, shelving designs, statement backsplashes, eating areas and more.
Visualizer:Evgenia Belkina
Busy, busy, busy. A heavily patterned backsplash and zoned flooring are the stars of the show in this colourful kitchen. A small semi-circular breakfast bar has been implemented at one side of the room to allow guests to socialise with the busy chef, and as a spot for a quick snack or early morning coffee.
Designer:Euge & Seta
Block it out. This L-shaped kitchen layout with corner window is dominated by a colour block of solid yellow. The rectangle overlaps one half of a wall cabinet, and ends up across the window glass as coloured film. Yellow kitchen accessories complement the strong accent.
Visualizer:Liuba Kushnir
Implement striking design features to unite each arm of the kitchen. A black box shelf underlines wall cabinets on one wall of this kitchen, and another forms an end point to the line of pale cabinets on the other side.
Visualizer:umaT studio
Make the space feel more rectangular by adding an area rug. Set a tall decorative vase of flowers down on the floor at the units’ end, to soften the look of the hard edge.
Visualizer:Fenix Design
Whip out the sledgehammer - after seeking the advice of a professional! If budget allows, open up your disused kitchen wall to the great outdoors with some retractable doors. The increased natural light and perceived space will truly transform your kitchen.
Visualizer:Qide Design
A large picture window looking out to the garden can be hugely satisfying too. Note how the venetian window blinds at this one are wooden to match the horizontal strip around the kitchen base cabinets. A couple of geometric succulent planters match the geo backsplash, and provide a perfect modern flourish.
Source:Ikea
This sweet little grey kitchen is warmed up with gold cabinet handles and natural wood accessories. A table with a drop leaf makes a great addition to a small kitchen , allowing the eating space to be maximised or minimised in an instant.
Visualizer:Alesya Kasianenko
Focus on what makes you happy. wine glasses are the focal point in this home, highlighted by the glow of strip lights inside glass cases.
Source:Mansarda
Cater to the space, and your budget. If monetary constraints don’t allow for the building of bespoke kitchen cabinets into eaves, then use up that awkward space by installing a wall of open kitchen shelving at waning lengths.
Visualizer:Specht Harpman
Fashion a peninsula around a challenging architecture.
Visualizer:Anastasia Kuspeleva
It’s not just the cabinets that follow an L-shape here, the flooring follows suit too.
Visualizer:Pikcells
Choose larder units in one colour, with standard base and wall cabinets in another to break the look of a long wall.
Visualizer:Concept Vision
As L-shaped kitchens only use two walls, they naturally open up space. This is ideal for kitchens that flow into a living room or dining area.
Visualizer:Pikcells
Find inspiration in tradition. Traditionally the kitchen sink was situated in front of a window, if one was available, like in this green kitchen . Although, in a modern age of dishwashers it doesn’t seem so important to always have the best view from here. A kitchen clock is another classic that’s been bumped. Digital oven displays and microwave clocks negate the need for analogue designs, however, they still make nice wall decoration.
Visualizer:Muji
Colour coordinate. This yellow L-shaped kitchen with breakfast bar has a matching canary yellow fridge-freezer. The upholstered bar stools provide comfortable seating. If you like this then be sure to check out these other yellow kitchens .
Visualizer:3D Quart Studio
Include a corner pantry. This red kitchen has an open shelving unit filled with pantry supplies that are both useful and decorative.
Visualizer:Concept Vision
Dial away wall cabinets in a paler colour. Base units in rich colours work well when teamed with white or light upper cabinets, so as not to oversaturate a space.
Visualizer:Small Studio
Use ceiling panels to deepen the layout. This dramatically dark kitchen has an equally dark ceiling extension, fitted with spotlights. The matching material across the ceiling gives the layout extra depth, whilst two-tone cabinets play with form.
Visualizer:Pikcells
Powdery perfection. A flurry of blush pink accents and copper accessories speckle a perfect measure of contrast and warmth through powder blue decor.
Visualizer:Maciej Cylkowski
Golden honey toned wood additions and heavy black accents bring an entirely different feel to a light grey and white kitchen .
Visualizer:Robby Brymer
Make a metallic mixup. A gold faucet, a silver oven, a copper vase and candlesticks. Anything goes.
Visualizer:Vera Tarlovskaya Interiors
Jazz up the unused kitchen wall with some typographical art. It’s also a great way to mark up a side-slung dining spot.
Visualizer:Maria Kukoba
Make two seperate rooms in one. With two walls to work with you could separate kitchen facilities from utilities by splitting the arrangement, like this kitchen with washing machine. Keep cooking, prep and food supplies on one arm of your L-shape, and place washing machines and utility cupboards for ironing boards, laundry supplies and baskets along the other.
Visualizer:Modom Studio
Criss cross low mounted wall cabinets over base cupboards for a unique arrangement.
Visualizer:Nataliia Dmytrievna
Use two depths of wall cabinets, in different tones, to break up a double banked arrangement.
Visualizer:Polygon
Craft stand-out perimeters. Extend a soffit of recessed lighting around an L-shaped perimeter to add to lofty proportions. Create a unique kitchen backsplash with unusual shaped tiling in a series of different hues.
Designer:Lauren Rubin
A collection of wall shelves decorate the leftover wall here, along with a series of kitchen utensil hanging rails.
Designer:Studio Zapraszam| Visualizer:Yuriy Bobak
can hang along a rail too. This design allows pots to inhabit a space not deep enough for a shelf, where an open wall cupboard door from the other side might chip against its edge.
Visualizer:Andrey Karasev
Go with the flow. This completely wooden kitchen module extends its style to the hallway beyond. A matching wooden facia flows over the adjacent wall and one interior door.
Designer:Adrian Elizade
Even though the counter extends beyond the ‘L’ here, we’ve added this to the collection because it holds cunning inspiration for an L-shaped kitchen with a corner window. Notice how the end wall cabinet has been chamfered so as not to block out any of the natural light.
Visualizer:Ogovio
Curate a gallery at the end of the run. A display of decorative plates makes a beautiful and fitting end point.
Visualizer:Denis Bespalov
Simple and chic. A glowing wooden cut through between crisp white cabinets looks clean and inviting.
Visualizer:Alexandra Nyzhnyk
Create a chunky frame out of cabinets, like this white framed kitchen design with wooden inset.
Designer:BIG Design| Visualizer:Vancouver House
Create a party piece. The wine cooler that towers the full height of this black kitchen is certain to keep guests entertained!
Visualizer:Serj Fedin, Serj Kondratskyi & Yevhen Zahorodnii
A boxy plant holder fringes this L-shaped kitchen with island. LED illuminated shelves brighten a wooden feature wall. Wooden bar stools match the veneer on the cabinets.
Visualizer:Polygon
Another wine rack in an L-shaped kitchen with peninsula. This time the vino is brought right to the bench. It might prove a challenge to stop at just one bottle.
Visualizer:Daria Ozhyhanova & Denys Kozak
Dual windows look grand along a length of countertop. Intricately patterned backsplash tiles on the other branch balance the look.
Visualizer:Diễm Kiều
A large potted plant makes a natural divide between the kitchen and dining spot.
Visualizer:Diễm Kiều
Use pattern to make the most of small spaces.
Designer:SREDA interior
Open shelving units and colour blocks make an interesting scheme. Projecting out of the backsplash at an angle, the knife holder adds an interesting touch as well.
Visualizer:Kuoo Architects
can sink away into the walls with handle-free slab fronted units.
Visualizer:Int2 Architecture
Adding light wood tone and cheerful prints to a white kitchen creates a wonderfully Scandinavian style kitchen .
Designer:Studio Bazi
Even just a few special tiles can bring a new energy a plain white kitchen .
Visualizer:Anjey Mospanyuk
If you like this look, take a glance at these other industrial style kitchen designs.
Designer:Pura Arquitectura
An open shelf occupies one wall, whilst closed cabinetry completes the other. The change keeps the small space looking airy and open, rather than overwhelmed with too many units.
Visualizer:BY Visuals
Metro tiles help a small space to appear wider.
Visualizer:Anastasia Andryushchenko
A horizontal stripe is another method to visually widen the space.
Visualizer:Schmidt Kitchens
Nope, this isn’t strictly an L-shaped kitchen but we’re taking a look at the L-shaped arrangement of wooden units that are complemented by a cheerful orange unit. The unusual piece has a series of open fronted and closed volumes for displaying and concealing choice items from view.
Visualizer:Amr Moussa
Two bar stools make the end of a cabinet run into a breakfast bar.
Visualizer:RNDR Studio
Wrap a countertop down the side of the end cabinet for a sleek luxurious finish.
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
