The inextricable tea drinking culture of East Asia is well known, where tea is far more than just a pleasant beverage. Not only is tea enjoyed personally and at social events, in small tea parties and public tea houses, but many cultures have created intricate formal ceremonies around the act of tea preparation and serving. Whilst East Asian tea ceremonies differ between countries, the ritualistic nature of the drink is agreed upon. This enjoyable daily observance has inspired the inclusion of personal tea rooms inside of modern homes, which are what we are exploring here today. From traditional Asian tea tables and tatami mats to contemporary interpretations of the theme, we’ll discover how to elevate tea at home.
Visualizer:DWARF rendering studio
Colour a space that’s steeped with tradition. Deep red, natural wood, and black accents will bring a sense of the past even to modern interiors that deliver a contemporary twist on the tea room aesthetic. Add elegant indoor plants and small trees to invigorate the rich backdrop.
Visualizer:Design Town Zhumengya Botaofirm
Light up tea parties with an LED powered lighting scheme that instils a sense of warm modernity. This tea room benefits from a view of the projector screen that’s mounted in an attached open plan living room too.
Visualizer:Sergey Zalozny & Artem P. Visualization
A low Chabudai table and Zabuton floor cushions allow large windows to be enjoyed to their fullest. Consider developing a zen garden, a lily pond, or a vertical garden to really capitalise on the window framed scene.
Visualizer:EkeInterior
To honour the Japanese tradition, Zabuton floor cushions and floor poufs are key. Team with Shōji doors or screens and framed Shūji calligraphy to complete the look.
Visualizer:MIC Studio
Chinese tea drinking is done at a raised table. It’s considered inappropriate to be seated directly opposite the tea server, but in a house of only two people, you could let that one slide.
Visualizer:DWARF rendering studio
Botanical wall art creates a peaceful visual that’s conducive to the relaxed atmosphere of a tea drinking session. This beautiful Shōji lined space also features a round picture window to frame nature’s real beauty.
Visualizer:MIC Studio
A tag on tea room. It’s totally okay nowadays to tag a tea room onto an open plan living space. You can achieve a sense of special ceremony with a larger sized tea server’s chair and smaller counterparts on the other side. Flank with symmetrical cabinets and finish with a focal point of serene wall art.
Visualizer:Nam Phạm
A linear suspension light effectively anchors a modern dining spot, so why not a modern tea room too?
Visualizer:Shexia Space Design
Put on a show. A collection of cast-iron Tetsubin teapots are proudly displayed on illuminated shelves here, combining traditional and contemporary approaches. A focal wall of wooden lattice panels hint at traditional Shōji screens without committing fully to the endeavour.
Visualizer:Envik Education
Swept away. A sweeping spiral staircase design and mesmerising nature views amuse the mind and soul whilst tea quenches the body.
Visualizer:DWARF rendering studio
Install built-in shelving units to lovingly display a selection of teas, alongside antiques, art, and a selection of treasured tomes.
Visualizer:DWARF rendering studio
Group pendant lights along the length of a substantial tea table to accentuate its size and linearity.
Visualizer:Christos Pournaras
Emulate a Japanese tea room and instil a sense of zen by placing a Buddha statue in a prominent position.
Visualizer:Sang Bui
As tradition has it, a cast-iron Tetsubin teapot should be heated whilst suspended over an irori hearth.
Visualizer:效果图施工图婷婷
Enjoy an explosion of flame red foliage with the introduction of an indoor Japanese Maple tree.
Visualizer:绿屋
Zaisu floor chairs make a step further toward comfort from the simple Zabuton cushion alone, and a Kyousoku armrest offers more support still.
Visualizer:素染染七
A marble fireplace takes this tea room all the way upmarket, along with a designer linear pendant light and a custom-made bookcase wall.
Visualizer:wx18075058778
If you can’t decide between floor cushions or chairs, then you can always straddle the two aesthetics with an eclectic collection of seating that will please everyone.
Visualizer:Xiaofeng Design
The Bonsai tree has long been a symbol of balance, patience, harmony, and luck in Asian culture, with Zen Buddhists believing the Bonsai to be an object of meditation and contemplation. Who wouldn’t want to bring these wonderful qualities to their tea table?
Visualizer:新中式空间
Display a collection of white teapots against a deeply colourful background to create striking contrast. Moody backlighting exaggerates the bold effect.
Visualizer:效果图施工图婷婷
A nature-inspired modern chandelier will complement beautiful indoor plants, peaceful garden views, and serene landscape art.
Visualizer:新中式空间
The seating etiquette in a traditional Chinese teahouse conventionally calls for the first guest of honour to be situated at the host’s left hand side. The remaining seats are allocated in descending order toward the right. Therefore, a shared bench is most likely to come after single seats if the length of the table allows.
Visualizer:Yunkai Architecture Painting
Mountain motifs are popular in tea room interior design. Their undulating outline provides an expansive panorama that visually opens up the space.
Visualizer:新中式空间
decor is prevalent in modern interiors, and tea rooms are no exception. Use this curvaceous device to softly frame a decorative item that sets the scene for ceremony, and utilise a ribbon of LEDs to draw due focus.
Visualizer:Gray Vision
Another stunning Japanese Maple takes the stage in a mini zen garden.
Visualizer:Cool Design Perception Space
Of course, a comfortable tea room is also a great place to settle down for a game of checkers. Don’t forget to allocate surrounding storage with game time in mind.
Visualizer:1992 renderings of Li Qianqian
Shape a new tradition. This traditional tea room setup is updated with a prominent shape theme of circles and bold lines.
Visualizer:效果图施工图婷婷
The same linear pendant lights and backdrop of illuminated round art is repeated here behind a much smaller tea table set.
Visualizer:Dulce In Piro
Update a simple wooden Chabudai table with a contemporary concrete top. These cleverly deceiving floor chairs give the look of simple cushions whilst providing much more support and height.
Visualizer:Z18672383
Surround the art of tea making with an art-filled room.
Visualizer:效果图施工图婷婷
Japanese ginger jars were originally containers for salt, oil, and spices like ginger, which is of course where they got their name upon entering the Western world. Their decorative nature is now enjoyed on shelves and mantels, and makes an ideal accompaniment for a tea room.
Visualizer:Wu Ji Vision Design
A skylight forms a stunning natural spotlight over a tea table.
Visualizer:Utopia ONE
An elevated floor helps to zone a ceremonial tea area from the rest of the floor plan.
Architect:Dam San
Align a floor level dining set with an independent tea area to double their impact. Use authentic tatami mats to define the separation of zones.
Visualizer:Z18672383
Often, in modern interiors, a cast-iron Tetsubin teapot is not suspended over an irori hearth but directly over the table.
Visualizer:效果图施工图婷婷
A suspended Tetsubin teapot provides an impressive visual that sets an immediate sense of ceremony.
Visualizer:Orange Flavored Mucha
Decorative screens provide an effective, atmospheric visual anchor for an open plan tea area.
Visualizer:梦太初
This bespoke tea table appears to pass straight through the window, where it joins with a sun-drenched courtyard.
Visualizer:效果图施工图婷婷
Sculptural clouds pass in front of an artistic mountain range in this unique and dreamy tea room decor scheme.
Visualizer:九尾狐空间设计
A large example of calligraphy adorns and zones this open plan tea room from the rest of the airy living space. Tall shelving units are accessorised very simply so as not to compromise the tranquillity of the setting.
Via:Dwell
No space for a dedicated tea room? No problem. Even a wood-clad window seat can make an elegant setting for ceremonial tea serving.
Designer:FM. X Interior Design| Photographer:WU Yong Chang
A live edge table lends itself wonderfully to the tradition steeped practice of tea brewing, serving and enjoyment.
Visualizer:TH 201
An arched window at the end of a long tea table creates a magical vista.
Visualizer:桌子上的咸鱼
Paperless shoji screens keep this tea room connected with the neighbouring living space, and allow the fabulous view to be shared throughout.
Photographer:Marser
This beautiful balcony in Rurikō-in temple makes a meditative tea room.
Visualizer:Ghuanjiu Space Design
Muxarabi screens amuse the eye with uniform pattern.
Visualizer:Z18672383
Chunkily woven floor cushions add a contemporary trend into the mix.
Via:Sohu
A portal cutout window offers a sneaky peek into the impressively varied contents of a large tea pantry behind this tea table set. A large Bonsai tree stands majestically in the window.
Visualizer:Xia Shuyue
Display Chinese architectural models to celebrate the origin of tea. A glass brick wall echoes the lattice aesthetic of a Shoji door, whilst letting through a more intense level of light.
Visualizer:wx18075058778
Floor-level perimeter lighting will style the space as special yet modest.
Visualizer:q26224897
In another nod to Chinese architecture, this Chinese tea room features a circular vignette of an architectural drawing as the focal point of the room. At either side of the specially commissioned piece, built-in illuminated shelving units showcase a selection of special teas and tea brewing vessels.
Mid-century modern elements add flair to this cosy book lover’s home, layering contrasting colour over rich wood tone. Designed by Ni Dongbo of NDB Design, a lack of architectural features has been overcome with creative interior curations of sculpture, wall art and a literary treasure trove. Mid-century modern accent pieces are combined with contemporary components to create an interesting, eclectic style that keeps the eye moving and the mind wandering. Crisp white walls provide a fresh backdrop for the bright, statement furniture and make a quiet frame for two well-stocked home library walls. The unique home is dashed with natural greenery, which freshly unites the interior with a lush outdoor view.
Visualizer:Meng Taichu of Jingai Vision
An elaborately patterned red living room rug instantly sets a warm and welcoming eclectic tone inside the walls of a modern white space. An armless sofa design speaks of mid-century aesthetics with its simple square cushioning and saturated colour.
The large area rug and bright red sofa make energised contrast with a host of lush green indoor plants . Beside the fireplace, a stylish swivel chair complements the plant life and the mid-century vibe with an earthy olive hue.
A glass coffee table reflects natural light from the window.
A comfortable reading chair and matching footstool pull up by a bespoke wooden bookcase. A small side table is set beside the black accent chair to keep a supply of tea or coffee close to hand.
As expected in a book lover’s home, the glass coffee table is stacked with a generous supply of coffee table books . A decorative wooden bowl makes an aesthetic addition.
Glass doors protectively encase a Buddha statue at the heart of the bookcase. The serene statue instils a message of enlightenment and peace into the home library.
A wooden stool rounds out the library/lounge furniture arrangement, serving as both a seat and as an extra side table.
Wood parquet flooring creates a warm finish across the lounge and home library area, then changes to a more hardwearing surface beneath the kitchen and dining room.
At the centre of the open plan living space, natural wood casing transforms a basic concrete support into a beautiful column.
A second home library/lounge area is situated at the opposite end of the room.
In this reading area, a stylish settee rests by the book stacks. A black and white area rug lays down a soft island for the mid century modern furniture .
Colourful art takes mid-century modern vibes to the library wall.
A simple floor lamp provides reading light by the elegant settee. The small lamp also casts gentle light across the plethora of book spines that fill up a made-to-measure bookcase. Hidden storage units are tucked into the wooden frame of the custom bookcase, and deep drawers line its base.
Hardback tomes stack haphazardly upon the floor of the home library, creating a welcoming, lived-in look.
Wooden volumes stack to form a casual side table by the wooden settee.
A decorative bowl and a sculptural art piece adorn the modular side table .
Across the room, a round glass dining table is encircled by a wonderfully eclectic set of wooden dining chairs that span the ages. With a sculptural base, this is not your typical mid century modern dining table .
A wide skylight rains natural light down onto the dining room layout. Colourful works of art are curated into a bright gallery above a stairwell that leads up into the living room. Sculptural art pieces ornament the glass dining table and a plinth placed by the floor-to-ceiling window.
After dark, a fabulous dining room pendant light illuminates the eating area. This eye-catching, sculptural piece is the Taraxacum Suspension Light , designed by Achille Castiglioni and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni for FLOS.
The rich wood tone that’s displayed within the collection of assorted dining chairs carries through to the neighbouring kitchen design. An L-shaped installation of flat-fronted wood cabinets communicate mid-century modern influenced style.
A modern kitchen island divides the kitchen diner into two clear halves, just behind the wooden chairs. A Chashitsu tea room, of sorts, is fashioned by the window of the kitchen where the floor has been deliberately raised. Tatami mats fill the floor around a stone ceremonial tea table.
In lieu of a proper Tokonoma alcove for the Chashitsu tea room, where flowers and a special scroll would traditionally be displayed, this home has books in pride of place, of course.
One end of the kitchen island countertop is cantilevered to form a comfortable breakfast bar. The olive green hue of the central island pops beautifully against the honey-coloured wood grain backdrop.
Rustic wooden bowls pop against a stark matt black kitchen backsplash and a matching black countertop.
Copper pans gleam on top of a modern black stove. The extractor fan is tucked away into the underside of the wall units to achieve a completely streamlined result.
The large open plan living space is situated on the second story of the home. Below it, the entryway and modern staircase design is awash with bright natural light. As if introducing the theme of this book lover’s abode, a recessed bookcase is carved into the white stucco wall of the foyer. A tall ladder back chair and a unique side table make up a sculptural furniture arrangement for the reading nook beneath the stairs.
At the foot of the modern staircase, the interesting geometric-fold lamp design is an Akari UF4-L8 floor lamp by Isamu Noguchi.
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
