A Costa Rican House With Privileged Views Of The Pacific [video]

Perched on the hilltops of the town of Nosara in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, Charred Timber House absorbs uplifting views of the Pacific Ocean and of a dense green landscape. Designed by Studio Saxe , the 515 square metre family home features an exterior of charred teak wood and black framed windows. Two extended horizontal roof planes provide protection from the natural elements, whilst also promoting a connection with nature by forming wide and welcoming terraces. The outer environment inspires an interior that is decorated with natural wood and dark, matte materials. Living spaces are open plan and airy, with full focus placed on the special views that are pulled in through floor-to-ceiling walls of glass.

The height of the modern property skims just below the canopy of surrounding trees, effectively blending the house into the natural surroundings. A wide driveway leads up to the house via the density of mature trees, eventually finding full shade beneath a stilted second-story overhang.

A glass column rises through the centre of the structure, framed in crisp white render. A double height expanse of glass reveals the rise of a modern staircase inside. Large terraces wrap around the edges of both floors, extending the usable living space out into the fresh air.

The modern exterior is clad in charred teak wood, which contrasts darkly against the light natural timber overhang of the roof and upper terrace. Black frames trim entire walls of windows on each floor of the home, causing neat squares of reflection.

A pool terrace is bedded at the side of the property, where the cool blue water ripples out toward the view of the Pacific ocean. Tall palm trees provide dappled shade around it.

Plant beds carve into the hillside that rises around the house. A small rustic rock wall borders the base of the slope, guiding the way toward stone steps that aid the ascent through the grounds. Love dark facades like this? Don’t forget to check out our post on black houses for more.

The construction of this home was steered by the weight-bearing capabilities of the soil and the seismic conditions of Costa Rica. In answer, a lightweight steel structure was pre-cut to be assembled quickly on site. Local teak wood was sustainably sourced and treated with the ancient technique of charring and finishing with natural oils.

Split wide open to the dramatic ocean and mountain panorama, the interior is an intense space. Colourful accent furniture vies for attention in the lounge. Multicoloured scatter cushions add to the upbeat palette. A modern rocking chair counteracts the brights with a natural wood frame and neutral upholstery.

The living room rug introduces a subtle pattern into the mix, which shows through a clear glass coffee table at the centre of the layout.

The open plan lounge arrangement backs onto a casual dining room setup and an open concept kitchen. An oversized rattan pendant light shade descends onto the dining table, creating a relaxed tropical aesthetic.

A combination of mixed chair designs and a dining bench surround the wooden dining table to make up a modern dining set.

Three kitchen bar stools pull up to a kitchen island with a timber construction. Black countertops add visual weight to the light kitchen design.

The unique staircase achieves dramatic effect in the home entryway. A wide column of windows frame views of the ocean and sky.

Not only does the towering stairwell volume add interesting juxtaposition to the architecture, but it aids circulation of air to all parts of the dwelling. The bioclimatic design process of the build considered wind patterns, sun exposure, temperature, and more so that active energy measures could be avoided. In this home, the power of the sun is harnessed to heat water with minimal energy consumption, and water is recycled through filters using state of the art treatment plant systems.

Upstairs, bedroom decor schemes are simple and serene with natural timber furniture, wood slatted wall and ceiling feature panels, and crisp white bed linen. A rustic wooden end of bed bench melds with the unfinished wooden bed design. Modern white bedside units flank the sides for storage. Glass table lamps reflect the daylight from huge bedroom windows.

At the foot of the rustic wooden platform bed, a plain black bedroom rug lays soft texture upon the wood bedroom flooring.

Out on the large bedroom terrace, a small outdoor sofa is positioned to take in the tranquil panorama. The simple sitting area makes an irresistible spot in which to start the day with a fresh cup of hot coffee, or end it with a cold glass of wine.

Dual aspect floor-to-ceiling windows allow the lush mountain view to dominate the interior of the minimalist bedroom too, which negates the need for fussy bedroom wall decor and distracting trinkets.

Exterior lighting makes a warm glow along the edges of the main terrace, washing golden light onto the raw grey concrete ground. Recessed LEDs glow in the base of the overhanging first floor terrace, adding evening illumination to an outdoor sitting area just off the living room.

First floor plan, illustrating the main living space with open plan lounge, kitchen. and dining area.

Second floor plan, showing master bedroom and three additional double rooms.

Front elevation with main entrance.

Section drawing, showing arrangement of private bedroom quarters above the sociable living areas, and the stairwell that aids air circulation between volumes.

A combination of sleek and slatted wood wall panels smartly hem the living spaces of these two beautifully bespoke house interiors in Moscow, Russia. The modern panelling smoothly merges into custom-built storage units that house TVs and bookcases, and into material-matched kitchens. The effect is high-end and personalised, taking these comfortable home designs into the luxury realm. Designer furniture fits right into the upmarket theme, in combinations of iconic chairs and contemporary concepts. Lighting is eye-catching but elegant in golden spherical form, or cleanly implemented in linear silhouette. We’ll uncover a continuation of sophisticated style in beautiful bedrooms, chic staircase designs, and luxe marble bathroom inspiration.

Visualizer:Kseniya Petina

In the first of our two bespoke apartment interiors in Moscow, a cream, grey, white and wood tone decor scheme spells out sophisticated style.

A curved sofa makes a soft border around the back of the lounge area, separating it from the dining space behind. The stylish wooden lounge chairs are Easy chairs designed by Pierre Jeanneret.

The TV wall unit includes a series of sliding slatted panels, which move to conceal the television screen when not in use.

Globe pendant lights descend upon a small square coffee table at the centre of the lounge. A plain area rug lays down a soft grey base.

In the adjoined kitchen, the breakfast bar light fixture creates a cohesive link with the globe shades and gold finish of the living room pendant light.

A second sitting area is situated behind the lounge, where two small chairs and their matching footstools convene cosily at the fireplace.

A round dining table takes up a bright spot by the living room window. Its luxurious white marble tabletop and white bud vases cleanly reflect the daylight. A black sideboard makes dark contrast behind.

The kitchen peninsula, countertop and backsplash flow in matching white marble. Wood and rattan kitchen bar stools introduce visually warming accents at the breakfast bar.

Kitchen base units carve an L-shaped installation, whilst full height kitchen units are tucked flush into the third wall. A retro inspired SMEG oven is integrated into the minimalist modern units, causing a delightful contrast of style.

A range cooker balances out the other side of the kitchen arrangement with a black and gold retro finish.

Mosaic floor tiles are trimmed with gold to match the kitchen appliances. White window shutters frame two large kitchen windows, giving the room a romantic essence.

The stairwell decor is lavish in satin gold strips and beautiful walnut wall panelling. Clear glass balustrades let the silky combo show through.

Classically inspired art adorns the wooden walls of the staircase design .

Pure white stairs are darkly contrasted by grey marble floor tiles on each landing area.

Inside the master bedroom, a custom-made upholstered headboard feature extends up to the ceiling seam. Slatted wood panels flank either side with deep texture, and completely camouflage the door to the hallway. A large modern chandelier spreads wide above the bed, whilst dainty bedroom pendant lights illuminate the bedsides.

A round bedside table design complements the shallow curve of the headboard.

A half-arch mirror continues the curved shaped theme on the opposite side of the room. The mirror is well placed to reflect natural daylight from the bedroom windows, making the space feel brighter.

The bedroom chair introduces a warm, muted orange shade to the pale decor scheme.

Inside the bathroom, a gorgeous white marble bathtub is set below the window. Dreamy treetop views peep through white shutters.

A wooden vanity station and caramel stone basin contrast with the milky marble walls.

Visualizer:Ekaterina Kiraidt

Our second home design from Moscow is a 210 square metre apartment. Floor to ceiling windows fill the grey and white living room with an abundance of daylight and nature views.

Soft mood lighting brightens small niches and shaded contours of the room like the TV wall. A sectional sofa and matching ottoman pull up close to the media wall, fashioning a cosy entertainment area.

A small floor lamp uplights indoor plants beneath the modern staircase. Slatted wall panels texture the sides of the stairwell, adding textural interest.

A picture window rises from the floor of the living room to the first half landing of the stairwell, opening up more of those uplifting garden views.

Behind the open plan lounge area, the dining table and kitchen island are combined as one sleek volume.

A contemporary linear suspension light illuminates the full length of the eating area.

contrast moodily against the wooden dining table.

The black chairs coordinate with the solid black kitchen island volume and matching base units at the back of the room.

A modern fruit bowl decorates the stark kitchen island .

Indoor plants beds grow natural beauty in the sleek surroundings.

Modern track lights and understated pendants adhere to a cohesive matt black colourway.

Wood wall panels smooth around and over internal doorways.

Inside the master suite, a modern grey sofa backs onto a wide window with a woodland panorama. Black window blinds and a modern floor lamp bring in matt black accents.

A long media unit stretches out in front of the couch. The piece is material-matched to the room’s wood panelled room divider to achieve a truly bespoke look.

The bedroom lounge area is completed with a built-in dressing table, where an illuminated vanity mirror brightens the alcove.

The bedroom sleeping space is located on the opposite side of the wood and glass room divider. Floor level LEDs and bedroom pendant lights twinkle around the dark decor scheme.

Bespoke bookshelves store nighttime reading material.

Modern bedside units hook onto the upholstered headboard.

Ground floor plan.

First floor plan.

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