Ever wanted to know how to inject a bit of nostalgia into the interior of your home without compromising on contemporary aesthetics? This is a modernisation project that transformed an apartment set in a preserved 1940s building. The project, located on Hen Boulevard, Tel Aviv, was sent to us by interior designer Galya Ben Asher from Israel. First, we’re struck with a monochromatic decor treatment but the colour story does not end here. A blue and blush colour combo breaks through, fashionably nostalgic of the time that saw the building in its beginnings. A peppering of 1940’s furniture silhouettes add to the subtle throwback effect.
Designer:Amir Navon, Galya Ben Asher, Moran Adir & Michal Gutman| Photographer:Gidon Levin
The compact apartment follows an open plan arrangement whereby the kitchen views directly over the dining spot and into the lounge. Beyond this lies a small garden balcony decorated with trailing plants. Besides the exterior greenery, we see our first colour emerging in this space; the placement of soft pink items form a visual triangle, whilst the wall art hints at our next stop on the colour wheel.
The layout provides an ideal social space with plenty of opportunities to sit, chat and eat communally. The consideration throughout this project was to cater for the homeowners ideal needs in terms of practical facilities, as well as to create the right energy. All of this had to come without compromising on the overall living space, or the crispness of the intended design.
Each of the two coffee tables strike a chord with 1940s design style, as does the silhouette of the dining room pendant light. The small decorative vase found on the round coffee table is a pretty little copper piece. More sprinklings of the metal accent can be seen placed subtly in other areas of the home too.
Over in the kitchen the second hue strikes unapologetically. A swathe of strong blue units cut across the width of the room, creating a backdrop and central sweep. The bright units are an unfussy handle-free and flat fronted design. The only decoration being a couple of small plants situated on the central countertop at each side of the sink.
The dark kitchen sink and faucet match the black dining table and chairs, in addition to the lounge picture frame and coffee tables.
Ice white kitchen worktops reflect the pure white walls. A pink teapot decorates the window sill and pulls the accent hue through from the lounge.
The design challenge for this home was to turn the apartment into a contemporary one whilst preserving its charm and special character. The color selection made works alongside elements of iron and glass, and with wooden floors.
To maintain the simplicity and modernity of the new apartment scheme, a bulk of the homeowners storage needs are met by tall built-in units that run the length of the home entryway.
Another piece of colourful artwork can be found in the master bedroom. Here the framed work is the only relief from a monochrome palette. A symmetrical split unit design hugs the bed, where a black recess forms an unusual runaround design at headboard height.
Bed linen is white and plain, as is drapery at the internal window that draws back to reveal the open plan living area on the other side of interior glass.
The exterior bedroom window is actually a set of french doors that allow an exit out onto the main balcony. The black bed runner forms the middle of three visual stripes that run the length of the room, the first being the black interior window ledge, and the third being the deep closet recess stripe.
Just outside of the french doors from the bedroom there is a small indoor area where one might sit for a moment and read or enjoy a drink out of direct sunshine or rain. A small copper pendant light anchors a green chair and wooden side table in position. An identical copper vase to the one seen on the living room coffee table sweetly decorates the spot. The flooring runs continuous with that inside the living and sleeping areas.
A second bedroom scheme returns to the colour combination of the living area, with a blue-grey wall and a blush bed throw. The bedside unit is a wooden triangular tabletop design synonymous with 1940s design, beneath a simple wall sconce . Another colourful moment of art decorates the white wall flanking the double bed.
The home office area has a unit style in keeping with the closets found in the master bedroom. These are teamed with a pale pink desk chair that, although dainty, completely adjusts the strong black and white scheme, adding softness and femininity.
One singular piece of pink accent furniture lifts the bathroom scheme too. A simple wall mounted vanity unit is coated in blush beneath a rectangular basin.
Black faucets and bottle trap match the bathroom mirror and floor tiles.
A second bathroom has a reversed scheme. Here we find white floor tiles instead of black, and a dark shower where the first was white. A strip of white LEDs provide mood lighting inside the shower cubicle. The boxing in of the pipes on the left hand side has been made tall, creating a picture ledge. Art frames, mirror and vanity unit in this room are all basic black to provide sharp contrast against white surroundings.
This 114 sqm (1227 sqft) home based in Lviv, Ukraine uses small pops of bright colour to lift a neutral backdrop. Visualised by IDEADEYA design studio , the layout is somewhat unusual compared with many other open plan houses. On the first floor, the sofa floats in the centre of the room like an island. The kitchen is to the right and front of the sofa, with the dining area tucked behind the seating alongside the stairs. Upstairs, the bedroom is accessed only via a windowless walk-through wardrobe. The creative use of space and natural light sources within limited proportions and build structure makes the home feel spacious and airy.
In the living area we can see that the window spot in the dining section has been made into a banquette bench seat. The window seat provides an alternative relaxation area to the sofa in the centre of the room. The banquette could also potentially act as more seats at the dining table if the table were rotated and pushed up alongside. Giving elements a dual purpose effectively doubles your space, essential in a smaller sized home.
A door leading out onto a small balcony bathes the living room in natural light. A bright coffee table has been situated in the obvious A to B walkway to the external door from the kitchen; the small obstruction causes a more winding pathway, preventing the stretch from appearing as a hallway.
The kitchen is in eyeline from the sofa, making the direction of the sofa an unusual choice. However, this layout allows a spacious flow of the living room that can spill out onto the balcony. The alternative would have been to nestle it into the dining room spot which is a much smaller space, restricted by the stairwell.
The television is surrounded by the home library. A neighbouring contemporary woodburner provides a cosy vista. The bookcase is a deep green colour which contrasts to the coral coffee table, and the yellow and aqua accents. Despite the modest proportions of the home, the combination of bright colours is not overwhelming as they are neutralised by the main pallet of the scheme which is set in shades of grey and natural wood.
The kitchen cabinets and dining table match the tone of the light wood floor. The dining table has darker legs to tie in with the darker Scandinavian style chair design.
Many varieties of indoor house plant have been introduced to the scheme, including this Giant White Bird Of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) . These add further splashes of vibrant colour to the subdued scheme, as well as softening the layout. A botanical influence can also be found among the art prints here and there. On the table, jars are used like glass vases for dried cuttings - an understated way to continue the theme.
decorate the plain wooden walls around the window seat. A large decorative dining room light fills the space over the table.
The handle-free kitchen is very simplistic in its lines and lack of decorative pieces. The only display piece is the small wine holder that flanks the bookcase from the living room. This holds a display of wine glasses in handy reach of the kitchen bar bench that is just big enough for two kitchen bar stools .
Internal glass allows the flow of natural light throughout the home. The light wood floor and features continue throughout each level of the house for a cohesive look.
A cloakroom holds a compact basin and concealed cistern WC. Glass bricks have been installed below the ceiling line to allow natural light in whilst maintaining privacy.
This is a one bedroom home. The bedroom is a well proportioned double with plenty of space for bedside units. Above the bedsides, orb style bedroom pendant lights adorn each side. Over the headboard, an arrangement of framed monochrome prints form a gallery wall, adding character to the relaxed room. We also find another large scale plant here, a Fiddle Leaf Fig .
To the side of the bed we can see that the bedroom is accessed via a walk-through wardrobe. An optical illusion has been created by framing the adjacent mirror in an identical design to the clear glazed door.
At the foot of the bed, a wall hung storage shelf makes use of what is left of the space without encroaching upon the floor area. A tall radiator utilises the vertical wall space.
Having a walk-through wardrobe situated as an entrance to a bedroom makes a great deal of sense in terms of living habits; items of clothing can be neatly discarded or quickly added on entering and exiting the bedroom. Nestling the closet in a central point of the upstairs layout works too since a wardrobe/dressing area requires privacy, so the lack of an external window is not an issue. Internal glass doors and good artificial lighting provide ample illumination.
Here we can see how the natural light from the bedroom window shines directly into the closet/dressing room.
The master bathroom has a wall of geometric green tile, comlemented by a Swiss Cheese plant .
A wall mounted faucet and a freestanding soap dispenser match the black marble countertop over the vanity unit.
A contemporary towel rail adds to the dark accents.
Geometric styling has been implemented in floor tiles too, adding interest to the ground floor entryway. A run of tall cupboards provide a large storage area.
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
