Mature trees stretch to the sun in the green space that clusters around Casa Biblioteca, a scholar’s home. The glass walled house takes in all of the beauty that this Brazilian landscape has to offer, gratefully absorbing the vibrant view into its entire 200 square metre footprint. This unique place was designed as a placid retreat where the owner could quietly read and contemplate whilst immersed within nature, away from the pace of Brazil’s metropolitan buzz. The build, designed by Atelier Branco Arquitetura , is a stepped structure that rises over three planes to accommodate its quiet hillside plot in the small town of Vinhedo.
It is possible to see right through from one side of the glass walled house to the other, so that the structure barely seems to be there in the landscape at all. The green leafy view and sunshine drifts through, as though they are at one with the internal living space.
An external staircase climbs up the grassy hillside. The outdoor steps make the ascent to the top of the property into an easy, tranquil stroll.
The glass living room is a double height volume beneath a flat roof. The same flat roof continues all the way to the back of the property over two more platform floors of ascending height.
The owner is a renowned scholar of the history of political thought. He requested the design of this leisurely retreat to serve as a midway haven between São Paulo and the State University in Campinas at which he has held teaching posts since the 1980s. Inside the contemplative hideaway, mid century modern furniture serves the open airy living room. A dining set stands to one side of the lowermost floor, and a lounge with mid century modern sofa furnishes the other.
Up on the midway platform floor, a rocking lounge chair is positioned for gazing out upon the lush vegetation, to get lost in thought amongst the leaves.
A more traditional rocking chair sits at the opposite side of the same floor level. An unusual high backed chair design is penetrable by sunlight and green views.
With lack of solid walls, power points are positioned flat in the wood floors.
Wooden steps, which give short rise to the next platform floor of the home, are built into the design of a bespoke wooden bookcase. A bird figurine and other sculptures are positioned in amongst the tomes.
A colourful screen stands by a clothes rack and a mid century modern chair in the bedroom.
The structure was created almost entirely with in-situ cast concrete, with attention to detail and constructional acumen that are characteristic of Atelier Branco projects. Setting up in 2012, founding members of Atelier Branco, Matteo Arnone and Pep Pons, built a portfolio of furniture and fittings, professional office spaces and commercial showrooms, as well as residential projects throughout Brazil.
The shower is a shaded and peaceful zone, perfect for this place of reverie.
Settling back into the hillside, this majestic home embodies attentive research into architectural form.
External staircases rise on both sides of the property, linked by narrow patios on the level planes, to form one complete ring terrace.
The simple exterior rests quietly amongst the trees.
Window frames cross in an untamed and asymmetrical fashion, at undulating heights and changing widths.
The metal window frames and concrete support columns are kept as narrow as possible so as not to disturb the connection with the home’s outdoor space.
The flat roof connects with the top of the green hill at the back of the house, where more trees flourish.
Decking covers the full area of the large flat roof, providing an open area to sit out under the sky and sun. Towering mature trees provide some blissful shade over one half of the exposed deck.
Two benches sit across from one another on the roof deck, providing a place to sit and read outside, or to lay down and gaze up at the stars by night.
A wide waterway flows around the gutter edge of the flat top roof.
Stairs lead down from the top of the hill to inside the home.
The waterway around the roof reflects the sky and the clouds.
Architectural drawing showing the terrain.
Roof terrace plan.
Floor plan illustrating two private bedrooms at the back of the home, positioned up on the third uppermost level, each with their own private ensuite bathrooms. There is also a toilet on the side of the house that can be accessed from one of the outdoor staircases.
Section drawing showing the rise of the three platform levels inside the hillside home. The main living area with lounge and dining room are positioned on the lowest level; a contemplation and occasional work area resides midway; bedrooms and bathrooms team up at the top.
Side elevation showing external staircase design all the way to the top of the hill.
Side elevation showing external staircase design on the opposite side of the house.
Glass front face of the house at the base of the hill.
House fascia and roof beams running back through the full depth of the house. This drawing also illustrates the internal staircase that cuts right through the centre of the living space on each level, and divides the two double bedrooms and bathrooms.
This collection of three home tours feature fresh white and yellow interior design ideas that are sure to inspire you to put together your own little piece of sunshine. Each room inside these energised apartments are glowing with a different take on the white and yellow decor theme, from colour block kitchens and dining areas, to bright bedrooms and yellow reading nooks. There are a trio of white and yellow bathrooms to choose from, plus yellow furniture designs, and a bespoke white and yellow studio space. We’ve thrown in a bright bunch of yellow decorating tips along the way too, to help you nail the trend.
Architect:Lookofsky Architecture
Our first white and yellow interior is a the result of 1920s apartment transformation. The original layout was opened up to provide an optimised living space for a young couple in Stockholm. The remodel focussed around three functional walls, the first one being this 7 metre long kitchen wall that is broken into clusters of separate components, each in their own articulated frame.
A column with integrated oven separates the kitchen prep countertop niche from a cosy yellow reading nook . Recessed shelves hold reading material close by plump yellow cushions. A wooden small side table is on hand to hold a coffee mug , and a yellow floor lamp provides focussed reading light. See more floor reading lamps here.
Everything inside the nook is completely yellow, from the retaining cube, seat cover and scatter cushions, to the shelves and a soft throw. The solidity of the combined yellow pieces gives the volume impact within surrounding white elements.
The one wall kitchen with island has a hidden cooker hood to keep the look streamlined - allowing the prep area to remain an uninterrupted cuboid of yellow. The kitchen island does not feature a hob or sink because it is a moveable volume, enabled by castors at its base.
A yellow kitchen bar stool matches the solid yellow kitchen island. A yellow kitchen pendant light completes the colour coordinated grouping.
This multifunctional room was previously two smaller rooms, but now the playful composition of the kitchen wall becomes a stage for daily social interaction.
A wall mounted stainless steel kitchen faucet protrudes from a primary yellow backsplash. Yellow dishes fill a stainless steel worktop with integrated sink.
A stainless steel upstand gives the yellow kitchen backsplash a shiny trim.
Yellow knotty pine covers the entire floor of the open plan living area. A silver dining room pendant light is suspended low over a modern dining table chair combination with sunny accents.
Yellow elements emulate a summer sunrise inside the white master bedroom. The second of the main function walls that was designed for the home remodel was this space saving white storage wall in the bedroom.
Warm yellow hallway decor emits a welcoming glow.
The third and last specially designed function wall is this bespoke yellow storage wall in bathroom.
Shelves are built into the opposite side of the column between the toilet and vanity area.
A raw grey concrete bathroom basin provides rugged contrast against the bright yellow storage units.
Floor plan showing the practical use of space, and position of three bespoke function walls.
Design of function walls, plus repositionable kitchen island.
Architect:Corpo Atelier
Home tour number two is a white and yellow studio apartment.
A central yellow storage unit is a multifunctional volume that is utilised as a desk from the living room side, and as a headboard at the other.
Three white marble steps lead up to the bedroom platform.
A rattan rocking chair basks in the sun from floor to ceiling windows, its mellow colour complementing the home’s yellow theme.
Yellow panelling crosses the top of a doorway.
In the empty apartment, we can see how the decor scheme revolves around just a few yellow pieces.
One of the main yellow pieces is a low sideboard. Large white storage units fill a long wall at its side.
The yellow volumes are used to create a visual flow through the space.
Floor plan.
Visualizer:Design Lviv
Our last tour takes place in a remodelled minimalist space, which features metal, concrete, and wood textures. The space was opened up and glass walls were installed, so that the apartment is perceived as one whole undivided living area, where zones have no solid boundaries. A yellow modern sofa boldly marks this area as the lounge. Grey scatter cushions tie in with concrete surroundings.
By the window, a contemporary swing chair design is suspended like a birds’ perch - a modern minimalist alternative to the timeless rocking chair .
The blank white living room wall provides a smooth screening area for a projected movie.
A white kitchen diner peeps out from behind a concrete support column.
Unusual modern dining pendants visually anchor the eating area in its spot. A yellow dining bench adds a unique element to the white set.
An intriguing yellow object protrudes from the far side of the apartment, behind a glass dividing wall.
A white side table serves the yellow sofa.
White dining chairs face toward the window view. The low dining bench on the other side of the table allows the view to remain unobstructed when not in use by extra diners.
Bleached wood kitchen units match the tone of the floor planks.
Stainless steel accents add shine to the kitchen.
The glass wall slides open to provide access to the side room.
The mysterious yellow object we observed from the dining room is revealed to be a floating workspace.
The home workspace is big enough for two people, two bird figurines , and a unique desk organizer .
White curtains offer privacy around a glass wall bedroom.
A bathtub stands beside the white bed in the relaxing scheme.
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
