A Tranquil Jungle House That Incorporates Japanese Ethos [video]

Located in Llanogrande, Colombia, 5 Solidos architects have designed this imposing jungle house to incorporate tranquil Japanese Ethos. The form of the home is softened inside and out with curved corners that facilitate a peaceful flow. Natural wood grain, great expanses of water and majestic trees join to create calm zen encounters across enchanting outdoor spaces, of which there are an equal balance over first and second story terraces. Interior design is a sleek Japanese inspired affair of low to the ground chabudai tables, zabuton cushions and zaisu chairs. Minimalist aesthetics radiate a warm, earthy and traditional essence that creates a soothing sight to behold.

The modern exterior is dominated by a huge concrete staircase design that descends from the upper floor all the way down to a spectacular firepit on the ground floor terrace.

The second story has its very own terrace too, with a huge sundeck and a pool that wraps the softly curved perimeter of the concrete structure.

Mature trees shield the luxurious facade from the rest of the world, deterring unwelcome prying eyes and dampening any undesirable noise.

Wooden fascias interrupt the building’s concrete exterior, building interludes of warmth and slatted texture.

The home has its own resident tree that emerges in its full glory up on the top terrace. It’s wide leafy branches grant blissful shade over the outer deck and pool.

The tree’s roots are planted firmly in ground level, isolated on an island surrounded by tranquil waters.

The vast majority of the home’s walls are made entirely of glass and timber frame, allowing the interior to drink in the jungle view.

Huge stepping stones appear to float a path over the pool, before reaching the decked island at its centre.

Modern outdoor chaise lounge chair s line up by the waters edge.

Natural wood, water and the majestic tree pull together to create a zen-like experience that quiets the mind, body and soul.

Abstract outdoor lights shine their glow at sundown, as daylight disappears behind the trees.

We enter the building at the living room, but it’s not lounge furniture that commands the eye. A breathtaking panorama stretches out beyond floor to ceiling glass panes. Great pillars push vertically through the space like ancient tree trunks.

Upon pulling our eyes away from the glorious view, we find a contemporary concrete wall living room with sleek modern Japanese finesse.

A low level sofa and a low coffee table hug the floor. A small stack of coffee table books tidily accessorise the smooth tabletop.

Unique sculptural accent chairs are paired to double their eye catching presence.

Bedroom designs twin with the same warm wood clad decor and tranquil minimalism. Japanese style platform beds and contemporary bedside units lay low to the ground.

erupt from bedroom walls, like huge gems waiting to be mined.

Zabuton cushions line up at a modern Chabudai table, where a unique teapot awaits to serve.

On the terrace, a monolithic outdoor coffee table melds with the concrete floor. An outdoor sofa flanks each side in a conversational arrangement.

In this minimalist bedroom design, towering wall height builds a unique palatial atmosphere.

Wooden wall panels curvaceously navigate the space.

A bedroom chair and small side table rest beside the window wall, where wooden slats manipulate direct sunlight. Concrete stepping stones steal away from the exit.

Is it a shoe store or is it a walk in wardrobe ? No need to decide, just bask in the glory of this enviable kicks collection.

The fun doesn’t stop there though, this closet just keeps on going and going. Industrial style rails lay out the current casual collection, whilst enclosed closets stow away vintage pieces and precious favourites.

Concrete ceiling planes blur the boundaries between indoor space and out.

In another of this home’s many, many bedrooms, a modern platform bed is flanked by bedroom pendant lights that are reminiscent of traditional Japanese paper lanterns.

An imposing concrete column looks irresistibly tactile. Wooden wall art adds contradicting intricacy.

Surprising secrets are held within the unassuming wooden walls of the bedroom, namely, a mini fridge and coffee bar.

Open shelving inside one of the home’s luxury bathroom s reads like an apothecary of lotions and potions.

Unique freestanding pedestal sinks twin up in front of a solid wall of mirrors. Grey stone basins create cool contrast with their linear wooden frames.

Twin minimalistic showers sprout as simple standpipes.

The home gym design is equipped for many people to work out in at any one time.

Various gym equipment lines up along the window wall, whilst mats are spaced along the back for floor work.

Hidden perimeter lighting paints a warm glow around the softly curved edges of the cinema space.

If movies aren’t on the homeowner’s mind, then there’s always the home spa.

Jacuzzis and saunas take the trials and tribulations of the day away.

After a long work out in the morning, there’s got to be time for relaxation and snacks in the evening. Where better to unwind than in a luxurious home theatre, with a whole bunch of close friends and family.

Slatted wood floors and walls warmly cocoon the room, with pale concrete lightening the upper half.

Even in the spa, there’s always time for tea. Japanese Zaisu chairs sit at a pedestal style Kotatsu.

But first, a relaxing massage for two.

Welcome to Villa La Toca , a state of the art modern villa with a wrap around terrace and amazing panoramic views. Placed in a prime location within a private gated community, the impeccable home boasts a 1,941 square metre tree shrouded plot with a 529 square metre build area. The terraces stretch a massive 390 square metres around the house, where they support lawned gardens, a curvaceous 59 square metre swimming pool, and a stepped sun deck that illuminates at night. The interior of the enviable five bedroom home is designed to enhance the supply of natural daylight, and to impress with stylish modern simplicity.

A grand illuminated staircase descends around the outer walls of the house, dipping down between trees toward the impressive sweeping terraces.

Glass balustrades disappear around the edge of the property, where a lawned garden and pool deck rush up to the edges, teetering on the brink of a sheer fall.

The modern home exterior is alive with light. Golden glow leaks from the interiors, burns bright lines down every external step, and uplights beautiful palm trees and shrubs.

An outdoor conversation pit cuts a triangle out of the angular upper deck.

Another external staircase leads down onto a grassed terrace with a charming sitting spot by a pond.

A two tier pool design allows the main body of water to be set back from the edge, whilst the watery border runs tight to the limit of the main terrace.

Stairs that link the main living floor of the house with the pool terrace have been designed to accommodate multiple sunloungers.

By night, these staircase rest spots become outdoor party seating.

White concrete slabs are interlaced with black treads to build a striking high contrast design.

The black and white colour theme continues on the inside of the house too. Punchy black and white cushions sharpen a plain white sofa. A modern fireplace flickers from within a jet black chimney breast.

A rustic wood coffee table provides a moment of natural beauty in the crisp contemporary scheme.

Likewise in the dining room, a live edge wooden table is teamed with a set of black and white dining chairs. A modern dining room chandelier illuminates stunning cutouts in the table’s top.

On a raised floor behind the formal dining room, a unique kitchen island cuts an angular black silhouette. A modern fruit bowl , shaped like a hand, punctuates the black countertop with a single moment of pure white.

Kitchen pendant lights are clustered over the island for larger effect.

A golden room divider separates the kitchen from the hallway and interior stairwell.

Another cluster of edison bulbs cascade down the ethereal stairwell.

Green accents lift the basement’s grey lounge space, drawing inspiration from the garden view outside of its patio doors. Outdoor artwork provides a visual stop.

The green accented lounge is part of a games room, with a unique pool table and a card table.

White decor accentuates the natural light coming into the master bedroom suite. A white bed and matching end of bed bench are pushed up against a wall of mirrors that reflect the sun drenched view.

A bank of built-in closets make a stark black accent in the room, along with black window frames and a wall mounted faux horse head.

The bedroom leads straight into an open plan ensuite bathroom design …

… And a generously sized walk in closet off to the left hand side.

A floating black double sink bathroom vanity is enriched with copper accents. A freestanding tub brings the black and copper elements to the other side.

Including the master, there are three bedrooms on the first floor, and a further two bedrooms down in the basement. This one is a sumptuous balance of light caramel and jet black, all under the spotlight of extraordinary bedroom pendant lights and a chic floor lamp.

Each bedroom benefits from attached outdoor space.

Outdoor seating extends the basement games room.

A barbeque area with an outdoor dining set is laid out on the pool terrace to round off the entertaining area.

Up on the first floor, the master bedroom’s balcony overlooks the main terrace below. A romantic lounge area with two outdoor chairs neighbours the cosy conversation pit.

The view from the outdoor dining table sees this architectural masterpiece standing like a small modern village that ambles up the hillside.

Planters decorate the modern home exterior.

All the way down at the bottom of the property, a round patio echoes the circular shape of the man-made pond.

Blue skies, blue swimming pool, and blue scatter cushions on the outdoor sofas.

Even the basement rooms get a sunny outlook.

A unique wine storage wall is backlit to showcase the best of the bottles, with others stashed in a wooden rack below. A display case boasts the most exquisite selection.

Dimmed lights, fresh rolled towels and copious amounts of candles create a spa vibe.

A huge house sign announces the presence of La Toca 10.

First floor plan, featuring master bedroom suite with luxury ensuite bathroom and large walk in closet, plus huge terrace with conversation pit. We can also see the two car parking garage on this level.

Ground floor plan, with main living room, formal dining room and unique kitchen design.

Basement floor plan with games room.

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