Modernist architecture (also known as International Style) is defined by thin linear forms, exposed metal frames, concrete cladding , and little ornamentation – characteristics often met with hesitation due to the perception that strict functionalism leads to overly minimalistic spaces. But these beautiful homes by José Juan Rivera Río demonstrate a more vibrant side of this iconic architectural genre: organic, atmospheric, and endlessly adaptable. Located in the prestigious Mexico City neighborhood of Lomas de Chapultepec, all three homes reject the monolithic mansions that surround and instead opt for clarity and organic appeal .
Photographer:Nasser Malek
Thanks to its slim and refined construction, Sierra Fría cuts a sharp profile against the steep cascades of colorful vegetation that surround the property on either side. Nature generously provides the privacy so the architects could fully embrace the glass elements that serve as one of the most important defining features of international style architecture.
Volcanic stones pave the walking path and portions of the exterior, enhancing the exterior’s connection with the earth. Over time, natural weathering effects will color the stone and concrete for a more integrated aesthetic.
Natural elements continue to play just as important of a role inside the home. This time, clean lines of wood grain stand in contrast to the untamed foliage and grey textiles replace the rough texture of stone cladding.
Exterior courtyards facilitate indoor-outdoor living – like this dining table situated conveniently outside the kitchen.
Light floods the atrium, a catalyst to reflect the warmth of the wood floors onto the grey concrete walls.
Bedrooms, too, have their own personal patios and gardens. This one overlooks the cool waters across the yard.
Shallow water conditions the air as it flows into the home, an effective cooling solution for the Mexican dry season.
It also provides a unique way to appreciate the provocative sculpture that greets visitors at the entrance.
Jet-black pool lining creates the illusion of infinite depth and erases the transition from the water to the sculpture’s pedestal.
Exhibiting the same horizontal emphasis of the previous home, Monte Cáucaso differentiates itself with a stronger and more defined outline of concrete cladding. But it too embraces greenery and natural materials at every opportunity. The home consists of a main living volume suspended over a spacious garage, surely to the delight of automotive enthusiasts.
A private front yard allows for complete openness to the outdoors, with thin pillars (a most defining feature of the International Style) barely obstructing the view at all.
In the open plan living room, sliding doors completely erase the boundary between indoors and out, taking full advantage of the clever landscaping that surrounds.
Decor primarily falls into a spectrum of deep red and orange. Wood floors follow the horizontal arrangement of the living area, sometimes continuing up the wall in vertical panels.
Between the open living room and the bedrooms at the rear of the home, hallways feel more like independent bridges that link one space to the next.
Traversing these stairwells and hallways will feel different at every time of day thanks to the changing quality of the light as it filters through the distinctive slatted ceiling.
Bedrooms closely echo the interior decor style of the living room, but enjoy a greater sense of intimacy thanks to the lower ceilings.
A slatted skylight and natural materials deepen the bathroom’s impressive connection with the outdoors, while half-walls and outdoor landscaping secure the privacy of the residents.
Textural contrast enhances the effect of each material independently: the concrete wall, smooth stone, and the untamed foliage.
Vines cascade down surrounding privacy walls, disguising the utilitarian nature of their design.
Finally, Sierra Leona – this lovely residence offers the perfect architectural compromise between the streamlined forms of the first home and the boldness of the second. The construction builds up from the center of the plot, surrounded by a paved courtyard (featured here) and a spacious garden in the back.
At the back of the house, a hefty wall of stone makes a distinct impression as it intersects the concrete facade. But unlike the previous home, it doesn’t continue into the building but rather terminates at a fixed point.
Tall vine-covered walls shield the open interior from other nearby properties, creating an ideal private retreat where the family can gather.
Social spaces like the living room and kitchen face outward toward the private garden, with bedrooms occupying upper floor.
Like the other homes in this post, many of the social areas take advantage of sliding doors for indoor-outdoor living – but the effect is more subtle here.
Layered planes bring interest to the bedroom ceilings and facilitate interesting lighting effects. When the recessed lighting feels too overwhelming, residents can relax to the toned-down ambiance of a warm and indirect glow.
Cantilever stair treads protrude from concrete walls, the simple construction allowing material to take precedence over form alone.
On the upper levels, skylights cast intricate shadows over the main corridors of the home.
Slatted ceilings certainly contribute an interesting aesthetic to these homes. No matter how many times the technique is repeated, each residence will experience a unique effect.
From the substantial concrete cladding of the primary entrance, few would ever be able to predict the spacious and open nature of the interior.
Nordic design has profoundly influenced the aesthetics of the modern world – from typography to art and architecture and, of course, the objects inside our homes. This post tours two bright and colorful interiors decorated by Taiwanese design firm Nordico , whose creatives developed their signature look to reflect a fresh and contemporary interpretation of Nordic styling. And if you’re looking for Nordic furniture inspiration for your own interior, you’ll be glad to find the names of select designers beneath many of the images so you can infuse your own home with sunny appeal.
Designer:Nordico
This lovely interior stays true to the fundamentals of Nordic design with simple forms, bright surfaces, and a casual yet coordinated feel. But it also challenges many preconceived notions found in the magazines, forgoing minimalism in favor of curated ornament and bright colors – it’s a more realistic reflection of everyday decor in the north, and the result really feels like home.
Almost every color of the rainbow makes an appearance. In colder climates, where the winters are long and dark, these cheerful tones help to ease the burden.
Designer:Nordico
Not only does the open layout bring sunlight deep into the home, it also allows residents to stay in communication with guests as they watch television or keep an eye on the children as they complete homework in the office.
This substantial brick wall provides visual warmth and helps to separate the entryway from the rest of the living area. The double-sided railway clock allows residents to check the time as they enter or leave the home.
While the living room is exceptionally vibrant, color blocking still plays an important role in the design. The living room relies primarily on blues – the dining and kitchen, red.
Looking for a statement chair? This lovely teal lounge is a design by Hee Welling, from his About A Lounge series.
Irregular geometric tiles draw attention to the kitchen floor, a feature often overlooked in open layout homes.
Eclectic chairs always make a dining room look so fun and carefree. This collection spans from classic to contemporary, from Danish designers like Poul M. Volther and Jorgen Baekmark along with a newer design from London-based Sebastian Wrong.
The oversized pendant lamps definitely embody the smooth and functional shapes associated with Nordic design. They’re from the Bell Lamp collection by Copenhagen-based designers Andreas Lund and Jacob Rudbeck.
Don’t you love this distinctive platter? It imitates the distinctive curves of the famous Savoy Vase by renowned Finnish architect Alvar Aalto.
The print on the wall also pays homage to Alvar Aalto with a minimalist depiction of his popular Beehive lamp design.
Sebastian Herkner’s smoky Oda table lamp offers soft illumination near the entrance.
And a bench makes it easy for the residents to slip off their shoes after coming home from a hard day at work.
Overlooking the living room, this office makes the work-from-home lifestyle look exceptionally comfortable.
Expansive storage holds all of the reference materials the resident could need.
Dalecarlian horses, or Dala horses, are known around the world as one of the most beloved and popular Swedish crafts. They originated in the Dalarna province and quickly became a cottage industry with its own rich traditions that vary by region.
At the entrance, eclectic tiles provide an overview of the colors and playful decor to be found within.
This comfortable bedroom catches the eye with rich patterns against a wooden headboard. Blue, green, and yellow accents continue the palette that began in the living room.
While many bedrooms today hang a television at the foot of the bed, this room keeps things simple with expansive storage. But it’s not boring – we love the decorative niche with its illuminated birdcage.
Creative faux taxidermy offers a comfortable alternative to the trophies found in Nordic hunting cabins.
Here’s a look at the second bedroom. Typography naturally meshes well with streamlined Scandinavian styles. Words draw the eye naturally without the need for superficial ornament.
While the previous home cultivated a relaxed aesthetic, this interior takes a more adventurous approach with vivid colors and exceptional bold patterns. White walls are a hallmark of Nordic design, but they play an especially important role in this home: superficial decoration would have distracted from the brilliant furniture and textile compositions that define each functional area. The spaces between remain free and open, uncluttered, and perfectly representative of streamlined Nordic style ideals.
The palette brings to mind the colorful rows of homes found in coastal Nordic cities – a tradition brings life to dark northern winters. These colors seem to speak to the welcome sunshine and wildflowers of summer, reinforced by the lively floral arrangements scattered throughout.
Nearly all of the furniture in the living room enjoys the soft effect of rounded edges. Sweeping curves are a popular feature in Nordic furniture design, especially since the height of the Mid Century Modern era.
While the curves play a prominent role in the aesthetic, the room avoids looking overly retro thanks to contrast created by linear elements like the rug, shelves, and blinds.
Both tables are from Danish designer Thomas Bentzen. The yellow is from his Don’t Leave Me series, and the green table is called Around. The super-useful basket/table combination is from Scandinavian design brand Ferm Living.
Built-in shelves serve as a decorative catchall near the entryway, while this mid century modern dresser extends storage to unused space behind the sofa.
This is incredibly adorable! Young residents get to enjoy their own tiny living room thanks to miniature versions of iconic designer chairs.
Varied dividers add playful appeal to the bookshelf. Kids can reach up and enjoy their favorite books or play with the colorful Dala horses.
A small kitchen and dining area take advantage of the darker and more intimate part of the open plan living room, positioned just right to overlook all the activity.
Eclectic tiles brighten the backsplash, uniting the pastel color palette of the dining area with the bright tones in the living room.
Light is so important to nay dining room arrangement. This one uses three overhead pendants the brighten the tabletop and charming green runner.
What a charming bedroom! The overall theme is simple and comfortable, with a few modern geometric motifs thrown in for effect.
Another room, pretty as can be, pairs bright child-friendly furniture with pastel walls and a whimsical canopy.
This bedroom is fresher and simpler, likely decorated for an older child that has an interest in gardening. Just look at all those rustic-tin potted plants.
It’s nice for the kids to have sleek and distraction-free bedrooms, but they do need somewhere to do their homework. This cozy office is perfect for projects and after-school reading.
And finally, the tour ends back at the entrance of the home.
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
