If you were to ask us to associate thoughts with Ukraine, we might think of wheat farming, or perogies (Yum!!) or even the current crisis around Crimea but we probably would not immediately have said, “Cutting edge interior design!”. These two apartments, rendered by Dnepropetrovsk-based Svoya studio are the epitome of where interior design is going next.
While clean sparse modernism dominates the ‘bones’ of the design, Svoya has achieved a warm welcoming feeling by throwing in a little bit of plaid, and using wood plank flooring that looks like it has a long story to tell. Of course, nothing says “Welcome to the warmth” like a roaring fire!
A consistent feature throughout Svoya’s designs is the use of innovative lighting. Multiple jointed arms on this modern chandelier recall the versatility of task lamps, adding elements of mystery and surprise - the room says: “This is how you see me now, but can you imagine the rooms that I turn into when you’re not around?” Note also, how the angles of these arms reflect the angled lines of the coffee table.
Modernism started out with lines that met, almost exclusively at 90 degree angles. In the 80’s, all cool designs featured at least some 45 degree angles. Some designs now feature a complete lack of straight lines, while others, like these examples, make use of angles other than 90 or 45 degrees. Furniture legs continue this trend.
A double-panelled minimalist art piece picks up the warm tones of the floor, fire, and throw cushions. Many people think of natural wood finishes as ’neutrals’, but we see clearly here how wood can introduce a non-neutral accent colour to a room.
Nothing says ‘21st century’ quite like a green wall. Bringing some of the outdoors inside while taking up minimal floor space and improving indoor air quality, a green wall adds loads of colour and texture to a design. If you plan to install one, look for a space like this near large windows, because living plants require ample light indoors. Also, plan from the beginning how your plants will get their water, and where the excess water will go. These dining pendant lamps express the design elements of rhythm and repetition, while adding surprise with varied heights. They almost look like musical notes on paper!
Structural columns can be the bane of a designer’s existence, but with careful planning, the one in the center of this picture becomes a room divider separating the kitchen from living and dining areas without completely closing the rooms off from each other.
Svoya doesn’t just make use of innovative lamps, but also uses lighting in subtle indirect ways. Indirect cove lighting, such as we see here surrounding an arch where it meets the ceiling, is often the hallmark of a professional design.
More surprising angles and innovative lighting in the master bedroom with a pulley-style pendant assembly over the bed and faceted shelves that match the flooring and headboard while bathing the plants that they hold in a soft glow from beneath.
Night table lamps and a pendant over the reading corner still don’t complete the rooms lighting - there is yet more hidden in a cove around the upper edge of the room. Such a large number of lights may seem wasteful, but given independent (and often automated) switches, can actually save energy by ensuring that the occupants have exactly the right type and amount of light at all times.
This is a room where creativity happens! Wall panels printed with rough ideation sketches, a task lamp suited to work on the bed, the seating area or the floor, and a telescope and Union Jack chair, to dream of places far away. The theme of irregular angles continues here in the floor lamp , chandelier, wall art, and area rug.
No room is left without plants, even the teen’s bedroom.
For a younger child, a ladder has been considerately supplied so she can reach the higher shelves and be in control of her own space. A feminine traditional chandelier and workstation chair combine with bolder, more androgynous wall finishes to produce a very individual, eclectic room.
In an adult’s home office, the apartment’s surprising angles find their boldest expression, while Gothic wall art expresses the past in an up to the minute way.
Oversized theatre lighting tells us that this room’s inhabitant has a creative streak, too.
With a bidet and heated towel rack, comfort doesn’t have to take a back seat to design.
A rippled mirrored wall reminds us that this is the room where the water is.
In this second design, Svoya takes the lighting surprises further, adding glowing globes to a cluster of plants on a raised green platform.
A patchwork rug adds a Bohemian touch. Coordinated cushions tie it to the rest of the room.
Coved lighting hidden in the edges of the bed platform make it appear to float, while alternating lampshades of the bedroom pendants create a fun rhythm that reminds us of piano keys.
One accent colour in a room full of neutrals always looks harmonious.
Today’s ceramic tiles can look identical to wood planks. This enables interesting colour variations, as each tile is identical in size and thickness to the next.
Truly professional design is marked by subtle, informed use of colour, line, rhythm, repetition, and lighting. This firm seems to get it just right.
Photographer Luca Zanier has released an intriguing series of photographs titled as the ‘Corridors of Power’ where he shoots the interiors of some of the most influential buildings in the world. These include assembly halls, board rooms and galleries of some of the most powerful organizations out there. It is safe to say that these spaces are silent witnesses to meetings and decisions that sometimes shape the world. Check them out below:
UN Security Council, New York
PCF French Communist Party, Paris
CGT General Labour Confederation, Paris
Library at the Institute of Law, Zurich
UN General Assembly, New York
UN Room XXIV, Geneva
UN Room XIX, Geneva
Consiglio Regione Lombardia, Milan
FIFA Headquarters Executive Committee Room, Zurich
Prayer Room In FIFA Headquarters, Zurich
The New School, New York
ANZENBERGER GALLERY, Vienna
Federal Parliament Building, National Assembly, Bern
UN Trusteeship Council, New York
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
