Aspire to higher thought, but don’t have the pad to embrace it? A home guided by Buddhist principles was the key desire of this family of four, who wanted a space to relax, plan their travelling and practice yoga in. Made reality by architects 33 BY , its wood, glass and metal form spans only 170sqm; yet its collaboration with elements such as marble, stone, copper and textiles lets its aesthetics play between the natural and man-made. Take a peek at our house tour to inspire the role of spiritual thought within your next interior home design.
Opening up to a blue stretch of pool, our first view of the exterior living space shows a Buddhist mask in weathered iron. As it sits centre stage on a canopy-supporting pillar, several carvings in black show to the right, alongside a statue of Confucius. Natural wood and charcoal awning supports tie into nailed concrete walls, while a yellow door beckons beyond.
Taking a view to the left, similar materials take on different shades. New-looking timber rafters mimic the lines of the outdoors, while lighter wood covers the floors. A kitchen bench in charcoal mirrors the awning supports, while a turquoise couch rivals the Buddha’s outdoor mask.
Leaning against a wall in marble, the turquoise couch spreads out. As a grey and white tabby plays amongst the curtains, grey-coloured cabinetry matches the kitchen bench, drawing us in with an upper panel in terracotta. The space lights up with small cylindrical lights dotted across the rafters.
The length of the turquoise couch helps to elongate the space, with a couple of ottomans thrown in. A black feature wall holds the TV, while a bronze cabinet beneath harks back to the kitchen’s lighting.
Forming an L towards the view outside, the couch opens itself both to the pool and outer living area, and the kitchen and TV. A mustard plinth with living plant atop adds nature.
A wall in marble complements a fireplace panel in bronze. Reminding of the resident family’s principles, a golden Buddha mask looks out to the living room, guiding the space above large stacks of wood.
From the kitchen, the bronze-coloured plinth serves as a holding piece for necessities. A spaghetti turner is welded into the bench, hinting at the family’s culinary appetite.
Looking towards the veranda, three pineapple sculptures make a splash in black, white and yellow, a finishing touch to the lounge and kitchen’s aesthetic.
As the pineapples move around the bench and into shelves underneath, a few kitchen counter stools , previously hidden, offer a seat to look at the chef’s process. A few glass wine decanters show potential for drinks.
Looking towards the ceiling, the rafter’s long lines run parallel with the island bench and kitchen cabinetry. Elongated drawer handles help to amplify the look.
As we follow the ceiling’s wood grains through the living area, a long hallway presents itself. A yellow door to the side and the fireplace’s wood stack and basket provide a handy place to get warmth roaring. Further down the hallway, blacker rafters continue.
The master bedroom shrouds itself in a whole new colour scheme. A black iron four-poster provides privacy with patterns in filigree, while a leaning stone mirror reflects back the hallway preceding. Two standing lamps offer light, while a square ottoman and rug inject life with colourful patterning.
As we look towards the bed, iron filigree forms a headboard and feature wall, a bold statement along its teal-coloured walls. Two clusters of bedroom pendant lights light up two antique bedside tables with Aplomb lamps , while floral cushions scatter a feeling of the old world. Another stone mirror joins up in party with the one to its side.
Zooming closer to taking a nap, the bedroom’s florals start to link together in the bed’s throw cushions and floor mat. With this backdrop on a bedspread of velvet blue, filigree makes patterns along Buddhist-style themes.
The master bathroom wows, with tiles in marble and idea bulbs hanging from knotted cords. A large black round mirror makes a statement against a more traditional reflective panel, while a concrete bench catches rays with a standing porcelain sink. A leaning wooden ladder to the side and under-bench towel cubbies add hints of the Scandinavian. A couple of ornamental vases hark back to Buddhism.
Leading towards the shower, another wooden ladder leans beside a seat for relaxation. A tall black acrylic panel adds a touch of sophistication adjacent to the mirror.
Fulfilling the need for after-shower calm, a grey-wallpapered space uses natural wood and a view to the veranda to invite Buddhist reflection. Based beside a mini fireplace, a rattan stool and low-sitting table offer a place to read the paper. A potted plant to the side and stone Buddha bust offer room for thought.
Towards the other end of the room, more chairs and a shower await the family after work. A simple wooden bench by the door collects shoes and a pot plant, while a glass shower and hidden marble-walled enclave offer a more private refuge. A chair knitted with a hammock’s methods provides an extra level of comfort.
Looking to the right, the Buddha’s bust and a couple of ornamental vases remind again of the family’s values. Whilst the terracotta in the vases harks back to the kitchen, the wicker wood basket is reminiscent of the feature fireplace in the lounge.
Leading out of the home’s main doorway, a bevy of historical figures in terracotta await us. The Japanese-style patterns on the bold red door remind us of the bolder turquoise and terracotta hues inside, while a stone fountain reminds us of the simple pleasures, the simple seating and the Buddha’s busts that pepper its interior. As we wave goodbye, two bonsai trees face the lining hedge, a hark back to nature in this Buddhist family’s paradise.
Not every home has a unifying color theme, but without one it can be easy for a house to feel disjointed or erratic. A color palette can unify a home’s design so that it flows easily from one room to another, but that does not mean that each room has to be decorated in exactly the same colors. In this house, for instance, grey creates a throughline within the home but does not overwhelm the design. Instead, it creates a foundation for each room so that the overall look is comforting and harmonious – without being too “matchy-matchy.” Take a look inside this home from visualizer Andrei Lychkouski to see what we mean.
The main, open living space itself is the room that takes the gray theme to the extreme.
From an oversized dark gray section to clear gray lucite dining chairs and texture gray walls, this is the center of the home’s color story.
The colors that are dotted throughout the space draw the eye but are still subtle, and largely live within the neutral family from green to teal to warm brown.
The high ceiling creates a dramatic feel for an otherwise fairly conservative design.
A few creative elements do stand out, including the glass coffee table and mid century modern clock .
When light gray is used in conjunction with white, a space can feel much more open without the blinding effects of white on white.
Gray furnishings show the commitment to the palette, such as this freestanding dresser.
The stairs in this home also act as an important design element.
White wood steps are suspended in air, making their way to the second floor with the bright green accent wall behind them.
But staying downstairs for a moment, the kitchen and breakfast bar keep with the gray theming.
Dark gray stools, light gray countertops, and a narrow window make this kitchen feel particularly cozy.
In the dining area, open to the kitchen, a smattering of pendant lights add a bit of interest as well.
The kitchen itself is not particularly spacious, but the use of natural light and a bar/island mean there is room to do the work required for cooking.
A small strip of grass grows along the windowsill for another pop of color.
Upstairs, gray gives way to black for the second floor railings.
Propeller-inspired light fixtures are both playful and unique.
Large picture windows let in plenty of light during the day but must be kept closed in the dead of winter.
The mater bedroom also tends towards darker grays and blacks.
A wood slat accent wall is darker while the cushioned headboard is a lighter shade of gray.
Color is brought in with creative art pieces.
Gray linens and black light fixtures give this bedroom decor a bit of an edge.
In a house with no separate home office space, its important that this desk is included somewhere – and there was no room in the living area.
Moving into one of the two children’s rooms, colors are quite a bit brighter.
A lovely blue chair, green rug, and pink pillow are so much more vibrant that most of what we have seen in this house.
But even so, the idea of cray threads its way in with a shadowed sleeping nook.
Fun wall art is a perfect way to bring a child’s personality into a room’s design.
The faux grass carpet is perfect for a cold winter, too, when playing outside is a bit less common.
In the second child’s room, colors go even further with an astronomy-inspired accent wall.
A bright orange chair is the perfect homework spot, looking out onto the yar.
Built-in shelving is required for an kid’s room lest things get too cluttered.
A similar piece of wall art brings the charm in this room, too.
The bathroom decor slides comfortably back into the gray theme.
White and gray match up with natural greenery.
Of course glass and tile are all but required.
An overhead lighting bar is a stylish solution for the over-sink vanity.
A second bathroom is smaller but pulls from a similar style.
Again, white and gray play nicely together.
In this room, an overhead ring light is the best solution.
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
