Breathtaking Villa That Opens Its Windows To New Zealand’s Serene Landscape [video]

Large and luxurious, Waiora is a sustainable development located on a plot that boasts breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, New Zealand. The luxurious villa design features massive windows that welcome in the stunning mountain panorama, and fill the interior with natural light. Reaching its completion in 2023, the home layout includes four large bedroom suites, an expansive open plan living space with dining, kitchen and lounge areas, and a huge deck that soaks up the serenity of the surrounding landscape. There is a focus on wellness here, with an infrared sauna, infinity pool, and a home gym for daily exercise. A media room and an enviable wine cellar promote relaxation and play.

The residence takes one of only eleven private plots within the exclusive Forestlines gated community. The green landscape rushes up to meet the front entrance of the home, creating a soft and natural border.

Waiora is the Maori word for health, soundness and healing waters. This beautiful name is lovingly displayed in fine gold letters at the front door, illuminated by an understated modern wall sconce .

Upon entering the exquisite home, an impossibly perfect view makes a breathtaking first impact. The clear blue waters of Lake Wakatipu evoke calm, whilst Cecil Peak and the Remarkable mountain ranges arouse awe and wonder.

This exceptional home boasts a fabulous living room with a spectacular view . The mountain panorama negates the need for any interior colour of distracting decor. The view is more than enough to please and hold the eye.

Soft grey modern sofas and a large area rug define the lounge within the airy open plan living space. A sleek modern coffee table forms a central anchor. A contemporary bench seat draws low across the window wall so as not to interrupt the view.

A modern fireplace flickers atmospherically at one side of the lounge, providing a warm and cosy glow as one looks out at the cold, snowy mountain peaks.

The outdoor dining spot beats the ambience of any top restaurant. Modern outdoor chairs seat eight people at a large yet visually light dining table design.

Comfortable outdoor sofas are arranged out on the terrace, which is undoubtedly the prime spot in which to while away the hours.

The kitchen cabinets contrast darkly with the rest of the light living space, which creates a dramatic impact. Four kitchen bar stools line up along the edge of a massive kitchen island, interrupting its dark finish with moments of light wood tone. A modern linear suspension light draws brightly along the full length of the dining island, fully illuminating its spacious countertop.

The kitchen island is situated so that the cook can appreciate their location as they go about preparing food for the family.

The mountain-facing exterior of the home is almost fully glass to drink in the natural beauty.

The luxurious bedroom design is the stuff of dreams. A ceiling-mounted fireplace descends in front of vast dual aspect windows, where it heats the foot of the bed. A bedroom lounge area is situated on the opposite side of the room for gazing out upon the environment.

Even the walk in wardrobe benefits from a view of the landscape.

… And the bathtub puts you right at the mountain peak.

The master bedroom suite features its own terrace area to connect it with the blissful environment.

An outdoor chaise lounge chair and coffee table make up an inviting lounge area on the bedroom terrace.

A larger patio runs alongside the infinity pool. Four outdoor lounge chairs and a modern firepit fashion a welcoming social area, where conversations and laughter can stretch long into the night. See more black accent chairs .

The patio and pool are tucked away privately into the dip of the sloping terrain, which surrounds them with lush shrubs, groundcover and established trees.

The waters of the infinity pool ripple out toward Lake Wakatipu and the nearby mountain ranges.

Beautiful Queenstown is a destination for adventure and activity. Amongst the thrilling landscapes, there are world-renowned vineyards, golf courses, walking and hiking trails, horse trekking, and scenic cycling tracks. Spas, boutique shopping, and excellent food and wine are a local treat. River rafting, jet boating, canyon swinging, bungy jumping, skydiving, and skiing from winter to spring will excite the wild at heart.

The modern home exterior looks out from a 13,000 square metre plot of land at the front of the development, where it receives entirely unobstructed views. An integrated solar power system and a Tesla Power wall wire the home for an ecologically responsible lifestyle. Smart home technology and underfloor heating offer optimum comfort and convenience to enhance daily life.

The property location is just an eight-minute drive from central Queenstown, or a twenty-minute drive from Queenstown international airport. There is generous parking for up to six cars. A large home office offers a luxurious setting for remote working.

Density of plantlife makes the home feel safely secluded and far away from the troubles of the world. The holistic environment promotes mental and physical wellness.

Even the roof of the home is overtaken by the green beauty of nature. The green roof blends harmoniously into the hill, softening the presence of the linear architecture.

The plant-covered roof creates the impression that the house has stood here for a long time, slowly becoming one with the land.

It takes a certain amount of confidence to name a property “Elysium,” the mythological Greek idea of immortal paradise. One step inside this expansive mansion on the island of Mykonos and there is no doubt that such confidence – and such a title – is warranted. This sprawling mansion covers 700 square meters (7500 square feet) on a 4000 square meter (43,000 square feet) property and includes nine bedrooms and ten bathrooms. In addition to unparalleled views of the crystal blue ocean, Elysium has two private pools, a helipad, gym, and an iPad-operated home control system.

This hilltop retreat has the unique advantage of allowing its resident to see their yacht docked below.

Day or night an expansive infinity pool offers the perfect relaxing oasis.

The home’s design was inspired by Ancient Greek Cycladic architecture, evidenced in the materials chosen for the stunning exterior.

The indoor and outdoor spaces are entirely integrated.

While most of the furniture consists of gleaming white, a unique accent chair provides contrast.

A beautiful home looks great from any angle, including from above – which is exactly the view one would have when landing on the home’s helipad.

The temperate climate means al fresco dining and relaxation is possible for much of the year.

Simple stone steps take visitors stylishly from one area of the expansive terrace to another.

Being outdoors needn’t mean being baked by the sun with a simple, modern outdoor shade.

A sunset meal or cocktail is that much more enjoyable without needing to shield one’s eyes from the harsh rays reflecting off the water.

White and unadorned wood are the natural choices for much of the decor in this home.

These design choices, as seen here in the outdoor chaise lounge chairs , highlight rather than detract from the surrounding natural beauty.

White and wood also work well with the stone design of the exterior of the home, which we will also see carry through inside.

An oversized pool means every dip feels like a private one, no matter who else is also going for a swim.

Sunbathing with ultimate privacy and a view of the sea is certainly a luxurious option.

White stone slabs in the pool offer an alternative to the poolside chaises.

A large white sofa and complementary chairs is a natural place to retreat from the sun.

The home’s luxurious living room opens directly onto the terrace for a seamless transition from indoor to outdoors.

Leather is another natural choice for this type of design, with leather chairs making a warm choice for an indoor dining area.

And a luxury kitchen is a must for all the entertaining that would be required of such an abode.

As alluded to earlier, the stone exterior does not stop outdoors and instead carries through to the interior of the house.

The rough stones contrast with smooth white walls in the living areas and guest rooms.

An impressive master suite looks directly out onto the terrace.

But smaller guest rooms, like this one with an upholstered bed , have their own impressive views.

After sunset, a bit of unwinding with a flatscreen propped on a modern TV stand may be in order.

This unique guest room includes a simple bedside table lamp and bit of bedroom wall decor as well as a private cactus garden.

Walking directly out for a dip at noon or midnight it just one perk of a stay at this luxurious estate.

Each guest room has a private bath, this one with green tinted glass panels for privacy.

Simple, clean lines are a modern choice.

Stone-lined hallways include open-air skylights above.

Light from above and below give passageways an ethereal feel.

Any good host will have easy access to wine storage and a bar for her guests.

More recessed lighting up the stairway will ensure no errant steps after tasting a glass or two.

Although lined with stone walls, there is a certain warmth in the design of the halls.

At the right time of evening, the sky seems to melt into the pool below.

Each private door to the terrace offers just enough space for a feeling of aloneness, even among other guests.

In a green outdoor dining nook, modern outdoor chairs provide a perfect place to start the day with a cup of coffee.

And what better way to end a stay then a dip in a Jacuzzi with a stunning view.

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