When it comes to threading an exciting vibe throughout a sophisticated interior, a peppering of color can really make or break the scheme. To help us study this style, we’ve found the perfect example in the design aesthetic at W Retreat & Spa-Vieques Island, where lead designer, Spanish-born Patricia Urquiola, of Milan-based Studio Urquiola, has created a backdrop of rustic elegance against which vibrant furniture and wall treatments sing. We start of with 12 photorealistic 3d visualizations by talented Barcelona based designer Diego Querol .
In this initial visual we see how a selection of small tables can introduce a kaleidoscope of colors. The wire framework of many of the side tables, along with a number of lanterns, echo the texture of the more rustic elements, tying the two looks together.
A scattering of fun cushions is a quick, simple and budget friendly way to add a blast of life to a décor scheme, and these pink and multi-colored choices really lift the more subdued hues. Designer Patricia Urquiola wanted to capture the essence of Vieques in the spa and public spaces of the retreat, by embracing the natural beauty of the island, and by incorporating these unexpected vibrant notes the result is a place of welcoming exuberance.
Contemporary wall treatments take the cheerful look to new extremes, whilst eye-catching rugs continue the style at ground level.
Over at the bar area, a line of stools create a sky blue horizon.
Cocoon-like chairs embrace seated guests in a rainbow shell.
The bright chairs and pouffes work perfectly against the Caribbean island backdrop of tropical palm trees beyond the windowpanes.
In these photographs, we see that neutral hues and natural materials act as a calming device on the brighter elements, so that the scheme does not become overwhelming or immature.
Even the welcome desk of one of the most luxurious resorts in Puerto Rico has flair, with multi-toned wood cladding and colorful contemporary artwork.
Bedrooms look great in this punchy style too.
For a small splash, a piece of well placed artwork is the way to go.
Bold lamps push this scheme forward too – though this cool room divider steals the show.
Even the bathroom gets a playful bath mat.
Outdoor spaces can incorporate color without the need for floral plants – simply include a batch of bright pots like this one at the firepit, on the W Retreat & Spa Lawn leisure spot.
Our homes should be the place where we feel most calm and peace, and what better style to promote these feelings of serenity than a zen inspired space, like those featured in our Japanese Zen Gardens post and our look at Japanese Style Interior Design . In this post we’re focussing not only on traditional Japanese zen, but also on its modern adaptations.
Visualizer:EkeInterior
Floor cushions around a low table are an easy way to create an oriental dining zone, along with high contrast dark wood against a soothing warm cream backdrop.
Visualizer:Sergei Davidoff
This example of slightly elevated low seating would prove easier on the knees and back than floor cushions. The shelving that overlaps the edges of the wall column in this design are slightly reminiscent of the silhouette of a Japanese pagoda.
Visualizer:Viktor Fretyán
Architect:Shinichi Ogawa & Associates
Minimalistic lines are the obvious influence of traditional Japanese interiors on contemporary spaces.
Architect:Edward Suzuki Associates
Balance is key in a zen style home.
Architect:Takuro Yamamoto Architects
Simplicity. Clutter is not part of the zen philosophy.
Photographer:Marser
This is Rurikou-in temple, Kyoto
The temple is shielded by nature.
Softness underfoot creates relaxation in a zen room.
Architect:Studio Mumbai
Play with natural light.
Designer:George Nakashima
A zen room is a place of harmony.
Embrace nature.
Via:Architecture In Transformation
Ideally, a zen room would be free from peace disturbing electronic devices.
Paper paneled doors never fail to evoke an oriental look, install in doubles for balance.
Via:Live Door
Natural materials are key.
Visualizer:EkeInterior
A low Japanese style platform bed is the obvious winner for a zen bedroom scheme.
Architect:Sanuki + Nishizawa
This is a bold way to bring nature into a scheme with a look of permanence and stability rather than in a moveable pot.
This contemporary Japanese platform bed includes low slung bedside tables.
This modern bedroom translates the simplistic lines and warm natural palette of a traditionally zen space.
Designer:Roche Bobois
This up to date play on zen styles out each simplistic element.
Another fashionable take on the platform bed .
Designer:Roche Bobois
This Japanese inspired bed incorporates an eye-catching illuminated platform, but the room is still based on a zen theory of clean lines and warm natural hues.
Via:SFGirlByBay
This window seat complete with tea kettle is a zen box.
This platform bed has been updated with a bright bedspread.
Designer:George Nakashima
Paper lanterns are a pretty and cost effective way to light a zen scheme.
Architect:Heidi + Peter Wenger
Zen dining areas can be formal too.
Via:Trilogy Partners
The backs on these floor seats are a welcome addition.
Photographer:Melanie Ko
A basic sunken fire pit can keep things cozy.
Keep any accent colors uplifting.
These floor level seats are smoothly carved from a single piece of wood.
Via:Doctor Disruption
A rustic look works well in a zen inspired room.
Via:DHC.co.jp
If your room could open up to a garden then utilize it.
Photographer:Sheyx
Gardens should be washed in zen style too.
Visualizer:Angelina Alexeeva
If you don’t have an outdoor garden, you could always incorporate the zen garden ideal within your interior room, using twisted trees and pebbles.
Visualizer:Evan Mandala
Bamboo and green fronds bring a sense of calm.
Via:Divine Bathroom Designs
An interior zen courtyard is an amazing solution if space allows.
This highly contemporary straight edged bath tub harks at the minimalistic lines of zen influence.
Architect:Escher GuneWardena| Source:LA Times
Another zen garden.
Architect:Aidlin Darling Design
A sunken bath tub takes the minimalistic zen look a step further.
Zen meditation room.
Architect:Takuro Yamamoto Architects
Another minimalistic adaptation.
Source:Dwell
A border of bamboo need not take up a lot of space.
Architect:MM++
A wide border can hold adventurous planting.
Architect:mA Style
Light-wells work as an ideal place for planting.
Designer:Massimo Iosa Ghini
Designer:Toyo Kitchen
Via:blog.naver.com
Designer:Bakoko
The horizontal lines are quite strong here.
Architect:Milligram Studio
Simplistic furniture.
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
