Colour choice is probably the first thing that springs to mind when you’re considering room decoration, along with the perfect layout and furniture. However, you could be missing a trick if you’re not contemplating the use of texture in your design scheme too. Texture brings a whole new dimension and depth to walls; thick throws and faux fur cushions can transform the look of a plain sofa or bed. From feature walls and textiles, to rugs and light shades, we’re taking you on a journey through three home interiors to show how it’s done. Plus, we look at how to make the most of the added texture, by installing lighting solutions to highlight and dramatise the effect.
Designer:Nazar Tsimbalyuk| Visualizer:Nazar Tsimbalyuk
A stone feature wall stands proud inside our first textured home tour; the unique apartment has a total area of 86 square metres, located in Luzern, Switzerland. This interior is a great example of how to prevent a very neutral and pale room aesthetic from becoming boring, by putting a variety of textures to play. Add slatted window shutters to cross a large expanse of glass. Choose unique floor lamps with rattan or crinkled paper shades. Provide contrast on a durable natural woven rug with smooth round coffee tables .
On the opposite side of this lounge, a modern fireplace burns brightly in a wide marbled chimney breast. Note how they’ve offset the cool marble effect with a raw concrete background and some warming wood panels.
You can even use plants to add texture to a room. Green foliage is a perfect way to feather sharp edges, or you can use dried specimens like this Pampas grass for softer colour. This flourish of grass matches the natural tone of a modern accent chair in the corner of the room.
Rattan dining room pendant lights provide light permeable texture. Team them with a sleek modern table and soft upholstered chairs.
Kitchen cabinets don’t have to be smooth.
These kitchen units have slatted doors, which give them a slightly tribal look when teamed with the hand-woven dining room light shades and a couple of tree log bar stools. Always aim for at least three textures in any given vista for elevated effect.
The wooden kitchen bar stools push up to a marbled kitchen island, creating a meeting of two different natural grains.
The other base units, kitchen countertop and backsplash are of a marble effect too. Using a diagonal vein along the baseline offsets the rigid vertical nature of slatted wall cupboards.
Know when to turn up the texture, and when to rein it back. At the end of the wood and marble galley kitchen run, a wall of white units camouflage with a white wall. By subduing some elements, you will be able to make a more eye-catching feature of another - like this wooden display cubby.
The same set of textures can be translated into any room of the home. Take a look at how the stone and wood slatted shutters from the main living spaces also apply in the bedroom.
Use perimeter lighting to exaggerate an interesting accent wall, like these warm white LED strip lights.
A backlit vanity mirror works wonders in dramatising a rustic bathroom wall.
Designer:Sergey Makhno Architects| Visualizer:Sergey Makhno Architects
Our second inspirational home has a total area of 50 square metres, located in Kyiv, Ukraine. In here, all of the walls are perfectly imperfect because they have been finished with tactile clay. Architect Sergey Makhno explained: ‘We appreciate the Wabi Sabi philosophy and saw imperfect things as beauty. This apartment shows natural irregularity and calmness, love for natural materials and shapes.”
Rough walls require smooth contrast, like this wood dining set .
Rough and rustic wooden kitchen cabinets can be juxtaposed by sleek hi-tech appliances, like the integrated oven in this one wall kitchen . The owner of this apartment travels frequently to Thailand and Sri Lanka, where it’s commonplace to mix modernity with tradition, and the interior reflects this.
Wood, clay, and linen create an all natural living space.
Complement areas of texture with original handmade items for even more character. A unique trio of ‘umbrella’ bedroom pendant lights provide mood lighting in the bedroom. Their rustic nature looks at home against the stone headboard wall.
Patinated pieces evolve in texture, like this pendant light on the opposite side of the platform bed.
Create texture groupings; a natural rug makes rough woven rings around a curvaceous accent chair.
A cactus makes a spiky addition.
The new bathroom was positioned in the old balcony space, and elevated onto a podium.
Clay effect bathroom pieces provide a refreshing change from basic acrylic. Tactile cloud-like light shades float above the tub.
Designer:Igor Sirotov| Visualizer:Igor Sirotov
Create all encompassing deep textured walls for ultimate dramatic effect, like in our final home. Here, perimeter lights highlight creased walls of deep charcoal. A modern floor lamp brightens a shady corner by a cosy sofa.
Choose kitchen cabinets with a textured effect too, to fully complete the effect.
The upholstered sofa creates a visual cushion between the hard lounge walls and kitchen.
Where room textures are hard and stony, bring in luxe elements like this gold and glass modern chandelier .
The black and grey kitchen almost disappears into the dark backdrop; it is the change in texture that defines it.
Contrast floor treatments to define different areas.
A floor lamp casts a spotlight on a small area, but a skylight throws copious amounts of light and is perfect for nurturing a leafy vertical garden.
A reading nook nestles in one stony corner here, made up by a sleek bookcase, comfortable reading chair , and a small side table .
The texture is reined back on the bedroom headboard feature wall.
Wooden panels smoothly back a workspace. A modern wall sconce is directed at the sleek desk with wine glasses , and a mesh desk chair.
Slatted doors divide space but allow light through.
A modern lighting scheme provides a layered look in the bathroom.
LEDs illuminate shelves beneath a beautiful bathtub .
The mesh bedroom pendant lights in this suite are the Random light by Moooi.
A curvy desk chair waits at a modern desk.
Another example of how an illuminated mirror can greatly exaggerate a wall treatment.
The glow accentuates the warm tone of the wooden panels.
Eco-friendly, long lasting, continuously recyclable, antimicrobial, versatile; copper is a great choice for use all around the home. There are a multitude of different ways in which to incorporate a copper aesthetic into an interior, from small decor accents, fixtures and fittings, to all out statement pieces of furniture, entire kitchens, or showstopping feature walls. Copper finishes can be as shiny as a bright new penny, brushed and buffed, hammered and rustic, or even patinated green. Since there is such a wide field for the creative use of copper in interior design, we’ve grouped together three home designs that do it well, to inspire your next copper project.
Designer:Tyoma Atsone| Visualizer:Tyoma Atsone
In looking at patinated copper, we can see that green makes an obvious colour pairing with copper decor. In this living room, an L-shaped green sofa is dressed with copper scatter cushions to match with a patinated kitchen backsplash and feature walls in the background.
A large copper pendant light stretches out above the dining table behind the green sofa.
The green leaves and brown branches of a Bonsai tree twist in front of the patinated copper accent wall. Textured green glass tiles climb the adjacent wall space to compliment the effect.
The dining table is amalgamated with the kitchen island. A copper toned strip edges its countertop and kickboard. Three dark wood stools compliment the earthy copper hue.
Above a home workspace, a copper chandelier is patterned with green patina. A green desk chair ties in with the tone.
The irregular aging copper effect of the wall panels works perfectly with the organic beauty of the large Bonsai tree.
Some of the floor tiles are tinted with a copper hue to bring the aesthetic all the way down to the floor, warming the look of an otherwise grey expanse. Marbled grey kitchen units contrast cooly against the copper kitchen backsplash.
Art supplies are held against a copper coloured pegboard wall.
Copper, green, black and white spray paints have been used to create a piece of wall art for the living room.
The art piece brings together all of the main colour elements of the room, in one solitary item.
The paint technique emulates an aged copper patina.
Curvaceous abstract shape compliments the organic form of the Bonsai tree.
Designer:Kupinskiy Architects| Visualizer:Kupinskiy Architects
In our second inspirational home interior, soft copper dining room decor stretches out behind a grey modern sofa . This grey lounge would look cool with a copper table lamp to bring in an generous pop of the accent colour, but a copper bowl does add a nice subtle touch on the coffee table.
A structural support column has been clad in copper effect to blend it in with the dining room decor.
A small side table stands by the couch that divides the open plan room into a separate dining and lounge area. In front of the sofa, there is another copper accent wall that provides a stylish setting for the television and a wood burning fireplace.
At the other end of the living room, a black spiral staircase rises to the upper floor.
Copper coloured modern artwork makes a statement over in the open plan kitchen.
The deluxe dining set has a table that is set upon wide translucent amber glass supports, which compliment the surrounding copper accent walls. Heavy black dining chairs , a dining bench and a matching tabletop weigh down the look of the light base.
A duo of black dining room pendant lights hover boldly over the contemporary dining table.
The black tabletop is routed on one side to add further interest to to the unique dining set.
The translucency of the dining table legs allow the dining chairs to show through, tinted by the copper filter.
Cool grey concrete decor balances the warmth of the copper accent pieces.
Designer:Igor Sirotov| Visualizer:Igor Sirotov
Our last look around a copper coloured interior takes place in a predominantly white home. Though it is a tiny copper kitchen that dominates.
Russet colour modern dining chairs blend with the shade of the shiny kitchen units.
A glass wall bedroom is covered from floor to ceiling in a warm wood grain.
Black appliances, countertop and kitchen sink contrast sharply against the copper backsplash.
The copper kitchen and the wood grain inside the glass wall bedroom blend like one harmonious hue.
White sheer voiles and white bed linen freshen the solid timber clad interior.
White home accessories act to cool the heat of the backdrop too.
Black and white elements balance the decor of the open plan living room.
Bespoke storage fills up the white space.
White storage cabinet doors and the entry door are flat fronted so that they blend into the blank canvas.
An ensuite bathroom is accessed via a portiere at the side of the bedroom. Inside the bathroom, copper fixtures and fittings sit brightly against white walls.
Hexagonal tiles add subtle pattern behind the white vanity unit and a modern toilet. Two white rattan linen baskets fill the space underneath the floating vanity. A copper faucet fills the white vessel basin.
The hexagon tiles continue on to the inside of the shower enclosure, and around the room behind a white heated towel rail. A copper rainfall shower and hand rinser punctuate the white shower walls.
Floor plan for studio apartment with glass wall bedroom and ensuite shower room.
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
