Up at the top of Carla Ridge in Beverly Hills, a newly completed 20,000 square foot seeks an owner . Carla House, designed by accomplished architects Noah Walker and Will Pyatt at Los Angeles based firm Walker Workshop , frames far reaching views from Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Sign. The architecture features two wings that flank a 2,000 square foot upper deck, above an 84 foot long lap pool with infinity edge. Inside, the luxury continues with spa facilities and a state of the art movie theater. Exposed concrete and warm woods colour the walls. Large expanses of glass celebrate the 1.2 acres of flat land that surrounds the home, and the exceptional views way beyond.
The modern exterior features a void in the middle of two ‘wings’ that make up the top floor. Between the two volumes, a sun deck stretches out beneath the sunny skies of Beverly Hills.
By night, the property comes alive with glowy exterior lighting, and interior lighting sources pour out through glass walls that wrap around the home.
Glass balustrades guarding the upper and lower decks go almost unseen, ensuring that the only thing standing between the house and the views of the Hollywood sign is the weather conditions.
Green landscaping paints a green border around the white concrete and timber home exterior.
A row of outdoor lounge chairs recline along a patio by the lap pool with infinity edge.
The architectural overhang reflects in the water’s surface with dramatic effect.
As we approach the build from the other direction, it is possible to see right through to the other side of the home and its magnificent views, thanks to the prolific installation of windows. The architecture manifests like wooden archways that one could journey under and out of without obstruction.
Glass doors slide open to give entry at the end of a modern pathway of concrete slabs. A mature tree gives shade at one side, and also draws the eye upward to the top deck.
More trees grow in the neatly landscaped surroundings, which are flanked with timber clad walls that stretch out a warm welcome.
Sliding doors retract to adjoin the indoor and outdoor spaces, and to let a cooling breeze blow through.
Exterior lighting accentuates the plant life around the property, from the mature trees rooted in the garden up to potted plants that are settled on the concrete sun deck.
Three steps lead down into a grey modern living room design, arranged beneath a warmly wood clad ceiling.
Two nesting coffee tables and a round pouf fill in the gap between two pale grey sofas, which face each other across the large room in a conversational manner. Two grey modern armchairs gaze toward the steps.
A modern staircase design rises behind the grey living room.
Another lounge area resides parallel to the pool deck, this time with a formal dining area attached.
A round coffee table makes a perfect pairing for a crescent shaped sofa in this relaxation space with transcendent views.
Colourful artwork complements the teal hue of the sofa upholstery; wood panelling provides a textured mount.
Yet another living room stands furnished with a curving sofa arrangement. A square coffee table duo and square floor poufs chequer the floor, complementing two sets of very square shaped chairs at either side of the room.
On the opposite side of a partition wall, a luxurious marble and wood kitchen stretches out in a galley formation.
The kitchen bar backs onto a pool table, set below two enormous black pendant light shades.
Each staircase in the house opens into the rooms rather than being separated by hallways or a lobby.
A much larger kitchen arrangement is home to two huge islands.
The islands divide the modern kitchen into galleys, equipped to provide for parties of guests.
Bar stools perch along the length of one of the kitchen islands.
This clean white kitchen with stainless steel worktops looks serious about the business of catering to the masses. A tangle of black pendant lights above each of the two islands adds a blast of individual style.
The rising staircase is broken into volumes of clear glass and solid wood.
The sharp timber balustrade in the staircase design appears as though it has cut into the concrete floor, like a knife through butter.
Light floods into the stairwell via glass walls and skylights.
One entire corner of the master bedroom is cut away to provide a private balcony, but edge-to-edge glass walls make the outdoor area remain part of the room.
A bedroom lounge area takes up to opposite corner of the room, coloured with plum purple accent chairs.
The luxury bathroom is equipped with a sauna room.
Dual aspect panoramic windows reveal breathtaking views around a freestanding bathtub.
A second double bedroom is blessed with a luxury ensuite and its own balcony access.
A double vanity unit stretches along one side of a partition wall, with the shower enclosure and tub located on the other.
Sunset views make for a relaxing evening soak.
A state of the art home movie theatre is set over three tiers to give everyone a great view of the screen.
Made-to-measure closet systems fill a walk-in wardrobe.
A slightly wider wardrobe design is kitted out with a central accessory island.
Birdseye view.
Plan.
Wood is the champion of versatility – easily shaped, pressed, painted, refinished – a truly multifaceted resource that has shaped the world of interior design from the beginning. But for all the ways you can change this material unbounded by imagination, the inherent beauty of natural wood has proven to withstand the test of time on its own merit. The photosets below show that even the most modern interiors can benefit from the warmth and organic appeal that only natural wood can provide. Are light natural finishes the right choice for your dream home? Browse the photos below to see how it looks in the context of five different homes.
Designer:York Architects| Visualizer:York Architects
Let’s start with the grey and white kitchen of a fabulous minimalist home. While the interior itself feels sharp and refined, the natural wood stools seem to add a touch of familiarity that feels like home. In a space without extraneous decoration, every knot and ribbon of grain puts its effortless artistry on display.
Of course, the saddle stools are not the only wooden element here. The floor features straight and clean wood grain while the chairs stand out with a more rugged rustic character.
While wood is naturally decorative, the backdrop is as starkly minimalist as can be. The white and grey cabinetry betrays no hints of handles or hardware. The lighting and table frame echo the clean lines found throughout.
This white and grey theme continues throughout the home, from the lower cabinets to the tall closets in the hallway.
The hallway is simple yet functional. Small hooks hold essentials on the left. The side of the kitchen counter wraps around into the hallway to provide extra storage.
Tucked into a cozy living room niche, a small home workspace doubles up on sunlight. At night, cove lighting built into the bookshelf creates a calm yet productive ambiance.
With sliding doors backed by thick curtains, this glass wall bedroom can mingle with the open living area or become a private retreat on a whim.
Natural wood finishes make another appearance here – this time with a more modern twist.
Natural wood plays an important role throughout this home. It could be left as the star of the theme or played down to become an underlying constant that ties the décor together.
Designer:York Architects| Visualizer:York Architects
In this next interior, natural wood tones play an even more important role. In fact, this entire theme seems based around what feels and looks the most natural. Wood occupies a substantial amount of the surface real estate while indoor plants bring in a verdant slice of the outdoors.
Even the sofa takes cues from the outside world, low and rounded like river-worn pebbles. The stone plate on the low wood table seems to underscore this choice.
Large wood-clad cabinets facilitate the clean simplicity of this minimalist living room . Maintaining a clutter-free environment is always easier when everyday objects are hidden easily within reach.
Stark lines stand in contrast to the organic wood grain for a dramatic visual effect.
A simple wall sconce casts indirect light behind the sofa, ideal for quiet reading in the evening.
This open living space includes the kitchen as well. The transition between living room cabinetry and kitchen cabinetry is seamless.
This galley kitchen design includes natural elements as well. Besides the natural knotty wood floor, the backsplash makes a luxurious impression with the look of rich marble veining.
Minimalist spaces like this one require full attention to detail. Even this unique faucet keeps with the theme, finished in white to match its surroundings flawlessly.
Light and shadow are another natural resource utilized here. The space beneath the breakfast nook is bathed in darkness and the stools beneath embrace it. These handsome stools are from the About a Stool collection by Hee Welling.
Light wood finishes are finding renewed popularity for good reason – more modern than the orange hued finishes of yesteryear, while retaining the warmth lacking in other contemporary favorites like grey and onyx.
Designer:York Architects| Visualizer:York Architects
Here is a home that demonstrates how natural wood elements can fit within industrial spaces as well. Industrial interiors typically rely on heavily weathered wood, or wood with especially dark finishes. This space uses wood sparingly but chooses light natural finishes in every instance.
You may notice that the wood elements mimic the look of plywood – large panels of uninterrupted grain rather than traditional boards. The look is undeniably industrial and well-suited for this type of design theme.
Even the chairs bring a high-end look to humble plywood. These are from the Cover Chair collection by Thomas Bentzen. The way the chairs tie into the cabinetry, the dining pendant lights tie into the concrete floors and ceiling. Modern planters cascade greenery over the arrangement.
More plywood elements are revealed from this angle. You can see this versatile material used on the inside of the television stand as well as within the bedroom.
Industrial yet light – in a room clad with concrete, the smooth blonde plywood has a tremendous grounding effect, making this space feel warm.
Visualizer:D3 Design
Another minimalist interior, and more light wood treatments. This interior begins with sharp modern lines and uses smart techniques to soften the effect – the super plush sofa, the soft indirect lights. Texture plays an important role throughout.
Perhaps the most creative use of wood is the pair of tree stump coffee tables . These go beyond a natural finish and present the beauty of the material in its most basic form.
Another great application of the Muuto Cover chair by Thomas Bentzen!
This white and wood kitchen occupies just one wall , leaving plenty of space for the dining arrangement next to it. For serious meal prep, the table could double as another work surface.
Light wood surfaces play a different role in every space. It unifies the dining room and kitchen and softens the effect of the minimalistic hallway.
The bedroom follows the same streamlined theme as the rest of the home. A light wood accent wall hides built-in cabinetry, punctuated only by a single decorative vase and a matching wall sconce.
On one side of the bed, the windows are made to appear even larger by floor-to-ceiling curtains. On the other side, a sliding glass door and curtain create separation between the living room and bedroom.
The bathroom combines dark and light wood finishes seamlessly. This effect adds intimacy to this private corner of the home.
Visualizer:KTS. Duc Nguyen
Finally, this last home combines a variety of wood tones – light, dark, and in between. Such a unique combination works well along with the transitional design elements found throughout this interior.
But how do you tie so many types of wood together? This multi-tonal wood floor demonstrates a brilliant solution.
Metallic accents add a luxurious touch. This copper Eames bird looks radiant against the matte black accent wall.
The bedroom features a smooth transitional theme that draws from the naturals and neutrals throughout the home.
While the living room emphasizes stark contrast, this space enjoys a softer touch.
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
