Get closer to true outdoor living. This green-inspired home, nicknamed ‘The Drawers House’, was concepted by MIA Design Studio to let the outdoors in. Based in Vung Tau, Vietnam, it uses 60% of its 470sqm purely for landscape. Rooms behave like ‘drawers’, sliding in and out between alternating pockets of garden, pools and natural vistas. Facing in the same direction, each drawer shows a space interspersed by nature - rooms where nature controls the atmosphere, providing brightness, shade, light patterns and cool at its surrounding fauna’s whim. Take a tour through its connecting hallway to see its many pockets for yourself.
Our first view invites with an open plan space decked with pools, tiled patios and an abundance of greenery. Two wooden doors frame either side of a wide glass panel, the perfect place to gaze out to the leafy surrounds. Taking turns, the pool and glass reflect living nature.
Looking diagonally, wide sheets of plaster create a dividing wall and patio shelter, seemingly matching with the floor tiling. Two trees make friends in a central pool planting, providing shade for its school of fish.
Wooden elements continue the nature-inspired theme, as varnished wooden doors melt into timber Venetians. Greenery lines the surfaces, making itself known in planted hedges and moss around the pool. Bridal veil creepers take hold of the exterior walls.
The interior creates warmth with more wooden features. Polished coffee tables set a foreground for a full-panelled wooden kitchen and dining table. Perfectly matching the frames of the doors, their dark timber hues are given respite by a modern sofa , offering a place to lie - or sit - and watch the world go by.
A perfect indoor-outdoor harmony is exhibited in the dining room. Looking from the pool, bridal veil creepers dangle in the background – and are reflected back in the pool’s sheen. The result? A symmetrical, relaxing view that would tempt the least superstitious of guests to believe in magic.
A view towards the property’s entrance shows the visitors’ first glimpse of this modern haven. Trees hover over the sides of its exterior plaster walls, matched by trimmed rows of hedges and a lone tree in its corner. Long, sleek panes of concrete tiling offer a smooth surface for the rough, rustic door. The pool and its reflections create an atmosphere of calm.
On the house wall’s inner, the kitchen’s smooth surfaces mirror the outside. Thick black supports draw lines with a horizontal hanging light, made all the brighter with inbuilt LEDs. Simple taps and basins keep the focus on the home’s layout and scenery.
From the dining area, a wall of bridal veil creepers dazzle the senses. Dining chairs backed with the lounge’s panel design help pull the space together, while wood and white cover the rest.
Centred around one central corridor, the home’s layout allows nature to shine through. Using mixed elements such as wooden slats and plaster, its design allows for dreamy walkways as its plant life interacts with several different substrates.
A small cavity between the corridor’s roofing and adjacent walls lets the sun beam through. Bridal veil creepers meet a bed of ferns amidst other plants enriched by the elements outside.
Lining its walkways with wooden slats on the one side, hanging creepers on the other, the space appears open, light and airy. Sleek white ceilings and light-coloured stone ensure the natural remains the central feature.
Stepping out of the main rooms, visitors find whole spaces drenched in green. Covering walls and masking windows, bridal veil creepers provide a partition from central living areas. Overgrown grass and ferns line the floors, while a few trees stand tall as nature’s statues in the centre.
In keeping with its exemplary indoor/outdoor flow, several interior pieces mimic the exterior design. In the bedroom, a wooden-slat standing closet references the corridor, creating one long slatted line as you peek out the window. A wooden door to the side links to the home’s frontage.
The bedroom’s desk provides a segue from outside to inside. Dark horizontal wood creates shelves and a table, turning the corridor’s wooden slats and door frames on their head. White covers the bedding, cabinetry and air conditioning, providing a muted décor and a place to relax. A few biblical figures up the top of the shelving provide personality.
Shunning traditional walls for a full-scale window, the bathroom only partially obscures the view with two long, elegant mirrors. Two squared sinks mirror those in the kitchen, while a Jenga-style standing cabinet mimics a tree log in form. A line of natural stones behind offers a finishing touch.
From its street front, the home looks modern and spacious, hiding the secret of its natural haven. A leafy tree at the end matches the colours of its creepers.
Looking front on, the home’s design reveals its treasures. A plaster wall doubling as a gate alongside timber sliding doors provides privacy for the nature-loving city-dweller.
Check out our plans above and below, for a more detailed insight into how the home works. These plans show how the home naturally ventilates, is laid out in a floor plan, how nature intersperses the rooms, and how its 470sqm space is divided.
More and more jobs are allowing people to work from home. Having the flexibility to work from home has shown to increase worker productivity as well as happiness. While it used to be only a certain type of executive that would deign to have a home office, today it’s virtually a necessity. In this home, a 250 square meter (2690 square feet) apartment in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from visualizers at Design ATO Studio , the home office works seamlessly with the rest of the modern design while still offering plenty of space for a comfortable day of work. Of course, the rest of the apartment is also beautiful, using clean lines and calming, modern colors throughout.
The open living room features both a spacious, white modern sofa and a unique coffee table .
With the white palette and large picture windows, the living room feels quite spacious horizontally.
Tucked in one corner is a creatively designed black reading chair which adds a certain stylistic and modern flair.
The eye is drawn to the reading chair while from the overhead view we see that the unique coffee table is actually three that fit together.
The design uses a transition in flooring to separate one space from another, deeming walls unnecessary.
A few minimalist elements can take the place of many mementos that tend to clutter a living space.
Looking back into the dining room, we can feel a distinct shift in the design elements, though clean lines still prevail.
The overhead light fixture certainly acts as a focal point in the stark and modern dining area.
The geometric look works well with the Scandinavian style chairs , which are the Wegner elbow style chair .
Artwork can serve an important purpose, especially in a minimalist design, offering a bigger glimpse of the home owner’s personality.
A bit of color, carefully chosen, it certainly not forbidden in this space.
Indeed, the right use of color can make a room or even an entryway feel much more inviting as this red chair does, while also providing a comfortable place to put on shoes.
The contrasting patterns between the floor, walls, and ceiling is a sophisticated way to add interest to an otherwise neutral space.
The informal eating area takes a cue from the dining room with its decorative lighting and modern chairs.
Natural light is allowed to flow in from a smaller window by the kitchen’s design.
In the breakfast area, the modern dining chairs and artificial tropical leaves create an atmosphere that is a bit more casual.
Overhead lighting int he white kitchen makes cooking much more pleasant.
At the bar, kitchen stools offer yet another option for a quick bite or even a bit of homework.
A marble backsplash and crisp countertops would be a special treat for any home chef.
Moving into the office area, at first it is difficult to tell this is a work place because it looks so comfortable and inviting.
It is only from another angle that we see the trappings of a home office, including stylish ergonomic chairs , which are the Eames-style Group Management Chair .
Here we can see the full expanse of this beautiful home office, from the bright mustard chairs and green rug to a large executive desk and floor-to-ceiling windows.
In another space, blackout curtains create a perfect screening area.
A ring of light surrounding a circular mirror is the ultimate in flattery in this vanity/sink area.
A simple toilet paper holder does not call attention to itself in the small water closet.
In the master bedroom, natural light is on display in its full glory.
A beautiful 4 poster bed with a gauzy canopy makes for a lovely space to relax.
The room even features another workspace, for smaller projects or a last minute “note to self.”
A comfortable reading chair is a must in the bedroom, for the morning paper or late night files.
The white bathroom with gray marble accents is another relaxing retreat in this home.
From the soap dispensers to the bidet, each piece is carefully chosen to tell a story of simple luxury.
A smaller bedroom stays within the same palette with warm browns and reds.
and bedside lamps add light to this smaller bedroom.
And finally, the child’s room uses a bit more brightness for the kid’s decor .
Blue, yellow and red may be a bit much for an adult bedroom, but here they are perfect.
In plush textures, this room begs to be played in.
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
