Browse through twenty-three exceptional modern residential projects from around the world in Light Space Life: Houses by SAOTA .

A sense of serenity gently trickles through these two modern Japanese style interiors, one large and luxurious, one small and neatly formed. A muted palette of cream, ivory, beige, and light wood tone creates calm cohesivity. Isolated appearances of colour shake up property number one, in the shape of an inviting blush pink sofa, coral pink accented wall art and an à la mode terrazzo bathroom design. Clusters of living greenery breathe life into beautiful vistas around the luxury pad, conjuring zen energy. Wood clad walls and smoothly concealed storage volumes line the walls of the second, narrow property, where a wall of textured tile adds a shimmering focal point.

Visualizer:Dulce In Piro
This contemporary urban home home is shaped with a beautiful Japanese essence that instils a peace and tranquility. The elegant interior features the spatial qualities of the Japanese style, creating a warm and relaxing environment. A plethora of indoor plants secure a revitalising connection between daily home life and the effects of nature.

A soft blush pink sofa creates gentle contrast with the green elements around the perimeter of the living room. A large living room rug spans the width of the room toward a second sofa in neutral cream upholstery. A modern round coffee table stylishly occupies the space between.

An open fireplace heats the large living room. A textural design creates a pale lace-like pattern across the chimney breast and flanking walls. Decorative vases cluster on the dark hearth.

An imperial bonsai tree grows inside an indoor courtyard, which is accessed via traditional Japanese Shōji screen doors. A second set of paper doors are situated on the opposite side of the indoor garden, allowing sunlight to gently filter in.

More indoor plant beds overspill at each side of a modern staircase design , which features cantilevered wood treads and clear glass balustrades.

An informal reading area has been fashioned right beside the doors that lead into the courtyard. When the Shōji screen doors are drawn back, the simple reading area gains spectacular scenery.

A paper bedroom pendant light suspends a delicate white orb against an entirely wood clad backdrop, whilst glass pendant lights illuminate the bedside tables. Wood clad walls spread below the wood ceiling treatment, and mature indoor plants complement the natural tone. A thick bedroom rug is rolled out alongside a bedroom Chabudai table.

A set of two Zaisu floor chairs furnish the opposite side of the table.

Floating bookshelves serve as bedside tables.

The snug features a similar fireplace treatment to the main living room. The same lace-like wall treatment covers the chimney breast, but this time with a silver of terrazzo colouring each side.

A Chabudai table is placed by a large picture window with views of lush greenery.

Enchanting wall art brings in a coral pink accent.

Zabuton cushions gather at each side of the table.

An ultra modern computer chair furnishes the home office, where underlit wall shelves brighten a dark, moody workspace.

A fresh white sofa and small side table make up a comfortable reading nook by the window.

A unique bathroom sink sweeps across an illuminated round bathroom mirror .

Red, yellow and blue chips dance across the terrazzo bathroom floor and walls, creating a joyous background for a black wall hung toilet and matching flush plate.

A small racetrack-shaped shelf holds soap dispensers by the sink.

Out on the terrace it’s party time. A long L-shaped couch makes room for company, and an outdoor bar serves up drinks long after closing time.

The blush pink accent that’s used inside of the home translates into four modern pink stools around the outdoor bar.

A fun pink vase adds a pop of coordinating colour onto the outdoor coffee table.

Visualizer:KPLV Studio
Located in Novosibirsk, Russia, this long and narrow home interior is warmly encased with smooth wooden elements, from wood wall cladding to unimposing, handle-free wood cabinet fronts.

A bonsai tree adds a majestic silhouette against the simple beige and wood tone room palette.

Shallow wooden cabinets are mounted above the couch, with six of the cabinet doors dedicated to a decorative Koi fish design.

Narrow shelving columns are built into small nooks around the room, taking advantage of every bit of available storage space.

Rich, natural wood flooring streaks wonderful wood grain down the length of the room, guiding the eye from the lounge to the kitchen.

A live-edge Chabudai table is pushed to one side of the room to save on valuable floor space. A couple of simple beige poufs tuck underneath.

A textured tile wall shimmers in the sunshine behind the table, creating a beautiful focal point for the living room.

The tile wall is also a practical wipe clean solution for the eating area.

The kitchen material palette blends subtly with the rest of the living room, achieving an easy flow.

Shallow wall cabinets fit flush up to the kitchen backsplash. Deeply framed base units conjure a Shōji door effect.

The wall units open in a unique shutter method that draws up to the ceiling line.

A rustic entryway bench stands against a wall of mirrors that reflects natural light from the living room and bedroom.

Inside the minimalist bedroom , a floor bed design is flanked by equally low lying bedside tables.

A large wall light spills illumination over one side of the pillows.

A globe lamp brightens the opposite side of the bed and illuminates a piece of bedroom wall decor .

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