Kitchen lighting requires the careful consideration of two purposes. Ideally, it should illuminate the work surfaces where you conduct most of your preparation, and it should provide welcoming ambiance during dinner or evening hours. Pendants fill a special role in the kitchen, in addition to the two requirements mentioned previously – kitchen pendants are the preferred choice for decorators who want to make a creative statement in an otherwise utilitarian space, filling in the emptiness between the countertops and ceiling with suspended works of art. If you’re looking for kitchen inspiration, this modern lighting guide might help!
Aplomb Replica:
You might not have the budget to pick up Foscarini’s $665 original (available here ), but this stylish modern look doesn’t have to remain entirely out of reach.
Stanley Pendant:
Brass and copper have become an incredibly popular lighting trend for those who admire understated luxury. These pendants have a classic shape but a contemporary attitude.
Fat Light Replica:
Of all the shapes available in Tom Dixon’s iconic Beat collection, the Fat Light is a versatile favorite. Replicas are popular but you can purchase the original Fat Light for $535.
Beat Series Replicas:
Varied pendants are a great look. This series of replicas makes it so much easier to collect each one. The originals Tom Dixon Beat Series are available here.
Slim LED:
Tall ceilings deserve gorgeous statement lighting. Designed by Jordi Vilardell for Vibia, these long and dramatic pendants transform empty space into performance art.
E27 Socket Pendant:
With beautifully detailed Edison bulbs resurging in popularity, designers are beginning to turn more attention toward simple fixtures. Mattias Ståhlbom created the E27 socket pendant with an elegant form that highlights the bulb. This fixture is available in a wide range of colors.
Lames Mini Pendant:
These low volt pendants give off a gentle and warm quality of light reminiscent of candles.
Starburst Multipoint Pendant:
It’s hard to see from the picture, but each pendant shade contains a delicate glass starburst shape, lovingly formed by hand. The starburst portion is available in amber or clear glass for a choice between a warm or bright tone.
Muuto Unfold Pendant:
Unfold combines modern materials with a classic industrial shape. The Unfold pendant is available in a variety of modern colors, including several greyscale choices in addition to green, blue, and yellow.
Bijou Pendant:
Round, sensibly sized, and pleasant on the eyes – these understated pendants are a fantastic choice for minimalist kitchens.
Fucsia 1 Pendant:
Conic lamps are another nice choice for kitchens that emphasize the clean lines and forms of minimalism. Fucsia pendants are a design by Achille Castiglioni.
Summit Pendant:
These conical pendants take on a thinner and more streamlined shape. They’re available in two sizes to accommodate any space.
Alphabeta Pendants:
With retro-inspired shapes and color themes, these playful pendant lights add huge personality to any social area. Use the variety of colors to unify the color theme in your kitchen. Made in Italy and designed by Luca Nichetto, these high-end lamps are beyond amazing.
Smithfield S:
The lovely Smithfield S pendant combines the best of dome lighting trends and low-profile design, adding subtle charm without blocking the view.
Caviar Pendant:
Imagine these lighter-than-air globe pendant lights hovering above your dining table. A perforated metal cone contains the bulb, diffusing light into a million shimmering points.
Bond Suspension Pendant:
A slender gap winds its way around the lamp, illuminated by the bulb within. This pendant is unique in that it provides both diffused light for ambiance and focused light for tasks.
Panton VP6:
Now is your chance to own a Verner Panton original, one of the first lamps mass-produced by the iconic designer. Matte black makes a minimalist statement but this model comes in a wide variety of vibrant colors.
Roost Constellation Pendants:
Zinc-plated iron globes feel light and transparent thanks to thousands of hand-drilled holes strewn across its surface like stars.
Studio Pendant:
Thomas Bernstrand’s lovely Studio Pendant echoes the shape of heavy industrial lamps, a traditional shape reimagined with contemporary simplicity.
Oculo Pendant:
Designed by Jeremy Pyles, this luxurious hand-blown glass lamps feature a rounded body that gently tapers to an opening at the bottom.
Agnes Chandelier Replica:
This incredible modern chandelier is one of the most highly coveted pieces of designer lighting in recent memory. This replica is not inexpensive by any means, but it beats the $10,000 price tag of the Lindsey Adelman original.
Talo Suspension:
Simple, effective, and stylish – this linear suspension lamp maintains clean lines and refined forms to illuminate a kitchen island or workspace without drawing excess attention away from your meticulously curated interior.
Diamond Lamps:
Geometric motifs are still trending, and these diamond lamps are the perfect way to bring this exciting style to your kitchen.
Conic Section Pendant:
Satin-finish black looks good just about anywhere. These flared mini-pendants have an angled shade that transitions to vertical wire toward the bottom for a dynamic look that changes according to perspective.
Octo Pendant:
Truly, this famous design is sure to catch the eye of any Finnish design fan. This piece is the work of Seppo Koho, and belongs to a collection of similarly sculptural wooden pendants.
Goodman Large Lamp:
Thomas O’Brien designed the Goodman lamp to demonstrate the best of modern and vintage style. The clean shades and metallic interior are undeniably contemporary, whereas the linked cable is a neat throwback to older lighting.
Caravaggio Pendant:
To honor its emphasis on light and shadow, designer Cecilie Manz named this pendant collection after the Italian Baroque painter considered a master of the style.
Hicks Pendant:
Here’s another classically inspired pendant light, this time with the ever-recognizable chain style cord.
Industrial Pendant:
Metallic pendants are a useful staple of industrial themes but they look great in any kitchen, as demonstrated by this classic interior.
Spillray Pendants:
These delicate-looking pendants are made from durable Pyrex, its small bulb projecting from the silver finial.
Pharos Pendant:
Jeremy Pyles designed this stylish mini-pendant for those who have an eye for detail. Unlike others of similar form, this pendant has a light bulb that runs all the way through.
Kon Pendant:
Clear or ribbed or clear glass shades gifts decorators a nice choice of simple but attractive pendants. Metal details in chrome integrate well with almost any kitchen style.
Castore Suspension:
Minimalists will love these streamlined yet decorative mini pendant lights . They lay low in the daytime but look spectacular in use, as the light within brings the frosted white surfaces to a gentle glow.
Castle Pendant:
Crafted from smooth concrete, these pendants challenge the eye by presenting a heavy material that looks light and versatile as any other option.
Mhy Pendant:
What a fun shape! This curvaceous pendant expresses the playful side of Scandinavian design, sure to make a statement wherever used – especially with any of the super vibrant color options.
Rock Suspension:
Faceted lighting presents a cool geometric look that works well for future-focused interior designs. This piece comes by way of collaboration between the Diesel fashion company and design house Foscarini.
Grain Light:
Chic as can be. This matte lamp series is made from recyclable materials like bamboo fiber. It’s distinctive texture looks and feels organic, ideal for a natural or soft kitchen style.
Wireflow 2D:
Another take on the geometric lighting trend, this series creates fabulous outlines using rods and its own wires. Wireflow is available in both 2-D and 3-D shapes.
Broadway Collection:
Looking for something a little more formal? James R Moder designed the gorgeous Broadway Collection with inspiration from classic chandeliers, streamlined to suit a modern kitchen. Imperial Crystal beads turn this fixture into a drama of light and shadow.
Tom Dixon Copper Pendant:
Copper is a warm and attractive choice for an interior that needs a touch of understated luxury. Tom Dixon makes a wide range of copper lighting, but these smooth and simple spherical pendants are perfect for kitchens and dining rooms.
Alina Pendant:
Hand-blown lighting always makes a bold impression. These honey toned Venetian glass pendants will add classic charm to any modernist or traditionally inspired space.
Soleil Pendant:
Here’s another sculptural glass pendant for decorators who prefer their lighting to make an artistic statement. These have a slightly more balanced and modern shape.
Random Globe Pendant:
What an iconic lamp! The light and airy random pendant immediately draws the eye, and looks just as dramatic in the daytime as it does at night.
Coral Pendant:
Oversized pendants are a great choice for kitchens with tall ceilings, but they also work well in average spaces that need a solid focal point. Here, the unique Coral pendant prevents the fridge from stealing the show.
Skygarden Lamp:
This is one of the most recognizable designs by the ever-exciting designer Marcel Wanders. On the outside, this piece looks like an ordinary dome lamp but the inside features a detailed floral motif in plaster.
Chasen S2:
Patricia Urquiola’s gorgeous Chasen suspension lamp appears weightless thanks to its stainless steel frame that envelopes the frosted glass diffuser.
Aim Multi-Light Pendant:
If you’re a huge fan of the designers Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec, you’re probably already familiar with the versatile and attractive Aim collection. The shades are adjustable to point in any direction for targeted task lighting in the kitchen. They just make this beautiful black and white kitchen come together.
Knot Pendant:
Part fixture, part pop art – these tremendously unique pendant lights showcase a tidy oversized knot encased within the lamp’s glass shade. The range of bright colors can either enhance your current palette or stand out from within a neutral interior.
Le Klint 172:
Designed by Poul Christiansen in 1971, this famous design makes an impact with shadow and light in equal measure. It’s origami-inspired artwork for the home.
Bloom Pendant:
Glittering faceted flowers look as if they are woven together by nothing but air and imagination. The Bloom pendant looks great in kitchens inspired by nature, or could serve as the touch of organic charm that could benefit a space lacking in carefree forms.
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
