are an easy way to create contrast within a space. Linked to silver screen icons Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and Charlie Chaplin, using black and white in your home or office can have the effect of old-world glamour – or a home lacking imagination. These three spaces from across Europe, illustrate ways to spice up your interiors with black, white, and some subtle colours in between - and make it work. Using luxurious materials, surfaces and points of interest, each space shows how two colours can easily create class and simplicity.
Visualizer:Sergrey Baskakov
Sergey Baskakov’s visualisation of a private interior in London, England, shows how imagery and shapes can add spice to simple materials. In this lounge and dining area, two wide-panned photographs centre the room, while rounded white and grey surfaces contrast against rectangular black. White orchids add life.
The white kitchen adds relief, while the marbled splashback continues the monochromatic theme. Looking to the black wooden slat partitions, light is let in.
Visualizer:Dmitry Tereshchuk| Via:Tero Design
Dmitry Tereshchuk’s house design in Olsztyn, Poland, uses large, wide surfaces to effect, with woven materials taking centre stage. In the lounge, two orbs hang in the corner, while a woven carpet ties black, white and grey together.
Woven orbs hang in the dining area and continue through to the fireplace. Within a high vertical iron shaft, a burst of orange flames adds cosiness to the scene. Green touches outside add a touch of nature, bordering the rooms’ flat monochromatic furniture.
Details in the woven chairs reflect the orbs, an act of thoughtfulness, while a large-tiled floor adds textural contrast. Stacked wood and potted plants tie in the outdoor to the indoor, while the granite kitchen bench harks back to the texture of the outside pavement.
If you are considering a black and white kitchen theme, do check out our post: 40 Black And White Kitchens .
Visualizer:Velizar Dimitrov
Bulgarian visualiser Velizar Dimitrov’s apartment mingles black, white, and complementary tones in single surfaces. The living room feature wall combines light wood and black, while the rug beneath carries a white and grey stencil pattern, mimicked in the design of the accompanying tables.
Cylindrical elements gain greater importance as the space progresses. Hanging lights and standing ornaments give character and attract the eye. Wood takes the form of chairs and kitchen cabinets, while a slate bench adds difference.
This beautiful pair of apartments may be on the smaller side, but their layouts are super smart! Each one clocks in at less than 40 square meters of floor space, yet they make the most of their compact layouts by striking the perfect balance between openness and functionality. And get ready to redefine your loft goals: both apartments feature lofted bedrooms and offices, clearing out plenty of space for other lifestyle necessities. If tall ceilings and lofted small apartments are your thing, keep scrolling.
Designer:A Little Design| Photographer:Hey!Cheese
Located in Taipei, Taiwan, this apartment simplifies its interior to the most basic elements in order to stretch its 22 square meter layout. The ceilings reach 3.3 meters in height – somewhat low compared to other interiors with mezzanine levels but more than enough for this designer to work with. The resident (a frequent traveler) required ample storage for clothes and books along with wide-open space for exercise, which the designers accommodated without sacrificing any of the essential amenities of home.
Furniture remains as simple as can be. Each piece scales to its specific niche without flaw, the tatami sofa tucked into the window alcove and the dining table matching the width of the alcove’s edge.
Because of the resident’s frequent travel, the books don’t require constant access. The sliding ladder makes them easily available when needed with several shelves within easy access of the loft.
Split construction gives the dining table more functionality for its footprint. This configuration maintains a streamlined form against the wall, appropriate for working on a laptop or sitting down to write a letter.
The second configuration transforms the table into a formal dining space. Check out that wall lamp – it swivels to accommodate both arrangements.
Compact stairs lead to the bedroom loft with kitchen and bathroom beneath. Note that the designer didn’t pass up a chance to integrate more storage space under the first few steps. Smart!
From the bedroom, it’s easy to catch a glimpse of the neighboring apartment building or admire the living space below. A half-wall offers just enough privacy to help the resident feel secure.
The ceilings aren’t especially high so the loft keeps furniture very low to the floor. Pillows make it easier to sit cross-legged at the desk for longer stretches of time.
Limited in terms of vertical space and natural lighting, the kitchen makes the best of its circumstance with bright white surfaces and smooth concrete floors.
Appliances take a conservative approach by remaining mostly below the countertops. The washer and dryer used to reside in the bathroom but once you see the bathroom’s fresh new style, you’ll see why the designer moved them.
Open wood shelving allows for display of attractive coordinated utensils and tableware while deep cabinets hide everything else above and below.
Guests and residents enter the apartment through the kitchen, the bathroom conveniently through the door to the right hand side. This sensible layout maximizes the amount of sunlight in a space that would be fairly dark otherwise.
Occupying the space below the mezzanine level, the bathroom is surprisingly bright and spacious with plenty of natural sunlight throughout – with a large vanity mirror to maximize its effect.
Simple tiles and simple fixtures allow the bathroom to feel open and comfortable, while at the same time, carefully curated decoration avoids an overly utilitarian aesthetic.
Designer:Ani Yenokyan
With 28.5 square meters of floor space and with ceilings approaching almost 4 meters in height, the decision to build vertically definitely made sense for this chic modern apartment. But that’s not all! While the loft is definitely a cool feature for any smaller home, this space doubles or even triples its functionality thanks to transformable living spaces – the living room turns into a home theater, the office desk folds into the wall, and the kitchen completely disappears. The concept is so versatile you just have to see it to believe it.
At first glance, the amazing transformable interior seems simple enough. Satin black walls and light-colored wood offer a streamlined aesthetic. Pale yellow sofas lighten the mood.
Every portion of this semi-studio apartment serves multiple purposes. For example, by rotating the sofas and pushing them against the opposite wall the resident can enjoy a private home theater experience – no screen needed.
Because the sofa splits into small lightweight segments, seating is exceptionally easy to move. The living room transforms into an art studio with very little effort.
When the projector wall isn’t screening a film, it becomes a convenient place to complete or display large-scale artwork. And peek at the ceiling – each panel holds a finished work.
A streamlined staircase/ladder leads up to the office and the bedroom. Rollers allow it to slide to either side so storage remains accessible at all times.
Glass and wire shelves offer a little extra privacy for the sleeping area while serving up bedtime stories on demand. The folding bedside table to the right is such a neat idea!
The entire office is transformable at will. Its primary purpose is an office, but the desk flips into the wall to allow expansive storage to rise from the floor. With all furniture retracted, it’s spacious enough to serve as a spare bedroom.
Other surprising transformations include this expansive pull out wardrobe. Shoe racks, boxes, shelves, and hangers – it accomplishes so much for an addition most guests would never know was there.
Now check out what hides behind the other cabinets! A fridge, dishwasher, cooking appliances, a pantry, and yes, even an entire countertop and sink complete with retractable dining table.
It’s like a matryoshka doll of functionality. Every cabinet seems to reveal more layers of storage and functionality. It’s truly a complete kitchen, easily stored away beneath the office.
Textural walls make it easier to erase the seams and gaps of cabinets. While the doors are closed, only the beautiful materials stand out.
In many ways, the bathroom is the most conventional part of this apartment. It does hide the necessary toiletries effectively, but that’s expected. The bathroom is a casual retreat in a home full of surprises.
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
