5 Classic & Sexy Ways to Use Black in the Kitchen
I love the whole design process — creating a design concept, planning the renovation out phase by phase, organizing the best tradespeople, bringing the vision to life, watching my clients smile over their new space.
But what’s the one part that really gets me fired up? The design concept!
In my last post, I shared that us Novaks are deep into our garage to ADU renovation, which means that in addition to client projects, I’ve been up to my eyeballs in design inspiration. Give me all the samples and swatches!
I’ve definitely been eyeing a lot of BLACK KITCHENS! And when you see these black beauties, I think you might agree that they have a place in the design conversation, too.
They’re classic. Elegant. Cozy. Dramatic. Dreamy. But don’t just take it from me. Here are some ways black kitchens are doing wonderful things...
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1. Dramatic and Moody Kitchens in Full Black
Go big or go home, am I right? Okay, so not all of the kitchens I’m showing you today are fully decked-out in black, but let’s start with 3 examples that dare to be different: Fully black, floor to ceiling.
Sounds intimidating, right? In fact, they look cozy, dramatic, clean-lined, and undeniably unique.
A matte finish and exposed wood soften the look and make the space feel warm and effortlessly chic. Image source
Black creates depth, spaciousness, and eye-catching dimension in this elegant kitchen (designer unknown). I would love to throw a dinner party in this beauty. By Cranberry Design in Melbourne.
2. Black Accent Cabinets, Upper or Lower
If going for all-out black is a bit more daring than you’d like, black accents are equally as classic, sexy, and comfortable.
The black upper cabinets in this design by Lindsey Lang create depth and layers to the space. I especially love the white subway tile peeking through the glass windows! Man I love those floors too!
Using black on the lower cabinets has a serious grounding effect. The white walls and ceiling visually recede away from the black making the room seem more expansive! Image source
3. Dramatic Black Island
I love a two-tone island and counter combo. A black and white combo? Even better!
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In addition to a classic look, this design is a prime example of using white and black to alter our perception of space. Imagine how the space would look different if the island was white. It would take up quite a lot of space, right?? The matte black tone almost disappears to our eye, making the space seem more open. Brilliant!
4. A Black Kitchen Wall or Black Backsplash
I spent a lot of time talking about tile design in this post, but this new favorite didn’t cross my line of sight until recently!
A black wall or backsplash makes everything else around and on it stand out, like the contrasting white grout, apron sink, and warm brass hardware. This design has nothing shy of character and charm! Image source.
5. Black as a way to make other colors pop
Okay, this example is less of a location for black as it is a strategy for using it. One of the biggest benefits of such a dark tone is that it makes other colors pop!
Black window framing, black island, and black cabinets enhance the warm tones in this space. We clearly notice that gorgeous countertop veining, the hardwood floors and the reaching green branches. My eyes are happy! Space by Athena Calderone.
Okay, I’ll stop there, but that should get the creative ideas flowing… and maybe even some daring to get your own SBK (sexy black kitchen). ;)
Until next time, you can check out my Pinterest boards for more inspiration or contact us here if you’re ready to get your own dream kitchen off the ground!
Xo,
Susie