A dark kitchen can be a particularly original interior design solution. We recommend this option to those who want to create an exclusive atmosphere in their apartment. A dark-light kitchen with combined kitchen facades is now the most popular. White-dark (white-black and white-brown) kitchens lead among this group. In the photo, dark kitchens look less massive than in reality, so we can only recommend this solution for spacious rooms with high ceilings and large windows.
Kitchens in dark colors have become especially popular due to styles such as art deco, loft and minimalism. A dark-colored kitchen can be black, brown, dark gray, purple, blue, green and have other shades of facades. There are also kitchens with dark countertops, where imitation black and brown marble are the leaders.
A kitchen with a dark bottom looks less massive and is suitable for rooms of all sizes, even the smallest ones, if the interior decoration is done professionally, taking into account the small space. A kitchen with a dark top is a riskier option and requires detailed supervision by an interior designer.
Pros and cons of a dark kitchen
If you haven’t yet decided which side you’re on – dark or light, we suggest looking at the pros and cons of using muted shades in the interior.
Pros:
- Stylish and non-trivial. How often do you see black kitchens in the interiors of your friends and acquaintances? We bet that furniture and decoration in light shades are much more common. And if dark tones were wisely used in the design, then you will immediately receive 1000 points for courage and good taste, and you will definitely be known as an unconventional person with an interesting view of the world.
- Versatile. This palette of shades will fit into any style - be it classic or any modern trends (Scandi, loft, hi-tech, minimalism, etc.).
- Helps with zoning. For example, a black set will visually separate the kitchen work area.
- Calms. Muted dark shades give peace and comfort, reduce nervous excitability due to the intimacy of the interior, which they create.
- Bright accents stand out. Complex, deep, interesting tones are better revealed and look more impressive against a dark background.
Minuses:
- The kitchen may seem gloomy and uncomfortable.
- This color scheme is not suitable for poorly lit rooms or kitchens with small windows.
- It is impractical to design a work area; dark surfaces are difficult to clean. Water stains, limescale and dust are more noticeable.
- This interior color scheme requires a special approach to the choice of finishing materials and accessories; every detail must be thought through.
If you know certain techniques and tricks, you can prevent the occurrence of the above-mentioned disadvantages.
Watch also an interesting video from the designer with design tips:
What to do in dark colors in the kitchen
If a person has had light-colored sets in his kitchen all his life, sooner or later he stops in front of a dark set and thinks - maybe he can try it? A dark set in kitchen design is a very interesting solution.
A stylish kitchen with black facades, modern fittings and well-placed bright accents will be an excellent choice for large families who love cozy time in the kitchen in the evenings and for young couples who pop into the kitchen to warm up the evening pizza.
Dark curtains
Curtains are one of the key details of comfort in the kitchen. Traditionally, dark curtains are used if the windows face south or on the first floors, if this does not contradict the concept of the style being created.
Dark colors are often found in lambrequin curtains and Roman blinds, but they need to be hung in such a way that they do not block the penetration of light into the room. In any case, the curtains should resonate with some other element in the kitchen - an apron, countertop or upholstery on chairs.
Dark-colored blinds look good in modern kitchen designs. In the minimalist style - monochrome, hi-tech or loft - graphite. For an urban style, you can buy dark theme roller blinds with images of megacities.
Dark apron
A dark apron will look great in a kitchen of any style if the main background of the interior is neutral. Even in a white kitchen, a completely black apron will look elegant and graceful.
It will look harmonious in a kitchen of cream, beige, or milky colors. The apron can be the only color accent in the kitchen, or it can echo the countertop or the color of the flooring.
A dark apron, contrasted with light facades, clearly separates the work area, which makes the interior balanced. The tabletop can merge with the apron or contrast, the main thing is that the work area does not turn out to be a gloomy dark spot. If a dark apron is chosen to match the facades, then the tabletop must be contrasting. You can highlight the apron using lighting.
Kitchen with dark countertop
A kitchen design with a dark countertop is a contrasting, original color scheme and at the same time a practical, functional option. It doesn’t matter what the countertop is made of: anthracite granite, black marble, chocolate MDF or dark walnut wood - it will effectively highlight the interior in any style.
A classic of the interior genre is a light kitchen with a black or brown countertop. Kitchens with dark red countertops look extravagant. The white and emerald duet will fit perfectly into high-tech and minimalist interiors. Burgundy-colored countertops will look noble.
Kitchen with dark floor
A dark floor in the kitchen can add respectability to the room, but this option should be treated with caution. A dark floor visually makes the room smaller and, in addition, is quite easily soiled.
A classic dark floor is brown, a traditional color that exudes coziness. Black flooring is more suitable for ultra-modern interiors. Dark floors can also include other rich colors - for example, burgundy.
The most important thing when using dark flooring is to wisely choose the other colors in the kitchen so that the room does not turn out to be too gloomy.
Kitchen dark bottom
A modern design technique is a kitchen in two primary colors. However, this option looks more advantageous only in spacious kitchens. Classic colors look impressive in the concept of a light top and dark bottom. All decorative elements and equipment can be placed at the junction of two colors, which will look fresh and original.
The combination of a white top and black bottom will look traditional, but a little boring. The kitchen will look much more interesting if the white top is replaced with red or orange. Dark brown or chocolate underneath looks beautiful, smoothly turning into soft beige.
Fans of exotic modern interiors will be happy to experiment with a combination of purple at the bottom and lilac at the top.
Kitchen dark top
Although placing dark shades in furniture underneath is more traditional, inversion also creates interesting effects. A dark color usually acts as a base, so a dark top will only look good in apartments with high ceilings.
Including an additional tone in the interior will help balance the colors:
- For example, a countertop in a third neutral shade;
- For example, if the bottom of the furniture is beige and the top is dark brown, the tabletop can be gray, black or metallic;
- Another successful solution is the asymmetrical arrangement of modules on top. Dark cabinets can be hung in a checkerboard pattern, which will create a feeling of space.
Design secrets
The kitchen interior will not seem gloomy and repulsive if you choose the right companion colors, finishing materials and accessories. Below we will talk about specific techniques that will help make the design harmonious.
Add light shades
Dilute the interior with white, light gray, beige or other pastel colors. Depending on the size of the room and the design concept, you can play with the ratio of dark and light shades in the interior. If you want more brutality, introduce light colors pointwise, only as accents.
If you need to let more light and air into the interior, then increase the amount of light to the desired proportions.
2. Use textured and textured surfaces
Materials that create voluminous, relief surfaces will smooth out the severity of the color scheme. Dark kitchens look especially beautiful in combination with natural materials while preserving their natural texture and texture - with wood, marble, granite, and other types of stone.
Combinations with concrete, decorative plaster and brickwork also look very nice.
Matte surfaces are a safer option than glossy ones
In addition to the practicality of matte surfaces, it is also worth mentioning their noble effect compared to gloss. On matte surfaces, dirt will be less noticeable, and such facades will look more stylish and expensive.
Gloss is more difficult to work with and less practical to maintain. However, if you want to add glamor and chic to the interior, then in small quantities you can use it in the design of those surfaces that you rarely touch: for example, in the design of upper facades, display cabinets, and decor.
Dosed use of gloss significantly reduces the risk of bad taste.
Gloss in art deco kitchen design
Don't overdo it with decor
If finishing materials and color combinations are harmoniously selected (in other words, if the three previous points are met), then the kitchen does not need extensive decoration. A couple of volumetric parts will be enough.
Add bright accents
Rich, rich colors will look more impressive and stylish against a dark background - orange, yellow, emerald, blue, cyan, etc. In small quantities they can be used in decoration, in the design of small objects, such as kitchen chairs, dining table bases, curtains , apron, etc.
What nuances should be taken into account when finishing?
Wall decoration can be done using both dark and light materials. For zoning, it is best to choose wallpaper with a bright pattern or highlight one of the walls with color.
For modest-sized rooms, wallpaper in pastel colors will be indispensable. When decorating a kitchen-living room, you can delimit zones by playing on the contrast of a dark set as opposed to the rest of the space.
The white ceiling adds volume. Minimalism when decorating the ceiling relieves the atmosphere of overload.
The photo shows a simple kitchen interior. Black and gray shades combine well with each other, and the combination of matte and glossy textures makes the decor more original.
The photo on the right is an example of a dark kitchen in a classic style. Wooden floors and warm color décor make it cozier.
For spacious kitchens, an excellent solution would be a dark wooden floor, different in texture and shade from the furniture. When decorating the floor, it is better to give preference to warm colors. Black or graphite shades should be used with caution, as they deprive the environment of liveliness.
Particular attention should be paid to the finishing of the apron, for which various materials can be used. One of the best options is ceramic tiles - a rich color palette, the variety of textures and installation methods of which allows you to create interesting and original design solutions.
Variety of dark tones
You can create a kitchen interior in dark colors using different color combinations. You can choose one shade as a background or play with achromatic combinations from medium gray to black.
It is undesirable to make the entire interior monochromatic. Use colors of varying degrees of saturation to create zoning. For example, the kitchen area can be decorated in dark brown, and the dining area in beige or white. And vice versa.
Black
Brown
Dark blue
Dark green
Choosing the tone of the kitchen
When choosing the shade of a headset, you should be guided by personal preferences and the characteristics of each color. Achromatic tones are popular:
- Black. This classic color adds elegance and sophistication to the environment. Black harmonizes with any colors. With a skillful combination of such a set and its surroundings, you can create an original interior, which, if desired, can be easily changed using various decorative items.
- Dark grey. The combination of gray with other pastel and rich shades makes it possible to create an unusual interior. To achieve expressiveness, you should avoid excess gray when decorating your kitchen space.
The photo shows a stylish interior of a black kitchen. The matte set creates a cozy, enveloping atmosphere. White furniture and wooden decor enliven the interior.
When decorating a kitchen, the following dark tones are also often used:
- Brown. A variety of shades from dark wood to chocolate tones gives the interiors a noble look. The kitchen set with facades made of wood looks luxurious.
- Dark blue. Sapphire or azure, blue color brings freshness, adds lightness and airiness.
- Burgundy. Luxurious shades of red are especially good when arranging a kitchen in a classic style. Burgundy goes well with natural wood, carvings, and gold. In modern interiors it looks no less interesting and is revealed through the use of contrasting colors.
- Dark green. Malachite and emerald tones, combined with silver, gold, stone and wood textures, are perfect for a kitchen set in a classic style. Modern design trends suggest combining this color with white, gray, lime or yellow.
- Violet. This color helps create an atmosphere of mystery. When decorating a dark kitchen, it is best to give preference to neutral or warmer shades of purple.
The photo shows the original interior with a dark blue kitchen set. The cold tone is balanced by the textures of wood, brick, and concrete. Thoughtful lighting emphasizes the combination of matte and glossy textures and the depth of shades.
When are dark colors contraindicated?
A small kitchen area is not a contraindication for dark shades, contrary to popular belief. But a small window can really play its fatal role. Please note that dark kitchens look most impressive in rooms with large windows. But this does not mean that such shades should be abandoned altogether. Use them as complementary and accent pieces.
If there is not enough sunlight in the kitchen, dilute the interior with light shades. The less light, the more light there should be in the overall proportion.
How to make a small kitchen harmonious
Many people love dark colors. And housewives often choose deep brown wood tones or noble emerald, blue, dark gray. It is also possible to find a harmonious solution even for a small kitchen. Of course, the smaller the space, the fewer dark surfaces there should be, otherwise the interior will turn out gloomy. The best options are:
- only details in the selected shade;
- one strip in a duet with light walls;
- just a dark floor and a few accents;
- several parts of facades in combination with glass or another shade.
You can find an interesting design in a photo on the Internet: decide on the style, budget, materials and look for the optimal solutions just for you, because in any palette you can choose harmonious combinations with individual features. And if you like the dark deep color of chocolate, do not deny yourself the pleasure of using it even in a tiny kitchen. “Hide” the remaining details behind the light facades, putting your favorite shade first. If the kitchen itself is dark, just add light and reflective surfaces.
Choosing a style
As we noted above, among the advantages of this color scheme is its versatility. Dark shades are appropriate in classic and modern interiors. The only difference is in the proportions: somewhere dark will dominate, and somewhere it will act more as a complementary or accent color.
Classic High-tech
Minimalism
For the English style, loft and art deco, the dark color scheme of the interior is often style-forming.
Loft
Kitchen in English Art Deco style
Decor options
Dark decorative details often become the highlight of light interiors. They bring a little brutality to them, grounding too light, airy tones. Black fittings are a solution for some styles; they help to detail the design and draw attention to the facades of the set. Plumbing fixtures in black tones look stylish; they use matte surfaces on which drops and soap stains are not so noticeable. Dark upholstery for furniture, curtains and other textiles allow you to separate functional areas and set off the light colors used in the design.
Plant and vintage plumbing fixtures
Decoration Materials
Only the decoration, furniture or facades of the furniture do not have to be dark. A black faucet, refrigerator or black apron, for example, can also add a touch of luxury and elegance to the interior.
Floor, walls, ceiling
You can experiment with the design of the ceiling, apron and walls, but some bold decisions will require certain knowledge in the field of design and a project thought out to the smallest detail.
Dark colors can be an effective tool in creating optical effects. For example, a black accent wall visually creates a feeling of endless space, therefore expanding the room, and a black ceiling appears higher.
But black or dark brown flooring is the most impractical solution. There is a lot of dust on it. Black and white tiles would be a great alternative.
Apron
When choosing the color of an apron, it is necessary to take into account not only its compatibility with furniture and other interior items, but also the operating conditions.
If you cook a lot often, then you shouldn’t choose a glossy apron.
If the kitchen set is dark in color, the apron can be made a tone darker or lighter, depending on the design concept. Or you can focus on it by decorating it in red, orange, yellow.
Backsplashes made of dark gray tiles and porcelain stoneware looking like stone or concrete look beautiful.
The boar tile can be laid out in a beautiful pattern and contrasting white grout can be used.
Other interesting options are skinali, a brick-like apron, or painted with slate paint. The last two options will fit perfectly into the interior of a loft-style kitchen.
Tabletop
The tabletop can match the set or contrast with it. To make it easier to care for, choose not black, but dark gray matte countertops made of natural or acrylic stone, laminated chipboard to look like concrete.
A black glossy countertop is the most impractical option.
A light countertop can dilute a dark interior or play in contrast with black facades.
Marble looks impressive with its beautiful, natural pattern. It is better to make an apron from the same material. With this design of the work area, practically no additional decor is required, since the unique pattern of the stone is already a decoration in itself.
Options made of wood or with its high-quality imitation will look beautiful.
Lifehacks for a small kitchen
It is traditional to use dark kitchen furniture when decorating spacious rooms. However, a carefully thought-out design in this color scheme will be appropriate even in tight spaces. To make a dark-colored kitchen look harmonious in the interior, it is recommended to take into account the following features.
- Maintaining proportions. The cramped the room, the more you have to dilute it with light and bright details.
- Correct placement of accents. The wall with the kitchen unit can be decorated mainly in dark shades, and the rest of the space can be filled with light as much as possible, focusing only on individual elements using a dark palette.
- A game of contrasts. A light apron and tabletop will balance out the dark facades of the set.
- Transparent furniture. A glass table and transparent chairs bring lightness and weightlessness, so this design of a group dining room does not attract undue attention.
- Light floor. For the most cramped kitchens, this solution gives a feeling of spaciousness.
- Minimum decor. Accessories and fixtures stored in cabinets and maximally free walls visually add volume.
- More gloss. Due to their ability to reflect light, such surfaces visually expand the space of a small kitchen.
Dark furniture and appliances
Since kitchen furniture is quite large in size, the easiest way is to make a dark shade the main dominant feature of the interior by choosing a kitchen set in black or another dark color.
Smooth facades without relief are easier to care for. However, should you always be guided only by practicality? Look how beautiful black sets look with paneled fronts or with carvings!
If you choose effective furniture care products and wipe the kitchen regularly after each cooking, then you will never have problems keeping it clean and well-groomed.
The choice of technology directly depends on the direction of the design. For example, in classic and English interiors, an oven or microwave with bronze elements and brass or copper-look handles will look beautiful. Patina on dark facades can be in harmony with this design of equipment.
In retro, boho, and loft style interiors, bright vintage refrigerators and ovens in red, yellow, and blue would be appropriate.
For most modern trends, especially for high-tech and minimalist styles, white, black or metallic appliances with a chrome-plated facade are suitable.
The problem of choosing a refrigerator design can be solved even simpler: it can always be built in, hidden behind the facades, if there is no need to make an accent, as, for example, in loft, retro or boho styles.
Black cabinets
Whether you're installing brand new kitchen cabinets or updating the look of existing ones, you may want to consider a bold style choice: black kitchen cabinets. Since most kitchens tend to have lighter colors, these cabinets can provide a bright, eye-catching contrast.
Remember that black does not have to mean the color of dark midnight or an inky shade.
Black kitchen cabinets in the interior
Paint manufacturers now offer a wide range of colors, many of which have interesting shades that almost fade into gray. The color and style of the other part of the kitchen, as well as the bold statement you want to make with your cabinets, will likely determine the shade of black that's right for your kitchen cabinets.
It's a different matter if you have black kitchen cabinets as the cabinet material. It shouldn't be considered an exclusively modern color, but it works well on laminated cabinets.
A softer black, sometimes with a slightly weathered effect, can also work great if your cabinets are more traditional, especially with contrast from light colors on the walls and countertops.
Add a little gray
They enhance any kitchen style, be it rustic, traditional or modern. If they were previously used in European kitchens, they now appear in all styles. This is a throwback to more traditional designs, as a reminder of the Victorian era.
In Victorian times, dark woods such as walnut, cherry or mahogany were used and stained almost black. Pairing them with cream granite or marble countertops will give you a beautiful look.
Corner kitchen with cabinets
Tip Try pairing frameless cabinetry with glass inserts, stainless steel appliances, art glass pendants, and mosaic glass tiles. The color will make the lines of the cabinet expressive and become a background for other elements in the room.
When the interior is completely in one color
Lighting
Even if you have a lot of natural light, still use the maximum amount of artificial light that your kitchen is capable of so as not to turn it into a black hole.
Tip: Dark furniture can show stains and fingerprints more easily than wood, so consider your cleaning routine.
Don't forget about good lighting
This will be interesting to you: REVIEW: How will a white kitchen with a white countertop transform the interior? 145+ Photos of styles and varieties of design solutions
ProEXR File Description =Attributes= cameraAperture (float): 36 cameraFarClip (float): 0 cameraFarRange (float): 1000 cameraFov (float): 48.2441 cameraNearClip (float): 0 cameraNearRange (float): 0 cameraProjection (int): 0 cameraTargetDistance ( float): 770.884 cameraTransform (m44f): [{1, 0, 0, 209.111}, {0, 0.00477598, -0.999891, -604.873}, {0, 0.999989, 0.0147751, 105.999}, {0, 0, 0, 1 }] channels (chlist) compression (compression): Zip16 dataWindow (box2i): [0, 0, 2999, 1874] displayWindow (box2i): [0, 0, 2999, 1874] gamma (float): 1 lineOrder (lineOrder) : Increasing Y pixelAspectRatio (float): 1 screenWindowCenter (v2f): [0, 0] screenWindowWidth (float): 1 tiles (tiledesc): [64, 64] type (string): “tiledimage” =Channels= B (float) CESSENTIAL_Direct.A (half) CESSENTIAL_Direct.B (half) CESSENTIAL_Direct.G (half) CESSENTIAL_Direct.R (half) CESSENTIAL_Emission.A (half) CESSENTIAL_Emission.B (half) CESSENTIAL_Emission.G (half) CESSENTIAL_Emission.R (half) CESSENTIAL_Indirect. A (half) CESSENTIAL_Indirect.B (half) CESSENTIAL_Indirect.G (half) CESSENTIAL_Indirect.R (half) CESSENTIAL_Reflect.A (half) CESSENTIAL_Reflect.B (half) CESSENTIAL_Reflect.G (half) CESSENTIAL_Reflect.R (half) CESSENTIAL_Refract.A ( half) CESSENTIAL_Refract.B (half) CESSENTIAL_Refract.G (half) CESSENTIAL_Refract.R (half) CESSENTIAL_Translucency.A (half) CESSENTIAL_Translucency.B (half) CESSENTIAL_Translucency.G (half) CESSENTIAL_Translucency.R (half) CGeometry_NormalsDotProduct.A (half) CGeometry_NormalsDotProduct.B (half) CGeometry_NormalsDotProduct.G (half) CGeometry_NormalsDotProduct.R (half) CGeometry_NormalsGeometry.A (half) CGeometry_NormalsGeometry.B (half) CGeometry_NormalsGeometry.G (half) CGeometry_NormalsGeometry.R (half) CG eometry_NormalsShading.A (half) CGeometry_NormalsShading. B (half) CGeometry_NormalsShading.G (half) CGeometry_NormalsShading.R (half) CGeometry_UvwCoords.A (half) CGeometry_UvwCoords.B (half) CGeometry_UvwCoords.G (half) CGeometry_UvwCoords.R (half) CGeometry_WorldPo
Tabletops
When it comes to countertops, if you have your heart set on granite or soapstone, then don't choose cabinets in that same color. Light countertops, such as light granite with dark areas or marble - if you're willing to splurge - contrast well with a dark set.
A metal countertop, such as stainless steel or a less common choice such as zinc, pewter or copper, will stand out much better with black cabinets, as they will reflect a lot of light.
With metal table top
Apron
The same goes for your apron - don't leave it in the dark. Take advantage of the black scene and go for an intricate, vibrant tile design for it.
Devices
As for appliances, dark and stainless steel are made to order. Whether you're using it as an island or one wall away from cabinetry, black appliances are the perfect complement.
White tiles on the floor
Tip For floors, you can choose white marble or limestone tiles, or oak flooring, which will give a warm combination.
This will be interesting to you: REVIEW: Freshness and safety of Green in decoration: 130+ Photos of green kitchen in the interior. What does this natural color give?
Lighting
The darker the color scheme of the interior, the more thoughtful the artificial lighting should be. The shadow from an incorrectly installed lamp or from a lack of lamps will make the kitchen gloomy and visually narrow the space. To prevent this from happening, even at the stage of a major overhaul, consider a kitchen lighting scheme.
It is important to provide general lighting and lighting in each area - working, dining, relaxation area (if the kitchen is combined with the living room).
General diffused lighting can be represented by one chandelier or several spotlights.
You can hang a pendant lamp above the dining table or install a sconce if the table is against the wall.
Black as main color
Something remains a classic, no matter what changes in fashion occur.
This fully applies to kitchens decorated in black. It is ideal for a modern style design if you play with contrasts. Glossy facades seem even richer if you highlight them with a white apron. This type of renovation looks better in spacious rooms - there the anthracite color will become deeper.
For a more classic design, choose matte - it looks elegant. It is important to choose the right small details - against such a background they can become stylish accents.
An interesting technique: The lampshade of the chandelier should also be made black - unusual, but effective.
Black is a deep independent color, so not every combination in this case will be winning. We recommend paying special attention to the quality of materials. For example, such a stone countertop will set off a glossy black set than a plain plastic one.
Monochrome solutions are also a good choice. If the room is spacious enough, you can highlight the beauty of the furniture. Use graphic prints in white and noble silver metallic - other colors are prohibited in such interiors.
An unexpected but very successful addition is matte dark pink tones. They harmonize well with pink, enlivening the look of the kitchen. True, it is important not to overdo it - one or two inserts, no more. And no rich caramel!
Curtains and decor
Textile design occupies a special place in design. You need to choose a style and fabric for curtains based on the style of the interior and the tasks that they must solve.
In a classic kitchen, curtains, in addition to their main function of protecting from bright light, play an important decorative role. The high cost and status of a classic interior will be emphasized by curtains or a lambrequin made of dense fabrics with a rich texture - velor, velvet, gabardine, jacquard, etc. They can be combined with light organza or tulle curtains. If the window is located next to the kitchen work area, then long curtains will have to be abandoned in favor of short curtains with tiebacks, Austrian or Roman styles.
See also 110 of the most stylish ideas for curtains for the kitchen
In a modern interior, curtains can be abandoned, especially if the window is small, the room does not have enough daylight, or if the style requires it. For example, the Scandinavian direction, hi-tech or minimalism allow for the complete absence of window curtains or almost invisible roller blinds, simple transparent or translucent light curtains without excessive decor.
Curtains can perform different functions:
- The role of a bright accent. For example, curtains of a beautiful deep shade - wine, ocher, emerald or blue - will stand out effectively against a dark gray background.
- Protection from bright light and comfort. If there is no goal to focus attention on the curtains, but curtains are still necessary (not only to protect yourself from the bright sun, but also from prying eyes in the evening, if, for example, you live on the first floor), then you can choose curtains in the main, dark colors of the interior.
- Dilute the muted color scheme. Light curtains can be the very detail that will add air and light to the interior so that it does not seem too gloomy and gloomy.
Not only curtains, but also other textile elements will help diversify and soften the interior - tablecloths and table runners, napkins for cutlery, pillows on kitchen chairs. Rough textiles made from large-weave fabric with a complex texture look especially beautiful in a dark interior.
Moderate and correct decor will emphasize the effectiveness and status of the interior. Textured and textured surfaces in the design of finishing materials and furniture, bright accents in the form of small details such as jars for spices, pillows on chairs, tablecloths, and an interesting layout of tiles on the apron will serve as decoration in themselves.
The decor can be unusual chandeliers, pendant lamps with bronze, forged, glass or crystal elements.
Wicker furniture and accessories will add coziness and warmth to the interior - napkins for cutlery made of jute or seaweed, baskets, etc.
Which countertop to choose
The work area in the kitchen is often decorated in contrasting colors. A countertop made of light material will create a cozy atmosphere; it will look attractive and neat in a dark kitchen. For implementation, light marble, snow-white acrylic, and milky wood are used.
Light tabletop
A dark countertop will also look harmonious. To prevent the work area from merging into one spot, the wall behind the set is decorated in contrasting light colors. Dark wood species are used, the color of the countertop matches the facades of the set. If blue, emerald or other tones are used, a black tabletop will look stylish and highlight the shade of the set.
Emerald kitchen, black countertop
Small dark kitchen
There is a stereotype that dark colors are strictly contraindicated for small spaces. But it is not always the case. If there are no problems with natural light in the kitchen, and dark is used in doses and diluted with light shades, then the interior will definitely not suffer in any way, and will even benefit. In addition, dark colors can create visual effects and visually expand the space.
For example, an accent black wall creates the illusion of endless space, and a black apron looks like a portal, deceiving perception and dissolving the boundaries of the room.
Kitchen with dark facades
Dark kitchen facades can perfectly fit into any kitchen; it is important to find the right combination with the color of the walls, floors and countertops.
When in doubt, any color goes best with white. Therefore, no matter what color of facades you choose, light walls and floors will help create the ideal room design.
This option allows you to use dark furniture in any room layout, everything will look harmonious and dignified.
Kitchen-living room in dark colors
Floor and ceiling decoration
It is best to make the ceiling light. Especially if the kitchen renovation needs to be done in a one-room apartment. A dark ceiling will visually make the room smaller. If the room is large, then it is quite appropriate to use rich colors. For example, choose a dark chocolate tone and decorate the ceiling with wood. It can be combined with a neutral palette - beige, vanilla or white. The color dark chocolate will harmoniously combine with dark green, burgundy and blue.
The floor can be made in any shades. For example, cover it with laminate or parquet. An interior based on this will always be cozy and homely.
If the floor is black, charcoal or graphite, then such a room will look stylish, but restrained and cold. This option is suitable for large rooms and design in a classic style.
If you plan to make a dark floor, then it is better to make the ceiling in light shades so that the room does not seem small.
Photo gallery
How to make a dark kitchen lighter and brighter
If black or any other very deep color is chosen as the base color, you should dilute the interior with light accents and install as many lighting fixtures as possible.
Lighting in the kitchen is very important.
The room needs to be divided into several zones - sink, workplace, eating area. All these parts of the room should be well lit, so there should be several light sources.
Useful tips on how to properly install light sources:
- The more lighting fixtures, the less power each of them should have. For the dining area, dim lighting should be selected, and the place where food is prepared should be better lit.
- It is better to make multi-level lighting.
- Walls reflect only 12% of light.
- An LED strip is perfect for a work area.
Decorative items play an important role. To balance the color palette, you need to use bright accents. For example, if the room is black, you can hang pictures in light frames, put flowers in white pots or hang light curtains. Gold and emerald tones also go well with black. To keep everything in the same color scheme, you can use accents in a gray palette.
If the room is made in dark fir tones, you can additionally use gold, beige or vanilla. White or gray accents are suitable for a burgundy palette.
Kitchen interior in dark blue tones
Harmonious combinations
Black goes with all shades, but there are several of the most advantageous combinations, the choice of which is obviously successful. At the same time, you can equally successfully combine both contrasting colors and softer options. The choice depends only on the personal preferences of the home owners.
White
The most classic combination. Any tone of white can neutralize a harsh black design, refreshing the kitchen interior. White brings a feeling of lightness, spaciousness and airiness.
However, you should be careful when using this color, not to allow a 50/50 proportion. This combination will make your eyes very tired; it is best when one of the shades is leading, and the second acts as an accent. If the black and white palette seems too harsh, you can dilute it with gray, beige or bright colors - green, yellow, pink, blue.
Red
A beautiful, but very active combination. This design is extremely rarely used for the interiors of residential buildings. Black and red should definitely be diluted with light ones - white, milky, silver-gray. Metal and glass elements will look stylish in the kitchen interior.
Brown and beige
A fairly popular combination - the soft tones of natural wood soften the gloom of black. In the kitchen, brown is most often used in the form of wood cabinetry, flooring, ceramic tableware, masonry, or used to design a backsplash. To prevent the interior from seeming boring, it should be diluted with bright details - textiles, photos, paintings, flowers.
Grey
Any shade of gray is a mixture of black and white in different proportions, so it can easily be combined with anthracite tones. A black and gray kitchen is appropriate in a minimalist or hi-tech style. However, without adding accent spots, this design may seem too bland.
Blue or cyan
The effectiveness of a kitchen design largely depends on the choice of shade of blue. Indigo itself is a very dark color; in tandem with black it will make the interior even darker, but turquoise, mint or classic blue will bring a feeling of freshness. A black and blue or light blue kitchen can be easily combined with any tones of brown or white.
Dark technology in the interior: designer tips for proper integration
view album in new window
In the photo: Modern kitchen set with a green apron
It is worth recognizing that black equipment looks more expensive and more modern than white or beige. But it is not always clear which interior it is suitable for and which it is not. We have collected examples that will help resolve this issue.
Black hood and appliances in a white kitchen set
view album in new window
In the photo: Interior of a fashionable kitchen with a formal dining room
So, black appliances look great in a white kitchen, as well as in a white kitchen with one bright accent (blue, red, emerald, etc.).
Built-in household appliances in contrasting tones and gloss
view album in new window
In the photo: Design project of a small kitchen with an island
It is also good for a monochrome white-gray or gray-silver kitchen, where it will become an excellent accent spot.
Steel gray kitchen appliances
view album in new window
In the photo: Kitchen design project in a modern style
In an interior with brown facades, you can think about using black appliances with steel parts, because the interior is already rich in different reliefs, textures and materials (wood + gloss or mat + apron and floor + furniture), so it’s worth playing along with this eclectic atmosphere.
How to decide on color
A dark kitchen can be red and purple, brown and black, blue and gray, and you can’t count this variety. Let's look at the most popular options:
1. Black! Such an interior is unlikely to leave anyone indifferent among the guests of your home. The “black” kitchen, like a style icon, dictates its own rules: metal electronics, ceramic dishes and steel appliances. And if used skillfully, even wooden objects will be appropriate. In such a room, contrast is needed and it can be the floor. You can work according to the scheme: black top, white bottom!
2. Gray kitchen! This color is more versatile and less picky. It perfectly hides scratches that are inevitable in a breed room over time. As well as abrasions, cuts and greasy shine. The most practical color among all existing ones! However, he refuses to work alone for the good. A few bright accents radically change the situation. They can be textiles (tulle, curtains, tablecloths in certain styles), paintings, kitchen accessories and many other necessary items for cooking.
3. Purple! A popular color among modern housewives. It is both noble and universal. A kitchen in this color requires high-quality lighting and additions. You can dilute purple with olive, mustard or (for the more daring) yellow. It is these additional tones that help create dynamics and refresh the interior.
4. Green kitchen! This color represents the infinity of nature and inspires a healthy lifestyle. In a kitchen like in nature, everything natural is appropriate: wooden furniture, dishes, accessories. Don’t forget about flax, wheat (can be used as flowers) and field harvests. Rather, this design would be more appropriate in a country house.
5. Brown! If you think about it, many other Soviet kitchens could boast such an interior. These are wooden kitchens. And again, an environmentally friendly material, an echo of nature, which brings peace and grace to the house. A brown kitchen can be described as a cozy corner of cute little things. However, you can play with this color too. By choosing “glossy” brown, you will create an atmosphere of aristocracy and sophistication, in which simple things will become inappropriate. Therefore, embroidered textiles, metal dishes and cutlery, as well as crystal glasses will look preferable.
A dark kitchen is always practical, aesthetically pleasing and stylish. The main thing is to follow the rule of contrasts. Choose your option and turn your ideas into reality.
Impact on psychological state
The colors used in the interior have a huge impact on the mood and emotional state of people. For example, blue colors have a calming effect, while at the same time helping to concentrate on work. Yellow will add energy and cheerfulness, while red movement and in too large quantities can lead to aggression and irritability. Black is considered one of the most powerful shades along with red and snow-white. What impact can it have:
- A calm interior in black and neutral colors without bright details helps not to be distracted from business and also relieves stress;
- Depth of color unleashes creativity;
- This is the color of luxury and respectability; it is not for nothing that luxury goods are produced in black.
Black color harmonizes well with wood and marble
However, the use of this shade requires a large amount of light, otherwise black can overwhelm, make you sad and depressive.
Important! The color goes well with any texture - fabric, fur, stone, metal, ceramics, plastic, gloss or matte surface.
The matte surface of the black facade looks very laconic and neat
