Light and dark in the kitchen: The pros and cons of using black

Can you imagine a kitchen decorated using black? Most people think of whites and other light colours in relation to kitchens and in general they are the most popular hues, simply because they have traditionally created an association with cleanliness, hygiene and space. But there is a place for using black and other dark colours in contemporary kitchen design.

Black in the kitchen

While the idea of using black in the kitchen may take you by surprise, there is a place for it in contemporary designs. However, it does need to be used judiciously and thoughtfully. A kitchen that is decorated in predominantly dark colours and black may appear gloomy and uninviting to work in, but black used as a contrast or as part of a feature can work beautifully.

Consider using black in your appliances, as trim, or on your benchtops, contrasted with lighter colours like shades of white, yellow or even green.

Natural wood can be beautifully trimmed and contrasted with black, particularly gold hues of pine or honey coloured hardwoods used for cabinet doors, benchtops or even feature walls.

Use black judiciously for balance and contrast in your kitchen.

How to use light and dark in the kitchen

While your kitchen should be predominantly light for ease of use and a feeling of space, you can use lighting and colours to create interest and pick out features.

• Black contrasts beautifully with steel and chrome appliances, benchtops and sinks
• White marble or even quality white tiles combined with black in benchtops, cabinet doors or even a dark coloured feature wall can look arresting and magnificent
• Use lighting to pick out areas of interest in your kitchen. Feature lighting can be used subtly to highlight a particularly beautiful accessory such as a glass bowl or fresh flowers, a built in feature, or even a very elegant appliance such as a Danish steel coffee maker. Setting these features against black will make them stand out and appear more elegant
• Always use a licensed electrician to install lighting.
• Warm, darker colours like those based in reds, yellows and violet, appear to make a room closer and more cosy. 'Cooler' colours based in blues, greens and deep purples make the walls appear to 'retreat', and create the appearance of space in a room. Combine light and dark hues of these colours with black borders or features to create definition and interest in your kitchen

Using black can create interest and contrast in your kitchen, can create definition and boundaries, and can highlight features that you wish to have noticed.

Black, light and dark in the kitchen

Black can be used to great effect in the kitchen, to create interest and to pick out features that you want highlighted. Use black thoughtfully, combined with carefully chosen lighting, to build a space that feels more than just clean and hygienic. Contrast and lighting can create a kitchen space that is beautiful and inviting to work in.