Black and white kitchens always look perfect thanks to their perfect color palette. Each hue is stunning on its own (and often used to great effect – we love black and white kitchens alike), but when combined, their tried-and-true contrast creates magical results in any kitchen. Like peanut butter and jam, black and white go together like crazy. And because it's such a classic combination, it's incredibly versatile. Black and white can be incorporated into classic kitchens, modern kitchens, and every style in between.
Are black and white kitchens trendy?
Black and white kitchens are definitely on trend and will never go out of style. “Black and white is the perfect colour scheme for a busy kitchen,” says Helen Stiles of London interior design studio Hide & Seek. “It's understated and timeless, so it puts the focus on the cook and the food. And when you need a change, you can easily update the look by adding a few colourful casserole dishes and accessories.”
How can you add warmth to a black and white kitchen?
Black and white feels cool and contemporary, especially when done with smooth lines and sharp angles. We love this vibe, but we also love the warmth of a black-and-white kitchen, which can be achieved with the addition of natural materials like wood and plaster. Curved edges, brass accents, and a variety of lighting fixtures also add to the coziness. “Intentional layering of lighting and hardware can help shape the design of a space into what you need it to be,” explains Annie Obermann, a Colorado-based interior designer and co-founder of Forge & Bow.
What are the best accent colors for a black and white kitchen?
There's no color that doesn't work well with black and white, so feel free to add accents of your favorite hues. Accents of green, blue, red and yellow work well in a black and white kitchen, and pairing black and white with neutral tones like beige and brown will bring out those aforementioned warmth even more.
How can you tone down a black and white kitchen?
If you want to soften the starkness of your black and white kitchen, consider varying the black and white tones you're using. Instead of stark black and bright white, opt for more muted, subdued versions like charcoal or ivory. Keep scrolling for this striking example by Stiles and other of our favorite black and white kitchen design ideas.