Gwyneth Paltrow is well known for her light, airy aesthetic, and this also applies to her interior design preferences. From her bright marble kitchen countertops to her famous white bouclé sofa, light neutral colors are common in Paltrow's design world. However, the actress and Goop founder also leaves room for some unexpected elements in her home, as evidenced by the color of her kitchen cabinets.
In a recent Instagram post, Paltrow can be seen standing in front of black-painted cabinets, which contrast with the white-painted ceiling beams above. While black-painted cabinets are often shunned for concerns that they look too dark or intimidating, Paltrow's kitchen proves that when styled effectively, black-painted cabinets can be bold enough to appear understated.
Contrary to popular belief, experts say decorating with black can have a calming effect on a space rather than making it feel intimidating.
“Often bold and dramatic, black paint lends a sophisticated touch to contemporary interior design,” says designer Nina Lichtenstein. “Far from being an overwhelmingly gothic color, black can transform a space into a chic, elegant sanctuary. Black is the color of sophistication and mystery; it can elicit a range of moods from calm and serene to dramatic and powerful. In interior design, black lends depth and stability to a space, acting as a backdrop for other colors and textures, often allowing the design elements of a room to stand out more clearly.”
Our current favorite black paint (which matches Paltrow's almost perfectly) is this option from Benjamin Moore, and you can get a sample of it below.
Benjamin Moore's “Almost Black”
This soft black shade has a slight warmth to it that makes it look beautiful against cabinetry like the ones in Paltrow's kitchen (though it's never dreary).
(Image courtesy of Far Studio/Brian Wetzel)
Lichtenstein says contrast is key to balancing a space with black paint.
“Pair black walls with light colors to keep the room from feeling too dark or closed in,” she suggests. “Whites, creams, and light grays create a striking contrast and keep the space feeling open and airy.”
Paltrow's kitchen is a great example of this balance, with white ceilings and light counter space that complement the black cabinetry. Lichtenstein also says that sunlight helps brighten a dark painted space.
“Make the most of natural light to balance the depth of the black paint,” she says. “Large windows, skylights, and reflective surfaces like mirrors and glass will help brighten the room and enhance its overall ambiance.”
Additional accessories and fabrics can also help make a black painted space feel brighter rather than dark.
“Incorporate accent pieces in vibrant colors to break up the black and add personality to a room,” says Lichtenstein. “Bold artwork, colorful cushions, and brightly colored rugs can inject energy and interest.”
“Adding texture and pattern can soften the starkness of black paint. Consider textured wallpaper, patterned fabrics and different materials like velvet, leather and wood. These elements will add dimension and keep the space from feeling flat,” she continues.
(Images courtesy of Ali Budd Interiors/Alex Lukey)
Finally, consider what kind of lighting is installed in your kitchen, as this can have a huge impact on the ambiance of the room.
“Use lighting strategically to highlight your black painted areas,” Lichtenstein says. “Layering lighting — with indirect, task, and accent lighting — can brighten the room and make the black paint look rich rather than overwhelming. Warmer light can also soften the intensity of the black.”
At the moment, we're loving these chic kitchen lighting alternatives, especially this rattan piece from Lulu and Georgia , whose warm tones look beautiful against black cabinets.
Clay Greenlee Table Lamp
Black paint can give a modern, yet traditional feel to a space. We recommend painting one element of your kitchen, such as the cabinets, black while leaving the rest of the room feeling lighter and more inviting.
