Recent kitchen trends favor light, neutral colors, but are black kitchen countertops back in style? Once thought to be out of style, black countertops are making a comeback, but is it just a passing fad or is it here to stay?
Countertop ideas come in a variety of materials and finishes, but one design that has fallen out of favor in recent years is black countertops. Marble, granite, and even quartz countertops remain perennial favorites, but are we finally seeing a shift in the way homeowners approach kitchen ideas?
To find out if black kitchen countertops are truly making a comeback, we asked interior designers and kitchen design experts for their thoughts on this revived style and how they can make it work in a variety of schemes.
Are black countertops coming back into fashion?
(Image courtesy of deVOL)
Decorating in muted tones has been popular this year, so it's not too surprising to see dark hues on the rise in other areas of interior design. We're also seeing a resurgence of outdated trends, including those from the '90s when black countertops were a staple.
“Black granite was a '90s staple and still exudes an understated luxury feel, especially when polished, so we're pleased to see it being used in so many of our clients' kitchens,” says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens.
(Image courtesy of Lick)
The visual impact of black countertops adds to their appeal. There's a misconception that they feel cold and inorganic, but the right colour combination can have the opposite effect: “Bold and dramatic, black countertops are sure to make a statement in your kitchen, whether they're made from concrete or natural stone. Black is often thought of as a cold colour, but when combined with lighter or softer cabinet colours, it can add warmth and cosiness to your kitchen,” explains Alex Main, director at The Main Company.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, black countertops have many practical benefits: “Plus, dark surfaces are easier to care for because they're generally better at hiding wear and tear than light-colored surfaces, which can show stains and marks,” he adds.
What is the best black countertop material?
(Image courtesy of deVOL)
When choosing black countertops, there are certain materials to consider. You want to choose something that not only looks beautiful, but will also last. Luckily, some high-quality materials are available in black.
“There are beautiful black marble worktops and a wide range of quartz with interesting veining patterns which tend to be relatively inexpensive, and for dramatic effect, try a very luxurious dark walnut, which will give you a timeless and elegant finish,” says Jane Everett, creative director at Naked Kitchens.
(Image courtesy of Kitchens by Holloways)
If you're looking for something durable, Alex suggests sticking to a durable material with a matte finish: “Easy to maintain, long-lasting and beautiful to look at, a matte textured surface such as concrete is a great choice as it's easy to clean, durable and does a great job of hiding stains.”
“Natural stones like granite offer similar benefits, but concrete tends to suit modern kitchens, while granite is best suited for a traditional feel,” he adds. Materials like concrete may sound practical, but with the right design, they can feel sleek and stylish.
How to Style Black Countertops
Black countertops are a truly versatile choice. When combined with a variety of other colors and finishes, they can fit into almost any kitchen design style. Here, experts share their favorite ways to style black countertops.
1. Combine black countertops with light cabinets
(Image courtesy of Kitchens by Holloways)
To create a brighter, more airy kitchen, contrast the colour of your black countertops with your kitchen cabinets. Avoid stark whites and opt for warm, creamy neutrals and earthy tones.
“Dark countertops provide a bold contrast with light-colored cabinetry and walls. If you opt for under-cabinet or pendant lighting, or are lucky enough to have a space with plenty of natural light, you have the opportunity to highlight the veining and color changes found in dark woods and granite,” suggests Laura Stiles, resident style advisor at Yester Home.
In this neutral kitchen, black countertops are paired with light earth-toned cabinetry, instantly brightening the space and softening the look of the black surfaces. Combined with the brass hardware used throughout the kitchen, the overall design feels timeless.
2. Incorporate a black countertop into your kitchen island
(Image courtesy of Kitchens by Holloways)
If a kitchen full of black countertops doesn't suit your kitchen style, introducing them in a smaller area like a kitchen island can still make an impact. The contrast between the island countertop and the countertops surrounding the wall also adds visual interest.
“Black countertops can make a dramatic impression if used in the right environment. This tends to be in more modern environments where there's a lot of contrast with different materials and colors, and in these environments black countertops look great,” Jane explains.
“You could use it throughout your kitchen, or if you have a larger space, just use it on the island and contrast with lighter materials for the rest of the base cabinets,” she adds.
3. Add black countertops and wooden cabinets
(Image courtesy of Chris Snook for The Main Company)
To add a moody vibe to a modern rustic kitchen style, black countertops work beautifully with darker, natural cabinet materials. Don't be afraid to experiment with dark kitchen ideas – done well, they can look sophisticated and stylish.
“To add texture and contrast to your kitchen, black worktops look great when paired with softer materials such as reclaimed wood. Wooden front cabinets have a rustic, timeless feel and when paired with dark concrete surfaces, they create a timeless, contemporary aesthetic,” says Alex.
In this kitchen, the black countertops blend beautifully with the paneled wood cabinetry, creating the perfect blend of contemporary yet rustic without making the space feel too dark.
4. Create a colorful scheme with black countertops
(Image courtesy of Black countertops Kitchens by Holloways)
Black countertops are incredibly versatile and can be paired with almost any other color, and while many of you may prefer neutral colors like dark wood or cream, there's nothing wrong with opting for colorful cabinets.
“Opting for Shaker-style doors and black countertops with strong traditional colors like burgundy red, mustard yellow or heritage green will create a unique, transitional design,” suggests Charles Elwell, design director at Kitchens by Holloways.
Choose a timeless color that will stand the test of time. This color scheme uses warm red/pink hues in the cabinets that work extremely well with the dark countertops.
5. Choose a colorful design
(Image courtesy of Michael Del Piero Good Design/Costas Picadas)
The colour-heavy trend continues to gain popularity in interior design, and kitchens are no exception. Embrace the dark feel that black countertops bring to a kitchen, and when clad in muted hues, the design can create a truly dramatic scheme.
“Black countertops are a timeless and versatile choice for any kitchen. For a darker, bolder kitchen scheme, go for plenty of color and choose gray, black or teal kitchen cabinets and walls,” suggests Tash Bradley, interior design director and color psychologist at Lick.
In a dark, black kitchen, the finish of the hardware you choose can make a big difference: “Pair them with warm brass hardware and orange accents,” she suggests, which will lend a timeless appeal to the finished design.
Black countertops are back in style and making a huge comeback. Whether paired with light neutrals, dark tones or bright colors, black countertops have proven to be a versatile kitchen feature.
