F1 champion Lewis Hamilton may be all about speed, but his kitchen designs are extremely slow and deliberate — and his black and white color palette in particular is utterly timeless.
Hamilton's kitchen features polished black floors and crisp white walls, ceiling, and cabinetry. Beautiful brass pendant lights hang from the ceiling and are reflected in the brass trim that snakes around the cabinetry. A wall of windows lets natural light in and the glossy white paint Hamilton chose reflects it throughout. The overall effect is one that's both inviting and luxurious.
“Lewis Hamilton's black and white kitchen is the epitome of modern luxury,” says interior design expert and digital editor Jennifer Ebert. Homes and GardensShe continues, “Rather than using 'old world' details like marble and intricate moldings, Hamilton's designers opted for clean lines and striking colors to exude a sense of contemporary luxury. Brass accents pair well with the black and white paint to evoke this energy.”
The variety of textures in the space helps to bring out the colors in Hamilton's kitchen. “The finishes in this space were expertly selected,” says Ebert. “The floors are black, but their high-gloss finish reflects light, keeping the space bright. The white paint on the walls reflects light as well. This room doesn't waste any of the natural light that comes in through the back window.”
Additionally, Hamilton's spaces strike the perfect balance between luxurious appearance and livability: The brass accents against a white backdrop exude a sense of quiet luxury, but the wooden floors and clean lines keep it from feeling cold or intimidating. The light in the space also contributes to this warmth.
What's more, this style is more than just a passing interior design trend: “Black and white color schemes have been in style for at least the last 40 years and will likely remain in style for the foreseeable future,” says Ebert. “The contrast between these two neutral hues always creates a striking effect and can easily be coordinated with a variety of design styles,” she adds.
Shop H&G's Black & White Kitchen Edit
For those wanting to recreate Lewis Hamilton's style, we've tracked down some items that will replicate his look with some simple kitchen styling, without the need for a total redesign.
First, this midcentury modern-style pendant light is an affordable way to bring in a pop of metallic. Second, accessories like this contemporary Scandinavian-style gooseneck kettle can add a modern touch to black. And if you're still not convinced, remember that Hailey Bieber uses the same one. White marble coasters recreate the traditional luxury feel of Hamilton's modern kitchen.
Uma 1 – Light LED Single Pendant
When decorating with black and white, balance is key. To make sure the dark hue doesn't overwhelm the space, our editors recommend focusing on lighting when setting up a black kitchen. That means not only choosing ceiling or floor lamps that properly illuminate the space, but also paying attention to window placement. Pairing black paint with abundant natural light will make the hue feel warmer and more inviting.
Lewis Hamilton's kitchen is on trend for 2024 and will remain just as popular in 100 years' time. Choosing a timeless color palette pays off time and time again.
