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The dark side of kitchen decor

Black isn’t the first colour that comes to mind when designing a kitchen. While all-white and neutral palette kitchens are a perpetual favourite due to their clean and fresh feel, designing a black kitchen is quickly becoming a popular trend in kitchen design.

Deciding to create a predominantly black kitchen is a brave move, but one that can prove highly successful when done right. Here are a few things to consider before moving to the dark side.

Space: the final frontier

Keep in mind that the size of your space will play a part in whether or not a lot of dark, black features will suit your kitchen. The use of darker colours generally makes a space feel more enclosed, so it is important to consider this when deciding on which parts of your kitchen you would like to ‘pop’ or stand out against dark cabinetry, tiling or benchtops.

Behind closed doors

Acrylic gloss in a dark shade can ensure that tighter spaces are opened up due to their reflective nature. Acrylic gloss is a highly reflective cabinetry choice, thereby lending a brightness to an otherwise dark motif.

Backsplash, front and centre

The colour and pattern of a backsplash can very much influence the space and feel of your kitchen design. If you have chosen black cabinetry, you may decide to utilize a neutral coloured backsplash to ensure a more open feel.

Alternately, you could decide to use a tonal backsplash design through the use of a coloured glass, or monochromatic tiles – black tiles with white grouting, or vice versa.

The Machines

These days, it’s easier than ever to choose your colour scheme to include your appliances. A wealth of colour choices mean your fridges, ovens, microwaves and coffee machines can blend in seamlessly with the design of your kitchen to ensure your choices are kept consistent.

Choosing the right appliance for your kitchen can be tricky, but modern finishes range from facades to hide your appliances behind faux cabinetry, to high-gloss ceramic or stainless steel.

From darkness, light

Due to the colour palette you’re working with, it’s a good idea to consider which spaces will need to be well-lit. Think of benches and task areas, as well as places that you may want to entertain in or need mood or ambient lighting.

And whether you’d like to opt for pops of monochrome or dive head first into the black kitchen trend, there’s a lot to consider when planning your new kitchen. Hopefully we’ve given you some things to think about when it comes to implementing a black or monochrome kitchen trend.


If you’re looking for tips on how to refine your living spaces and add market appeal, the Merenda team can help. With our 20+ years of industry knowledge and a client-forward approach, we’ll get you the results you want and the experience you deserve. Contact us todayand let’s get a conversation started.