Black Kitchens - Trend or Timeless?
Lately we have consistently received the same request; the black kitchen. A stark contrast from the popularity of the white kitchen that has held steadfast for so long. While we don’t believe the white kitchen is going anywhere, we do think black is a timeless choice that will have a place for years to come. It’s bold and dramatic and we LOVE that clients are moving away from playing it safe. White cabinetry will always be beautiful but we get excited when our clients want to step outside the box.
The textbook definition of “Trend” is accurate and straightforward but the modern understanding of the word seems to have a negative connotation these days. That’s why the SCID team likes to avoid it. Our mission is to provide you with timeless design that will never stop “trending”. We pull our inspiration from steadfast influences like historical architecture or reimagined classics that are considered staples in the design world. We never want to leave you with a design that might “get old”. Design has the potential to be timeless and that is our priority.
Millwork Paint: Benjamin Moore 2131-10 Black Satin
Black is timeless by definition and we don’t think that changes when it's incorporated through millwork, however there are some pros and cons to jumping all in with your black kitchen and when you choose to trust us as your designer, we take that seriously which means always giving you all the information.
We love black for all of the obvious reasons like sophistication, drama, elegance, and its bold and bossy nature. It steals the show and looks incredible accompanied with rich texture and neutrals like cream, off white and grey. Like Studio McGee mentioned in their blog post The 5 Best Black Paints a well designed black kitchen can’t go without some contrasting elements like brass or natural wood to anchor the space and contrast the black with some warmth. Studio McGee has also created a paint guide that we happen to agree with whole heartedly.
It is a misconception that black won’t show dirt like white will. Black millwork is known to overtime show some fingerprints and wear. For certain families with pets or young children this might deter you from committing. Above I have included images that offer up alternate ways to add that dark depth to your space if you decide black millwork isn’t fit for your lifestyle.
In the first image on the left, black dining chairs and accessories add that punch of sophistication you might be longing for and the dark sheer is another unique way to achieve the depth the space might otherwise be missing. Check out our Drapery 101 blog post to learn more about why we love a dark sheer.
On the right you can see the impact black light and plumbing fixtures make in an otherwise white and bright kitchen. Lastly a nice navy on the island or even the entire kitchen is an alternate way to get depth without fully committing to black.
We think black kitchens are here to stay and the design possibilities are endless. We can’t wait to design more in the future but right now our Bearspaw Renovation has us swooning. We have included a before and after above so you can see the difference paint made in her renovation and don’t get us started on that integrated butcher block slab! It is absolutely stunning AND useful, so a win win in our books (if your brave enough to use it that is).
Are you ready to build, renovate or update? Contact us.
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