Black and white kitchen: the concept of Yin and Yang in the interior

The struggle between the opposites of Yin and Yang is reflected in interior design. The contrasting combination of the dominant colors: black and white is popular in the design of rooms. This style is spectacular and unique, but at the same time capricious. An excess of black, improperly chosen decor will create a ridiculous and tasteless interior. A special approach to design requires a black and white kitchen. The practical advice contained in the article will help you do it right.

Combining white with black is a bold experiment that requires the right and competent approach.

Selection of a black and white interior, taking into account personal preferences

White is rightfully considered universal in interior design. It is a symbol of cleanliness, freshness and a source of light reflection in a room, so it is often used in kitchen design. Combining white with other colors, especially black, is already a bold experiment that requires a correct and competent approach both in the dosage of colors and in the choice of furniture, materials and decor. The presence of dark and light should be balanced.

A kitchen in black and white will appeal to fans of laconic and expressive ideas

In order to learn how to use black and white colors correctly in the interior, it is not necessary to be an experienced and educated designer, it is enough to study the subtleties regarding the combination of radically opposite tones. Having mastered modern trends in design, you can create an original and cozy interior in contrasting colors, because monochrome in a room is not always appropriate, and an abundance of white can create a sense of sterility.

A kitchen in black and white will appeal to fans of laconic and expressive ideas.It is an excellent choice for balanced people who value peace and order. At the same time, depending on the dominance of color and the chosen decor of a different shade, such an interior can please people with different characters and temperaments.

The black and white kitchen is the perfect breeding ground for experimentation to create the most unusual interiors

The main positive and negative features of a black and white kitchen: photos of design examples

Contrasting colors are characterized by simplicity and restraint, elegance and nobility. This design has the following positive characteristics:

1. The black-and-white interior is universal, so it is difficult to make a mistake in the color scheme - the selection of colors.
2. Providing the dominant white color in the room, light will be perfectly reflected, which contributes to the formation of a visual sense of additional space.
3. A black-and-white kitchen in the interior is an ideal ground for experimentation, allowing you to create the most unusual and original interiors.

Contrasting colors are characterized by simplicity and restraint, elegance and nobility

Useful advice! In a small black and white kitchen, white should take precedence, which visually enlarges the space.

At the same time, the black and white kitchen also has disadvantages. Among the main disadvantages are the following:

Black color contributes to the visual reduction of the kitchen space

1. Various contaminants will be noticeable on the surfaces: on black - simple water stains and commonplace dust, and on white - drops from water and traces of carbon deposits. Therefore, you will have to clean up in such a kitchen quite often.
2. Black color contributes to the visual reduction of the kitchen space.
3. An excess of black in a design contributes to depressed mood, stress, and even depression.

Excessive black design contributes to depressed mood, stress and even depression.

The main interior design options for a black and white kitchen

In the interior style, the combination of white and black can be presented in four main variants, which are taken as a basis for creating a kitchen interior. Illustrative examples of design, demonstrating the implementation of each of the ideas, are presented in the photo of black and white kitchens in the interior:

• a black bottom in combination with a light top is the most popular option that designers are actively using in small kitchens;
• a black top with a white bottom is a bold decision that requires a special competent approach; it is used in spacious rooms with high ceilings;
• white kitchen with a black accent in the form of an apron, countertop or decor, it is made out depending on the personal preferences and temperament of the owners of the house;
• a black kitchen with a white accent is a rather risky and not very practical option for lovers of dark tones in everything, since pollution is noticeable on the black gloss of the facades much more than on a white background.

The black and white kitchen fits perfectly into the interior of a studio apartment

These four ideas are not postulates in the design of a black and white kitchen interior. There is also an unspoken fifth option - a fantasy one, where contrasting elements of two basic tones are arranged in a strict checkerboard pattern, or a two-color design of ceilings, walls and floors is chosen.

First of all, you need to decide for yourself what will be done in black and what in white. This will determine the final black and white kitchen design. Photos, of which there are many on the Internet, will help you get acquainted with beautiful interiors and make a choice, guided by personal preferences. Next, we will consider each of the options in detail.

In a small black and white kitchen, white should take precedence.

Kitchen black bottom - white top: photo examples of harmonious design

Classic kitchen in black and white is the balanced presence of both colors, which ultimately form the perfect combination of Yin and Yang with achromatic blotches of black in white and vice versa - white in black. This design option is characterized not only by beauty, but also by philosophical implications.

The kitchen, where the upper part of the headset is made in white and the lower part is in black, looks quite formal, nevertheless it is very popular in the home interior and is very often the most win-win option. A clear contrast along one line contributes to a successful delineation of space. In this case, the top acquires a certain airiness, and the bottom - visual weight. As a result, a visual effect is created in which the walls seem to move apart.

The kitchen, with the upper part of the headset in white and the lower part in black, looks elegant and formal

Useful advice! With the interior with balanced dark and light kitchen facades, the white top - black bottom perfectly matches the two-ton flooring in the form of tiles, alternating in a checkerboard pattern.

A special category of black and white kitchen sets is represented by models with mixed facades arranged in a checkerboard pattern. Blocks of black elements in the white top or white doors in the black bottom of the kit look interesting.

Black bottom combined with light top is the most popular option

White bottom - black top, white kitchen with black appliances and other design options

When creating a kitchen design in two contrasting colors, it must be remembered that black absorbs light, while white, on the contrary, reflects it. Thus, the abundance of black in furniture makes it heavier and more massive. Therefore, the kitchen option, where black cabinets are at the top and white ones at the bottom, is a rather rare solution; it is not suitable for small black and white kitchens.

Related article:

White kitchen: photos of classic and modern design options

Advantages and disadvantages of a snow-white interior. Kitchen design in classic and modern styles. Councils for design and decoration.

Save the situation in black kitchens glossy surfaces that visually increase the space due to specularity. In small-sized apartments, it is better to bet on light colors in the interior, and black should be used in doses - in the form of accents and in decor details. For example, a white kitchen looks great in combination with black appliances or a black floor, which gives a respectable appearance to the room. Regardless of the amount of furniture, the room will look rich. Such a design, according to psychologists, is very comfortable for a person, as it creates a sense of earthiness.

A great accent in the design of a white kitchen - a black countertop

A black kitchen in white colors will look cozy in a spacious studio apartment. Photos of a white room with a dining area in black also look very attractive. A bright accent can be both the black table itself and in combination with various decor items in the form of napkins, dishes, appliances and various compositions.

A great accent in the design of a white kitchen is a black countertop. It can be complemented by black chairs, a dark apron and two-tone curtains. This option has the most modern look and is suitable for a small room, since a white tint will visually enlarge the space, and blotches of black color will add dynamism to the interior.

The role of an apron for a black and white kitchen. Photos of various ways to decorate the kitchen

The color of the apron plays a special role in the design of the kitchen. For a black and white kitchen, the most advantageous option is white, but a plain tile can look boring against a similar background of a headset, so decorative inserts or a black mosaic will be quite appropriate.

A white kitchen with a black apron is considered practical, which will protect the walls from all kinds of contamination during the cooking process, since carbon deposits and splashes are much more noticeable on a white background. In addition, it can become an original decor element that emphasizes the slimness of forms and the severity of the kitchen. An apron for a black and white kitchen is a kind of background for a headset, on which it will look more advantageous or, conversely, impersonal.

Classic kitchen in black and white is a balanced presence of both colors

Useful advice! It is quite rare to find a kitchen set in a checkerboard color for sale, but if you wish, you can make such a kitchen design in black and white on your own: for this, it is enough to select the facades of the required sizes and arrange them in the form of a checkerboard.

For wall decoration in the work area, ceramic tiles are most often chosen - this is a classic of the genre. Other materials are also noteworthy. An apron made of natural wood or, in extreme cases, MDF with wood imitation will add warmth to a laconic monochrome design, bring coziness.

In modern interiors, judging by the photo of kitchens in black and white style, skinals have gained particular popularity - glass plates with a photo print applied to them. A bright decoration of the room will be the image of a night city or bright flowers on a plain background, which will significantly revive the interior. Sketch drawings, as well as classic ornamental patterns on a glass apron are no less relevant. Any storyline or composition in a monochrome interior will look elegant and sophisticated.

The third color and bright accents in the design of a black and white kitchen: photos of interesting interiors

In principle, black and white colors are self-sufficient, they are suitable for virtually any interior in which other colors can be used in rich shades. Accordingly, in the interior of the kitchen in black and white, individual details and pieces of furniture made in the third color will look original. For example, you can choose a bright red countertop or arrange an apron in purple or yellow. It is important that black dominates in such an interior, and white and the third color play a secondary role. Consider the most popular bright colors that complement the black and white kitchen:

In a black and white kitchen, individual parts and pieces of furniture made in the third color will look original

1. Red is not only the most popular, but also the most spectacular color. The slightest detail in such a color will make the interior dynamic, with a touch of light aggression. You can use different tones of red: scarlet, crimson, crimson and carmine. When applying this color, you need to maintain a balance and not overdo it with bright decor.
2. Gray is a synthesis of white and black, so its presence in the interior will help to diversify the kitchen a little and neutralize the contrast.
3. Green, as an emblem of nature and life, will have a relaxing effect in a rich contrasting interior. Greens will soften the severity, give optimism and spring mood. You can use all shades of this color - from mint to marsh.
4. Yellow will help to invigorate the atmosphere of the kitchen and tune in a positive mood, which has a beneficial effect on digestion and appetite, as psychologists say. Yellow accents on a black and white background will literally shine.

Useful advice! Bright colors in a monochrome interior will help to eliminate facelessness, dilute its severity and coldness. Using paints, you can highlight appliances, lamps, curtains and furniture elements.

A variety of materials for kitchen facades in black and white: photo samples

When creating a black and white kitchen interior, you need to pay special attention to the quality of materials. Important elements in the design, on which the main colors are concentrated, are the facades of the kitchen set.Different materials are used in their production, the following are most suitable:

Important design elements on which the main colors are concentrated are the facades of the kitchen set

1. Solid wood covered with enamel. Expensive furniture models are made from such material, they are distinguished by their strength, durability and environmental friendliness, but not everyone is affordable in terms of price.
2. MDF boards with acrylic or enamel coating. Such headsets look very impressive and solid, including in modern styles. The gloss of a black-and-white kitchen, radiating shine, is able to add volume and depth to a space. At the same time, such a coating is expensive, it is easy to damage it, and scratches and even fingerprints on it are very noticeable, especially against a black background.
3. MDF boards covered with PVC film or HPL plastic are the best option in terms of price and quality. Their shine, of course, is significantly inferior to enamel or acrylic coating, but the cost is much lower.
4. Frosted tempered glass with an aluminum profile is perfect for multiple fronts in a glossy black and white kitchen. A harmonious addition to this design will be chrome-plated metal handles.

How to choose the right kitchen furniture in black and white: photos of the original models

Furniture is the main attribute of any room, regardless of its size. It is worth choosing it after you have decided on the color scheme of facades and other surfaces, as well as on the type of material. At the same time, do not forget about the main thing: in a small-sized kitchen, as well as in a room with a minimum amount of daylight, preference should be given to light shades. A color contrast in a kitchen in black and white style can be snow-white dishes and accessories against a background of black furniture and vice versa.

You can choose from options such as a white kitchen with black appliances or light fronts combined with a dark apron or worktop. A headset with a white top and a black bottom is especially attractive. White furniture in the kitchen with black trim looks very solid and extravagant. This option is also very practical. Black and white furniture, in addition to its special appeal, should fit optimally into the overall interior of the kitchen.

A headset with a white top and a black bottom is especially attractive.

Useful advice! Built-in wardrobes even in black in a glossy black and white kitchen, thanks to the shiny surface, can significantly expand the space visually.

The combination of black bottom - white top is acceptable for chairs. But as for the place to sit on the soft corner, in this case it is better to abandon the snow-white material, since it is very easily soiled. At the same time, it is not at all necessary for the sofa to be pure black, it is enough to choose a combined color, for example, the body is white and the seats are black. This piece of furniture should not only be practical, but also functional. Often in the kitchen-living room, it serves as an extra bed, often equipped with storage boxes.

The luxury and practicality of the gloss of a black and white kitchen: photos of successfully implemented ideas

In a wide range of stylish interiors decorated in contrasting colors, the black and white glossy kitchen, in which elegance is combined with naturalness, deserves the palm, which allows you to implement any style solution, be it classic, retro, minimalism or art deco.

Those who have chosen this method of decorating the kitchen, first of all, should remember about the soiling of glossy surfaces. Any contamination is clearly visible on them, so cleaning will have to be done quite often. At the same time, caring for them is quite simple: just wipe the surfaces with a soft sponge with a special agent.

In the list of stylish interiors, decorated in contrasting colors, the black and white glossy kitchen holds the palm

The design option looks great, in which the headset and household appliances are made in gloss black, and the dining area is in pure white. Kitchens with black glossy worktops in harmony with white chairs also have a stylish look. The glossy monochrome kitchen option is especially suitable for people who dream of losing a couple of pounds, because these colors do not stimulate appetite. Therefore, the design in black and white will be very important for those who dream of losing weight.

Lighting plays an important role in black and white interiors with a glossy effect. Its proper organization, involving the lighting of furniture and the use of bright lamps in the work and dining area, will help transform the entire room.

Black and white corner kitchens: photos of typical and exclusive examples

Corner kitchens, made in black and white style, deserve special attention, as they are a successful embodiment of modernity and classics. This design will perfectly fit into any interior, as these colors are always in trend. Most of these kitchens are custom made using typical and original design elements. They are usually equipped with special portals, built-in niches and shelves.

The advantages of corner kitchens are obvious:

Corner layout is the best space saver, opening up the possibility of creating a more spacious dining area

• as a working area, two walls are involved at once, as well as the angle between them, which contributes to maximum convenience during cooking;
• corner layout saves space in the best possible way, opening up the possibility of creating a more spacious dining area;
• using a corner set, you can create an ergonomic triangle, which, in addition to a sink and a stove, will also include a refrigerator.

Useful advice! To make the interior of a black-and-white kitchen as convenient, comfortable and organically fit into a particular room as possible, it is better to entrust its production to professionals, and even at the design stage.

Corner black-and-white kitchens in small rooms are especially relevant. For example, a set with a black facade in combination with a dishwasher, a hob, an oven and a white hood will fit perfectly into a small Khrushchev building. It is important that the body is glossy, which will not only visually expand the space, but also give the effect of novelty and exclusivity to the entire interior. The extra space will create a white interior design around the black headset.

Black and white kitchen design: features of wall, floor and ceiling decoration

Wallpaper in the kitchen in contrasting colors is an invariable part of the entire composition of the room. It is necessary to decide on their colors and textures in advance. They can be plain or with a printed pattern. The main condition is that the pattern should include only two basic tones, a little gray is allowed, otherwise the kitchen will simply lose its irresistible appearance.

The main condition for wallpaper in the kitchen is that the pattern should include only two tones.

The size of the ornament should also be given special attention to prevent an overabundance of large areas with a dark or light pattern, which can visually reduce the area of ​​the room and oversaturate the interior, eclipsing the beauty of the headset. Therefore, it is better to choose wallpaper for a black and white kitchen with a small pattern. Large drawings are allowed only in one place, for example, in the dining area. Photo wallpapers are also acceptable here, both monochrome and color. Decorative plaster, light gray (for concrete) or smooth (with mother-of-pearl), will add texture to the walls.

For flooring, it is best to choose laminate, tile or porcelain stoneware, made in the appropriate monochrome colors.A checkerboard pattern or decoration with white tiles with a black ornament in the middle looks especially elegant. Covering in beige, gray or brown colors is also allowed.

The ceiling in the kitchen in black and white style should be white, although in spacious rooms it is allowed to dilute with darker structures located in several levels, equipped with lighting. Multilevel suspended or stretch ceilings with a glossy surface look great.

Curtains for black and white kitchen: a choice of colors in different styles

The final touch in the design of any room is the design of the windows. The kitchen is no exception. The most practical option is roman or roller blinds. Ordinary white tulle is also suitable for black and white finishes and furniture. Although in the choice of material and the method of its presentation, it is necessary to focus on the stylistic direction in which the kitchen is designed. So, in a room made in the style of minimalism or high-tech, aluminum or wooden blinds, and for a classic or modern interior, you can choose curtains or lush Austrian curtains.

The most practical option is Roman or roller blinds

Useful advice! When decorating a black and white interior, you must remember that snow-white will give it lightness and spaciousness, and blackness can emphasize depth and isolation.

Black curtains should be abandoned; it is better to use white as much as possible in decorating windows or other light, but not bright colors - beige, light gray or white with black edging or a printed pattern. Black and white curtains in the kitchen should be used carefully. It is also better to be careful with prints, do not repeat the pattern on wallpaper or an apron.

Monochromatic bright curtains are also acceptable, which are chosen as an accent or in order to dilute contrasting black and white tones. In this case, a maximum of two complementary colors are allowed. Fabrics in cold colors with a silver or pearlescent tint will look good. It is better to give preference to pink, red or purple. If among the interior details there are wooden objects or brown, then you can use warm shades, for example, cream or gold.

Black and white kitchen: important guidelines for creating a complete look

To make the kitchen room in monochrome tones as comfortable as possible, you should take into account several useful recommendations that will help facilitate the preparatory work. The most interesting rules:

Decorative items and accessories should be used in dosage

1. Equilibrium in the use of contrasting tones. Even if a predominant tone is chosen, the other color should be present evenly throughout the entire area, just in less quantity.
2. The length of the curtains directly opposite depends on the height of the ceilings. The higher they are, the shorter the curtains should be made.
3. Decorative items and accessories should be used in dosage. Vases or a service with a bright or contrasting color to the headset would be appropriate.
4. White pillows are perfect for a dark cushioned corner, but don't overdo it with accessories. Therefore, it is better to remove equipment and dishes of inappropriate tones away.
5. In a black and white kitchen, shiny decor items in the form of chrome handles, roof rails, stainless steel countertops and fronts are appropriate.
6. Various glass objects look organically in such a kitchen, for example, a table, facades or skins on an apron.

Black and white kitchen is the choice of people who value style and strive to be modern, looking for a compromise between practicality and elegance, avoiding halftones. Here the oriental philosophy of Yin and Yang found its reflection, where the struggle of opposites and contrasts ultimately leads to absolute harmony.It is quite difficult to create such a monochrome design, therefore, when designing an interior, you should seek advice from professionals and take advantage of all the recommendations given in the article.