How to decorate a kitchen with black cabinetry
Photo, Sian Richards.
Black magic (Home SIP pg44)
Black magic
Most of our clients specifically desire a white kitchen,” says Alona Gazimov, lead designer at Bedford Brooks Design. “This particular client really didn’t give us any guidelines, other than to make it beautiful.” Inspired by the chance to infiltrate an all-pale palette in the rest of the house with dashes of dramatic dark contrasts, the design duo accepted the challenge with gusto. “We thought it would be a perfect opportunity to introduce rich black cabinetry in a way that wouldn’t be overbearing,” says Peter Brooks, principal designer.
A judicious use of accents, such as brass hardware and traditional penny tiles, ensures the 180-square-foot room feels warm and welcoming. Durable quartz countertops, copious storage and the restaurant-quality, six-burner gas range add another layer of personality with a nod to the homeowner’s chef status.
The finished kitchen meets the beautiful-ness benchmark the client set, but did the designers have any second thoughts about shunning an all-white space? “That’s not what kitchens are all about!” says Alona. “They’re about experimenting with different elements, just like you would with ingredients for an amazing recipe.”
Oversized lighting
Make a big statement. “I love extra-large pendant lights in a kitchen,” says Alona. “Here the spherical shape complements the backsplash tiles, and the leaded shell glass adds old-world charm without being too traditional. They also draw the eye up to the 10-foot-high ceilings.”
Hard-working countertops
Peter and Alona chose engineered quartz for the countertops. “It has subtle veining, which mimics natural stone,” says Peter, “but it’s less porous than marble, so it’s resistant to scratches, heat and stains for maximum durability.”
Adding curves “With so many straight lines in the kitchen, we felt it was important to add curvature through the cabinetry hardware, faucet and pendant lights.”
Double up cabinets
Stack cupboards for maximum storage space. “We didn’t have to use this double placement for the cabinets, but by doing so we added twice the amount of storage,” says Alona. “Yes, the top ones are high up, but they’re full of seasonal items.”
Beautiful sink
Make practical spots pretty. “You spend a lot of time in the kitchen at the sink, so why not make it fabulous?” says Alona. “We chose a white glazed double sink that avoids the look of a large stainless steel hole and creates the illusion of the countertop extending straight across without a break.”
Colourful accents
“The best way to add some personality is with accessories, which can be easily changed,” says Alona. “The bright yellow and green jars on the windowsill have a cheerful effect. You could also incorporate deep navy blues for a more sophisticated feel.”
Statement faucet
“The antique matte finish of the brass tap ties in nicely with the rest of the shiny brass hardware throughout the kitchen,” says Alona. A wide window ledge allows for pretty objects or even pots of kitchen herbs.
Budget savvy
Black Ikea cabinets are given a makeover with new brass door pulls. “The cupboards were a huge cost savings, yet they still create the look of a custom kitchen,” says Alona.
Get the look: 9 luxe accessories for dramatic kitchen decor
GET CHATELAINE IN YOUR INBOX!
Subscribe to our newsletters for our very best stories, recipes, style and shopping tips, horoscopes and special offers.