When considering kitchen decor, black is unlikely to be the first colour that springs to mind – in fact, many don’t consider it to be a colour at all, since (much like white) it doesn’t appear on the colour spectrum, making it technically a shade.

While it’s true that white or light colours can brighten and open up smaller spaces, black has subtle undertones that change with the natural light in the room – and as the edges of the room are less clearly defined, the illusion of size is achieved with shadows, rather than light.

Unlike white, black is a less conventional shade to use in the kitchen (unless you happen to be a very dedicated goth!) – but it’s no less versatile, being a neutral that can work in a range of differently-styled kitchens. Up ahead: ten black kitchen ideas to entice you over to the dark side.

1.   Dramatic Marble

Those looking to add some dramatic flair to their kitchen need look no further: the lightning-strike effect on this black marble backsplash and kitchen island creates an impactful focal point without the need for added visual interest. Black marble is a major investment, so if you want to achieve this look on a budget you can also find vinyl coverings that can imitate this look at a fraction of the cost.

Black marble looks stunning when used in kitchens with minimal design: here, the cabinets are handless and contrast is achieved using a combination of and gloss and matt black finishes, with the addition of simple finishing touches, such as the equally minimalist white chairs and the metallic pendant lights overhead.

2. Monochromatic Minimalism

Here is another black minimalist look. For those who prefer not to have black walls, introducing it into the kitchen on wall cabinets or floors is a great alternative. Gloss and matte finishes can be used to create visual interest rather than pattern or colour.

You could choose a handless style, with inbuilt appliances to create an even sleeker look. For the ultimate in simplicity, look for kitchen units with cleverly-designed inbuilt storage to help you keep everything organised and tidy while maintaining the ultra-streamlined appearance of your kitchen.

3. Modern Monochrome

Here, black accessories give panache to an otherwise ordinary-looking white kitchen. 

Slimline tiles have been used in contrasting finishes in some designs, but this look would work equally well with classic designs such as subway tiles, especially with the retro look of the barstools and pendant lighting. Again, wood finishes have been used to help soften the overall look and to add contrast, in addition to the brushed stainless steel on the appliances.

4. Sleek And Chic

Few shades are chicer than black – and this is a kitchen fit for a fashionista down to its elegance.  

Without the addition of black on the kitchen table and chairs, the muted whites and greys in this room could potentially look washed-out – but here, black helps to add definition and contrast, creating a stylish look that’s monochrome without becoming monotonous.

5. Modern Industrial

Certain style elements are synonymous with the industrial look, most notably metallic finishes and sometimes an exposed brick wall. If you have a large window such as the floor-to-ceiling one in this kitchen, this will help to bring out the undertones in dark kitchens while blurring the edges of the room to make it appear larger.

6. Subtle Wood

Black is often thought of as severe, but dark washes on wood (as seen here) can help to create a softer look. Contrasting this with tougher elements, such as high gloss finishes, metallic hardware and units with clean, straight lines helps to add visual interest without the use of colour, while the rest of the room is kept bright and airy. If you prefer natural finishes in your kitchens but would like to add a little toughness, switching to darker tones helps give the overall look an edge.

7. Calm and Cosy

If minimalism isn’t quite your speed, consider life in the slow lane with this cosy look – you don’t necessarily have to move out to a secluded cabin in the woods to achieve this (although doesn’t that sound nice?). If you have a kitchen with wood panelling, adding in a few touches of contrasting light and dark finishes on appliances, kitchen cabinets and even flooring can help you to recreate a rustic sanctuary, wherever you happen to live.

While many rustic looks are associated with the ultrafeminine chintz of cottagecore, they’re not for everyone. This look offers an alternative: a country cottage look that’s anything but twee.