The combination of white and black colors is an eternal and unsurpassed classic. It has a special style, bright contrast, and moderate severity. For some rooms, a black and white palette may not be entirely acceptable, for example, a nursery or bedroom. However, it is perfect for the kitchen.
The black and white palette is suitable for the interior of any style and fits perfectly into both small and large kitchens
Pros and cons of a white kitchen with a black countertop
The harmony and effectiveness of the interior of a black and white kitchen depends largely on the proportion of colors and their shades. It is their correct use that guarantees a stylish and at the same time practical room.
A good balance of black and white helps to visually increase the space in a small kitchen
The black countertop is a universal component of the kitchen. It looks great in combination with a room of any color. However, black becomes the most contrasting and expressive in tandem with white. Such a bold design approach, namely a light kitchen with a dark countertop, has a number of positive and negative characteristics. This is explained, first of all, by the marginal contrast of the two colors. Let's look at them in more detail.
Advantages:
- Versatility. A black countertop is perfect for a kitchen in any style and color. It will also fit into any space shape: L-shaped, U-shaped or with an island surface.
- Visual increase in space. Due to the fact that the dark work surface is on a light (white, light beige or milky) base, it seems to float in the air. Such weightlessness looks very unusual. If the tabletop itself is also glossy, then the expansion effect becomes even more impressive.
- A bright accent in the interior. Whatever color the kitchen is made in, including the corner one, and especially if it is white, the black countertop will not go unnoticed. It will go perfectly with the decor of any shades and textures.
Flaws:
- Impracticality. As you know, on dark colors all dirt and damage become more noticeable. If the black countertop has a glossy finish, then maintaining it is even more difficult.
- Too much contrast. Not everyone will like the combination of a classic white kitchen set with a black countertop. The chosen colors are very contrasting. Therefore, you should carefully weigh all options, choosing between a spectacular and homely simple design.
- A fine line between harmony and dissonance. When working with black and white colors, you need to think about their quantity. A significant predominance of the first can negatively affect the perception of space: the room will seem smaller, the interior itself may look dull and uninviting. If the main role is played by white color, then the room will become somewhat cold.
What styles go with dark countertops?
The bright interior has many variations and adapts perfectly to any style:
- An excellent design option would be a kitchen in white and gold tones. Use a jewel border or other trim to create a unique and rich look.
- A black glossy surface that reflects and absorbs light at the same time will fit perfectly into a high-tech kitchen.
- It is worth paying attention to the interior in the chalet style, as well as Provence: white colors are frequent “guests” of such a kitchen setting.
White kitchen and black floor
An original design solution that can emphasize the individual style of a home is the use of black flooring. This approach is very popular and is one of the trends. The main feature of this flooring is its ability to transform any kitchen furniture. Both an expensive and a very simple set will look great on it.
Black self-leveling floor in a modern style kitchen
The dark color of the floor can visually reduce the space. To prevent this from happening, you need to choose a set of white or another light color. This will help balance the color ratio and make the room harmonious.
Like any other dark covering, a black floor, especially if it is glossy, needs constant thorough cleaning. Minor stains and small debris will be very noticeable on it. A solution to this problem can be the use of patterned or matte flooring.
An original approach would also be to use black and white or beige floor tiles in a checkerboard pattern. This option will allow you to diversify the color saturation and make the space not so monochromatic.
Diagonal laying of tiles will help visually increase the area of a small kitchen
Choosing the shape of a kitchen set
When choosing a layout, the size and purpose of the kitchen and the number of residents are taken into account. The most common are:
- Linear or single row. Suitable for narrow and elongated kitchens. The cabinets are placed in one line along the wall. Opposite they set up a dining area with a folding or stationary table. To make cooking convenient, the minimum length of the working surface must be at least 2.5 m. The sink is located in the middle, and on the sides there is a refrigerator and a stove. The working surface should be 40-80 cm. It is usually located between the stove and the sink;
- Angular or L-shaped. Convenient to use in small kitchens. The set is a triangle-shaped area in which the refrigerator, stove and sink are placed against two adjacent walls, alternating with each other. The distance of the working surface on both sides of the stove must be at least 40 cm. The layout allows you to use the corner of the kitchen, which can be straight or sloping. The result is spacious modules with additional storage space;
- U-shaped. The set is placed along three walls. If there is a window in the kitchen, then it is located at the top of the letter “P”, and the window sill is used as a work surface. The layout is suitable for square and rectangular kitchens. The optimal distance for passage is 1.2 m. It is convenient when each side of the letter “P” performs its own task, for example, a refrigerator is placed on one side, a stove on the other, and a sink on the third. Together they form a regular working triangle;
- With an island. Suitable for large kitchens only. This is a layout in which part of the set is placed in the center. It is used as a work area, with a sink or hob placed on it, or as a dining area, complemented with high bar stools. To make it convenient to cook on the island, the height is made standard - 85-90 cm. The shape of the island usually follows the shape of the kitchen - a square one is installed in a square one, and a rectangular one in an elongated one. Oval and round islands are rare, as they take up much more space.
Other interior details in white kitchen design
All components of the kitchen space are important in the holistic perception of space. To make everything look harmonious and original, you need to consider a number of tricks.
Colored accents diversify the excessive severity of a black and white interior
- If the set is straight, without additional decorative elements, you need to make an accent apron. It can be made in any shade or be a white relief canvas.
- If the white set is complemented by dark household appliances, then a “roll call” should be made, that is, decorative elements or the facade itself, made in the same color, should be introduced into the interior.
- If the interior of a white kitchen with a black countertop seems too monotonous, you can “revive” it with the help of gold, copper or other patina (special coating to give items a vintage look).
- For those who prefer a more homely atmosphere, there is a very original solution: wooden surfaces. They can be a tabletop, shelves or floor. This approach will make the kitchen more cozy and warm.
- Lighting in a white kitchen should not be too cold. Lamps with yellow light are best. They are able to create a warming effect.
Wooden splashes make a black and white kitchen more cozy and warm
Despite the prevailing opinion that a white kitchen looks cold and uncomfortable, there is no need to immediately give up. You just need to add a few bright elements correctly, and it will surprise you with its sophistication.
A black and white kitchen is a place where you can realize your creative experiments. Different styles, complementary colors, and interesting decor can make it a work of art. All you have to do is not be afraid and give free rein to your imagination.
Material options for manufacturing
The countertop must withstand elevated temperatures, humidity, mechanical stress and be safe for health. It can be made:
- Made from solid wood. Suitable for modern and traditional style, comfortable to touch, environmentally friendly and warm. Wood can be easily restored if damaged - painted, varnished, sanded. The tabletop can be made of solid wood or consist of individual lamellas. To prevent the wood from overheating and absorbing moisture, it is protected with iron strips. It requires careful handling, but its appearance is worth it;
- Made from laminated MDF or chipboard panels. This is a tabletop covered with plastic. The MDF base is more stable than chipboard. It does not emit substances hazardous to health and is resistant to scratches, humidity and elevated temperatures. Also, when choosing a material, take into account the tightness of the seams. The plastic coating can be matte or glossy, plain or printed;
- Made from natural stone. Looks noble in any style. This is the most durable and expensive material. The stone has a large selection of dark shades. The most common are granite and marble. The stone surface has a lot of weight;
- Made from artificial stone. The same durable and noble material, but costs less than natural stone. The weight of such a countertop is much less, since it is made from mineral chips;
- Made from acrylic. The tabletop has a solid structure, therefore it is resistant to moisture and high temperatures. If scratches occur, the surface can be easily restored by cleaning and polishing. Acrylic is not afraid of chemical compounds and does not require special care. You can depict a stone pattern on it or combine different shades without obvious transitions at the seams.
