Kitchens with dark woods

With the trend toward white kitchens still going strong, darker woods used in the kitchen don't show up as often, but when they do, they can be beautiful .  I am working on a couple of kitchen projects and one in particular may involve dark stained cabinets (this is for you AW!!!)  So I thought I would round up an assortment of kitchens on the dark side.....

Dark shelves instead of uppers, a nice touch.

The small all over pattern on the back splash is simple but interesting.

Excellent, abundant lighting.

Lighter wood tone on the floor.

5 images above - HGTV

Change of finishes on the island paired with dark stools.

eclectic kitchen design by chicago kitchen and bath Rebekah Zaveloff

Despite the similar wood tones on the cabinets and flooring, this works.

traditional kitchen design by chicago kitchen and bath Rebekah Zaveloff

Lots of glass fronts keep things light.

spaces design

traditional kitchen design by chicago kitchen and bath The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn

White uppers and dark base cabinets work well.

3 images above - House Beautiful 

Using all dark cabinets works too, provided that other elements bring in the light.

The interesting wood grain and back splash tile do not overpower when mixed with the white surfaces.

 2 images - Sarah Richardson

Here are a few key tips for success in straying from light woods and painted cabinets in the kitchen: 

1) Lots of light and white surfaces to balance the dark.  And "balance" is key, keep the eye moving.

2) Stainless appliances. Though, done right, white or black can work depending on the cabinet finish. 

3) Use a lighter finish/wood on the floors, again balance is important, don't introduce too many different surfaces and visual weights.

4) Keep the back splash simple and clean.

5) Lighting is critical, overhead lighting, task lighting, natural light, all will work to brighten the room and not allow the dark cabinets to make it feel cave like.

6) Mix it up a bit by changing the finish and counter top on the island or peninsula.

7) Give the eye an occasional rest by breaking up long runs of dark cabinetry. Use glass fronted cabinets, mix in a different finish or use open shelving or nothing on the uppers.

Don't hesitate to enlist the help of a professional when designing a kitchen and selecting materials.  Whether an independent interior or kitchen designer or the designer on staff at the "kitchen emporium," the pro's know a thing or two and can help make the difference between a "nice" kitchen and an "amazing" kitchen.

What do you think?  Would you consider going to the dark side with the cabinetry in your new kitchen?

Does your room need a “prescription” for a change of decor, function or design? If so please contact me,
I would love to help!