Thursday, September 24, 2009

Decorate A Contemporary Black & White Kitchen

Black and white kitchens can make a powerful statement in a contemporary home.


Black and white is a dynamic color combination that can help you make a bold statement in your kitchen. If you prefer a contemporary approach to your home design, the contrast of black and white can help create a visually stunning yet elegant and inviting kitchen environment. From tile backsplashes to shelving and countertops, black and white contrasting elements can become a strong focal point in this stylish yet functional room.


Instructions


1. Use pattern and texture to add interest to your black and white kitchen. For example, you could use a black and white checkered pattern, gingham or even vertical stripes. These can be present in accessories, fabrics, window treatments, tile backsplashes or flooring. If your kitchen only features these two colors, texture will play a big role. Combine smooth finishes with alternately hard and soft textures to add interest.








2. Accent the room with stainless steel appliances and features. Stainless steel is often present in contemporary style, but it is also timeless and elegant. It is particularly useful in kitchens because it is also easy to clean. If stainless steel appliances are out of your budget, try incorporating stainless steel in lighting fixtures, cabinet hardware, faucets and accessories.








3. Incorporate glass and reflective materials into the room's design. A mainstay of contemporary design is mirrored or glass surfaces. This can be seen in kitchen cabinets and countertop accessories. Whether the glass is translucent or opaque, these surfaces will add interest and variation to the black and white kitchen elements.


4. Highlight the most aesthetically pleasing elements in your kitchen in black and use the white for contrast. For example, if you have a large lighting fixture that serves as the focal point of your kitchen, use white shelving and countertops to draw the eye up to the dark fixture.


5. Use lighting to illuminate the contrast of black and white in the kitchen. Recessed lighting, chandeliers, under cabinet lights or even modern-inspired track lighting in a metallic finish will break up the color combination slightly while showcasing the strong features of your kitchen.

Tags: black white, your kitchen, black white kitchen, Black white, color combination, contrast black