Matte Black Kitchen Ideas, Inspirations and More!

Most Kitchen trends shift with time, but this one is here to stay for a long, long time. Matte black in the kitchen feels so very organic. Elegant and sophisticated, matte black kitchens have a way of separating themselves from the crowd.

In the design and decorating world where neutral backdrops in white, gray, and cream are the norm, matte black comes as a welcome relief. Be it a kitchen entirely draped in matte black or one that just uses pops of color to create contrast and visual interest, this kitchen trend is definitely for everyone.

Contemporary kitchen in black with a polished black backsplash — Image: design_anastasiya

When we talk about the matte black kitchen trend and inspirational ideas for it, the obvious image that pops to mind is of a space filled with dark cabinets and countertops. Yet, there are many other ways in which you can add a hint of matte black magic to the kitchen without committing to the color completely.

From minimal and contemporary to the farmhouse and rustic, a smidgeon of matte black trend promises to cook up captivating magic ideas in your kitchen. Time to go dark and dashing!

A sophisticated modern trend!

For the past four decades or so, black was a big no-no in the kitchens. Kitchens were decked up in midcentury modern vibes, whereafter its clean, sleek design gave way to colorful and floral elements of the ’70s and the ’80s.

Then came the ’90s, when beige and cream took over with modern kitchens becoming the norm. At the start of the new millennium, white and gray were the most sought-after hues of the era with black only making a comeback of sorts in the last few years.

Combine black with deep blue in the kitchen — Image: Pettitt Design

There are many factors that have led to the re-introduction of black in the modern kitchen. A large part of it has to do with the definition, sophistication, and contrast the color brings.

Black can both anchor a room and also highlight its best features. But it can also be used as the main protagonist in contemporary kitchens, creating an entirely different aura that is unprecedented.

Farmhouse style kitchen fully draped in black — Image: Unique Homestays

Perils of using black

So why do so many homeowners refrain from using black in the kitchen? The reasons are not too difficult to understand as the color, even in its matte version, must be utilized with great care. For starters, black takes away from the ‘illumination’ of the room, meaning you need a kitchen that is evenly and brightly lit.

But this should not dissuade you from using black in your kitchen. A love for open-plan living and smart ventilation should allow you to comfortably work with the supremely attractive hue.

Lighting plays a major role in the modern black kitchen — Image: Piqu

Also Read: Making a Refreshing Splash: Biggest Bathroom Trends of 2022

Matte black kitchen cabinets

Cabinets in black might feel like a big risk in a small modern kitchen with limited space. But in reality, they bring a wonderful balance to an open-plan living by ensuring that the kitchen stands out from the crowd.

You can just use a simple matte black paint coating for the kitchen cabinets. If you are worried about committing to the color entirely, then start with just the lower cabinets and the island. Combining these black cabinets with the open wooden shelves above is also a great solution for the smart, modern kitchen.

Painting the cabinets black in the small modern kitchen — Image: Totaste Studio

Polished contemporary kitchen in black and white — Image: JSE Interior Design

Striking matte black cabinets in the kitchen make a visual impact — Image: G. M. Roth Design Remodeling

Backdrop in matte black

The kitchen backdrop in black is much easier to pull off even in a space that is otherwise dominated by white and wood accents. You start with a simple subway-tiled backsplash in black.

Besides, you can even combine matte black finishes with brighter black shades. A black stone backsplash is much cooler and trendy in contemporary kitchens with chalkboard backsplashes coming in handy in homes with kids!

Tiles in black create a striking backsplash in this kitchen — Image: One to One Studio

Natural stone backsplash in black is just perfect for the modern kitchen — Image: Collaroy Kitchen Centre

Black sink, faucets, and hardware

Faucets, handles, brackets, and registers in black easily stand out in the modern neutral kitchen. They shape and anchor the space with a whole lot of black being thrown into the mix.

Moving away from the metallic trend and bringing visual interest to the kitchen, black hardware and kitchenware make a big impact with minimal effort. You can replace your traditional white sink with a black drop-in sink for a picture-perfect look.

Black kitchen sink adds something different to the interior — Image: Amazon

Replace metallics with black in the modern kitchen — Image: Signature Hardware

Add a bit of black to the kitchen with faucets, hardware and sink — Image: Dornbracht

Eye-catching lighting fixtures

We already talked about how important lighting is in the black kitchen to keep the space airy and bright. However, you can use the light fixtures themselves to add a bit of matte black to the space.

Think of dashing black pendants above the kitchen island, a black sconce in the corner, or a beautiful dark chandelier (even though the last one is a bit of a rarity). Black pendants easily adapt to a wide range of styles and add the “it factor” to the kitchen.