Here at Joseph Kitchen, we talk a lot about the rules that should be followed and how they are constantly changing to fit in with new trends and housing sizes. One such rule that we want to talk about, and break, is the use of black in small spaces. Most interior decorators shy away from using dark colors in small spaces since they have a tendency to make the area appear even smaller. However, we have a few suggestions that will allow lovers of dark colors to break this rule without shrinking their space when doing a kitchen renovation.
How to Use Black on Your Kitchen Cabinets
We have a few concepts that will allow you to utilize black, cherry or other dark colors in your kitchen without limiting your space perception.
Contrast with Your Island
One way to make the most of your space is by using contrasting colors to open the area. Placing an island in your kitchen not only gives you extra space to work, but it also makes your room look bigger. Painting your cabinets a darker color, while making the island a light contrasting color helps it to stand out and draw the eye. Placing glass doors on the island will also add light and improve the perception of added space. If you don’t have space in your kitchen for an island, think about buying a mobile island that you can move in and out as needed.
Insert Glass Doors
Instead of using solid wood doors on your dark colored cabinets, consider using glass panels to add visual space that will draw the eye instead of making your kitchen look cramped. If seeing everything in your cabinets is not your style, opt for frosted glass or etched glass. This will hide the contents but still makes use of light which will make the space appear larger than it really is.
Utilize Open Shelving
One common trick we use here at Joseph Kitchen to open up small kitchens is to add open shelving. This is great when paired with dark colored cabinets and shelves since it removes the enclosures that can make your kitchen feel boxed in. Adding a lighter colored accent to the wall or the backsplash will bring the whole look together.
Use Light Transitions
Bright features are always used to make small spaces like kitchens appear bigger than they are. Just because you choose to fit your kitchen with dark cabinets doesn’t mean you can’t also make use of this design hack. Using light transitions such as pairing cream or pastel colored countertops allows you to brighten the space without giving up your dark color scheme. If you want a bolder look, use glass tiles for added luminosity. Make sure to pull it all together by selecting a lighter colored wall paint that compliments the rest of your design choices.
How Joseph Kitchen Can Style Your Kitchen
Rules are always good to follow, but here at Joseph Kitchen, we never want a design rule to stop you from having a kitchen you will love. Get in touch with one of our skilled interior kitchen designers to help you change your small kitchen into a place you will love, regardless of its size. Call us at (905) 707-7756 today to set up your no obligations consultation today.







