When it comes to dark kitchens it’s pretty easy to see why going to the dark side looks like a good idea.

White kitchens were – and still are – a timeless choice, but darker kitchens have made a bold move into the mainstream of kitchen design in Auckland. The owners of this kitchen originally wanted a white kitchen with neutral tones. But we suggested the alternative you see here – and the owners were delighted.

They talk about the instant impact the kitchen makes with friends and family when they see it for the first time. The initial reaction is usually: “Wow”.

In this kitchen the darker cabinets provide a good balance to the lighter island design. They also help to ground what is still a lighter space – with the lighter ceiling, walls and floor. Flooring, Pendant light and splashbacks can add texture, light and warmth – a lighter island, for example to enhance the overall effect.