1. LIFT DARK GRAY CABINETRY WITH A MIRRORED SPLASHBACK
Dark gray kitchens can sometimes feel somber or enclosed, especially in smaller spaces. Combat this by incorporating luminous backsplashes that reflect light and create a sense of airiness. With its stunning dark gray cabinetry, this Neptune kitchen exudes elegance due to the additional combination of an antiqued-glass backsplash and golden-toned strip lighting.
2. ADD TEXTURE WITH GROOVED CABINETS
Vertical grooves, as seen in this San Francisco kitchen project designed by The Workroom, provide a dynamic, eye-catching way of introducing detail to your gray kitchen. The sharp lines to provide a fresh finish to a contemporary slab design, while nodding to a more rustic tongue and groove.
3. SOFTEN COOLER GRAYS WITH BROWN TONES
Gray is often seen as a cold color but this soft hug of a kitchen proves that gray can be a warm tone when used with the right timbers and tile treatment.
4. TRIM WITH GOLD
To add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your dark gray kitchen, incorporate chic metallic finishes throughout the space. Opt for stainless steel appliances, pendant lights with metallic accents, or brass fixtures to introduce subtle hints of shine and glamour. These metallic elements not only complement the cool tones of dark gray but also infuse the kitchen with a sense of luxury and refinement.
5. CREATE CONTRAST WITH YOUR FLOOR
'When it comes to kitchen flooring, opt for materials that provide contrast and texture,' says Katie Barrett. 'Lighter hardwood floors or tiles with warm undertones can offset the darkness of the cabinetry while adding visual interest.'
6. BE FREE WITH TILE CHOICES
'Gray, even dark gray, is considered a neutral color and because of that, just about any color tile will go with it,' explains Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra. 'Gray is easy to liven up with pops of bright color or keep neutral with understated colors. There is also the option to be adventurous and choose a kitchen tile in a bold pattern that will bring depth and textural interest to a kitchen.
7. MAKE GRAY A FOIL TO TIMBER
Timber is a classic cabinet material with good reason – it's warm, tactile and – in the main – timeless. That said, setting wood against a dark gray backdrop can up the ante.
8. GO NATURAL WITH A GRAY-STAINED WOOD VENEER
Another way to use dark gray that doesn't feel cold, but is contemporary, is by way of a grey-stained wood veneer. This real timber veneer kitchen by Roundhouse is a triumph of texture, enhanced by its backsplash clad in richly patinated Antique Bronze, and a striking African Fusion Quartzite counter that wraps down to the floor at either end of the kitchen island.
9. SELECT SURFACES WISELY
'When it comes to designing a dark gray kitchen, it is best to opt for natural yet sophisticated, lighter colors for the worktops, such as beiges, grays, and whites,' states Mor Krisher, head of product design at Caesarstone. 'Utterly timeless, these hues pair beautifully with darker colors and can make a quiet statement on their own through subtle detailing, whilst bringing calm and serenity to the space.'
10. TRY TWO TONE
For a truly rich and indulgent dark-grey kitchen, the right color pairing can make all the difference. And while the Neptune kitchen in this London pied-à-terre is relatively small, it's a supremely inviting entertaining space.