How to use dark and dramatic worktops in your kitchen

Posted on 1st October 2024

Thinking about upgrading your kitchen worktop? Dark surfaces are rising in popularity thanks to their dramatic allure.

There is no doubt that dark kitchens have made a powerful comeback this year. “Next year, 2025 will see this trend evolve into dark surfaces with metallic or gold accents, adding a luxe look to spaces without being overpowering or too intense,” predicts Laminam’s R&D director, Claudio Corniola.

Intrigued? Read on to get inspired…

Design ideas

We know dark worktops might seem intimidating at first. However, this type of surface is pretty perfect for instantly drawing you in and becoming the focal feature of a kitchen. Available is a wide range of materials and colourways – from jet-black porcelain, Nero Marquina marble, and deep speckled terrazzo to chocolate ceramics and polished slate concrete – you are set to find a solution to suit your style.

So, how can you make this type of surface work? “Darker coloured worktops have always been regarded as more luxurious and when paired with quality raw materials like walnut and glass, you’re able to create a sophisticated look in your kitchen, which adds depth and dimension,” says Matt Phillips, head of UK operations at Rotpunkt.

Wood kitchen design with marble wall surfaces and dark worktops. — Bespoke Roundhouse kitchen with porcelain splashback (Sapien stone), worktops from Caesarstone and OAK veneer doors in a bespoke stain. Roundhouse kitchens start at £35,000.

Mor Krisher, head of design at Caesarstone, agrees and explains: “I’m a big fan of dark worktops paired with natural woods like oak or walnut, and metallic accents like brass, copper or steel taps and handles. Pairing a dark surface with wooden cabinetry and pale flooring will help to keep your space feeling open and neutral. This is especially beneficial if you want to create a cosy atmosphere, but your kitchen isn’t vast in size.”

If you’re not particularly into wood kitchens, you can also opt for sumptuous black, dusty charcoal, dark blues and deep greens, which all pair well with this type of worksurface. Alternatively, you can mix your dark kitchen worktops with neutral cabinets or pastel pink to achieve a modern, pared-back look.

In terms of styles, dark worktops suit a range of kitchen aesthetics – from rustic country to contemporary. It’s all about finding the right design elements and finessing the details.

Forest green kitchen design with wood and dark surfaces and stone flooring. — Dark Edinburgh kitchen design by Jeffreys Interiors.

Key considerations

There are some practicalities worth keeping in mind to ensure your dramatic surfaces feel at home in your kitchen. Dark worktops tend to offer more durability, especially when looking at materials such as quartz or granite, says Nathan Kingsbury, creative director at Nathan Kingsbury Design. “These surfaces can withstand heat and heavy usage and have the added benefit of bringing in a luxurious look and feel if you choose a dark worktop made from granite, quartz or marble,” he says.

Closeup of a veiny surface. — KönigQuartz Portofino by Königstone.

If you’ve got a smaller kitchen and don’t benefit from lots of natural light, then dark surfaces could make the space feel closed in. “When designing dark kitchens, it’s essential to consider lighting, texture, and contrast to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed or sombre, particularly in a country with consistently grey weather,” advises Ross Stewart, UK senior sales manager at Neolith.

Lauren Wright, designer at Roundhouse, agrees: “When paired with other rich tones, dark worktops can create a warm, luxurious feel. The dark pigment absorbs light, helping to create a moody scheme. This has a cocooning effect, making a room feel smaller so it’s important to take this into consideration.”

But fear not, there are ways to prevent this from happening. “For example, you could opt for dark sintered stone worksurfaces or cabinetry and design the rest of the kitchen around these focal points, taking care not to overwhelm the space with too many deep tones,” says Ross.

“You also need to think about the material finish you choose too, for instance, dark worktops with a matt finish can bring in an understated elegance whilst glossy finishes can reflect light back into the space, making the surface more of a focal point,” advises Nathan.

Maintenance

In terms of upkeep, know dust, watermarks and fingerprints can show more easily on dark surfaces. “This can make maintenance more demanding, requiring regular cleaning to keep them looking their best,” explains Nathan. “Also, depending on the material you choose, they can show light scratches or chips more, however, you could choose a dark worktop with a consistent, speckled or textured pattern to help hide these.”

With all of this in mind, dark surfaces are ideal for elevating your kitchen design and adding a touch of drama. And to get your inspiration going, we’ve gathered some of our favourite ideas…