DESIGN Valérie Laurent of Valérie Laurent Design and Lauren Ritz of LRD Studio Ltd.
PHOTOGRAPHY Caroline Lessard (Valérie Laurent Design), Ema Peter (LRD Studio Ltd.)

Black, white and pale oak have become a classic kitchen combination. It’s hard to believe that we started to see this trend on the rise 10 years ago. Now, the look has become a timeless designer favourite. Below are two examples of open and stylish kitchens – both with spectacular views – that feature this modern black, white and light wood mix!

The first kitchen is designed by Valérie Laurent of Valérie Laurent Design, and located in a Montreal neighbourhood with mature trees and lush landscaping. The second kitchen is by Lauren Ritz of LRD Studio Ltd., and is situated in Whistler, B.C., surrounded by forests and the breathtaking Coast Mountains.

Let’s take a closer look!

Whether your perfect kitchen is one where you can prepare a meal for your family, work a few hours on your laptop at the island or host a dinner with friends, a well-planned bright and airy kitchen invites you to take a deep breath, slow down and relax.

If you’re looking to bring this peaceful, easy feeling to your kitchen, the matte black, bright white and pale oak colour combo will do it every time. I’ve found this to be true no matter what you add to the mix—whether it’s striking art or a secondary colour like lakeside blue or flattering pink.

In the case of Lauren and Valérie’s kitchen designs, the pale oak cabinets bridge and balance the modern high-contrast white and black accents by adding texture and warmth. Of course, both kitchens with their giant picture windows also bring nature inside in spades.

Designer Tip: Frame the view! To create an airy, sun-filled space let nature shine through large windows – the light will feel like living art.

When I first started in design, I quickly learned that black decorative elements anchored a room. I also learned that a touch of black makes any space look luxe. Black furniture and finishes in design are like a little black dress—dependable, elegant and always chic.

These kitchens both strike the perfect balance of light and dark. In Lauren’s design, the bank of cabinets above the cooktop reference and are balanced by the open storage space beneath the island. As a counterpoint, matte black elements – the Bosch 36” Gas Cooktop, black stools and the stainless-steel Bosch 30” Combo Speed Wall Ovens, with their black detailing – are repeated throughout the space to bring harmony.

In Valérie’s design, the black lower cabinetry is grounding. The Bosch black-stainless-steel fridge connects to the window frames and cabinetry, while the Bosch slide-in range blends with the black cabinetry for a look that is smooth, with no visual breaks or busyness.

Designer Tip: Repeat the details! Repetition throughout a room – such as the black fridge, cooktop, cabinets and stools – will create a space that’s cohesive, balanced and well-thought-out.

If your look is minimal, use embellishments sparingly. In these spaces, there are no window treatments to obscure the views. Also notice the limited use of hardware. Except for the modern black pulls on the oak fridge panel, Lauren keeps the look serene with handleless doors and drawers on the oak millwork. In Valérie’s design, the black hardware camouflages into the black cabinet doors, while the Bosch black-stainless-steel fridge has a smooth and sleek finish that prevents scratches and fingerprints, keeping the kitchen looking clean and blending seamlessly with the matte black cabinetry.

If you’re after a more traditional look, consider adding detail with textured materials, such as floor tiles in a tonal checkerboard or neutral herringbone; or opt for a heavily veined porcelain backsplash and countertop. Choose hardware, light fixtures and faucets with traditional lines in a mix of metal finishes. You can even embrace the colour-drenching trend and paint your walls and ceiling in an of-the-moment colour like olive green or plum. A black, white and light wood combo even looks striking with nature-inspired wallpaper. That’s the beauty of classic design, a solid floor plan and quality appliances—the bones of a well-designed kitchen will endure so that you can always incorporate trends and design elements that you love.

Designer Tip: Natural materials are key in all spaces, but especially add texture, depth and warmth to modern settings. Amplify wood details by peppering wood accessories and kitchen accoutrement, like cutting boards and wooden bowls, throughout your space. Or echo outdoor greenery with a large arrangement of leafy branches.

Happy decorating and designing!

Sam

Step into a world where design meets innovation with our exclusive blog series featuring Canadian designer, editor, and television personality Samantha Pynn.

Known for her innovative approach and discerning eye for style, Samantha shares her expertise while showcasing Bosch appliances, crafted to complement exceptional spaces by seamlessly blending precision, elegance, and functionality.

Samantha is Style at Home magazine’s Design Lesson columnist, and has made her mark as the host, creative producer, and principal designer on numerous shows including, Pure Design, Summer Home, and Open House Overhaul, which have aired worldwide.

Samantha was also part of the all-star casts of Family Home Overhaul and Home to Win, and co-hosts Save My Reno on HGTV Canada.