Black kitchen cabinets have become an increasingly popular trend over the last few years. It can be a very sleek and sophisticated look, but only if you do it right. Too many people decide they want black kitchen cabinets with no plan on how to coordinate finishes so the kitchen does not become too dark. However, with some simple finish choices, you can keep your black cabinet from overwhelming your space without it seeming too cookie cutter.

Hardware: Contrast the Cabinets

When you are working with black kitchen cabinets, avoid choosing black hardware as it will only blend in. Instead, choose a hardware finish that will stand out from the cabinets and complement them. Brushed nickel, copper and even brass can look beautiful next to sleek black cabinets. Simply choose the hardware finish that best fits your personality and the kitchen style you are going for.

Lighting: Choose What to Match

When it comes to lighting in a kitchen with black cabinets you have two choices of what to match: the cabinets or the hardware. When you want the lighting to feel subtle, it is best to choose a black finish so it blends in with cabinets. If you would prefer your lighting to make more of a statement, choose light fixtures in the same finish as your hardware. This will allow them to standout by contrasting the cabinetry while still feeling part of the design because it is a color that will be repeated.

Counters: Keep them Light

Black kitchen cabinets can be very overpowering in a room if you do not balance them with lighter finishes elsewhere. That is why when you are choosing kitchen counters, it is best to keep them light. That does not necessarily mean you have to go with white or tan unless you want to. Other color options can be light blue, green or even a stainless steel depending on the look you are going for. So long as the counters do not further darken the room and you like the way it looks, it is a good choice.

Flooring: Don’t Go Dark

Whatever you do when you are choosing flooring, do not go dark. Like countertops, the flooring needs to be used to lighten up the room. Stick with colors that are significantly lighter than the cabinetry and preferably stay neutral so you do not take away from the drama of the black cabinets. As for the material, you can use ceramic, granite or even wood can be beautiful with black cabinets.

Appliances: Stainless Steel

Your final finish to choose with your black kitchen cabinets is your appliance color. If your budget can afford it, stainless steel appliances are stunning with black kitchen cabinets and almost any other colors you have to go with them. If you cannot afford stainless steel, cover a less expensive finished appliance with a peel-and-stick stainless steel film that costs around a roll. The end look will be the same but for significantly less.

So when you are remodeling your kitchen with black kitchen cabinets, there is no reason to fear it looking too dark if you follow these steps. Just remember to add accessories to your kitchen that will put your personal touch on it. The end result should be a sleek design that is as unique as you are but still visually pleasing to those you entertain.