Whether country or contemporary, traditional or transitional, black and white is a classic color scheme for kitchens and baths. But why do some of these rooms look polished and elegant while others appear bland and uninspired? With over twenty years of experience designing elegant kitchens and baths, Jason Urrutia of Urrutia Design shares his tips on how to move a black-and-white color scheme idling in neutral into high gear.

Here’s how one kitchen was shifted into high gear

• The black countertops and French-door frame add pop.

• The art on the wall, the fruits and vegetables on the counter, and the tray of spirits and liqueurs bring a little color into the room.

• The reflective surfaces of the appliances, the range hood, the toaster, and the cabinet pulls, plus the glass in the window, the French door, and the upper cabinets add light and life to the room.

• The glass canisters filled with rice and pasta bring more earth tones to the space.

• Hard surfaces such as wood floors, cabinetry, countertops, and tile are softened by cushions on the chairs, the fabric on the overhead light shade, and the runner on the floor.

Layers make the difference

To make sure that a space will be enjoyed for a long time, Urrutia starts with a classic design, then applies subtle twists to bring the space forward and give it a polished, elegant look. Once the base of white or off-white walls and cabinetry has been set, layering begins. Urrutia believes that a pop of black is essential to offset the neutrals from becoming too sleepy. He might introduce another color but not too much. He says that calm and serene is the way to go. To bring movement and more light into a room, he adds items with reflective surfaces into his design. Mixing a variety of textures and materials is also key.

For more photos and information on how to make black and white work for your kitchen or bath, click the View PDF button below. 

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