Catherine Zeta-Jones is synonymous with a classic, refined style, so it's only natural that her home follows her example. The entire Hudson River estate (currently on the market for $12 million) upholds a classic monochromatic color scheme – but nowhere does it quite as well as the kitchen.
Black-and-white kitchens, though eternally classic, can be tricky to perfect. The juxtaposing nature of the two colors means these spaces are often bold and highly defined, so knowing where to use each hue is key. Thankfully for us, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas's room is a designer-approved inspiration point.
The couple introduced white through their cabinets, Subway-tiled walls, and veined marble island, while the black hue mainly dominates the floor. Alongside the glossy floor, black is introduced in various accents, most notably the cooker hood, island legs, and countertops, ensuring that it doesn't overpower the room as a whole. It's a color formula supported by Lois Riley, a designer at Mowlem & Co., who recommends following suit in kitchens of every size.
'A black and white color palette works really well in the kitchen. It has a timeless appeal and lends a chic, high-contrast sense of definition. It’s great for smaller spaces as they aren’t overwhelmed with any one color or tone and can be softened by the addition of wood finishes on the floor and other furniture and accessories,' Riley comments.
'If using the colors in the block, it is better to have the black sections lower to ground the scheme and the white sections above.'
Jessica Feury, an interior designer for Olive & Barr, agrees. She recommends keeping cabinets a lighter hue while letting countertops and flooring go darker for a balanced yet bold result.
'A monochrome kitchen can provide a sophisticated space for the whole family to enjoy. Its simple yet classic color scheme creates a timeless and sleek look that fits perfectly into both modern and period properties. There are many ways to introduce the two colors, from light cabinetry to dark black marble worktops, a dark kitchen island against brighter cabinetry, or even a black floor to create a striking base to build your scheme,' she says.
While it looks like Zeta-Jones' space is anything but compact, Feury emphasizes that this color combination is particularly impactful in small kitchens, where we can use the tones strategically.
'White kitchen cabinets work great at making a space feel open and airy, while black elements help to ground the space. With careful planning, this colour combination can create a look that transcends trends and becomes easily adaptable as your tastes change.'
Paint, tiles, and flooring aside, we can tap into the space with these handpicked accessories below. Group them on your countertops for a Hollywood-inspired finish.
Crafted in Portugal, this piece combines iconic style with long-lasting versatility.
Nothing elevates our morning coffee routine quite like this bold twist on the classic color palette.
Made from durable, food-safe enamel-coated aluminum, these lightweight servers merge practicality with a Pop Art-inspired twist.
One of us can also tap into this room by picking up the keys to Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas's home, which is currently on the market for $12 million. Compass's David Turner holds the listing.
