Black and White Kitchens Look Best With This Textured Twist, and Michael B. Jordan Knows It

The Oscar nominee keeps his monochromatic kitchen visually engaging with marble and metallic accents, in a design move that is timeless

Michael B. Jordan
(Image credit: Photo by John Nacion/Variety via Getty Images)

Black and white is as commonplace a color combination as they come, and many would say it's for good reason. This dynamic pairing toes the line between traditional and contemporary, acting as a truly chameleonic color scheme.

Michael B. Jordan, star of the recently Oscar-nominated Sinners, is showing us how it's done with his kitchen, which is as sleek as it is timeless. His black, marble countertops serve as the perfect balance against his smooth, white cabinets, providing ample contrast to the space.

Shop the Black and White Kitchen Edit

Design experts say that even if your black and white surfaces aren't patterned or grained, finishes can go a long way in maintaining visual interest.

'To avoid a flat, overly stark aesthetic, introduce texture through materials like matte black cabinetry, glossy white tiles, natural stone, or brushed metal finishes,' Westchester-based designer Nina Lichtenstein states.

'A mix of surfaces, such as honed marble countertops paired with sleek black cabinetry, adds character and warmth.'

Nina also approves of Michael's gold cabinet handles, which she says can add another layer of intrigue.

'Brass or chrome hardware, mirrored surfaces, or smoky glass pendants add a feeling of luxury while keeping the space bright and airy,' she explains. 'A black-and-white kitchen with reflective surfaces balances drama with a light, open feel.'

To recreate the look in your own space, start with these perfectly monochromatic, half-dipped salad plates and mugs from Hudson Grace. Add this marble condiment set from Anthropologie, which comes with black, white, and brown jars as well as mini spoons and a wood tray for a wonderful mix of natural elements in your kitchen.

Whether you’re drawn to subtle contrasts or bold statements, black and white kitchens prove that simplicity doesn’t mean boring. With thoughtful textures, metallic accents, and a careful mix of finishes, your space can feel both timeless and modern, just like Michael B. Jordan’s sleek kitchen. Sometimes the most striking design choices are the ones that let the details shine.


Hannah Ziegler
News Editor

Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.

Her love of film is rivaled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.