RuPaul's kitchen is sleek and sophisticated thanks to this unexpected cabinet color

RuPaul's black kitchen cabinets are undeniably bold, yet have a surprisingly soothing effect that get the expert stamp of approval

RuPaul
(Image credit: Photo by Guy LevyCBS via Getty Images)

As a drag queen-turned-creator of the drag queen reality competition show, RuPaul knows a thing or two about making bold and/or unexpected style choices. The RuPaul's Drag Race host is known for his outlandish outfits and quick wit, and it turns out that this translates to his interior design preferences.

Ru often reveals corners of his home on his social media page (followers will have been privy to his luxe home bar and opulent entryway), but we were delighted to recently discover a new area of the superstar's home: the kitchen, featuring a surprising paint color.

In a reel posted by Ru recently, wherein he makes chocolate 'FondRu,' the drag maven is seen standing in front of black cabinetry accented by white borders and glass fronts. The bold color is contrasted by a white, marble countertop, tied together with black flecks, as well as some signature glamor with gold cabinet handles.

While undoutedbly a statement color, experts say that when exploring black kitchen ideas, the paint color black can be a surprisngly versatile in the home, with some hidden benefits.

'Decorating with black paint requires a thoughtful approach, but the rewards are well worth the effort,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'By selecting the right rooms, understanding the moods black can evoke, and implementing design strategies to balance its intensity, you can create stunning, sophisticated spaces that feel both contemporary and timeless.'

Black kitchen cabinets with black kitchen island and white countertops

(Image credit: Tom Howley)

In addition to making a sleek and modern ambiance, black paint actually can be just as calming as a soft neutral hue.

'Black paint isn’t always the obvious choice of paint,' says Kate Duckworth, interior and trends expert at Swift Direct Blinds. 'But here’s the thing: black has a grounding effect that can enhance feelings of security and even improve sleep quality.'

She continues, 'Black paint has a surprising ability to create an illusion of spaciousness. By absorbing light rather than reflecting it like lighter colors, black minimizes visual clutter and blurs boundaries, making the space feel bigger.'

Ru's space definitely benefits from the black paint color in making it feel expansive, as well as the vertical storage.

Finally, Duckworth recommends decorating with black paint beyond the kitchen, as its calming properties can benefit practically any other space in the home.

'There is also an element of drama,' she says. 'Whether in a bedroom or bathroom, black paint makes a statement. It radiates confidence and style, turning an ordinary room into something stylish. So, if you are looking to add a touch of drama and sophistication to your home, painting your bathroom or bedroom black might just be the perfect choice for you.'

We recommend black paint to anyone who is looking to elevate their space. While unpainted cabinets can provide a rustic charm, and white cabinets look clean and simple, black cabinets are undeniably chic and contemporary.


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 rivalled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.