The living room is somewhat of a modern institution. Older estates might have had sitting rooms, drawing rooms, or studies. But the multipurpose living room - a gather spot for families, a cozy area for entertaining, or even just a place to put your feet up - is kind of a new concept. It’s not necessarily fussy or fancy, but with the right design it can truly become the heart of a home. Represented here are 26 beautiful living rooms that take this modern space and make it not just welcoming, but beautiful. Have a look.
Designer:Desiron Lizon
Warm colors are just one way to bring that cozy feeling into a living room. Here, it’s pops of a shocking red that contrast the cement bricks and other neutral furnishings for a vibrant, exciting space. The red Arne Jacobsen accent chair really draws the eye here. If you like the traditional exposed brick look in the living room do check out: 30 Living Rooms With Exposed Brick Walls .
Visualizer:Jean Regauer
Of course, bright colors are not everything. This grey and black design is sleek and sophisticated - it wouldn’t be out of place in a decadent 1980’s movie.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
The plush seating in this living room makes you want to sink right in for an evening of casual, bright conversation.
Visualizer:Hodidu
Adding personal effects like books and artwork give this smaller living room a unique and homey feel. The tiered look was a popular theme in mid century modern coffee table design, a bold and fantastic way to tie together the vintage furniture selections throughout.
Visualizer:Lushviz
Grey and turquoise is a combination that is very ‘of the moment.’ This living room uses it subtly for a warm and feminine effect.
Visualizer:Phan Arch
Another neutral option, the geometric pattern on this living room’s accent wall stands out against the calmly colored furnishings.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
In a small space, a living room may have to take on more than one function. Here we see how a narrow room can be a comfortable seating area and a shared home office.
Visualizer:Vic Nguyen
And sometimes decadence is the name of the game. Most of us will never have a grand piano, but if you do you should certainly make it a focal point of a room like it is here, with small, subtle furnishings sinking into the background.
Designer:Mimar Interiors
An open floor plan demands creative use of furniture and decor. Here an area rug and large, heavy pieces keep the living area separate from the foyer.
Designer:Mimar Interiors
Surrounding by glass and stunning views, the last thing this ultra modern living room needs is the obligatory television.
Designer:Mimar Interiors
Low to the ground with a bit of mustard yellow, the furniture in this room screams mid-century.
Designer:Mimar Interiors
The unique coffee table in the center of this spacious and modern living room is a tiny bit retro futuristic. Coupled with the white, grey, and red color scheme you’re almost in the Home of the Future. I wonder if there’s a refrigerator attached to a telephone hidden somewhere in the kitchen.
Designer:Mimar Interiors
This living room does a stylish job of mixing and matching textures from a soft shaggy rug against hard tile to carved wooden ottomans and sleek upholstery. The curvy black floor lamp underlines the black in the decor.
Designer:Mimar Interiors
In this slightly altered version of the previous room, the larger wall art is gone, bringing focus to the beautiful wood paneled wall.
Designer:Mimar Interiors
Pristine white furniture that contrasts with inky dark walls is probably not idea for a family, but is super sleek for the most fashionable couple you know.
Visualizer:Design at Sketch
This artsy loft style with painted wood floors and cute sayings in frames makes you feel like finally getting to work on that novel. The black and white rug is an interesting touch that doesn’t clash with the character of the room.
Designer:Moskou
Simple is perfect in this cool grey living room with massive, deep sofas. They make you want to take a nap even when you’re barely out of bed.
Visualizer:Velizar Dimitrov
In a small apartment, the living room is visible from every angle. This stylish sectional and neutral coffee table are unobtrusive.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
Coat the walls and ceilings of this modern living room with bamboo skewers and be instantly transported to a weird hipster luau, which sounds ironic.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
At the end of the day, a living room really just needs a place to sit and a coffee table. This simple living room fills those requirements without much fuss, but with a lot of style.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
And in a different look, we have the same flood of natural light and simple furnishings, but this time with massive lighting overhead and a wide open floorplan.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
Swap out a camel chair for a tufted version in chocolate brown and you’ll have this version of the same Valkyrie Studio.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
Overwhelming white can be a bit sterile, but with the addition of some slick art and plenty of light, this living room feels more elegant than ER. The large modern coffee table is the perfect size for this spacious room.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
Another day, another Grand Piano. This lovely living room would have you longing to learn your scales once again.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
Japanese-inspired sliding doors keep books and documents hidden away when they’re not needed while allowing for necessary storage space.
Designer:Valkyrie Studio
Any furniture would feel dwarfed by these massive windows, so keeping things simple and comfortable is the right way to go.
Whether it is a matter of budgeting in an expensive urban market or a purposeful lifestyle choice for those minimalists who want to eliminate clutter, living in small spaces is an increasingly popular option. Just in the last few weeks, this blog has featured posts on super small homes , tiny spaces with open floor plans , and apartments measuring less than 40 square meters . Here again we go inside three urban apartments that offer all the amenities and comforts of much larger spaces. The designers featured here have been careful to choose only those elements that make the space either beautiful or functional, and in many cases, both.
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
One key tenet of small space design is the use of light colors.
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
This artist’s loft in St. Petersburg, from designer Anton Zaytsev, uses a lot of white and neutral choices to keep the space feeling open and airy.
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
The design also takes full advantage of the apartment’s 4-meter high ceilings with windows, shelving, and intricate light fixtures that give the entire space an elegant and eclectic feeling.
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
At only 70 square meters (750 square feet), what this apartment lacks in area, it makes up for in artistic flair.
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Even the bathroom has its own cheeky decor, from this saucy pinup model decal to the decadently dark claw foot tub.
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
It is interesting to note that this artist’s loft is part of a three apartment ‘set’ in a renovated building overlooking the Neva River. This is the smaller of the three “art apartments,” each of which is attached by a common corridor in the building.
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Anton Zaytsev
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
The second apartment featured is from designer Artem Yevstigneev.
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
The one-room apartment measures 54 square meters (580 square feet) and has a very distinctive nautical theme.
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
The nautical theme not only offers a space unique to the resident’s preferences, but fits perfectly with the small space. A boat can be luxurious but must use all space efficiently.
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
The home includes a bedroom, with a study that can be cordoned off by a sliding interior door.
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Even the bathroom suits the theme with a floating pedestal sink and plenty of glass.
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Designer:Artem Yevstigneev
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
The final home was designed by Olga Kataevskaya. Another key theory of interior design for small spaces is to keep distinct rooms separate. This 47 square meter (500 square feet) home manages to do so with both furnitures and partitions.
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
The use of a projection screen, against a stunning red accent wall, is another way to save floor space since no television stand or entertainment center is necessary.
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
A floor to ceiling shelving unit offers plenty of stylish storage space.
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
The apartment, located in Kiev, is in a renovated Stalinist building.
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
Its tropical colors that pop up throughout the space are truly transporting.
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
And the kitchen is unforgettable with an incredible tropical backsplash helping any visitor pay no mind to the area of the home and focus all attention on the bright and boisterous details.
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
The use of a glass partition between the bedroom and living area allows light and air to flow freely, but still affords privacy when required.
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
A walk in closet may seem like a luxury in a space this small, but when there is room to organize everything, everything can actually stay organized.
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
Designer:Olga Kataevskaya
Dark isn’t the first theme that comes to mind when designing a kitchen. Stereotypical assumptions are of white and bright kitchens matched by light wood—something like the color of breakfast pancakes. Have you ever thought otherwise? Perhaps something like a modern dark kitchen?
We’ve got a collection of stunning spaces sure to switch up your vision. This black kitchen design inspiration is the sexiest interior design can muster. All divulging in shades of black, navy, or dark brown, they add what white kitchens cannot—a seductive allure that says sleekness and sophistication at the same time. Take a peek at some brilliant interiors on the darker side to see if a modern luxury black kitchen could be for you.
Modern Dark Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire Your Next Renovation
1. Make it an All Black Kitchen
Visualizer:Design At Sketch
Almost completely covered in black, a few minor elements shine in chrome and wood in this kitchen interior. We love how the textures do the talking, especially through the matte table under black wood-panelled walls. But having an open approach like this means that every one of your accessories on display—including knives, wine glasses, mugs, cutting boards, teapots, cookie jars, etc.—need to be on point.
2. Add Wooden Elements
Visualizer:Bogdan Tovstyy
This black beauty edges towards wooden elements. We see a speckled floor, a white wall, and a central bench. Rounded black lamps hover over the island, providing functionality and style. If you’re wondering how visual intrigue is added to this modern black kitchen… a huge credit goes to the abstract art!
3. Complement the Black Kitchen with Orange
Source:Vancouver House
A bit of curve rounds out the hard edges—adding some much-needed warmth. This wave-design bench leads up to an orange-hued enclave in this black-and-silver interior. The burnt orange sure makes a design statement (apart from the unique central island).
4. Keep Your Dark Modern Kitchen Simple
Visualizer:Panda Fox Studios
A simplistic look makes this black kitchen a winner. We see the basics: a light floor, a black minimalist island, and sleek cabinetry. But the contrast between light and dark keeps the ambiance interesting, while the large window welcomes plenty of natural light.
5. Make it Dark… Or Not?
Visualizer:Who Cares Design
If you’re eyeing a dark kitchen aesthetic but are hesitant to make the change, this is it. Introducing more light, this black kitchen is hardly dark at all. Black benches, cabinetry, fixtures and stools are intersected by large-panel windows, a white shelving stand and light flooring.
6. Make Use of Asymmetry in the Black Modern Kitchen
Visualizer:Visual Method
This modern black kitchen takes another angle on this kaleidoscopic space, breaking all spatial boundaries. Black and glass alternate in this chic kitchen as the interesting ceiling design keeps the space unconventional. We’ve also got to appreciate the cherry blossoms, doubling as decor even within the interior.
7. Factor in Some Warmth
Source:Modulnova
This warmer-looking kitchen makes a move to brown. It strategically achieves the purpose with the use of wood. This not only introduces natural textures but also makes the ambiance inviting. Talk about a modern style that’s equal parts welcoming!
8. Place a White Island in a Black Modern Kitchen
Visualizer:Jean Regauer
An instant way to brighten up a dark kitchen (we mean, get the best of both worlds)? This kitchen space shows us how by using a white island on a black floor. The backsplash further enhances this dark-and-light effect, while the cowhide rug adds just the right amount of coziness.
9. Make Marble Your Best Friend
Architect:Chamberlain Javens Architects
If you’re looking to create a modern luxury black kitchen, you know what you’ve got to do: Go big on marble! This natural stone adds the luxe factor to any space, especially as a large, central island, as seen in the kitchen above. You can also add it through the backsplash.
10. Make it Mysterious
Visualizer:Tomek Michalski
You can double the visual intrigue in your all black kitchen by adding some mystery. In this kitchen, mood-lighting sets the scene in black and grey, while a marbled bench acts as the hero. The back inlet and flooring create contrast and depth. Taken together, these elements make the space an interesting one.
11. Layer Gray and Gold
Visualizer:Mitaka Dimov
Black kitchens are cool, but what if we layer in gray and add accents of gold? This stunning kitchen space uses gray flooring to add diversity to the otherwise black palette. The thick gold panel is one way that makes the space look incredibly high-end.
12. Add French Style to Black Kitchen Design
Visualizer:Aeroslon
Make your kitchen both modern and French with traditional black cabinetry. In this space, standing armoires act as sinks, and all other displayed items remain black. The stark white clock can surely act as the focal point of the space!
13. Consider Soft Elements
Visualizer:Julia Sultanova
Rough, light wood and low-hanging white lights set this kitchen interior a world apart. You can also notice a layer of light gray cabinetry, adding variation to the otherwise dark color palette. These elements factor in softness to the black kitchen design.
14. Let the Accessories Do the Talking
Photographer:Mikko Ryhänen
In this black-and-wood creation, the accessories take center stage in adorning the interior. We love the houseplant, but the crockery deserves a special mention for doubling as decor. The light oakwood backdrop further warms the space up.
15. Consider a Matte All Black Kitchen
Visualizer:HDR Designer
Neat square panels perfectly line up to emphasize the stark black minimalism that is at play here. We love how the cabinetry is matte black with no hardware, adding a sense of simplicity. The herb planters are a healthy green addition to bring the otherwise simple space.
16. Add Some Stencilling to Black Kitchens
Visualizer:Julia Sultanova
Fine lines and stencilling set this monochromatic space apart. Lined by black magnetic lights, black stencils and glossy white facades, it makes its mark on a light wooden floor.
17. Build a Shape Out of Black
Visualizer:Huso
18. Create a Modern Dark Kitchen with Gradients
Visualizer:Mario Nogueira
If you’re wondering how the intrigue in this space is working… It’s the gradients from black, to charcoal, to light grey. White surrounds in the walls and a monochromatic hanging light. This clever design technique makes sure the space is anything but boring, even if it’s using mere neutrals (minus the stunning orange dining chairs, of course).
19. Leverage Black Textures
Visualizer:Nefeli Kallianou
One instant way to add interest to a black kitchen is with textures, as seen in this metallic matte kitchen. This accounts for decorative presence in the light and bright space, providing character to an otherwise simple room.
20. Work on the Functionality of the Modern Dark Kitchen
Visualizer:İbrahim Ethem KISACIK
This dark modern kitchen makes sure it’s as functional as is stylish. The central island is paired with a black dining table, while all necessary appliances are fixed into the cabinetry. We also see pendant lights and lighting under the hood providing just the right illumination.
21. Create a Modern Classic All Black Kitchen
Visualizer:A&L Interior Design
Folks seeking an inviting all black kitchen can look towards this modern classic space. It merges contemporary elements (through sleek black cabinetry) with traditional ones (as seen in the wooden backsplash) to bring together the best of both worlds.
22. Put Essentials on Display in Your Modern Black Kitchen Interior
Visualizer:Polygon
Yet another kitchen that uses black and wooden elements to create a dark-themed interior. What sets this one apart is the hanging pans. They do offer easy access as the residents cook, but they also double as decor! (Note how the pans also use black and wooden elements to stay coherent with the theme).
23. Add the Industrial Style to the All Black Kitchen
Via:Emotion School
Industrial style lovers, rejoice! This is THE inspiration to set up your favorite interior design style, the dark way. This kitchen uses rustic wood and exposed elements for the ceiling to create an industrial black kitchen interior.
24. Make a Statement with Black Chunky Lamps
Via:HomePicture.in
All eyes on the two chunky lamps hanging in this monochromatic setting. They do add focus but also allow the contrasting white inset to shine. Not to forget the central island, providing plenty of storage space.
25. Make Room for Keepsakes
Visualizer:Maxim Goryachev
There’s nothing like personalizing your space to who YOU are. This kitchen serves the purpose by adding keepsakes and heirlooms. Also, black leaves room for details, so it’s one of the best colors to use if you’re hoping to display knick-knacks.
26. Use Black to Add Intimacy
Visualizer:Helen Bank
Who says dark colors make small spaces feel smaller? We only see black adding luxury to this compact space (with some credit to the white flooring adding brightness). This kitchen—with black marble backsplash—speaks opulence, and for all the right reasons!
27. Enhance Black Kitchen Design with Patterns
Visualizer:Ksenia Lenski
This black kitchen interior makes a design statement with the patterned marble island. Its sleek metallic legs lift it off the floor, creating an illusion of space. Simultaneously, the textured inset makes sure visual interest is added.
28. Don’t Forget a Black and White Rug
Visualizer:Nada Aboelrous
If you’re not in for a complete kitchen renovation, simply painting your cabinets black and adding a black-and-white patterned rug will achieve the purpose! We love how this kitchen keeps sets the base with white and tops it with black.
29. Let the Lighting Make a Statement in the All Black Kitchen
Architect:Artpartner Architects
When everything else is understated, letting the lighting create a statement is a good idea. This matte black kitchen interior uses rod lighting to do the talking. It sticks to the all black kitchen color scheme, though!
30. Tone it Down
Visualizer:Valeria Mosolova
This open floor plan uses dark gray throughout, showing us that black can work in more spaces than the kitchen 😉 It sure makes a design statement for those cooking and dining—or lounging!
31. Consider a Black and Wooden Bar
Visualizer:Amir Emami
This is the ultimate modern luxury black kitchen! After all, what’s better than displaying your favorite collection of beer right behind the black kitchen island? The low-hanging pendant lights also add to the black kitchen design.
32. Add the Gothic Vibe
Visualizer:Sebastian Lorio
This dark-gray kitchen is super simple with its sleek, hardware-less cabinetry. Well, except the far left end. Here, we see a statement piece of art and intriguing layered lighting created a focal point.
33. Stick to the Minimalist Style for Black Kitchens
Visualizer:Miguel A. Ramos
This compact kitchen space follows the simple rule: white walls paired with black cabinetry and an island. Even in this nook, the space is able to make a style statement while providing optimal functionality. The window here gives a contrasting element of light to the otherwise dark modern kitchen.
34. Layer Lighting in the All Black Kitchen
Visualizer:Tatiana Durnescu
We see shades of gray and black coming together to bring this modern dark kitchen to life. What we especially love is the multiple types of lighting, all layered together to bring visual interest to the space.
35. Set the Backdrop For Your Living Space
Visualizer:Sasha Zolotukhin
