3 Modern Small Apartment Designs Under 50 Square Meters That Don’t Sacrifice On Style [includes Floor Plans]

Living in a tiny amount of space can be limiting in many ways but living small certainly does not mean that you have to compromise on style. Not convinced? Well, take a look at these three small apartment interiors, all under 50 square metres, that are creative in using stylish furniture and decor to set a high-end scene. Large light fittings over sociably sized dining areas, practical kitchens that do not feel cramped, chic bathrooms and bedrooms brimming with storage are all present in these limited living quarters. Plentiful storage solutions keep these compact homes free from clutter overwhelm so that they appear spacious and the interior design can shine.

Visualizer:IDEADEYA design studio

The IT_H_1 Apartment, located in Lviv, Ukraine has an area of just 47 square metres but still manages to have dining seating for a party of four in the open plan reception room. A comfortable modern sofa shares the same space as the dining area. Behind the sofa a long planter full of indoor plants acts as a low level room divider.

This pendant lightshade is of a rebellious size for such a small home. The large pendant creates a central focal point for the room.

The attractive Scandinavian style chairs do not tuck out of sight beneath the dining table when not in use, even though space is at a premium.

Full advantage has been taken of the vertical space in the kitchen, with three rows of wall cabinets.

Underneath the long planter behind the sofa, shelves of books sit upon castors. A full length mirror peeping out from the bedroom at the end of the makeshift hallway increases a sense of space.

In the bedroom, a picture ledge sits above the bed to decorate a plain wall. A bedroom pendant light also hangs beside the bed as a cool alternative to a bedside tabletop lamp. The white pendant light shown here is the Aplomb .

A splash of colour across the TV wall visually warms the room.

Fitted wardrobes run the full width of the room and continue out into the reception, creating masses of storage space, which allows the small home to remain uncluttered and well organised.

The closed in balcony space has been cohesively styled and accessorised despite its narrow proportions. Here too, storage space has been cleverly created, this time beneath a built-in seat.

A wood bath panel, wooden countertop and unique laundry baskets in natural rattan warm up a white bathroom. Geometric grey tile brings it bang on trend.

A flash of green brings an air of freshness.

Our second small apartment is another from Lviv, Ukraine, this time having an area of only 30 square metres.

The designers of this apartment took away all of the internal walls to create one open plan area.

The new open plan arrangement increased light and space.

Rather than shying away from strong colour in such a small space, a strong blue theme runs through.

There is space for two people to eat in the kitchen.

The bright blue kitchen is finished off with a high contrast patterned tile backsplash. Matching the white and brown tones of the tiles, a set of three kitchen pendant lights hang above the fruit bowl on the central island.

Wainscoting and original parquet flooring bring a classic look to the decor, with a little hint of grandeur.

light up the sleeping zone, whilst a slimline floor lamp lights a cozy seating area.

Not limited by its small proportions, the layout even includes a practical work area.

The vibrant blue theme continues into the bathroom.

Copper accents come in via a circular mirror and soap dispenser at the vanity unit.

Our third and final small apartment design is a 50 square meter apartment in Odessa, Ukraine. Located in a hub for tourism and nightlife, the apartment was originally designed as a summer rental. The project brief called for an interior that would combine a modern progressive lifestyle with an easy traditional way of life. We can see here how a contemporary floor lamp has been teamed with a classic sofa. The lamp here is an Arco Style Floor Lamp .

By night the apartment is atmospheric.

The visual simplicity of the cube makes it unobtrusive to the main living area, but at night it takes on a theatrical appearance. See more studios with glass walled bedrooms.

The visual simplicity of the cube makes it unobtrusive to the main living area, but at night it takes on a theatrical appearance.

A wall hung console allows the floor area to continue uninterrupted. The flooring is laid on the diagonal which visually increases the floor space.

Inside the compact bedroom, the space feels large thanks to the fully glazed wall and door.

Shades of grey coupled with wainscoting create a super chic scheme. The bedside table lamps with bright red electrical cord provide the only injection of colour.

A floor to ceiling mirror in the entryway tricks the eye into seeing increased space.

The edge lit bedroom cube appears to float, making the large volume seem light.

A casual sitting spot is anchored in place by a fun red lighting fixture.

A unique wall clock adds to the vignette.

A four setting dining table stands in the centre of a generously sized kitchen.

Clear ghost chairs keep the room looking uncluttered and let through all of the natural daylight. The holders of the decorative candles on the table match the transparent theme.

The kitchen is a crisp monochromatic arrangement with a black backsplash and countertop over ice white gloss units. Chrome accessories complete the look.

The wood flooring comes to an end at the home entryway and is replaced by high-shine tiling for a high-end look.

A chic vibe runs through this Scandinavian style home, located in Minsk, Belarus. Much of the furniture is of a classic clean-lined Scandi design that we have all come to know and love but we also find a couple of little surprises along the way. The decor that sits as backdrop to these pieces offers up inviting pitstops of cool colour and bold pattern jostled amongst relaxed white-washed walls. The 120 square meter modern apartment, visualised by Gennady Shmidt , is set over a sophisticated herringbone floor, and accessorised with a menagerie of eye-catching oversized pendant lights and unique floor lamps, along with a selection of attention grabbing artwork.

Kicking things off in the living room, a bright teal sofa is the hero piece of furniture. Beneath it, an area rug has subtle splashes of matching colour. The rest of the chilled room is a monochromatic scheme except for a piece of modern artwork propped up at floor level for that nonchalant look.

Above the colourful sofa is a unique wall sconce , which is the dual headed Serge Mouille . Further along the wall from the living room lamp is a another large piece of art; a portrait piece where the subject’s red lips match with a red stop sign in the background.

A typographical cushion adds a little humour and warmth to the arrangement on the sofa. In front of the seating, a copper end table holds a planter. At the opposite side, a duo of coffee tables are a handy spot for books or drinks.

A dividing wall between the kitchen and living room splits the open space. The upper half of the divide is glass, which allows both natural light and illumination from the kitchen pendant to shine through.

An entertainment unit spans the full width of the partition.

The herringbone floor takes pause beneath a dining table. It’s replaced by an area of practical tile that can withstand the scraping of dining chair feet, and can be regularly wet-mopped after food spills.

The dining chairs in the kitchen are an eclectic mix; two white Kartel Masters , a gun metal Tolix and a black Salt chair. A rail makes an unusual spot on which to hang candle holders, sending an atmospheric glow flickering through wine glasses .

A small return at the end of the kitchen counter forms a breakfast bar, where two kitchen pendant lights hang above two industrial style kitchen bar stools .

The contrasting selection of intricately designed seats, in such a small spot, brings bags of interest to an otherwise simple Scandi kitchen.

Breaking the run of white kitchen units, a black oven matches a black induction hob.

The pendant lights and the legs on the industrial style stools continue the black accent.

A home office area has been decorated with a selection of indoor plants that are displayed in concrete planters . A large grey bookcase holds a selection of storage boxes and magazine holders to tame the paper mountain.

Opposite the grey bookcase, a modern stylish work chair sits at a very traditional style desk.

More shelves flank the end of a built-in window seat, which is equipped with additional storage options underneath.

The hallway displays a gallery of artwork beneath picture lights.

Chequered green wallpaper makes an interesting accompaniment to pale patterned floor tiles.

A narrow closed-in balcony has just enough space for a couple of cube pouffes and a chunky planter.

The white space is jazzed up with a piece of pop art.

We find another splash of teal in the master bedroom scheme, this time as a much softer muted tone around all walls of the room.

Muted colour teamed with a soft upholstered bed and cozy area rug makes this a relaxing space in which to sleep.

Two bedside tables hold a decorative vase and a couple of nighttime reading books, beneath a copper reading lamp.

On the other side of the bed, a unique floor lamp is used for evening reading sessions, this one is the Grasshopper lamp.

A boxed-in shelf behind the headboard is used as a picture ledge.

Two pendant shades of varying sizes make a layered lighting feature.

String lights wound around a decorative ladder create a cozy lamp.

The kid’s room also is decorated in shades of muted teal and seagreen, accented with small pops of red like those used out in the living room.

A set of wall shelves are mounted on diamond patterned wallpaper that gives the space a sense of whimsy and character.

Wardrobe doors are painted with chalkboard paint, perfect for doodling. Floor reading lamps like the one by the daybed can be moved around the room where needed, this one is the Ikea Ranarp .

Fun prints cover the cushions on the daybed.

The child’s desk has a tower of storage at each end.

A step ladder shelving system holds a selection of knick-knacks.

In this girl’s bedroom, teal wardrobes have been put with pink decor. A pretty bird and floral patterned wallpaper makes a delicate change from the rough brick walls of the boys bedroom.

A sheer canopy hangs in one corner of the room, creating a cozy reading spot.

A repeat of the boy’s desk arrangement appears in this room, accessorised with a pink and a blue planter .

Pink tongue and groove covers the wall opposite the bed. On this side of the room, a chest of irregular drawers with mismatched handles stand at the edge of the natural area rug.

In the bathroom, a midnight blue vanity unit sets a sophisticated tone right off the bat.

The base of the shower is lined with geometric monochrome tiling.

The frame of a round mirror over the basin matches the black in the shower tile, tying both wash areas together.

This second bathroom has pattern tile behind the vanity, flanked by a wood clad wall.

A wooden cubby shelf and countertop complement the wall treatment.

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