Even if interior design is your vocation, it can be a challenge to work in small spaces. When an apartment has to work for a couple or even a small family without much square footage, things can quickly get cramped when even one decision goes awry. With a little bit of planning, however, it is possible for a space even as small as the ones featured here to end up feel welcoming and open rather than claustrophobic. The three apartments featured in this post measure less than 70 square metres (750 square feet) but still have a beautiful open feeling to them, thanks to carefully chosen colors, well-placed furniture, and attention to detail.
Visualizer:KYDE
The first home featured is a 65 square metre (700 square feet) apartment located in Moscow. Despite the small size, the design still makes room for important decorative elements like a unique plant stand nestled next to the sofa.
Decorating a small space means always thinking about storage, and the coffee tables used in this living room have nooks for books and other items underneath. A unique floor lamp fits easily in the corner without taking up valuable floor space.
Unique shelving that’s put at an angle adds visual interest as well as usefulness.
A small home office area is set apart from the main living area with design, including lighting. A stylish ergonomic chair , specifically the Eames-Style Group Executive Chair fits nicely with the rest of the living room’s decor.
It is critical that different areas are kept as separate as possible without closing off the space, which this decor does well.
In the dining area, a decorative vase , modern dining chairs , and dining pendant create what feels like a contained area. Each element works together to draw the eye towards the table and make the space feel cozy and warm.
Keeping many elements in the same color family, specifically white in this case, can also help with a small space.
A black and white kitchen is a decidedly modern look, too.
Though the dining space and kitchen are forced to bleed into one another, the common colors and textures means they are able to work together and not feel too crowded.
Lighting is also perhaps more important in a smaller space. In the bedroom, a bedroom pendant light on each side of the bed adds an important decorative element as well as essential light.
Recessed overhead lighting adds even more glow, but takes up no space at all.
Neutral colors like white, beige, and bare wood keep the bedroom feeling clean and bright.
Still, the design leaves room for important indulgent pieces like a mustard yellow vanity chair and vanity.
Unique shoe storage is tucked out of the way while a soft gray ottoman gives a comfortable place to slip into or out of the day’s shoes.
The use of indoor plants is basically a must in small space design.
Finally, a white bathroom feels incredibly spacious.
The combination of white on white design with mirrors and lots of light is ideal in a compact space like this one.
Indeed, photos may not do justice to quite how compact this bathroom is.
Visualizer:Studio PINE
The next apartment featured is a 66 square metre (710 square feet) space located in Kiev, Ukraine.
The home was designed for a young couple who wanted to live “surrounded by soft tones and gentle shades,” but who clearly also have an affinity for wine judging by the wine glasses and wine storage .
Maximizing natural light was imperative for the designers on this project, since only one wall of the unit has a window.
Because just one wall has a window, a wall shelf is optimal for storage.
The design separates the bedroom from the main living area with a glass wall so that light can constantly pass through.
Because the room divider is glass, the home is allowed to feel much more open.
The kitchen and living area are not separated from one another.
Bleached oak cabinetry, artificial tropical leaves and an indoor herb planter all bring a bit of nature into the home.
White and wood in the bedroom as well as minimalist side tables and a simple bedside table lamp keep the bedroom from feeling too cluttered.
The same wood coloring is brought in for the closet doors.
A dark wood flooring and soft area rug are a perfect addition for a bit of texture.
The single bathroom is white and dark gray, which is a comforting combination.
Visualizer:Andrey Kabanov
In the final space, which measures 68 square metres (732 square feet), we get a bit more color, starting with a lovely accent wall in the main living area.
The small dining space, demarcated by a dining pendant light and bare wood Scandinavian style chairs , is lovely.
Soft grays and wood, coupled with natural light, is optimal.
The decorative elements call attention to the Scandinavian inspiration.
Moving into the bathroom we get even more color with a vibrant olive green.
The green against white and wood is quick contemporary and chic.
The bedroom chooses a luscious blue for its accent color, along with a very simple table lamp .
A bit of pattern in the flooring can be dangerous in a small space but because it is just a small swath, it works here.
Finally, the entryway, which includes a bit of useful storage, a place to put on shoes, and just a hint of blue.
While it may feel cliche to some, the truth is that many children (in particular little girls) love the color pink. As a parent, you want to be able to decorate your son or daughter’s room in a way that they absolutely love while still creating a space that you believe to be beautiful. In the wrong hands, pink can become saccharine and overpowering, and you do not want a room that feels like you are drowning in a vat of cotton candy. Luckily, it is possible to design a tasteful child’s room with plenty of pink, as long as you know what you’re doing. Following are just a few examples of how to use pink to great effect when designing a room for a child.
Visualizer:Tatyana Ryltsova
Perhaps the most important thing to remember when decorating with pink is that a pink theme does not mean that everything should be pink.
While a light shade of blush, as used in this design, can lean towards neutral, it is important to play it off of other true neutrals, like white, to avoid being overwhelming.
By using the popular mix of pink and white, this space is soothing instead of loud, making it a perfect retreat for a night of homework.
The subtlety of the pink in this room is quite elegant.
A pink nook for the television is just the right amount of color without creating a distraction.
The next room, from the same visualizer, shows that you can go a bit brighter with pink and still keep the space playful but not garish, even with kid’s decor .
Another tip for decorating effectively with pink is to mix shades, which this design does quite well.
Softer pinks for the walls is an ideal choice while using brighter shades for light fixtures and throw pillows adds dimension.
Another calming homework nook utilizes white as well, with a pink table lamp that really pops.
White also comes in with floating cloud accessories, another calming choice.
Finally, a similar television nook goes a bit more bubblegum with its accent color.
Visualizer:Rustem Urazmetov
In addition to mixing different shades of pink, mixing a few different patterns can give a modern, stylish look to a pink bedroom.
A bright planter and white desk chair show that a pink palette does not mean all pink and only pink.
We get a glimpse of pattern mixing with a white brick wall opposed to a pink and white tile wall.
No matter what the color scheme, of course, plenty of storage is a must in a kids room.
Visualizer:Anastasia Skoblik
In this next space, we see how finding the right colors to complement the pink palette is key, starting with kids’ beds .
In this room, it’s a lovely mint color that complements.
The use of the green and pink together is certainly youthful but not cloyingly sweet.
The use of adorable artwork is also a nice touch.
Visualizer:FINE DESIGN
In this room, a unique floor lamp in white ties together a pink, black and white scheme.
Adding a bit of sparkle and shine, here in the guide of bedroom pendant lights , is another way to bring elegance to a pink room.
Black, white and pink is a classic color theme that calls to mind French macarons, which are very on trend.
Floating pink wall shelves are a practical and stylish addition.
A subtle kids’ night light is another well-chosen accessory.
Finally, an Eames-style rocking chair at the coral pink desk is high style.
Visualizer:Thao Uyen
The final room incorporates a few of the tips we’ve covered, including complementary colors, pattern mixing, and many shades of pink.
The patterned wallpaper, pennant flags and cozy size make this room particularly playful.
A stacked nightstand with sunny yellow is the perfect sophisticated accessory for this room.
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
