Small apartment living is a lifestyle all its own – without much space for furniture and everyday objects, the impact of every single choice grows exponentially. This post explores three compact apartments that make the most of their small floor plans by using creative space-saving techniques, creating multipurpose spaces, and smartly utilizing the simplest color and decor schemes. And despite their restricted sizes, none of these homes sacrifice even an ounce of character. If you’re looking for small apartment inspiration to guide your own decor decisions, this post is a great place to start.
Cladding materials serve as a strong source of contrast as well, pairing natural wood with concrete, and just a touch of luxury like the black marble of the coffee table . At night, the residents must move the table to make room for the fold-out sofa bed.
Although it doesn’t support as many guests as a traditional dining table, this breakfast bar offers a comfortable place to enjoy family meals.
Because the cabinetry blocks the natural sunlight that filters in through the window on the left, warm wood cabinetry helps to hide the appearance of shadows and makes the space look brighter.
Now, let’s take a quick peek inside the innovative bedroom volume.
While the bedroom area doesn’t enjoy any natural sunlight with the curtains drawn, its blue accent wall and wooden elements definitely imbue the space with the charm of the outdoors.
And finally, a look at the grayscale bathroom. The artwork is definitely unexpected – a diagram of the inner workings of the toilet lends a touch of industrial appeal.
The single brass pendant light stands out as a focal point, drawing the eye into the room.
Visualizer:Zikzak
At a modest 26 square meters, this compact apartment makes bold moves with a high-contrast color scheme. While using dark colors can often make a small space feel even more cramped, this apartment balances the effect with large swaths of glossy white surfaces to catch and extend the natural sunlight.
The kitchen uses minimalist hardware, fixtures, and finishes for an incredibly smooth look.
This matte black accent wall offers a dramatic backdrop for objects like the smooth white kitchen pendant lights .
To save space, this design foregoes a traditional dining table in favor of an island and simple kitchen bar stools .
Even the supplies that remain out on the counters follow the same no-nonsense motif as the rest of the home, like this streamlined pitcher .
Rather than hanging a large print, the decorators decided on a motivational “feeling good” motif. Creative candle holders and color block prints sit on the tables below.
The space beneath the tables could double as a convenient place to store shoes, with the tabletops serving as a place to sit and put them on. Gloves, wallets, and pocket items can go in the cubby.
At the other end of the home you’ll find the black entryway, storage cabinets, and a bathroom tucked in behind the kitchen.
The bathroom is dark, moody, and relaxing. The only objects that stand out from the dark background are the furniture and fixtures.
Thanks to a handsome adjustable wall sconce , it’s easy to either light the bed or light the hallway to the bathroom with the same fixture.
The interior is split into two parts, with living spaces on the entry side and private spaces behind the bisecting wall.
Bright windows flood the kitchen with ample sunlight, while the living room enjoys a darker and cozier atmosphere.
It’s important that each object serves a purpose in a space that has such little room for decor. The handsome teapot set serves as a great example.
Keeping things organized is a hugely important part of maintaining a minimalist home. These wicker baskets neatly stow away beneath the low table, easily holding extra throws or decorations.
Plenty more storage occupies a wall near the sofa. The adjustable floor lamp easily provides light for a variety of tasks, from reading to preparing tea.
The cozy dining table creates division between the living and kitchen spaces. By moving the chair on the rightmost side, the table becomes an extended work space for meal preparation.
Table decor remains simple, with clean striped place mats and a plain white decorative vase .
Below-counter cabinets and tall wooden units offer plenty of space for storage. The residents further maximize space by keeping necessities, like the trash can , at a compact size.
The bedroom occupies the space just on the other side of the dividing wall. Wardrobe space hides in the small hallway that leads to the bathroom.
Designer:The November
This lovely small apartment doesn’t have a super-open layout so popular in interior design today, but it still feels open and spacious considering its relatively restricted floor plan.
The other side of the room hosts a robust home office.
And what a nice home office it is! A small wall shelf displays homey personal objects, while the ergonomic desk chair keeps things comfortable.
Designer:VAE Group
At just 48 square meters, this unique studio apartments offers an uncommonly high standard of comfort and luxury for its size. The tour opens with a shot of the living room and bedroom combination, with the bedroom portion surrounded by curtains that can open to increase the perceived size of the space or close to offer privacy and soundproofing.
One of the most innovative features in this apartment is the overhead projector. Instead of casting to a screen, it projects the media onto the blackout curtain that covers the window.
If you’re looking for space-saving techniques, this room has ideas in spades – including the under-bed cabinets and the handy nesting end tables .
The living room, bedroom, kitchen, and office all occupy the same open area, but they feel distinct thanks to the partial walls that divide them.
Decor remains simple. The wall clock adds a splash of color, the artwork in the dining room captures the eye.
And considering that each area is visible from every other area, this streamlined decor theme makes coordination significantly easier.
A rustic home does not have to mean a secluded cabin in the woods. The home featured in this post, from visualizer Plasterlina includes rustic elements like lots of wood and cozy furnishings but also has the modern appeal of geometric, almost retro features as well. This stylish house, with lots of books as well as nooks for reading them, has a warm and inviting feel, from the industrial-style fireplace through to the sunny, modern master bedroom. Take a peek inside for a bit of throwback that still feels cool and fun.
The main living area, with its vaulted ceilings and wraparound windows is certainly a focal point of the public portion of the house. Furniture takes inspiration from mid century modern sofa and armchair styles, but reinterpreted with streamlined contemporary sensibilities.
The creative pendant lights that hang from the highest heights have a certain 70s flair to them but they stay on the right side of kitsch.
The use of some simple pieces, like minimalist end tables keeps things fresh.
The industrial-style fireplace is not the central feature of the room, but cute and cozy pouf seating means guests can gather there when it’s cold.
This view gives us a sense of the amazing upstairs library, which soars above a circular wooden coffee table .
The connecting areas of a home are also important. Here, a corridor with wood paneling above and below gives an interesting sense of space.
The creative used of mirrors and lighting opens things up and creates what is almost an optical illusion.
Overhead lighting disappears into the wood paneling for practicality and style.
Moving into the dining area, modern dining chairs are a dramatic choice.
The black upholstered chairs match with the black dining room pendant lights overhead.
Behind the dining table, more shelving for displaying those coffee table books that manage to clutter up a coffee table.
The open kitchen flows right into the dining room for the ideal entertaining layout.
Stainless steel kitchen bar stools lend the space a bit of an industrial vibe .
On the counter, indoor herb planters make for a burst of green that adds both visual and literal flavor.
The design also features a creative use of indoor house plants as a few pots of a Boston Fern hang overhead.
A cozy study can double as a home office in this intellectual design.
No library would be complete with comfortable reading chairs .
And floor lamp add plenty of light for those late nights with a page turner.
In another corridor, creative recessed lighting gives the white walls a futuristic vibe.
The bedroom, naturally, is a bit darker in palette, with bedside bedroom pendant lights making up for the dark gray and black.
The quilted accent wall and wood slat room divider create an interesting textural conversation.
Big sliding glass doors mean the bedroom can open right up onto the deck, in true rustic retreat fashion.
Overhead lighting and wood flooring complete the cozy bedroom look.
In another bedroom, we see what an impression 4 poster beds can have.
In place of a headboard, a deer head on the wall contributes to the modern cabin feel, minus the morbidity.
A bright pop of blue where the television sits is frankly a bit shocking in this color palette.
But the master bath could bring anyone down from that shock.
Dark gray, wood, and a large jacuzzi tub.
The wood slat divider offers minimal privacy, but allows the whole space to feel a lot bigger.
Finally, a large wall clock will make sure you don’t spend too much time in this luxurious bathroom.
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
