Choosing an accent color for a compact apartment is no easy task. It has to be a color you love, a shade with a little flexibility for future additions and embellishments, a tone that looks good in any room at any time of day. These four apartments show that a blue theme is a wonderfully workable choice! These spaces have very limited floor plans – you can stand in one corner and see the entire interior – so it makes sense that so much work went into the color choices. If you’ve been feeling a little blue about coordinated palettes, these interiors might help inspire your next big redesign.
Designer:Levko Davydiuk
This home tour begins with a colorful and stylish apartment for a couple in Lviv, Ukraine. It’s a compact space measuring in at just 43 square meters yet manages to create a spacious and comfortable environment with all the amenities. A neutral palette and refined accessories demonstrate that even compact homes can look sophisticated.
It’s open but restrained. For example, the bed tucks away behind a thick wall for separation from the entrance. Simple shelves house bedtime reading material with a nest of varied pillows below.
Thomas Bentzen designed the little table shown here, its smart design including a convenient handle for portability. The unique floor lamp you see here is the work of Jenny Bäck for Örsjö Belysning.
Artwork featuring mountains and open skies reinforce the airy atmosphere of the apartment, no matter how compact.
Simple chairs by Hee Welling match the decorative wall panel and desk. Natural materials are used sparingly and with purpose.
Here’s a good look at the kitchen in all of its minimalistic appeal. Forethought shines through with the copper pendant interiors showing smart contrast against the matte black cabinets in the background.
The kitchen, as compact as it is, uses smart organization techniques to keep things tidy. Notice how the brass towel rod continues all the way around the work surface.
Versatile and natural, the chopping block countertop makes a tremendous statement when paired next to the organic curves of the dining set.
What an inspiring dark bathroom! Flat black surfaces seem to absorb the indirect lighting on contact. Functional objects remain in traditional white, easier to find in the early hours of the morning.
Visualizer:Pavel Alekseev
The clients for this apartment design desired shared spaces but also craved a degree of individuality. Ideally, the interior would feel quiet and welcoming, pleasing to the eye with its timeless style – achieved by using neutral colors and outstanding iconic furniture throughout.
Comfortable seating comes by way of the Place Sofa by Jasper Morrison, and the modern Spar floor lamp is the work of Jamie McLellan.
Other eye-catching furniture selections include the famous Eames lounge – when you have to pare down your furniture selections for a space this compact, it pays to invest in quality showpieces.
These compact vertical shelves are a popular storage solution these days, while the George Nelson mid century modern clock on the wall is an enduring icon.
Glass interior walls help shield residents from the sounds and bustle going on around the home – the residents can utilize the restricted floor plan without feeling cramped in together.
It also allows for a clear view around the corner, and brings some of the kitchen’s natural light into the hallway.
Blue polygons express themselves with vigor when the sun shines on the rug.
Chairs include the 2015 Belleville Chair by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec and the classic 1951 Wire Chair by Charles & Ray Eames.
But what’s all this about a sofa in the kitchen? This was a special request from the clients, who enjoy spending time together in this hub of family life.
Visualizer:Elena Ponomarenko
Designed for a young doctor with confident tastes, this apartment adopts an interior style that feels serious and playful at the same time. Dark materials lean toward the sophisticated side while typographic decorations express a modern edge. The layout balances privacy with freedom to roam.
Many of the furniture items come from the Vitra catalogue, with the stage perfectly set by the Eames House Bird peeking over the ledge of the nesting tables.
And here’s a cheerful little Eames Elephant, the House Bird’s slightly less famous cousin.
The kitchen combines contemporary and mid-century themes, like Tom Dixon’s Lustre pendant lights and the 40s-era armchairs by Charles Eames and Eero Saarinen.
Of course, the Dr. House decal might seem a little “on the nose” in a house for a young doctor, but what fan could resist that steely gaze and no-nonsense expression?
All of the blue accents help bring out the cooler tones found in the rich marble floor tiles.
“Things happen” is a great inspirational phrase for a kitchen, where improvisation and delightful discoveries are part of the process.
The blue chair taking the spotlight here is Grand Repos by Antonio Citterio.
The bedroom pendant lights by Jordi Vilardell seem to drip down the wall. Cool white light radiates from beneath the raised bed platform.
Visualizer:Eugene Anfilova
Wrapping up the apartment tour is a fun blue design for a young couple. Bright colors provide for energetic days and soothing nights. Natural materials, plants, and vivid prints help lead the mind away from the city and into a more peaceful place, perhaps a forest overlooking fresh blue waters.
Decorative shelves separate the bed and sofa spaces. When the young couple needs some time to pursue individual interests, they can stake out their own territory without feeling completely closed off.
This desk couldn’t have a better location. When the sunlight from the bay window begins to fade, the Tribeca lamp by Søren Rose Studio can illuminate the desk or swing over to shine on the bed.
Back in the living room, the artwork is always among the first details to catch the eye. Layered glass panels give it a complicated and dimensional aesthetic – impossible to ignore.
Throughout the home, round accents help break up the boxy forms: the lamp shade, the planter, the side table, and vases all contribute toward a sense of balance.
Dining takes place in a relatively secluded cove shared with the kitchen. It’s nice to have somewhere to slip away from the main gathering.
In the background, the iconic Delmori clock centers the design. Beat lamps by Tom Dixon cut a lovely profile.
The kitchen itself melts right into the wall. Not a single inch of potential storage is wasted.
Lofts are known for their harsh lines, exposed metals, a wide open spaces — so typically, they aren’t associated as being cozy and inviting. But in the heart of Beirut, architect Bernard Khoury and Cleer design studio have teamed up to create spaces that are just as warm and indulgently layered as the city’s food and history. Whether you’re looking to add a bit of industrial chic, or you want to lose some of the starkness of your own loft, you’ll want to check out these spaces.
Architect:Bernard Khoury| Designer:Cleer Studio
Cold metals and cool colored walls may make this loft the perfect place to chill, but exposed wood, and layers of different textures warm this loft right up. On top of that, take a look at those massive windows letting in all that warm desert light.
Warm greys and lots of natural light are easy ways to warm up a space.
Layers are a great way to take away from the starkness of any space. Layers of your favorite books and magazines on a table always makes a space feel more inviting.
Natural light is still one of the best ways to warm up a cool space.
The actual ‘loft’ part of a loft often feels dark and forgotten. But with access to natural light, and a warm accent piece this place feels cozy and far from forgotten.
Don’t these chairs remind you of art stools from school? Well, no arts and crafts are needed here to warm up this area of the loft! The warm wood, brushed metal, and curved lines soften the space and contrast beautifully against the tall and straight table. Opposites attract!
This patio feels organic and is easy on the eyes despite being composed almost entirely of metals. But that kind of contrast is exactly what the designers have mastered here in this space as well as the others you’ll see.
Rich and rusty colored metal is blanketed in smooth chocolatey leather in a stunning juxtaposition. The couch and chair combo are reminiscent of retro outdoor furniture, but are modernized with these clean geometric shapes, and swooping curves. Contrasts like these are the name of the game for this warm loft.
A pop of color in accents never hurts!
This chair may play off some of the harsh lines found throughout the loft, but it’s curves — both rounded and squared soften it up.
Layers, textures, and color, oh my! The harsh concrete walls are softened by this massive statement piece that despite it’s cool color, brings out the rich golden undertones of the rug, chair, bed, side table and lamp. As if that wasn’t enough, the variety of textures in the rug, walls, and bed add much needed dimension to this large space.
Now, like I said before, just because something is ‘cool colored’ doesn’t mean it can’t add warmth. Infact, the deep blue used to accent the loft practically brings those sweeping views of the sky right inside. Contrast against warm wood tones with a midcentury vibe – this space is intrinsically inviting.
Toffee colored wood and the deep blue accents bring life to the smooth grey floors, while the mid century modern coffee table design adds a touch of retro atomic age charm.
The space mirrors the views: blue like the sky, and dusty and brown like the buildings outside. On top of that, look at all those layers! The light hanging from the ceiling makes the space feel cozy, and yet the floor map draws your eyes up with the shades at different heights. Then there’s the side tables: all different heights and sizes which keeps the space interesting.
The curves of the chairs and coffee table , as well as their warm neutral tones make you forget all about those cold floors and tall metal windows.
There’s that beautiful contrast of organic and geometric again! This time — also with a pop of color.
Opposites attract! Don’t try and hide your space’s disadvantages like being too cold and harsh, instead play off of them.
This final space has a wonderful organic feel thanks to the green and mustard color combination. These natural colors draw your eye in, and away from the dark cool walls.
Another play on retro outdoor furniture, this piece breaks up the rectangular shelves that are the main backdrop to this loft.
The layers here are superb. While metal, warm yellow fabric, a woven rug, and that marble table add much needed dimension to this wide open space.
Layers of books, wooden drawers, and house plants add much needed dimension to this long flat wall.
The warm natural light reflects beautifully on, and through, this dining table. The table keeps the space feeling open, but once again adds layers.
Dine under the stars in this modern yet whimsically organic space.
The geometric light, almost resembling the constellations, perfectly contrasts against the warm wooden chairs with sweeping curves.
The metal chairs pop against the natural surface of this wooden table, and really let’s the pool’s deep blue take center stage.
Deliciously organic, these chairs add whimsy to the harsh lines of this loft. Doesn’t the green one remind you of the top of a celery stick in a bloody mary? This big rectangular patio is broken up by these curves, making it the perfect corner to kick back and enjoy that drink.
White doesn’t have to be stark! When layered with other whites, it can really make a space pop, especially around such greenery.
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
