One of the safest ways to decorate a small space is to simplify everything - subtle patterns, light colors, limited decor, clean lines, etc. These techniques can indeed make a room appear larger and less cluttered, but guidelines like these might seem a little restrictive to all but the most dedicated minimalists. But there’s good news too! The three homes outlined in this post definitely fall on the smaller side (ranging between 30 to 50 square meters) but their bold decor themes feel larger than life. In fact, they break all those stodgy rules and end up even better for it.
Designer:ILYA Derkach
Let’s start with an extra compact interior. This apartment occupies only 30 square meters - but the designer didn’t let the compact floor plan limit creativity even one bit. The living room opens with a pair of portraits that immediately draw the eye, setting the stage for the vivid color palette and strong geometric themes used throughout the home.
Despite the emphasis on color and texture, the white background really helps make this space work. The simple backdrop allows every creative element to stand out individually, rather than blending into a homogeneous theme.
It’s also fun to point out some of the ingenious layout techniques that keep the interior feeling open and spacious. This independent volume houses the bedroom on one side and a compact kitchen on the other.
Smart composition makes a huge impression without the need to fill a space with “stuff”. Everything in this compact dining arrangement uses lightweight forms and materials but proves visually substantial.
The pendants are from the Lampframe collection by Herr Mandel. Edison bulbs provide a soft diffused glow appropriate for a shadeless fixture like this one.
Smart storage solutions keep the kitchen looking tidy. A thin bar runs across the length and holds hanging spice shakers, a hanging storage rack, and could other accessories like hand towels or utensils too.
Galley kitchens without windows often run the risk of looking too dark. Here, glossy surfaces preserve what little sunlight the space does receive. Even the door joins in!
Laundry appliances hide behind an ordinary-looking cabinet door, blending right in with the rest of the kitchen.
The kitchen leads directly to the entryway where a closet awaits to organize shoes and coats. The other side of the closet has a small shelf with drawers to serve as a catchall of sorts.
On the other side of the hallway, a little table doubles as a dressing vanity and shoe rack. This arrangement makes it easy to freshen up before heading out the door.
Designer:ILYA Derkach
Next up is a home that blends functionality and ornament – every object serves a purpose while similarly contributing to the overall aesthetic. The result is an interior style that mixes traditional design with industrial style, establishing a huge personality despite its limited floor plan.
Without much space for extraneous decoration, the open living room instead relies on texture. Exposed brick and weathered wood feel rustic compared to the urban vibe of the concrete.
Although the general layout of the interior is very linear, it’s interesting to note how the flooring lines up with the doorway rather than the primary walls. The diagonal flow instills an irresistible sense of motion.
This chair is an iconic piece of late midcentury design created by Arne Jacobsen in 1958. The cage lights are a modern interpretation of a classic utilitarian style, perfect for this mixed-era home.
Overall, the living room feels like home. It’s adaptable and warm, purposeful and light, and uses its straightforward layout to its fullest potential.
The bedroom features a bit of variation. It maintains a similar style as the living space but emphases the rustic elements over the modern. Metal features and geometric decor don’t lose sight of the home’s underlying industrial theme.
Weathered wood and leather-toned textiles give the room a touch of downhome cottage appeal. Speaking of weathered wood, it’s one of the few high-end materials that takes well to nails – perfect for an art collector that likes to rearrange often.
These wall lamps are a wonderful example of industrial engineering converted to the design world. This style was designed by Jean-Louis Domecq to facilitate his mechanical work – the name Jieldé comes from his initials (JLD).
Visualizer:AGNIESZKA GRACZYKOWSKA
While the first home in this post used sleek modern design with a geometric twist and the second home combined rustic and industrial themes, this final apartment is the perfect combination of all four styles: modern, geometric, rustic, and industrial. The combination of materials used here are incredible, at once raw and luxurious.
Natural wood, concrete, and neutral textiles define the living room. Geometric lighting serves as a large statement piece without feeling overwhelming.
At just 33 square meters, this home contains several unique layout solutions. This cabinet makes room for laundry right in the living room – the washer and dryer are stacked behind the brown panel with a wardrobe behind the striped one.
The kitchen is tucked away into a small alcove. It doesn’t have the benefit of natural light but seems to embrace its situation with dark materials.
Wires span one of the kitchen walls, serving as a convenient place to hang hand towels and even extra chairs.
Geometric tiles like these add a real sense of depth to the backsplash.
Although the kitchen has plenty of storage, there are a few more cabinets just outside.
The bedroom ramps up the classic appeal with uniquely grained wood and a leather headboard. Decor remains simple for the most part, but those pendant lights and empty frame combination would make an incredible DIY project.
Headboard walls are a great candidate for bold design, but many designers leave the opposite side of the room simple for good reason – fewer visual distractions makes it easier to wind down before bed.
Superheroes are one of those pop culture interests that nobody really grows out of. Even if you don’t want to go all out with superhero decor in the living room, these accessories are perfect for a home office or bedroom – appealing to mature comic fans and enthusiastic children alike. Many are inexpensive enough to work as themed party decorations, while others would make wonderful gifts for dedicated and knowledgeable collectors. Need more ideas? Make sure to check out our other “geeky” accessory guides too, including this collection of Star Wars decor and this Game of Thrones collectibles mega-list.
Captain America Shield:
Glossy, bright, and substantial, this 24-inch replica of Captain America’s shield is sure to make an impression alongside your Marvel collection – and cosplayers will be glad to know that it includes the arm straps too.
Avengers Throw Pillows:
Add some color and character to your living room with this modern range of pillows featuring Avengers members past and present. The full collection includes other favorites like Nick Fury, Hawkeye, Scarlet Witch, and so many more. The entire series color coordinates pretty well so you can assemble your own dream Avengers team.
Superhero Alphabet Throw Pillow Cover:
Not only does this pillow bridge the unique intersection between superheroes, typography, and 8-bit style artwork. And where else can you find decor that combines Marvel and DC Comics characters all in one tidy design?
Minimalist Superhero Throw Pillow Cover:
Are you looking for decor that speaks to your inner comic book buff without raising questions from guests that aren’t quite as savvy. This pillow cover would also make a nice compromise if your housemate has banned pop culture memorabilia in the living room.
Iron Man Poster:
This pair of prints is part of a series that juxtaposes iconic superheroes with the “face behind the mask” at least as far as recent box office hits are concerned. Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man definitely made an unforgettable impression on comic fans – and introduced a whole new generation to the series in the process – which is more than worthy of a little fine art recognition.
Bat Man Poster:
Here’s another pairing from the same print series, this time featuring Ben Affleck as Bruce Wayne from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016).
Minimalist Batman Vs Superman Poster:
Sweet and simple, two familiar profiles in one clean minimalist print. The printmaker can accommodate any size upon request, but the listed price is for a 13" x 19" print.
Batman & Catwoman Posters:
These beautiful watercolor-style prints would look good anywhere. It often proves especially difficult to find tasteful prints featuring Catwoman – and home decor showing this mysterious duo together is even harder to find.
Batman - Arkham Origins Poster:
Gamers and Batman fans alike are sure to appreciate this poster featuring Batman against a backdrop of villains. This poster is sized at 12" x" 21, not too big but large enough to stand out even in a lavishly decorated game room.
Justice League Minimalist Style Poster:
It’s hard to go wrong with minimalist artwork, and this poster is just perfect for a Pop Art deco style. Plus, if you’re excited about the new long-awaited Justice League films in the making, this poster will keep that anticipation topped up to the max.
Avengers Minimalist Style Poster:
Here’s a similar poster in an even more minimalist style, this time for Marvel fans. This poster reduces each character to only their most recognizable features – easy for longtime fans to identify. The colors are bold and modern, and the price is low enough to serve as decor for a one-off event like a birthday party or perhaps a viewing party for the anticipated 2018 film.
Wolverine Poster:
Featuring official movie poster artwork from the 2013 film, this poster’s distinctive ink wash style is a nod to the film’s setting in Japan. It’s stylish and simple but most of all it’s a must-have for fans of the film or even just the character.
Superhero Shadows Die Cut:
How cute are these? If you’re searching for superhero-themed artwork to hang in a nursery or child’s bedroom, it would be hard to find a more inspiring choice than these incredible die cut prints by Jason Ratliff. Each one is precision cut from thick aluminum and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Realistic Superhero Figurines:
Kotobukiya is a Japanese figure manufacturer known for quality and attention to detail, easily surpassing anything else in a similar price range. Each officially licensed figure includes a magnetic base for easy display – a great choice for serious collectors. Koto has created figures for each of the most popular Avengers in both classic and modern costume styles.
Iron Man Bookends:
These stylish bookends are made of weighty plate metal stamped into the shape of Iron Man’s profile as he blasts off into the sky. Check out the other options for Hulk and Spider-Man options too.
Batman Bookends:
Encourage kids to read along with Batman with this minimalist pair of black bookends.
Hulk Mug:
This 12 oz. ceramic mug is perfect for people who really need to have their morning coffee before playing nice with others in the morning. When coworkers see the big green fist, they’ll know not to mess with Hulk when he’s angry.
Iron Man Helmet Night Light:
These lights are too cool! The 3D effect is an optical illusion – the panel is actually flat, but the creative geometric wireframe style makes it appear to stand out like a hologram. Change the light color to suit your decor, or smoothly cycle between all seven options with the automatic color change mode.
Iron Man Night Light:
Here’s another version in the same style as the previous light, this time featuring Iron Man’s entire bust. Both models come with USB adaptors so they can plug right into your desk at work or at home.
Hulk Fist Wall Light:
“HULK SMASH!” Kids and adults alike can appreciate useful collectibles like this one. This battery-powered wall light can affix to just about any surface, perfect for use as a bedside lamp or convenient nightlight. The 3D cracked-effect decal completes the package for a more convincing look.
Thor’s Hammer LED Night Light:
Thor’s Hammer Mjolnir is powerful enough to destroy mountains. But in this case, Thor (mercifully) just wanted to redecorate a little. It looks just like any other piece of 3D wall decor in the daytime – nobody would even know that it’s a light until you turn it on.
Captain America Shield Night Light:
One of the most versatile offensive and defensive weapons in the Marvel Universe, Captain America’s shield is truly an icon. This piece provides soft directional light ideal for a nightlight or accent, but it’s not so bright as to keep children awake at night or distract from the screen in a media room.
Iron Man Hand LED Night Light:
Repulsors might be Iron Man’s primary weapon – and a powerful one at that - but they make a wonderful accent light as well. Crafted from the same lightweight plastic as the other superhero lights mentioned previously, this piece is light enough to hold secure with screws or even ordinary sticky tape for easy attachment anywhere.
Superhero Wall Lights - Iron Man:
In addition to the glove, this series also includes a mask light for anyone who wants to go all out with an Iron Man theme. The glove and mask look awesome together!
Superhero Wall Decal - Avengers Bedroom Wall Mural:
Can an accent wall get any cooler than this? This mural kit ships in sturdy strips for easy application. The full size comes to just over 12 feet in width and 8 feet in height but can easily be trimmed to fit a smaller wall.
Superhero Comforter – Avengers:
This comforter features striking full color characters from the Avengers Assemble animated series. The logo even glows in the dark!
Superhero Rug - Justice League:
Classic character logos, bright colors, and super appeal… this large rug is the perfect piece to tie together a superhero themed room. Looped nylon design and strong non-slip backing makes it easy to clean, and the 54"x39" size is impossible to overlook.
Superman Bottle Opener Ring:
Impress your friends with your super strength by opening bottles with your bare hands! This bottle opener ring is stylish enough on its own, but the party trick potential makes it worth a look. This item would also make a nice gift for the friend who has everything.
Batman Multi Tool:
It may not come close to the incredible array of gadgets that make The Dark Knight so effective at his job, but this handy multi-tool will take you a step closer. This keyring includes a bottle opener and two screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead). Love to see more bottle openers? Do check out our post on unique bottle openers then!
Batman Power Outlet Sticker (US):
Okay, so this is awesome. Electrical outlets are a little boring once you get over the cute surprised face thing, but this simple sticker instantly turns this ubiquitous fixture into the ultimate crime fighter. It’s extremely subtle as far as decor goes but Batman-loving friends are sure to lose it when they finally notice the Caped Crusader as an outlet.
Beautiful Batman Statue:
Rendered in a modern low-poly style, this geometric Batman statue combines fandom and fine art. It’s crafted from ceramic plaster and stands 14 inches tall – simple and stoic but nonetheless impressive.
Batman Laptop Decals:
Available in a huge range of styles and sizes, laptop decals are a great non-permanent way to make an impression at work or school. While the light-up Apple logo makes these decals even cooler, many would look just as good on any other type of laptop or appropriately sized device. Don’t forget to consider other flat surfaces like phone cases, mirrors, and car windows!
App Controlled Bat Mobile:
Now THIS is the ultimate toy for superhero fans. This rugged RC recreates the speed, sounds, and lights of the Tumbler Batmobile as it appeared in Batman Begins.
Captain America Wall Clock:
This small plastic wall clock is just the right size to go near a desk, in a kid’s room, or inside of a collector’s curio cabinet.
Captain America Waffle Maker:
Are you looking for a housewarming gift but want to make absolutely sure it’s something the recipient doesn’t already own? This waffle maker is the ticket. It makes a single round waffle with the standard grid pattern on one side and imprints the design of the Cap’s shield on the other side.
Superhero Cookie Cutters
Goodies from these delightful Avengers cookie cutters would bring a happy smile to any fan’s face.
Batman Bathroom Set
Deck up your bathroom with this 12 piece set that includes bath & hand towels, wash cloths, wastebasket, toothbrush holder & soap dispenser.
Superhero Shower Curtain
Get the best of both the comic universes in this one cool shower curtain!
Get your Norse god swag on point with this 44 piece toolkit that has all your basic tools, including a hammer (duh), a tape measure, a level, a screwdriver, a wrench, a ratcheting wrench, and a utility knife.
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
