Ranging from fun to fabulous, these five modern studio apartments demonstrate a variety of colour palettes and creative layouts to complement and maximise small spaces. Studio apartment design number one is a sophisticated white and brown tonal abode with a daring glass bathroom design and built-in blocks that define each zone in the open layout. Stark black and white, pale grey and natural elements make up the crisp interiors of Scandi-inspired apartment designs two and three. An explosion of colour and botanical introductions shape the fourth, whilst aqua blue and yellow accents brighten things up at our final stop. Detailed floor plans are scattered throughout for reference.
Visualizer:吴 振宇
Rich brown accents warm the pale grey and white decor scheme of our first studio apartment interior. Built-in blocks of storage, varying floor height and design elements define zones within the small layout, from a raised bedroom platform with a headboard storage wall to a glass screened kitchen with wraparound track lights.
A unique coffee table creates a wave of interest through the central lounge space. Its creamy stone finish is complemented by a plethora of perimeter LEDs that emit a soft golden glow around the ceiling line, sleek baseboards, and wall contours.
A unit of shelving is recessed into the side of the headboard storage wall. The decoratively backlit shelves work double duty as a wall light next to the sofa.
Abstract art pulls all of the tonal hues together in one definitive piece.
The stylish living room chair is the Easy chair that was designed by Pierre Jeanneret in the 1950s.
A shallow media unit makes a space-saving piece beneath the wall-mounted TV.
The raised bedroom platform hosts a floor bed. The small change in floor height and material crisply differentiates the sleep space from the directly adjacent lounge area.
A backlit recess creates the impression of a modern fireplace at the foot of the bed. Built-in storage units are banked along both ends of the bed, providing the lion’s share of storage for the apartment.
A soft grey bed set and brown accent pillows provide a cohesive continuation of the lounge decor palette. Natural light from the large window streams unobstructed over the low bed.
The L-shaped kitchen layout divides the general living space from a glass wall bathroom design.
The kitchen units build a small privacy screen behind the glass WC.
A round bathroom mirror drops a bold black accent above a bespoke cream stone vanity unit.
The stone vanity cuts through the bathroom’s glass wall to form an outer shelf for the entryway.
Visualizer:Ygest Design Studio
Stark white and pale grey decor with natural wood and woven accents create this Scandi-inspired studio space. A gallery of monochrome wall art and two textured area rugs zone the lounge from the bedroom area.
A large wall of shelving is delicately arranged with a multitude of design items, decorative vases, books and candles, with a practical row of rattan storage baskets tucked uniformly along the baseline.
Sheer black curtains complement the black powder-coated shelves and monochrome artwork.
Rustic log side tables serve the bedsides, sofa and even the kitchen.
Shorter black-coated shelves create an open pantry in the small kitchen , where they create dark contrast opposite white and oak cabinets.
Visualizer:Ngurah Arya
Another white, grey and wood studio space takes on a slightly darker tone, with walnut furniture finishes and graphite accents. A small sofa slots ideally between the kitchen and a half-panelled room divider across the bedroom.
The upper half of the room divider is glass to allow light from the only window to illuminate the whole of the studio apartment, all the way to the kitchen diner in the back.
A modern fruit bowl ignites a bright copper accent.
Designer:Fateeva Design| Photographer:Sergey Polyushko
This 30 square metre apartment is located in Kyiv, Ukraine. Colourful accents infuse an element of fun into a layered botanical setting where indoor plants rule.
Two round coffee tables place a punchy black accent at the centre of the predominantly green lounge.
This project saw a minimum of compromises to ensure maximum self-expression of the client. The clean layout was constructed with a simple set of materials that achieve zoning under different colours.
A combination of green and blue decor elements enclose the bedroom nook. By alternating areas of dense, deeply saturated colour with light and airy expanses, the home interior appears more spacious than its actual dimensions.
A small dining table anchors a heavy black accent amongst the abundance of white surfaces in the kitchen.
White integrated appliances complete the all-white kitchen run.
Pink kitchen cabinets set a warming contrast opposite the wall of white.
The pink and white galley kitchen colours an inviting hallway off the home entryway. A mirrored wall increases the sense of space by the front door.
In the bathroom, an orange ceiling and matching vanity unit add playful punch.
Terrazzo tiles fashion an en vogue backsplash.
Studio apartment layout.
Designer:Richard Guilbault| Photographer:Meero
Our final apartment is a bright, fun and lively 30 square metre Parisian flat. Aqua blue and yellow accents create a sense of movement in the small surroundings. Three unique kitchen pendant lights mark out the edge of the kitchen diner over a portable dining island.
The original flat configuration has been transformed from four separate dark rooms to accommodate a new open living space.
The reconfigured open space benefits from the combined light of two windows.
A long white and birch plywood unit runs the length of the flat, forming a backbone of multipurpose storage. An electric panel is concealed here, along with integrated appliances, a pantry, fridge, wine storage, TV, and closet.
The raised, cabin-like, sleeping space conceals a large storage chest in the floor.
The intimate bathroom only measures only 2.3 square metres.
Geometric tiles fashion an eye-catching graphic floor treatment under a small farmhouse sink .
Simplified luxury sweeps through this elegant modern home design, which comes filled with multiple relaxation spaces. Visualised by ArtPartner Architects , this tranquil home design puts focus on self-care with a home sauna, steam room, and several spa-like bathroom interiors. The impressive yet understated interior also features an airy and light-filled double height living room with expansive views over the cityscape and sky. The lofty living room forms a wide connective column that unites the glass-sided upper volumes of the dwelling, creating the ultimate open plan living experience. A coordinated colour and material palette of soothing neutrals, marble vein and modern slatted texture form calming cohesiveness.
A cascade of orb pendant lights rain down from the lofty ceiling of double height living room . Even when switched off, the glass globes magically catch the sunlight from stacked windows that blow open the side of the home to the impressive panorama.
At the centre of the room, an understated glass coffee table echoes the black framed window aesthetic.
A grey modular sofa pulls around the edge of the lounge, looking in toward a stylishly slatted TV wall. Perimeter lighting accentuates the textured wall panels. A modern fireplace flickers gently along the top of a sleek floating media unit.
The opposite side of the modular sofa arrangement is directed toward the fabulous city view, creating a second and very different lounging experience that is more meditative for reflection or reading.
The airy double height lounge area flows directly into the kitchen diner, which is tucked cosily underneath the upper level of the home.
A modern kitchen island is situated to take advantage of the view. Repositionable track lights illuminate the prep area and dining countertop.
A marble kitchen backsplash rises up around double banked wall units. Integrated appliances recess into a wall of dark slatted texture.
Inside the modern home office , the desk is directed away from the wall. Facing the desk toward the door creates good Feng Shui, and establishes a commanding presence.
The L-shaped desk features plentiful storage in its base to avoid visual office clutter. A backlit bookcase offers a place to display a curated collection of decorative items.
The floating media unit in the living room melds into a minimalistic cantilevered staircase design . LED stair lights illuminate the treads, whilst a large orb lamp emits an atmospheric glow underneath.
Upstairs, a glass sauna room offers a welcoming spot for self-care at home.
There is also a home photographic/video production studio, equipped with a white-screen, box light and a full length mirror. Linear wall lights are spaced all around the perimeter of the round room, distributing even illumination.
A plush lounge chair sets down the focal point.
The sauna area leads straight into a luxurious bathroom.
A narrow privacy wall screens the toilet from the bathtub and the rest of the open concept space.
LED strip lights brighten the shaded corner.
The bathtub has a view out over the open plan living room below, and to the skyscape beyond the double height windows.
Inside the luxury bedroom , eye-catching bedroom pendant lights bring a metallic accent into the dark walnut and black decor theme. An illuminated marble headboard is set in an asymmetrical arrangement with a modern platform bed.
An Eames style lounge chair and a floor reading lamp make up a comfortable reading area in the window.
A glass wall makes a clear connection with the ensuite shower room.
A black ceiling gives the shower area an intimate feel despite its open sides.
The toilet cistern concealment wall features beautifully illuminated inset marble panels.
A basin unit is lit around the base to match the glow of the bathroom feature wall.
The glass wall ensuite gives added depth to the bedroom.
The second beautiful bedroom is decorated with a dramatic rock feature wall behind a towering headboard design. A swing arm wall lamp is affixed to a section of wood panelling that contrasts smoothly with the rugged rock.
A grey bedroom rug creates grey layers with the low bed base and grey bed covers.
Grey window drapes gather in the corner of the room, creating a cosy backdrop for the bedroom reading nook.
Another textural feature wall adds character to the third bedroom.
On one side of the upholstered bed , a group of unique pendant lights bring a lustrous brass accent. A simple wall lamp adds reading light to the other side.
Floating bedside units affix to the textured art wall.
A home work space/dressing table fits into the bedroom alcove.
A modern wall sconce brightens the walkway.
Another vanity table resides inside of a luxurious walk-in wardrobe, alongside a beautifully custom fitted system of shelving, garment rails, and floating drawer units.
Inside the laundry room, a washing machine and tumble dryer stack tall to save space. Vertical shelving units flank either side, storing laundry supplies and household cleaning items.
Tiny LEDs sparkle like starlight over the vaulted ceiling of a dreamy steam room.
All of the bathrooms in the home are equally spa-like, clad in smooth marble, atmospherically lit and custom fitted.
The repeated combination of materials and colours throughout each room creates a cohesive calm.
Despite the repetition in materials, each space has its own unique twist.
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
