A former piano studio in Taipei, Taiwan has undergone a complete overhaul, at the hands of creative team A Little Design . The space has been transformed into a 17.6 square metre micro flat that features an interior filled entirely with bespoke built-in furniture. With a ceiling height of 3.4 metres and a concrete beam that runs widthways through the apartment, the layout was heavily restricted “Although the owner does not need a big flat, before it was redesigned, the 17.6 square metre unit was too small to fit both a queen-size bed, living space and sufficient storage” said lead architect Szumin Wang. Read on to see how the tight restrictive space became a cosy comfortable home.
Photographer:Hey!Cheese
The homeowner of this micro flat has a busy career that requires her to travel frequently, and occasionally live abroad for short periods of time. When here in Taipei, she values a short commute over a larger living space. Despite its small size, this place has been reconfigured to include all of the essentials in practical proportions. The decor scheme helps the small space to flow well too, with a calming cohesive palette of smooth wood effect furniture and floors, fresh white walls and storage facias, and smart light grey accent pieces.
The sofa area in the compact lounge also doubles up as a minimalist workspace . A well proportioned desktop folds out from the opposite wall, large enough to comfortably hold a laptop, reference material and a strong black coffee. Inside the wall cabinet, beneath the fold-out desktop, there hides a couple of shoe storage volumes.
The closet is integrated into the entryway of the apartment, since there is no standing height up in the mezzanine bedroom. Other storage cabinets make use of every inch of space under the stairs and above the bathroom door. The white volume you see below these wall cupboards is accessed from the bathroom on the opposite side. A glass bathroom door helps to prevent the small living room from feeling claustrophobic, and lets in a greater amount of natural light.
When the fold-out desk/shoe cabinet is closed, the tiny lounge appears more spacious and airy. A neat floor reading lamp is on hand to provide task lighting by the sofa/day bed. The narrowness of the main living space is combated by having the doorway open to the entryway, plus the view of the open sided staircase, and the peekaboo reveal up on the mezzanine platform.
A step up to the bathroom door causes a change in floor level. The platform is integrated as part of the wood effect sofa frame and adjoined bookcase, and it also hides storage space under its lid. A second bookcase climbs one side of the bathroom door as a slimline white tower unit.
The bathroom door slides away so as not to encroach on the floor space. The design team switched the positions of the bathroom and kitchen during the project: “the bathroom was relatively big compared to the small square footage of the whole space, and the kitchen lacked practicability - it was even too small to fit a fridge.”
The design team also combined the entryway and kitchen to create one continuous space.
With the new kitchen position, there is now space for a fridge, washing machine, and an electric stove arranged along two walls.
A relatively generous amount of kitchen work surface was achieved in the tiny galley kitchen , which also features ample storage shelves mounted above and below countertop height.
The wooden open kitchen shelving warms the look of pale grey and white kitchen decor.
Wooden stairs climb up to bed on the mezzanine level.
A modern minimalist balustrade prevents the stairs from feeling cut off from the rest of the room.
Steep risers climb the vertical space quickly.
A tabletop and drawer are located under the concrete beam that runs widthways through the apartment. A small indoor plant and a desk clock pleasantly decorate the surface.
The queen-size mattress fits edge to edge in the width of the white bedroom . With lack of space for a bedside, a modern wall sconce provides reading light. “The prevalence of micro flats is not our answer for the high-housing-price issue in Taipei City but is the result of living issue’s long-term evolution and the task the clients bring to us,” commented lead architect Szumin Wang, whose studio has designed other micro spaces in the city. “We hope the attempt of design could provide some schemes and possibility for this living type.”
After the team swapped the old bathrooms location with the kitchen, its arrangement was of a slightly smaller scale. However, the new grey and white bathroom now benefits from natural sunlight and better ventilation. A tall sliding mirrored door across a cupboard makes the bathroom look even brighter and gives the illusion of more space.
Behind the mirrored door, a narrow recess has been fitted out with handy shelving for towels and toiletries. The door also provides extra privacy when positioned in front of the ribbed glass bathroom door.
A white basin is wall hung beneath a simple cabinet with vanity mirror . Chrome pipework and faucets give the pale bathroom scheme a little sheen.
White brick effect tiles cover every wall, and decorate the bathtub to match.
Compact, comfortable, easy to move, stylish, and convenient are just a few words that spring to mind when we think about floor poufs. Poufs are a fabulous way to do everything from adding a cozy touch to the corner of the bedroom to creating a unique focal point in your entryway. Love hosting but always feel like you run out of seating? Tuck away poufs are the solution you have been waiting for. Looking to throw your feet up after a long day? Try a pouf. Need a seating solution for children that they can drag from room to room? They will love the poufs on our list shaped like animals. Welcome to the decor solution that you have been waiting for!
Knit Pink Pouf
As soft and is it fabulous, this pink pouf is the epitome of affordable style and comfort. Made with soft, chunky wool that is both hypoallergenic and antibacterial, this is a knitted pouf that you don’t want to miss! Available in Pink, Red, Yellow, Dark Grey, or White.
Cylindrical Jute Pouf
Keep it simple and natural with a jute floor pouf. The neutral, tan color is perfect to infuse any room with a more mellow vibe.
Jute Cotton Pouf
This color blocked, jute floor pouf makes a great addition to anywhere from a modern styled bedroom to a plant filled sun room. Also available as a square pouf with a black color blocked bottom.
Cube Shaped Sea Grass Poufs
These cube shaped floor poufs make great footstools or makeshift seating. Their neutral, sea grass color will help them blend with most decor styles. A cylindrical version is also available.
Knitted Pouf
You will be hard pressed to find a floor pouf more cozy than this knitted beauty. Its bright orange color is sure to get noticed, but if orange isn’t for you, no worries. This pouf is available in 17 colors.
Round White Pouf
Soft and lux, this white floor pouf looks ultra inviting with its faux fur upholstery and overstuffed interior. Available in a multitude of shapes and colors.
Furry White Pouf
Ever wonder what it’s like to sit on a cloud? Grab one of these furry floor poufs to find out! A fluffy sensation with a fun aesthetic crafted from faux fur.
Indoor Outdoor Pouf
Indoors or outdoors, wherever you choose to put this floor pouf, it will look fabulous. This pouf features a removable cover, UV coating, and a warranty. Plus, it is available in 8 colors.
Ikea Round Pouf
Keep it simple, classy, and affordable with this SANDARED round pouf. It has a removable, washable cover and comes in multiple colors.
Spherical Woolen Pouf
Get the design ball rolling with this fun, spherical pouf. The fun shape makes it suitable for teenagers, while its spiraled, hand woven finish also make it a great find for those who like a more elegant feel.
Bohemian Style Pouf
A textural Bohemian pouf with tons of personality. The combo of multicolored threading mixed with ivory makes it a fun and inviting piece for living rooms, bedrooms, or beach houses.
Boho Style Mandala Floor Pouf
This oversized, mandala pouf is a must-have for meditation. It is made from 100% organic cotton and natural, vegan vegetable-based dyes. Available in multiple colors and designs.
White & Yellow Patterned Pouf
The bold design of this patterned floor pouf is sure to make it a standout design choice in any room. Available in multiple patterns and colors.
Patchwork Style Pouf
The Indian patchwork of this pouf is sure to turn a few heads with its bold detailing. If you have an existing pouf that needs a revamp, then this cover may be the solution you have been waiting for.
Grey Knitted Square Pouf
A grey knitted exterior makes this square pouf modern and cozy. Made of 100% cotton with handcrafted details.
Pleated Pouf
A grey pouf that is practically ‘pleating’ with you to bring it home! Upholstered in a velvet cotton for extra softness and stuffed tight to retain its shape.
Two Tone Square Pouf
Two tones equal twice the fabulousness! This square pouf is available in the green and grey tone shown or a red and grey variation.
Hexagonal Poufs
The geometric edge that these hexagonal poufs have makes them all the more perfect for a modern home. Also available in Beige and Dark Blue.
Muuto Pentagonal Pouf
The Muuto pentagonal pouf is both eye catching and elegant with its multi directional design and fine fabric upholstery. Also available in Dark Blue or Dark Grey.
Leather Cube Pouf
Premium artisan leather is used to craft each one of these handmade poufs. This pouf will uniquely darken as it ages, adding character and making it one-of-a-kind.
Leather Pouf For An Industrial Setting
This simple leather seating solution is made from 100% goat’s leather. The perfect leather pouf for any industrial home.
Leather Moroccan Pouf
Another leather pouf, but this time with an intricate pattern that gives off a distinct Moroccan vibe. Available in 10 colors.
Cube Shaped Wool Pouf
A contemporary pouf with a shag wool design that you don’t want to miss. The mix of textures on this piece is simply divine.
Boho Style Pouf
Made from 100% cotton and finished off with flowy tassels, this Boho pouf is created with both style and comfort in mind.
Rustic Style Pouf
This rustic pouf has a color blocked design that undoubtedly helps give it a slight edge. Also available as a round pouf with white color blocking.
Modern Minimalist Cylindrical Poufs
It is hard to go wrong with this environmentally friendly pouf that features unique coloring and a handle for easy transportation. Available in Green, Light Blue, Red, Yellow, or Orange (shown).
Knot Shaped Poufs
This knot shaped pouf will have everyone thinking you paid much more for this unique decor piece! A fun floor pillow to include in a living room, playroom, or nursery.
Scandinavian Style Pouf
A Scandinavian style pouf that is oh-so-chic with its woven fabric and contrasting leather handle. Available in 2 sizes and 2 colors.
Normann Copenhagen
This luxury, velour pouf features a hard foam bottom paired with a soft foam top for ultimate comfort. Available in Blush, Dark Blue, Grey, or Dark Red (shown).
Pouf With Zipper Storage
A pouf made for those who need a little extra storage! Perfect for dorm rooms, kid’s spaces, and studio apartments. Available in 12 colors.
Tufted Velvet Pouf
A luxurious looking pouf at a low price. This tufted velvet ottoman is available is multiple shapes and colors.
Velvet Poufs
Multiple tiers give this velvet pouf its striking silhouette that will look great in both Modern and Contemporary homes. Available in multiple colors.
Striped Black And White Pouf
This square poof takes on a classic design with bold black and white stripes. A pattern that is fun enough for kids and sophisticated enough for adults.
Floral Patterned Pouf
A little inspiration from Mother Nature breathes life into this white and green floor pouf with its floral motif. Also available in Sage, Navy Blue, Red, or Yellow.
Plush Lux Style Pouf With Metallic Base
A pouf that is out to steal the spotlight! This lux option is stunning with its unusual shape, velvet upholstery, and gold base. Available in Cream, Grey, or Pink.
Ottoman Pouf With Golden Base
The velvet upholstery and gold base of this ottoman make for a contemporary design with a sophisticated aesthetic. The height is perfect for use alongside a low makeup vanity table . Available in 6 colors.
Golden Pouf
A golden pouf that is sleek and affordable with its metallic finish and low price tag. If you are looking for more storage, this golden nugget is also available as a storage ottoman.
Silver Sequins Pouf
A floor pouf with a mermaid’s touch! Get one of these glamorous poufs that resemble metallic fish scales in Silver, Gold, Blue, or Pink
Kids’ Pouf
Monkey see, monkey do, this is the pouf for you! This floor pouf featuring a giant monkey head will be loved by both kids and fun adults.
Cat Shaped Pouf
Another animal shapes floor pouf, but this time with a more elegant design. This fun cat head will look great in any kid’s space, but its simplistic design also makes a great quirky piece for adult spaces too.
Kids Pouf Chair
Make any corner a cozy corner with this oversized kid’s pouf chair. 12 designs available, all machine washable.
Beanbag Pouf
The classic beanbag chair gets a modern makeover with an elegant knitted cover. Finally you can fulfill your childhood dream of having a beanbag chair in your living room—but without sacrificing style.
Pebble Shaped Floor Poufs
Usually we don’t recommend rocks as a comfortable seating solution, but these are definitely an exception! These pebble shaped floor poufs are a fun design that is sure to turn a few heads with their unusual appearance.
Pebble Cube Pouf
Earthy tones and a unique texture make this pouf an unusual find. Crafted from 100% New Zealand wool.
Tree Trunk Shaped Pouf
Great for a woodland themed nursery or playroom, this tree trunk pouf is both earthy and playful. Built to last with a cover constructed of furniture grade velvet.
Cut Tree Trunk Shaped Pouf
An appealing pouf for nature lovers that will serve as a practical piece in any room. Use as a footstool, chair, or side table.
Rose Flower Pouf
Get a bouquet that will never wilt with this rose flower pouf. A fun design with a distinctly feminine aura and an air of romance.
Luxury Pouf
Beautiful and functional, this lightweight pouf is begging for attention with its bright color options and washable cover. Also available in leather.
Trillium Diamond Shaped Ottoman/Pouf Set
The slight height variation of the wedges and variety of colors make this one eye catching ottoman. Fun fact: The interesting design and name of this pouf was inspired by Ontario’s official flower, the white trillium.
Pet Home Pouf
A great place to rest your feet while your favorite pooch catches some Zs. This pet home pouf includes 2 pet cushions and is available in Sandy Beige or Misty Blue (shown).
Outdoor Pouf
Because every space in your home should benefit from a floor pouf, including your patio. This outdoor pouf set features 2 poufs and a small table. Available in Brown, White, or Taupe.
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
