Give your tea time a cat theme with this adorable mug .

Creating unique living spaces in a studio apartment for one can be a challenge. Between having enough storage space and feeling like there’s enough room, there’s much to consider. Designed by Cartelle Design , this studio apartment for one located in Saint Petersburg offers 38.4 square meters of living space without sacrificing style. As with any apartment with a small footprint, the first challenge comes in the form of creating comfortable living space that allows the occupant to move freely and have designated areas for dining, sleeping, and entertaining. This apartment accomplishes all three through smart use of dividers, building materials, and storage.

The space consists of several distinct areas: a bright and airy kitchen, a bedroom, a functional workspace, and a relaxation area, complete with accent chair and modern sofa .

With the placement of the sofa parallel to the bedroom and clever room dividers, the studio feels as if it has rooms in spite of its compact shape. Even so, it flows together well as the designer uses a variety of grays and light woods in the main living spaces.

From the living area, a small terrace is accessible. Natural light spills through the glass doors and kitchen window. This small footprint is light and open.

To keep the feel of the space from feeling too heavy, the designers chose sleek and minimal furniture for the living and kitchen areas. In the kitchen, tall slim white bar stools sit at the island. In the living area, a contemporary couch, accent chair, and round coffee table make the space feel inviting without being cluttered.

Decor is kept at a minimum within the space. Instead, the designer focused on geometry and a combination of materials to create a soothing, contemporary aesthetic. Shades of gray and natural wood runs throughout the apartment with black partitions, blinds, and a dark sofa to add contrast to the room.

From most of the apartment, one can see out to the balcony where views of a sunrise or sunset are made easily accessible.

The home workspace is kept ultra-minimalist with a built-out shelf desk that offers storage underneath - if needed.

Between the kitchen and living area, a flat screen television is mounted in such a way that it can be viewed while preparing meals, eating breakfast, or relaxing on the sofa.

One of the most unique features is that of the bedroom’s wall partitions. These sliding metal partitions make the sleeping area feel private, but at the same time part of the overall space.

Lighting is a key design feature throughout the apartment. In the living room, a floor reading lamp next to the sofa gives just enough light yet can be easily moved or adjusted for use in the bedroom. Along the accent wall the runs between the workspace, living room, and bed room, lighting along the wall’s borders creates interest and keeps the feeling seamless as you move through the space.

The bedroom is set on its own platform, made from the same natural wood that flows throughout the flooring. Along one wall, built-in shelving and tall cabinets offer plenty of wardrobe storage.

The bed sits comfortably within the custom-built structure. A single adjustable reading light above the head of the bed add illumination when needed.

From the bedroom, one can see to the hallway’s full-length mirror, which makes the already open space feel bigger.

As these partitions are sliding, they can be adjusted for creating additional privacy.

The bedroom’s sliding partition walls also allow for the occupant to see out into the kitchen and into the living area.

From the living area, a kitchen is accessible and features a kitchen island with seating for two. The kitchen bar stools were a smart choice for creating a distinct dining area within the studio.

The main palette for the kitchen area is white, which works well with the soft gray on the walls. Cabinets are kept smooth and uniform for a modern look.

When daylight isn’t pouring in through the nearby window, a linear chandelier illuminates the space.

As a minimalist kitchen in an already tight space, the layout is simple yet effective. The tall cabinets above and below the sink area give the kitchen area additional storage capacity.

The kitchen countertops are a light terrazzo, which can also be found in the bathroom area. This keeps the kitchen from feeling dark and avoids creating too much contrast.

Tying in the aesthetic of the light natural wood, a wooden fruit bowl is one of the few decorative touches throughout the space.

In keeping with the palette, light gray tile and terrazzo dominate the color scheme while red bathroom tiles and black fixtures add contrast.

The bathroom’s shower cabinet is lined with ceramic tiles at the top and side, creating the feeling of a single structure.

While compact, the bathroom offers additional storage space under the vanity and minimal decorative flourishes to keep it feeling neat and tidy.

Storage is always a concern in studio apartments, however, this design overcomes the challenge by utilizing vertical space. Floor to ceiling cabinetry and custom closets allow for enough storage in the main living areas.

By using stylish yet functional partitions, a neutral palette throughout, and efficient use of the studio space, this apartment floor plan is a perfect example of how to create a stylish yet compact home.
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