Compact spaces are a satisfying source of challenge for interior designers. When you can practically see every room from any location in the home, it immediately becomes obvious why many small apartment residents opt for safe and neutral decor. The homes featured in this post take a daring approach – embracing bold color themes and creative decor despite their limited floor plans. Whether you need inspiration for your efficient apartment or just want ideas for a single room, these interiors offer unique ideas to consider.
Architect:KDVA Architects
This small apartment definitely doesn’t shy away from the adventure of a bold decor theme. Violet, lavender, and bright fire engine red define the interior – thanks to careful decorating techniques. Bright colors are difficult to work into a constricted space. So even if you don’t personally love the colors, the composition techniques are still worth studying.
Risky design decisions really paid off. Textured walls, bright furniture, and extensive contrast all command admiration.
The gem tone inspiration isn’t understated – the central rug says it all.
Purple-tinted acrylic panels separate the kitchen and dining areas from the living room proper. Decals featuring a cherry tomato and a silver fork embrace pop art influence.
The black divider in the open living space helps to conceal the bedroom. A purple cushion serves as the perfect backrest, making this space just as comfortable in the daytime as it is at night.
Architect:Stanislav Kaminskyi
This open layout living room works around a unique arrangement: the dining table sits directly between the sofa and the television. Low-profile furniture makes it possible to enjoy the television from anywhere in the living area.
Some may find the table’s arrangement too distracting, but it might be a nice choice for residents that entertain dinner guests more often than they watch television.
Plush but also sculptural, the incredibly unique dining chairs are from the Serpentine Collection by Éléonore Nalet.
A sliding door conceals the bedroom for privacy and to reduce the appearance of visual clutter in the small living room.
The kitchen also enjoys the privacy of a sliding door. Its charmingly imperfect tile walls are a wonderful complement for the smooth wood panels.
As far as compact kitchen layouts go, this design is especially functional and totally worth of emulating.
Low-profile design ensures the bedroom furniture doesn’t look too “out of place” next to the living room selection.
It’s the definition of coziness with a wall-to-wall mattress. The accompanying padded platform extends its function as a seat, a table, or just a step up to the bed.
Do you remember the unique grout work in the kitchen? The same purposefully imperfect wall tiles transform the bathroom into an interesting crossover between modernism and urban industrial.
Varied textures enliven an otherwise very straightforward bathroom design. Wood cabinetry jumps out from the greyscale decor to anchor the design.
Designer:Alexander Yukhimets
Warm interior lighting and comfortable furniture plays a defining role in this modern urban apartment design. While a concrete cladding might otherwise feel too severe in an apartment as small as this one, glass walls allow each area to interact with the others for a more spacious and carefree aesthetic. Curtains accommodate privacy when needed.
Smooth wood floors make the interior feel more welcoming. The office skips the wood floor in favor of a fully greyscale theme.
Decorated with glass and concrete, wire and wood – perfectly industrial but surprisingly cozy.
Visualizer:Viktor Kuznetsov
With a floor plan of just 39 square meters, this apartment interior has to accomplish a lot of functionality with very little space. Even with a compact floor plan, the designer didn’t back down from an interesting decor theme – striking textures and dramatic lighting makes the interior feel flashy but approachable.
Lighting bathes the concrete walls and smooth cabinetry from all sides. Paired with linear architecture, the light becomes an organic decor staple in its own right.
Designer:Roy Fredy
This interior fits the living room, dining room, and kitchen into a floor plan the size of a medium bedroom. A lovely variety of smooth wood tones makes the apartment feel warm and welcoming – a natural decor theme that remains easy on the eyes.
In such a small space, every decor object carries an even greater weight. This home uses simple colorful prints to great effect.
Many designers naturally shy away from large artwork in a compact apartment, but this apartment’s chalk-art style mural was too fun to pass up.
The kitchen layout is especially inspiring. The dining nook doubles as extra workspace while preparing meals, extending the functionality of existing prep surfaces.
It could easily transform into a handy work desk too, especially if the resident isn’t the type to get distracted by the presence of a television.
Light wood, white countertops, and a matte black backsplash make up the surprisingly bold kitchen palette.
You could practically reach any surface from the center of the room. For small living enthusiasts, this space makes perfect sense.
Personal spaces like the bathroom and bedroom all reside down the hallway.
With a partial headboard wall, the bed enjoys a touch of comforting privacy even while the door is open.
It’s small, compact, efficient, and still remains stylish.
Designing for kids can be tough. Going down the road of themes risks that in a few years they’ll have totally changed their mind and you’re stuck with a color, bedding, and maybe even a bunch of art you just can’t keep. The designers we’ve gathered for you here have taken a modern approach to children bedroom design. Playing with bright spaces, fresh colors, and fun elements - these spaces are kid friendly and will last well into the teen years.
Visualizer:Olia Paliichuk
This room is modern and fresh. We love the mix of the maroon, muted tangerine, and that ashy blue because they pop against one another but in a subdued way. It’s fun but classy. Plus, we adore that neon light.
From here you can see some of the more fun, kid elements in the space. There’s an adorable bear design on the wall, a cushion for reading on, and a nice homework desk right under the window. The tv cabinet is packed with storage for all those toys and crafts too, making this space perfectly organized.
What’s great about the bear is that he’s not too childish. He is cute but created in a very modern and tasteful way - so this piece could become a favorite that the child carries for years to come.
From here you can see some of that awesome storage we were talking about. Slide books into the side, open up the front for baskets, and underneath there is even extra room if you needed to add bins. Here you can also see the awesome color play at work.
Visualizer:Olia Paliichuk
We adore this kids design because it is so fun and fresh. Granted, this one is a bit more childish and might be harder to grow into with that bed frame - but you have to admit how cute it is. The light tangerine walls bring out the color in the fox decals, and we love the herringbone floors.
There’s tons of storage in this space which is a must for kids rooms. There’s drawers under the bed, shelves above and the (massive desk) and even under the ottoman attached to the bed.
And did we mention there’s closets too? We love the color play in this room as well - yellow and blue are contrasting colors so they always look great together. But we love how it’s not just baby blue and mellow yellow - because it adds a bit of sophistication to the space.
Another fun element of the room are those lamps hanging above the bed frame. The bed frame then becomes multipurpose - a place where kids can hang christmas lights, string art and photos, or put blankets up and make a tent.
This kids bathroom is fun, and bright. We love how the sink faucets have a pop of color, and how the rest of the room is modern and looks really easy to clean.
There are some more fun elements in here too like the reindeer with a light as a nose, and that great towel and bathrobe rack.
These pieces are fun and funky. They do have a more childish element to them, but this is a kids bath after all.
The tiles are perfect for this space. The colors are bright and fun for kids - but still modern enough to be a funky adult accent piece.
Visualizer:Olia Paliichuk
This kids bedroom will easily stand the test of time - until the teen years at least. The designers been able to achieve this with a modern and fresh color scheme, and classic elements that can be added onto in the years to come. For example, new pillows could be replaces when the round ones wear out.
The muted, peachy pink is a wonderful choice because it’s not overpowering. Pinks, purples, and other bright colors can lose their luster after a few years - but a classic color like this will last. We also adore how it’s been paired with that light turquoise.
This desk will serve as a drawing table, math homework spot, and college application writing space in the years to come. It’s modern design won’t go out of style and there’s tons of good desk space and storage.
The bathroom continues the pink and turquoise color scheme which is fun and classy. The blue tiles make the space look airy and clean.
While this bathroom is perfect for any kid - some adults might be jealous of this well designed space. There’s plenty of counters and storage - plus the colors are fresh and fun.
Visualizer:Olia Paliichuk
This kids room is totally fun. We love the pop of color, and how the rest of the room is more muted but filled with great pieces that will last into the teen years like the dresser, shelves, and table.
A kid needs space to play, and this room has it. With a kids’ rug for spreading out legos, a beanbag for reading, and a desk for crafts - this room gives the kids plenty of space to get creative.
Over the years those shelves are going to hold many toys and schoolbooks. These are a great design that can be utilized for years to come.
But of course, it is a kids space so a fun element like this wall decal, and that climbing rope and ladder add some of that young whimsy you just need in a kids bedroom.
Visualizer:Olia Paliichuk
This loft space is an incredible room any kid would enjoy. The loft makes room for a reading nook and desks and then leaves the rest of the room open for play.
On the other side there’s a whole other loft fitted perfectly with a ladder, a peep hole window, tons of comfy pillows - and that bright chartreuse. This color is amazing because it’s fresh and fun, but also really modern.
This is the spot where any kid would love to spend their time reading or scheming.
We didn’t mention there was also a slide, and even a jungle gym to climb up in there! This element is totally kid friendly and we adore it for it’s creativity.
The beautiful chartreuse looks great against that ice blue and those warm wood floors. These colors keep this space nice and fun.
And what kid wouldn’t want to slide into their play area? Parents, take note!
Visualizer:Łukasz Głogowski
This room is packed with storage and great design. We love the alcove created for the bed because it’s fun, but also frees up space in the rest of the room.
What a desk! That will be the perfect spot for multiple projects, and those shelves are going to hold storybooks for years to come. We love the light ashy wood they’ve used in the desk and drawers because it looks great against the cool blue.
Besides the desk and shelves, there’s ample hidden space in this room as well like under the bed, and in the closets. It’s all about maximizing the space you have.
From in the bed you can see just how fun this room is. There’s a ladder leading up to a little alcove for reading or stashing toys.
More storage! Can you believe it? When designing a kids room think about all the years of stuff that’s going to accumulate and try and find smart solutions to help fit it all.
From above you can see that the space they’re working with isn’t all that large. But by using bright colors, and getting creative they’ve totally maximized this rooms potential.
Visualizer:Alexey Gulesha
This last one from designer Alexey Gulesha has a minimalist sheen to it.
The designer expertly handles the tricky ceiling by integrating it to a cozy bed nook…
… with generous storage.
The blank side wall is the perfect canvas for some leisure.
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
