Super small with space saving design features, these three tiny apartment designs have plenty of inspiration to help smart apartment dwellers get their compact home fit and smoothly functioning for a comfy life. Each one of these places conjure an inviting atmosphere with plenty of eye-catching design packed into just under 30 square metres of living space. We’re touring a spot for the minimalist mindset with curious wooden ‘action walls’, a colourful creation with a yellow, apricot and mint mix, and an elongated layout with a crisp white, grey and red accent decor scheme. Floor plans included at the end of each small apartment tour.
Designer:Studio Wok
The unique design of this 28 square metre apartment was born from the challenge of bestowing a tiny place with the living comfort that is enjoyed in a much larger home. Service areas were designed with a fluid and minimalist mindset to maintain as much space as possible in the living dining combo . A simple plywood storage “box” is balanced by the brightness of the balcony doors.
The glass doors cut away an open visual to the outdoor area to extend the feeling of space. The plywood volume conceals a wealth of storage options, from an open bookcase to a spacious closet. A custom flexible sofa bed design scoots away on castors.
A white ceiling and matching floor reflect the natural light from the large window deep into the apartment.
A plethora of indoor plants stir an energising infusion of green that complements the natural wood grain walls. A red anglepoise table lamp provides a perfectly contrasting pop of red. See more ideas for unique table lamps here.
Directly opposite our first volume of plywood storage, a second ‘action wall’ comes into play. This time the centre of the piece reveals a double Murphy bed.
The contrast of wood grain against a crisp white ceiling dramatises the sharp slope of the room.
Wood cladding encases the entryway into the kitchen.
Floating shelves extrude from the wall of the small blue kitchen to hold colourful gadgets, curiosities, kitchen essentials and plants.
A sliding door at the opposite side of the Murphy bed leads to the bathroom, which is given the same solid blue decor treatment as the kitchen.
A compartment for the air conditioning fills another spot in the plywood wall.
The balcony becomes valuable square footage when linked with the living space.
The custom built living space offers great flexibility to facilitate changing activities through the day…
… And at night.
Visualizer:Mikhailova Sasha
This 28 square metre rental apartment is located near the historical park in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The concept for the small apartment is based upon brightly coloured accent walls and furniture. Large chip terrazzo dances behind apricot kitchen stools, whilst a mint green bar stool uplifts the neighbouring desk area. The shining designer table lamp is an Atollo table lamp .
The apricot kitchen bar stools create a tropical pairing with a papaya yellow kitchen .
An optical illusion is created within a partition wall, being open at the top to show the kitchen lighting, but mirrored behind its shelving to reflect the bedroom window.
Whilst a large wall of warming yellow kitchen cabinets dominate one side of the apartment, the opposite side of the kitchen is an understated affair.
A mint square is painted behind an open shelving unit to increase its effect.
The mint accent finds a place in the bedroom too, where it is used in fresh horizontal color blocking behind the headboard. Modern wall sconces and a slimline vertical radiator balance out each side of the bed.
The tropical yellow colourway of the kitchen reaches out around the home entryway, where it engulfs a closet and the front door.
The colour scheme abruptly changes upon entering a mint green bathroom.
Linear bathroom vanity lights sharply highlight a swathe of mint green tile.
Apartment floor plan.
Visualizer:Oh, Dog
Finally, we end our small home tours in an elongated 29 square metre studio layout in Saint-Petersburg, which was designed for a young female doctor. In the compact lounge area, a small sofa is stylishly teamed with a square ottoman coffee table and a round counterpart.
The apartment features compact furniture from IKEA, Oh, Dog and ONE mabel. Lighting: is by AGO, Santa & Cole, Bosma lighting and Центрсвет.
A modern fruit bowl draws the eye to a simple kitchen peninsula that doubles as a dining spot.
Slender sofa arms leave enough space to slot a small side table in at each side.
Different side table silhouettes keep the design interesting and unpredictable.
A book ledge utilises the free wall space above the sofa, without encroaching on the depth of the room.
A red wall light provides an appealing pop of colour in the grey and white space.
A Cesta table lamp drops a matching red wire anchor.
The wall opposite the sofa is given over to an extensive array of cabinets that double as a TV unit .
In the interests of creating maximum storage space without cluttering the layout, the living room storage cabinets were designed to merge subtly into the white kitchen run.
A bookcase marks a divide between the two areas of use.
Two speaker s slot neatly into a nook above the TV.
An ornamental skull drops in another shot of red.
A moody blue backsplash contrasts a red linear suspension light and red sink in the kitchen.
The small bathroom sink is held tight into a narrow shelf to create a space saving vanity area.
Scented candles and soap dispenser s tuck away into a recessed shelf around the tub.
Elongated floor plan.
Vivid colour accents and unusual quirks compose this highly unconventional home interior, designed by Irada Allahverdiyeva . Eye-catching contemporary artwork and unexpected decor elements build up a unique backdrop inside the living spaces, and in the bedroom, with unusual furniture adding layers to the eccentricity. A key pink colour thread weaves its way from place to place, sweetening its surroundings at first with a restrained show in two dining areas of the home, before ruling rambunctiously inside of a glamorous pink bathroom design. Luxurious gold finishes come heavily into play here too, with lustrous gold trims, gold lighting and a fabulous marble, oak and gold finished kitchen arrangement.
Designer:Irada Allahverdiyeva| Visualizer:Fuad Manafov
The multi-toned grey living room is sliced to create sections of cool and warmth. Bright blue “crosshairs” are positioned over the intersections to shake up the neutral base, and to keep the eye wandering with curiosity.
Marbled wall sconces complement the textured finish of the wall paint. The lamps flank each side of vivid purple living room wall art , keeping the powerful piece looking bright all around the clock.
A playful balloon dog ornament draws its colour inspiration from the blue crosshairs placed around about.
The arty space is softened by a marbled living room rug, which merges the grey, blue and natural golden tones from the coffee table into one integral connective piece.
Above the racetrack coffee table, a unique gold chandelier casts a contemporary silhouette.
An armchair is turned away from the living room sofa, facing toward a cosy fireplace instead. A pastel tri-colour floor lamp and a small side table fashion the lounge chair into a welcoming reading spot.
An olive green fireplace surround lays contrast against the red and orange open flames.
Cabinets have been custom made to fit the remaining wall area above the fireplace .
The living room dining room combo is loosely split by an open shelved room divider .
Decorative items populate the shelves around the edge of the room divider, whilst the centre of the piece is reserved for a rotating TV mount.
The open concept TV wall allows natural light to be shared from one space to the next.
A small wall clock curiously overlaps the cabinet doors above the mantelpiece to gain the centre spot.
The sofa’s ribbed fabric is complemented by the textural modern coffee table .
From the couch, the kitchen becomes a rich gold and oak backdrop to the unique TV stand .
The integrated oven falls neatly just out of sight behind the TV screen.
The living room stands open the hallway and home entryway, where wood cladding builds a warm effect. Frameless doors blend smoothly into the grain.
The formal dining area is brightened with blue wall art and a colour coordinated dining room pendant light .
A chunky modern fruit bowl cradles a fruit centerpiece.
Four of the modern dining chairs bring a sweet pink accent to the dining area, whilst neutral high backed dining chairs elevate the head and foot of the table.
Colour blocked dining room curtains extend the blue accent to the windows, and add in a shot of green to complement the fireplace in the adjoined lounge space.
As we move around to the opposite side of the central, room dividing TV stand, we come to a small breakfast area in the kitchen.
On this side of the room, it’s a pedestal round kitchen table that establishes the pop of pink, whilst the dining chairs are an unusual striped design.
Blue and green kitchen curtains match those in the formal dining room to form a cohesive flow.
The wall leading into the home entryway has been nominated for the pink treatment too, completing the colour link between all three spaces.
Wooden slats make up the opposite wall of the walkway into the room. The slatted panel defines the boundary of the L-shaped kitchen , without fully blocking the end visual.
Chunky marble countertops and a matching backsplash spread a luxe finish through the centre of the kitchen installation. Warm LEDs shine from beneath the kitchen wall cabinets, as though their rich gold finish is glowing.
A frame of cool LED light displays a piece of modern art in the entryway.
Two mirrored closets expand the sense of space and light in the foyer, with a stylish marble section filling the space between.
show the way into the living room.
Inside the arty bedroom scheme, a colourfully striped statement wall crashes into a wood slatted panel behind a winged headboard and two prism-like bedside tables.
Above the platform bed , a unique linear suspension light pulls in line with the striped theme.
Another wood slatted section makes an attractive mount for the bedroom TV.
A mini bedroom pendant light spotlights a treasured item.
By the window, a floor to ceiling mirror cuts down behind a floating vanity unit.
An industrial chic wireframe bedside table lamp coordinates with the bedframe’s black colourway.
Heavy drapes frame the large window in smoky grey.
tiles entirely cover the back of a huge shower enclosure, setting a fearlessly colourful theme.
Marble strikes an alternating diagonal vein down the back of a recessed shelving unit in the concealing cistern wall.
An elegant black and gold pendant light dips low by the bathroom vanity, highlighting a unique round mirror. See more bathroom vanity lights here.
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
