Last month we looked at the increasingly popular trend of using green in design. This week we are taking an even bolder step… black!
This is truly a foray over to the dark side, and likely something you’d never previously considered in your own home. However, using black is not all doom and gloom; there are in fact a number of surprising benefits to using dark colors in design. Still not convinced? Well, read on and see if we can change your mind!
White: bright but dull
White is the go-to color for most homeowners. It’s an easy, inoffensive, and versatile color. However, light doesn’t interact with white walls in a particularly interesting way. All subtleties are lost as white reflects all colors at once. So, it can be fairly dull. Darker dynamic colors, on the other hand, can make a space more interesting and full of depth. As the light changes during the day, a dark room’s wall color will also change. Black walls, you may be surprised to learn, can have cool or warm undertones. If a full room of black is too much for you, consider painting just one accent wall to provide a bit of variety and depth.
Help your space grow
Using dark colors for your large functional furniture as well as the walls has benefits, too. Large bookcases, tables, or shelving units painted to match the dark walls behind allows them to blend in. This can make the room feel more cohesive, rather than having items visually stick out. This technique will also make your walls appear longer and taller, while providing a more elevated and luxurious look to your space.
Another tip concerns the finish of your wall paint. If space is limited, then try to steer clear from glossy walls. They will pronounce the edges and boundaries your room, making it appear smaller. Instead, go for a matte finish. This will disguise the room’s junctures and will make the space actually feel bigger than it really is.
Darkest before dawn
Do you find you have trouble sleeping? Perhaps your bedroom’s color is a contributing factor. Try painting your room in a darker shade. Mulberry, for example, creates a warm and comforting environment that will help you to doze off. Using dark draperies will help too. Blackout curtains or blinds will ensure total darkness when it’s time for some shut-eye. Blackout curtains are also effective at keeping the heat outside, leaving you cool and comfortable at night.
A touch dramatic
If you’re averse to going the whole way and painting your room black, then instead try highlighting some key features with dark shades. This can add some great contrast to a room, and really make it pop! Painting doors, bannisters or paneling can really bring a place to life.
So, having read this blog, are you now converted to using black paint at home? It’s a bold move to make, but it can really add a sense of drama and elegance to your home.
