Almost a year ago, I decided to change my living room walls from a crisp white to a deep, moody blue (Benjamin Moore Midnight, to be exact) and have never looked back. Moody paint colors can completely transform a space, adding depth, drama, and dimension, especially in a small New York City apartment like mine. Dark walls aren’t for everyone, but they are a bold alternative to the neutral walls that are everywhere these days. Plus, if you’re a renter like me, painting is an affordable way to give your space a more custom feel without having to worry about a deposit. It’s the easiest way to feel like you’ve moved into a brand new home without going anywhere.
If you’re thinking about painting your room a dark color, but are a little hesitant, that’s understandable. Here you’ll find valuable tips from interior design experts on everything you need to consider when it comes to dark paint. But remember: This is actually just paint. If you change your mind within six months, that’s fine.
Featured image of Suruchi Avasthi’s interview with Kate Ahrens.
Pay attention to stopping points
If you want to darken some rooms in an open floor plan, this tip from designer Anna Baranes is important. “It’s important to consider where the dark paint starts and ends as it transitions into the adjacent space, especially if the adjacent space is painted a lighter color,” explains the founder of Studio AK Interiors I will. “Ideally, there will be cased openings, corner beads, or other architectural details that create a natural stopping point and logical transition to another wall color,” she says. Masu.
Pay attention to the size and lighting of the room
Dark paint colors are never a one-size-fits-all. “Bold blues and greens look dramatic in bright spaces, while warm browns and plums bring a cozy feel to dimly lit rooms,” explains Elle Cole, founder of Elle Cole Interiors. Of course, anyone working on a paint project should always pick up swatches of the shade they’re considering and note how it looks at different times of the day before deciding on a color.
colored drench
Sarah McCarty, founder of Sarah McCarty Interiors, likes the idea of painting walls, ceilings, and trim all in one shade, giving the room a deep hue. “Vary the sheen to add dimension,” she says. “Not only does this create a cohesive look, but it really changes the vibe.”
Add wainscoting
On the other hand, you might not be ready to embrace all the dark colors. In this case, you can always add wainscoting to create a two-tone look, points out Rebecca Ward. Doing so “breaks up the dark color on the walls,” she says, but keep in mind that this is a tactic best left to owners rather than renters. “This approach works beautifully in dining rooms,” adds Rebecca Ward Design founder.
decorate like a pro
The furniture and accessories you choose for your space should complement the dark paint color you choose. “Pair dark walls with light-colored furniture and rich textures to keep the space striking yet inviting,” suggests Cole.
Metallics and prints are also great accents. McCarty recommends choosing statement art, cushions, and window treatments in metallic colors, adding warm lighting, and adding a patterned rug to finish off dark-walled rooms.
