On Trend Décor Updates: How to Use Black Paint Inside

Black can be such a divisive color – especially for interiors where some sing its praises but most won’t even consider it. The question is why is black so universally ignored by color lovers for inside applications? Yes, it can be overwhelming, particularly on walls, but it can also be dramatic, striking, and complex. And that’s even in small spaces where the most daring homeowner is loathe to use dark hues. Intrigued? Here are some ways you can bring black into your interior spaces without turning your home into a black hole.

• Pair black with neon or jewel tones for balance. Think of black walls or trim as your canvas and brightly colored décor and accessories as the paint. Black may not be playing the starring role but it becomes the perfect backdrop. Just don’t overdo it in either direction. Too much color and the effect of the black is lost. Too little and the bright colors have no impact.

• Make it shine. Black is at its most beautiful when it showcases light. There’s nothing inky about an interior that pairs black paint with big room-brightening mirrors. For trim, use high gloss black to give it some character and make it pop.

• Do the unexpected and paint the ceiling black. High ceilings and white walls can make a space feel antiseptic. A dark ceiling adds drama, of course, but also makes the room feel much cozier. Tie it all together with a dark chair rail or dark painted window panes.

• Paint a black accent wall. This can bring a wall forward in a long, narrow room or create a gallery-like wall on which to showcase art or treasured family portraits. The eyes of everyone who enters will naturally be drawn to your favorite pieces.

• And finally, start small. Black is so universally shunned precisely because it is so powerful. To get a feel for the ways you can use black in your space experiment a little bit at a time.

This story originally appeared in our monthly newsletter, Prime Time by Jerry Enos Painting company in Massachusetts – to subscribe, contact us!

Categorised in: Color Trends, Decorating, Design, Fun stuff