My Pinterest feed is constantly flooded with black interiors and I’ve now saved so many ideas that ‘ways to use black in interiors’ is almost worthy of its own separate board in my Pinterest collection. But, is Black really as easy to use as the images suggest?
Dark colors, like light colors, when used impulsively and without proper advice can lead to regrets when they don’t perform or stand up in everyday life as you expect. Hence understanding How to choose paint colors necessary for the final result.
With that in mind, we asked interior experts to share their top tips on how to use black in your home, and what are the potential pitfalls if you get it wrong?
Take special care when choosing and applying black paint
If the thought of dark and moody black walls tempts you, there are a few things to consider before you reach for a new tin of paint and your roller. This type of paint, Where you use it and how you achieve a professional-looking finish will all require your time and attention before you pop the lid.
“It’s easier to live with soft, off-black tones than jet black in a residential interior,” suggests Katerina Chevitchalova, director K’Arte Design. “Finishing is just as important, as Matt or egg shell Works well for walls to avoid harsh reflections, while satin or gloss can be effective for accents such as joinery or front door“
“Ideally, this color should be used in a room that benefits from natural light so the space doesn’t feel dark,” continues Caterina.
“My golden rule is to avoid flat true black shades, which look too harsh,” notes Lara Clark, founder of Lara Clarke Interiors. “Always choose off-black with suit or navy undertones for a more lived-in, organic feel,” she advises.
Whenever I’ve personally used black paint or darker colors, I’ve also found that you need to apply more coats than you think. It’s easy to assume that a dark shade will easily cover your walls, but if you don’t get enough color on the walls, woodwork or furniture, patch marks will be very visible, so make sure you Prepare your walls Well before you start. using Sugar soap Any difficulties or structures that affect the final result must be removed.
Buy black paint to use in your home
Licpro
Lickpro Max+ 5L Black 02 Matte Emulsion Paint
This professional quality paint has a scrubable matte finish and can be used on walls and ceilings.
Dulux
Dulux EasyCare Washable & Tough Matte Emulsion Paint – Rich Black – 2.5L
This paint has a unique stain repellent formula to ensure liquid spills don’t damage your newly painted walls.
Ronsel
Roncel 10 Years Weatherproof 2 in 1 Wood Paint Black Satin 750 ml
Give your front door a makeover with this black, weatherproof satin paint
K’Arte Design is a luxury interior design and art consultancy founded by Katerina Tchevitchalova, specializing in high-end residential and commercial projects. Before starting her practice, Katerina spent five years at Kelly Hoppen Interiors and worked with some of London’s leading design studios.
Lara’s passion for interiors and experience in the high-end residential sector led her to establish her own luxury interior design company in 2016. Formally trained at KLC School of Design, Lara has worked under top interior designer Louise Jones, as well as luxury developer, Finchatton.
Choose your partners for black wisely
Choosing which colors and finishes to use with black isn’t like its polar opposite, white, where you know there’s very little (if anything) that won’t work. While black can marry many shades, the one you choose depends on the look you’re trying to achieve.
“When it comes to any living space, incorporating black into your decorating scheme can be an attractive and impactful design choice,” says Anna Hill, brand director and color consultant. Fenwick and Tilbrook. However she also notes, “While black may not traditionally be considered a ‘quiet’ color, it can create a calming and grounding atmosphere when used thoughtfully.”
Think dark bedrooms For example there is one place where black can definitely be warm when used carefully.
“Consider using it as a backdrop to let other colors and metallic finishes shine through,” continues Anna, “or as an accent to ground a space and add contrast with eye-catching details.
“Choose linens and cottons for a luxurious, relaxed look, or velvets and metallics for a glamorous take,” says Anna, recommending you. By judiciously balancing black with natural light, reflective surfaces or vibrant accessories, you can add depth and drama without overwhelming a space.”
“Black helps other materials stand out and ‘pop’, especially natural finishes like wood and linen,” agrees Katerina Chevitchalova.
“Don’t be afraid to take it out either, Garden fence painting Black makes boundaries disappear and makes a space feel larger and your greenery pops,” adds Lara Clarke.
Partner this with black in your home
Industville
Industville Boston Round Metal Diffuser Wall/Ceiling Light, Brass
Use your dark walls to display these stunning brass wall lights
Naturewall
Slatewall Grand Acoustic Walnut Slatted Wall Panel – 2.4mx 0.6m
Break up the black walls with wood paneling for texture and interest
Cabinet UK
Kabinet Uk linen armchair with thick cushions
Cream linen pairs well with black in your interior, as shown on this stylish occasional chair
Anna Hill
If it seems too much everywhere, consider it an accent
Of course, if lots of black seems overwhelming, but you like its ability to generate interest, then think differently, says Lara Clarke.
“While a completely drenched black room is a bold statement, it’s not one I generally recommend,” she notes. “It can be incredibly unforgiving, so instead, I think black works best as a sharp architectural accent, acting like a bit of sophisticated eyeliner to define a space.”
“I think it’s important to use black intentionally,” agrees Katerina Chevitchalova. “Since this color is so dominant, it’s best to use it sparingly to feel more elevated than to cover the entire room.”
“We often paint Window frames Or doors in royal tones to frame the view, which instantly make the greenery of the garden more vivid,” Lara continues.” staircase Handrail or Bespoke shelvingCreates a crisp, graphic flow at home.”
FAQs
Does black hide dirt more effectively?
“The disadvantage of a black finish is that it easily shows dust and marks so it will require regular care and maintenance,” says Katerina Chavitchalova. So if you’re painting your walls it’s important to make sure you use the right paint finish.
It would make sense to use dark colors in the bathroom Using the right bathroom paint Also to avoid visible watermarks on the walls. And in high traffic areas viz hallwaysUse washable paint.
I changed my mind – how can I easily cover black?
“If you want to repaint a black wall, make sure you use a good primer first that will reduce the number of coats needed for an even finish,” recommends Katerina Chivitchalova.
Read our guide for more advice How to paint over dark colorsAnd try this Zinsser Cover Stain from Amazon To give you a good base to work on.
For more advice on what colors to use – or not to use – in your home, find out 5 colors designers say to avoid in the bathroomAnd see how 60:30:10 color rule In fact, getting the right balance of black in your interior design scheme can help.
