Ready to Go Dark? How to Decorate With Dark Walls Like a Pro
While we can’t get enough of the light, bright and airy look, it’s hard to deny that dark walls are just as appealing.
If done right, dark walls make a beautiful bold statement and are a great way to feature, furniture, art, and design. Whether you’re lusting after dark charcoal, moody green, or deep navy rooms we love them all.
Are you ready to take the plunge to the dark side, but nervous about making a design faux pas? Read our tips below to learn how you can decorate around dark walls like a pro.
McGee & Co.
Create an Accent Wall or Gallery Wall
If the idea of painting a whole room dark is scary, you can dip your toes in by starting with a single accent wall.
Dark walls are also a great way to highlight artwork, so you can hang a large statement piece or create a gallery wall. Adding artwork helps break up the single color and add layers of interest.
In an Architectural Digest article, designer Nina Freudenberger explains: “If you want your artwork to really stand out, black or other dark colors work incredibly well and can make the piece pop. If the piece has a predominantly white background, this is particularly nice as it makes the focus of the room the artwork.”
If you like the idea of a gallery wall, rather than a single artwork check out Real Homes for some gallery wall inspiration and ideas.
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Play with High Contrast
Another way to design around dark walls is to have fun with high contrast.
White is always safe to pair with dark-colored walls. You can brighten up the space with white or cream trim, curtains, furniture, accents, or artwork. Pairing black and white is a great idea if you want to go for a mod-inspired look.
Another way to do this is with black and gold, a classic parring that works with a range of styles, especially if you love a luxe vibe. You can add gold and brass accents to compliment your slate or black walls.
Doris Leslie Blau
Try a Mix of Hues
If you think white is the best canvas, think again. Dark paint makes other colors stand out, so don’t be afraid to introduce some bright contrasting colored accessories. Darker walls can also make a bright color look more sophisticated.
Or another way to do this is to bring in a mix of dark complementary hues. Think dark slate, rich brown, deep navy, burnt orange, or even moody plumb or emerald green.
Dear Designer
Highlight Green Plants
Green plants pair really well with dark wall colors and are another great way to brighten and liven up the space.
Rather than focusing on highlighting artwork or wall decor, feature a collection of your favorite potted plants or in-door trees. The dark walls will make them appear especially lush.
Add Natural Wood and Light-Colored Furniture
Natural wood tones and light-colored furniture also compliment dark walls well. Think rattan, wicker, and soft light wood tones. This is a great way to soften the dark walls with more natural elements.
In an Apartment Therapy article designers Caroline Grant and Dolores Suarez explain: “It might sound counterintuitive, but if you paint a room a dark color and then put light furniture in it, it tricks your eye into thinking the room is not only bigger but has more natural light,” say Grant and Suarez.
Architectural Digest