How to use dark paint colours in the home

If you’ve ever watched a renovation show on TV, you’ve probably heard people discussing how light colours will make the room seem bigger, brighter and overall more welcoming. But if you’re a lover of deep shades, you’re in luck because that doesn’t mean there isn’t a place for dark coloured walls in the home. The important thing is to carefully choose when and where you use them.

In the bedroom
It’s important to love the colours in your bedroom. Everyone wants to be able to go to bed in peace and unwind in a space where they feel comfortable. If you love dark colours, go for it! You can balance the walls with light carpets, bedding, art, and blinds to avoid having the room feeling like a cave. If the room doesn’t get a lot of natural light, it might be best to stick to just one feature wall at the head of the bed.

In the living room
The living room can work beautifully with dark colours. Consider how you use this room the most. If it’s largely to watch movies, dark walls can add a sense of drama and enhance the viewing experience. If you’re more likely to entertain in it with guests, be sure to choose light couches and other features that brighten the room. Darker colours can work well, but it’s best to avoid black in this space to keep it feeling cosy, not uninviting.

In the kitchen
Kitchens are where we most often see dark colours in homes. Many people like to have dark and dramatic benchtops in a lighter coloured kitchen. Feel free to be bold and invert this concept – a white benchtop surrounded by dark grey cabinetry is a beautiful modern look that adds sophistication. Like the other rooms, it’s always best to keep a balance of lighter colours, whether it’s the blinds, splashback, walls or even big light fittings.

In the bathroom
As the bathroom is usually a smaller room, it can very quickly start to feel cramped and uncomfortable if it’s too dark. When natural light is present, dark bathrooms are sophisticated and classy. If the room doesn’t have natural light, it’s best to stick to lighter colours though you can still add dark features by way of a splashback or even your towel choice.

Using colour through your home should be something you love. If you’re not sure what goes well together, pick up some swatches, mix and match and search the internet for samples, then choose from the unlimited options!