Tips for Using Black Paint Inside Your Home
There was a time, not very long ago, when black wasn’t on anyone’s list of options for interior painting. That is beginning to change, however, and especially in recent months, we are beginning to see some exciting, beautiful uses of black interior paint. As it turns out, there are all kinds of ways to use black paint in the home!
Here are a couple of general considerations before we begin sharing ideas:
- Black paint absorbs light, so you want to use it in a space that has ample natural light. If you are just doing trim or an accent wall, this isn’t as vital, but if it will be your main wall color, you need some good windows in the space.
- Painting a wall black will make it feel closer, causing the room to feel somewhat smaller. Painting a ceiling black will have the same effect. For this reason, you want to choose a room that is big enough to handle this effect, or a room where you want it to feel cozier.
- There are all different kinds of black paints. Don’t just go with any old generic black. Carefully consider the sheen you want, and find a shade of black that has some character to it. There are black paints that have an earthy slate feel, and others with a deep blue undertone. If you can, get a sample and try it on your wall before you buy gallons, so you can see how it really looks in your space.
Photo by Eurodale Developments Inc - Discover powder room design ideas
Where to Use Black Paint in the Home
A bold, yet moderate way to use black is as an accent. This could mean an accent wall, a ceiling, a black interior door, or black trim. Another idea is to paint a feature such as a fireplace surround or a built-in cabinet set.
When using black as an accent, just remember that it will draw the eye and become a focal point in the space. Make sure you use it in a part of the room that feels natural as a focal point, rather than a place that will feel off-balance.
Black can also be used as the main wall color in a room. If you go with this option, it is important to have significant contrasts. For example, light-colored furniture, a light rug, white curtains, or white trim would help bring balance in the room. A decorative mirror would be a striking piece of visual interest, and it would also help amplify the natural light in the room.
Photo by Kathleen Ramsey, Allied ASID - More dining room ideas
If you use black interior paint, other colors in the room will be amplified by contrast. That being the case, you will want to choose those other colors with care. It’s not that they might not match the black (anything goes with black), but they might not be colors you want to emphasize that much. Small pops of bold colors, be they orange, blue, yellow, lime green, or anything, look phenomenal in a black room!
Interior Painting in the D.C. Area
If you would like to use black paint in your home, but you’re not sure where or how, Williams Professional Painting would love to help. We have a professional design center, and we can help you think through the options for your rooms. We can envision with you where the black will look best, and what other colors will go best with it.
Serving Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the Washington D.C. area, Williams Professional Painting is a fantastic choice for your interior house painting.