Three Tips On Using Black Paint For Walls (And Five Top Black Paint Colors That I Love)
Sherwin Williams Black Magic Black contrasted with Benjamin Moore’s Light Pewter (opposite side of the room)
“I’ve been discovering for 40 years that the queen of all colors is black”
Black is inarguably history’s most prolific color.
From ancient Greek artists using black to paint intricate designs on terracotta vases to 12th century monks robed in black cloak, all the way to Coco Chanel’s introduction of “the little black dress”, black has been used consistently across time and various cultures in art and fashion.
Black has also symbolized many things. It’s been used as a color of mystery, power, wealth, and everything in between. But how can black be used in the 21st century home?
Enter 21st century and the trend of the modern farmhouse. From 2016 to today, many people associate black with farmhouse style décor—a lot of black and white walls across the board. Black is more than that Farmhouse color of black and white walls. Black can be used to symbolize deeper meaning, and make the home feel rich, powerful, and stylish. It doesn’t stop there—
Paint black one color in a small room to fool the eye and make the space look larger. Include painting the ceiling black as well. From there, it’s all about how you use it, so let’s dive into it. . .
Design Tip #1: Black is a Shade
Let’s get the big design elephant in the room OUT of the way—black is a shade not a color. It’s a helpful reminder and our starting point on how to use black. Rather than trying to splash the walls black and expect it to dominate the eye like red or lemon yellow (design tip: don’t use these for bedrooms ever).
As a shade black functions like a neutral color and is great at augmenting the other colors around it—it’s a team player on the color wheel that works well with most colors you slot next to it. A great example I like is to pair black with metallic colors or tones—it can look really nice with copper, gold, or silver colors nearby or even as an accent for white.
Black is a lovely shade that empowers most other colors around it.
Design Tip #2: Black is All About Contrasts
In design, black is one of the best shades/colors to use for contrasts.
Entryway at my former Chicago place!
It often does a great job with white and can create a stunning white/dark contrast for a room. Black walls showcase their versatility when you introduce natural lighting into a room. I like using black in southern and eastern exposures where there is more natural light because it plays off of the light and makes for an interesting effect on the room.
Pretty cool, right?
Beyond lighting, black is also an excellent backdrop for a lot of artwork—it can make that special painting you bought really pop out and give it a chic modern art museum effect that stops your friends in their tracks to actually notice the painting you have on the wall.
Design Tip #3: Feng Shui Says Use Black for Abundance
In Feng Shui, black is a color associated with power, money, strength, and mystery—imagine coming home to a room that made you feel powerful. . .sounds tempting, right? Accenting your walls with black or even placing a few black objects (curtains, chairs, sheets. . .) can enhance those rich feelings.
However, be careful at times, black can overpower the effects of other colors in a room and can absorb all of your focus. In the end, everything is about generating balance, and black can be your powerful tool towards achieving that in your home.
Just remember to do it with care. But that right amount of black can be the stunner that sends you off to sweet dreams since it’s great for improving and inducing restful sleep.
This Halloween, don’t just put black outside or in your decorations—it can be a terrific asset for your home and make your space the best you’ve ever felt it!
BONUS!
5 FAVORITE BLACK PAINT TONES TO MAKE YOUR PLACE AMAZING!
Wrought Iron Black design of my former house!
Black Magic: Here’s a deep and dark black that creates a dramatic and elegant look. It can be used to accentuate architectural features, contrast with lighter colors, or create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Made by Sherwin-Williams.
Tricorn Black: A pure and solid black that has no undertones or hues. It is a versatile color that can be used for both interior and exterior projects, such as doors, trim, cabinets, furniture, or walls. It is also made by Sherwin-Williams.
Caviar: This rich and sophisticated black has a hint of brown undertones. It is a warm and inviting color that can be used to create a luxurious and refined look. It can be paired with gold, cream, or beige accents for a stunning effect. Made by Valspar.
Wrought Iron: A soft and muted black that has a touch of blue-gray undertones. It is a neutral and timeless color that can be used to create a modern and sleek look. It can be paired with white, gray, or navy for a classic contrast. Made by Benjamin Moore.
Onyx: A bold and striking charcoal gray/soft black that has a slight green undertones. It is a cool and edgy color that can be used to create a dramatic and contemporary look! Pair it with bright colors, such as yellow, pink, or turquoise for a pop of color. Made by Benjamin Moore.
