Styling Your Home With Black

Black is the new…. well, black! More and more people are finding the versatility of this classic and sophisticated color hue. Every space could use a touch of black. While decorating with black is a bold statement and a bit edgy, it’s a versatile hue that pairs well with almost anything and adds sophistication to any space. 

There are so many possibilities for using black in your home, but here are just a few suggestions:

Accenting with Black

A moderate non-threatening way to use black is as an accent. An accent wall, a black interior door, or black trim can make a statement without making a huge commitment. Painting a room feature like a fireplace surround or a built-in cabinet can also be a low-key starting point. Or draw the eye upward with a bold black ceiling paired with a beautiful light fixture. 

When using black as an accent, remember that it will draw the eye and become a focal point in the space, so it’s important to use it in a part of the room that feels natural as the center of attention. If you’re looking to command attention in a space, accenting with black is the way to go. 

Create Atmosphere with Black

Black might not initially seem like the right color for your kitchen, but it’s all about the details. Update your kitchen with black matte lower cabinets leaving upper open shelving to add a touch of elegance to your cooking space. Or, if you’re trying to add a little style to a quiet space, painting wainscoting black and the wall above a neutral hue will punctuate your space with drama while keeping a cozy atmosphere.

Black as a Backdrop

Painting the back of shelves black gives a perfect backdrop to show off your white or light-colored collectibles. Allow black to act like a curtain allowing your artwork, cabinets, and furniture to take center stage. 

Create Contrast with Black

Paint your entire hallway or powder room black. Black can be a surprising color choice for your interior doors, a small powder room or hallways in your home. Paint baseboards and trim in white or cream to create much-needed contrast.

Going “All-in” with Black

Black can also be used as the main wall color in a room. Black paint absorbs light, so you want to make certain that the space you’re painting black is well-lit. A strategically placed mirror can help amplify natural light from windows as well high-wattage overhead lights, wall lights, or floor lamps -- all of which will help make sure the space does not become confining. 

Additionally, plan to use lights that can be dimmed so you can create a mood throughout the day. You may want a brighter space during the day, while you may desire a more relaxing feel at night. Contrasts such as light-colored furniture, a light rug, white curtains, or white trim all will help balance the room.

Choosing the Right Black Paint & Sheen

Once you know which room you would like to paint black, it’s important to also choose the right black paint and sheen to complement the room you’re painting. Black is not just black; there are many undertones so be sure to choose based on other colors you intend to bring into the space. 

Cool black paints containing blue or violet undertones compliment soft blues or other cool colors used on trim. Warm black paints have brown or true black undertones and can be ideal when using warm accent colors. 

Now, let’s talk finishes or sheens. There are several to choose from, and it can be confusing, especially after the daunting task of choosing the perfect color black. But resist the temptation to close your eyes and point. These tips should help you ease through this decision in no time. 

Matte and Flat

Matte and flat paints have more pigment than any other finish, which is why these types are also known as concealer paints. Flat being completely non-reflective, and matte having a slight sheen, the paint will soak up any light directed at it. These paints tend to be easier to apply than other finishes, and it also usually a less expensive option. They are well suited for use on walls and areas that have a lot of bumps, scratches, or holes since they can conceal these blemishes easily. 

Matte and flat paints are best for low-traffic rooms that have a ton of light. Avoid using on high-traffic areas, like bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms because it's the hardest to clean. But, if you're using high-quality flat paint, you'll be able to scrub away any imperfections on the wall after 30 days of painting the surface. 

Keep in mind; these paints are not resistant to moisture so not a good choice for bathrooms unless using a brand that has been developed specifically for moisture-prone rooms.  

Eggshell

Eggshell has a low-sheen similar to that of flat or matte, but it is much more durable. Eggshell provides an easy-to-clean, nearly shine-free finish, suited for most areas of a home, including family rooms and hallways. While it reflects more light than flat or matte finishes, its soft glow shows colors beautifully.

Pearl

Pearl finish is a medium gloss that keeps high durability. Both beautiful and easy to clean, a pearl finish gives trim dimension while being perfectly suited for walls in high traffic and offers mildew resistance for high-humidity areas. When choosing this finish, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s application tips and paint carefully as it is not as forgiving on lap marks and other painting flaws.

Satin

Satin is a higher gloss; while offering better stain resistance and durability than lower sheens, it does not hide imperfections in the surface or application errors. Any touch-ups will stand out. Use it to highlight windows, shutters, trim, and even interior doors.

Semi-gloss

Semi-gloss paint is perfectly suited to highlight the architectural details of your home on millwork, trim, and doors. When dry, these paint finishes reflect the most light, providing a bright sheen. Semi-gloss offers high resistance to moisture. Use in the kitchen and bathrooms as well as on trim and molding throughout the house. However, semi-gloss, as well as gloss finishes, show every single imperfection in surface and application, requiring additional prep work and sanding to create a smooth surface. Touch-ups of this finish also will stand out because of the difference in sheen.

High Gloss

High gloss offers a mirror-like finish. This finish is extremely durable and offers elegant shine. It is easy to clean, stain-resistant, and will add a stunning look to doors, trim, and even a high-traffic kitchen. High gloss paints require careful application and preparation and are best handled by a professional painter. Since a gloss finish reflects light and can accentuate blemishes, avoid using it on areas that are not completely smooth.

Don’t Forget the Primer!

Priming is important when moving from light or medium colors to black. When primed with a grey or deep base it is much easier to get solid paint coverage. Darker primers allow the black to cover in fewer coats. 

Use painting techniques similar to painting with other colors. Make sure the nap of the roller is covered in paint then roll a 3 to 4-foot section at a time in a “W” motion. When finished with an area, run the roller down the wall from ceiling to floor without adding pressure to even out the roller stipple and blend each section together. 

And finally, should you need to go back later to touch up, use the same type of applicator that was used originally as well as paint from the original bucket of paint to be certain the finish and color are both uniform to the original coat. 

Connect with me today to find out how and where to best use black in your home. I’m happy to help!