Back To Black
In one of the previous posts I have already talked about using black in home decor. There I focused mainly on incorporating this colour for highlighting interesting architectural features and details. Thus, by painting wall in black you can convert it into a focal point and draw attention to any objects displayed on it.
Today I want to talk about using black as a primary colour, in other words for painting walls and other large surfaces. It can be applied not only in small areas, such as powder rooms and corridors, but in the living rooms, bedrooms and kitchens as well. Scared? No need, as black can be not only gloomy and sorrowful, but cozy, intimate and powerful too. Knowing some little tricks will help you to create a really impressive and extraordinary interior. It takes some guts to use it, but the result can surpass the highest expectations. How to achieve it? About it further in this post.
Black is the colour that loves contrasts. And which is the most contrasting colour to black? That’s right: white is the answer. Without it black will look too depressive and tiring for a human eye. I don’t recommend to go for a crispy snow white though: the contrast will be too bright and overpowering. Softer, off-white tints, such as light beige and creme might create a better effect.
Another colour which looks awesome in front of black is brown and yellow. Think of cabinets of yellowish wood, rattan furniture, wicker baskets and jute rugs. Combination of black and yellow is extravagant and bold. Yellow is antipode to black: it is warm, bright, positive. It reminds us of the sun, daffodils in spring and sweet little ducklings. Next to it black looses its seriousness and gravity. Yellow on black background looks even more cheerful and bright. To reduce the contrast this powerful combination is often softened with light grey, beige and off-white.
Red and orange are another colours which can be successfully married with black. I recommend to go for oranges and pinks, rather than dark shades of red, which in front of the black can create dismal effect. The combination of black and red is considered sexy, thus can be used in the bedroom. However it is a very powerful combination too: it will not be easy to relax and sleep in such room.
Again, it is important to add some neutral shades and white to mute down the contrasts. Any colour if used excessively will look too overwhelming, when it refers to such strong colours as black, it is even more important.
Despite the fact that designers have broadened the use of black in the house, it is still not recommendable for kids rooms and places where you read and study. In all other spaces, including living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, it can be successfully applied:
One last word is about lighting. If the room has plenty of natural light, black colour acquires additional depth, which can create absolutely dramatic effect. It is a common mistake to think that dark colours make the room feel smaller. In fact, in black rooms boundaries are practically not visible. This effect can be even more enhanced by painting the ceiling also in black, which will basically erase the perimeter of the room.
What do you think of colour black? Looking forward to hearing your comments!
