Get Moody With DARK WALLS

With Hurricane Joaquin fast approaching, we’ve tidied up the yard, secured the house, and stocked the cupboards.  The laundry is done, the bathtub is full of water and we’re enjoying the last hours of electricity.  I have to admit, while I certainly respect the power of mother nature, I sure love a good storm (unlike my husband who has been nervously pacing since 5 am this morning)

I love how, with the blinds closed, our living room feels relaxing and cozy, partially thanks to the moody grey wall colour (Benjamin Moore Cinder).   Darker paint shades can create soothing spaces but picking the right shade can be challenging so below are some tips on choosing the right one for your home.

• Painting the walls a darker shade will generally make a space feel smaller.  If you have a large room with a lot of light it’s a great way to make it feel more intimate.
• Balance a rich paint color with lighter accessories like furniture, fabrics and artwork for balance.  It will keep the room from feeling to heavy and the deep walls will showcase your treasures nicely.
• I love a crisp white ceiling but if your walls are dark sometimes the contrast is too harsh on the eyes.  Instead, try a lighter version of your wall paint colour or a complimentary grey.
• Grey walls can make a room feel a bit cold so warm it up with rich wood and soft leather.  Look for furniture with soft lines and curves to keep the space from feeling too masculine.
• You can also warm up dark colours with metallic gold accents.  Try this look on kitchen cabinets, drawer pulls or by adding a gold mirror or lamp.
• Invest in a high quality paint.  Darker colours won’t cover as well as lighter shades and even though a premium paint may cost more in the beginning it will cover better in less coats so you’ll be done faster with less product.
• Speaking of paint, shinier paints (especially in dark colours) highlight wall imperfections so unless your walls are perfect and you’re going for a lacquered look, try a matte or flat sheen, especially on the ceilings to minimize glare.

What are some of my favourite rich shades?

• Benjamin Moore Cinder
• Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray
• Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
• Benjamin Moore Templeton Gray
• Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal
• Benjamin Moore Mysterious
• Benjamim Moore Ocean Floor
• Benjamin Moore Flint

Need inspiration?  Below are some of my favourite spaces from Houzz.  Click on each image for more and don’t forget to Pin your favourites.

UPDATE!  The Benjamin Moore Color Of The Year for 2017 is another great moody shade – Shadow 2117-30.  To get inspired and see how you can use it at home check out our post here.

f you liked this post don’t forget to check back next week to see what’s new on the blog but if you can’t wait  our Facebook page is updated daily with amazing spaces, design tips and DIY projects.  Or get a sneak peak at life behind the scenes at the paint store (and more stunning rooms) on our Instagram page here.  

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HAPPY PAINTING!