Dark Colours In Small Spaces
If I see you in the shop looking for a new wall colour, I will probably let you know that since paint looks darker on the wall than it does on the chip you should probably start with the lightest of your choices. True, lighter colours will make your space feel larger and more open. However, if you’re feeling adventurous (and a bit moody) there’s something cozy in painting a small room a rich shade. It won’t feel airy and bright but that doesn’t necessarily mean that’s a bad thing!
So what happens when you break the “small space – light paint colour rule?” I’ve put together some of my favourite rooms that use deep shades to create a dramatic effect. Click on the photos for sources and don’t forget to Pin your favourites for later.
If you want to experiment with colour, few rooms will offer the almost instant gratification and impact quite like the bathroom. The walls are small so you won’t spend all day painting while toilets, tubs and sinks provide contrast. Plus vanities, showers, and wall tile all break up a strong shade.
TIP: Since warm damp spaces with poor ventilation are prone to mold, make sure to choose a mildew resistant paint designed for bathrooms. Also, try not to use your freshly painted bathroom for around 24 hours. When you take a hot shower the steam settles on the wall and can ruin all your hard work if the paint is still wet.
If you’ve been following along you know by now that grey is my favourite colour so no wonder I love this simple grey and white colour scheme. Notice how the wall colour is picked up in the floor for a cohesive space.
I love blue in the bathroom and navy is a great choice if you want to go bold. Warm up this cool shade with a wood vanity or cabinet.
Another great place to experiment with colour is the kitchen. The gratification won’t be quite as instant since there’s a lot of cutting in around cabinets and appliances but you’ll end up with a stunning space. I’ve been drooling over Devol kitchens for a while and this is one of my favourites.
TIP: Don’t forget to experiment with hardware. Replacing those dated cabinet pulls can make a huge difference.
Use floating shelves to show off your stuff! A dark wall colour can really make your kitchenware stand out.
I love sleep so it’s no wonder the bedroom is my favourite room in the house. Create a relaxing sanctuary by using a deep wall colour like this dark teal. Doesn’t it remind you of the ocean?
…and aren’t these chocolate walls delicious?
Planning a space for your little one? A lot of parents are drawn to cheerful gender neutral colours like yellow and green but they can be stimulating for your baby. Instead of a high energy colour try walls in a calming shade and brighten up with fun accessories.
Sometimes it really doesn’t seem there are enough hours in the day. If you have to take work home, make sure you have an organized space where you can focus.
Hallways and foyers generally don’t have a lot of natural light. Play into it and try a bold black!
Coziest corner in the house? I think so!
What are some of my favourite moody shades? Scroll through my top 5 picks below.
TIP: Darker paints don’t cover as well as pastel shades so if you’re making a significant colour change invest in a high quality paint. You’ll spend more per gallon but since premium paints cover better you, will use less paint in fewer coats. Also, remember that paints with more shine highlight wall imperfections so if your surface is rough try a matte finish to minimize glare. My pick – Benjamin Moore Aura Matte.
If 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.
If you’re local and don’t want to miss a paint sale make sure to join our mailing list by following this link (and get a little bonus for subscribing!)
2 Responses to “Dark Colours In Small Spaces”
For the coziest corner in the house what color black paint was used? Also, what color white paint was used? The black looks so warm and rich! Thanks, Trina
Hello Trina. The choice of black will depend a lot on how big your space is, the amount of natural light and the design elements like flooring, furniture, etc. However, if you are looking for a black that will feel warm start with Benjamin Moore Black Tar 2126-10 or Cheating Heart 1617. For a warm white try Benjamin Moore OC-17 White Dove. Hope this helps!