Decorating with Dark Colors 

By Interior Designer TRACY SVENDEN | Published September 03, 2024 |

Dark colors have steadily gained popularity in interior design in recent years. Gone are the days when homeowners shied away from using bold, moody hues, fearing they would make a space feel small and oppressive. Instead, designers and homeowners alike have embraced the allure of dark colors, recognizing their ability to create a sense of sophistication, drama, and depth within a room.

The shift towards darker palettes can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, there has been a growing appreciation for the timeless elegance and visual impact that dark colors can bring to a space. From the deep, rich tones of charcoal and navy to the sultry allure of burgundy and dark greens, these hues have a way of imbuing a room with a sense of luxury and refinement.

Furthermore, the rise of minimalist and Scandinavian-inspired design trends has also contributed to the increased popularity of dark colors. These design styles often rely on a pared-down aesthetic, focusing on clean lines and a neutral color palette. When used judiciously, dark hues can serve as the perfect counterpoint to this minimalist approach, adding depth and visual interest to the space. Feature image courtesy of Sean Anderson Design.

Incorporating Darker Colors

Sean Anderson’s Soulful Style

The self-taught designer takes a multi-layered approach to creating soulful, dark, and moody interiors. Here, we’ll tour one of his most recent projects, which exemplifies the careful layering of neutrals, sophisticated dark walls, and a mix of modern and traditional style finished with masculine touches.

Sean Anderson honed his design skills by transforming his home, room by room. Defying the prevailing trend of light neutrals and bright whites, he boldly painted the entire house in varying shades of charcoal.

This daring move paid off, showcasing his willingness to break design conventions and trust his instincts. Anderson’s self-taught journey was fueled by his innate understanding of scale and proportion, a skill he believes is essential for successful design.

Darker Hues in Interior Design
Darker Hues in Interior Design

Greek Revival in Memphis

When Anna Fagala and her family purchased their Greek Revival property in 2020, they needed guidance on revitalizing the space. Despite its spaciousness and pastoral setting, the interior felt dated and overwhelming. The Fagalas were introduced to designer Sean Anderson, who helped them navigate their design challenges.

As art and design enthusiasts, the Fagalas were drawn to a variety of aesthetic influences. Similar to the fusion of country, jazz, and blues in Memphis music, Anderson was tasked with harmonizing these diverse styles in their home.

The home already featured striking elements such as well-scaled rooms, high ceilings, and stunning hardware. The designer revitalized the residence by introducing a captivating color palette. Moody, saturated, and subdued hues transformed the space. 

Brown woven-wool wall coverings with dusty pink undertones adorned the dining room, while dark green grounded the formal living room. Even black made its presence felt in the wet bar, adding a touch of drama.

Dark Color Palette

1. Creating a Sophisticated Space with Dark Colors

Contrary to the common misconception that dark colors are depressing or make a space feel smaller, they can have a profound psychological impact on how we experience a room. Dark hues envelop a space, creating a cocooning effect that can make a room feel more welcoming. This can be particularly beneficial in larger spaces, where dark colors can help to create a more intimate and cozy environment.

Dark colors can also have a calming and grounding effect on the senses. They tend to have a more muted and subdued quality, which can help to create a sense of tranquility and relaxation. This makes them an excellent choice for bedrooms and living rooms where you want to foster a sense of serenity and calm.

Incorporating Dark Color Schemes

The entryway features a collection of vintage furniture, adding a touch of timeless charm. The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray, while custom window treatments complete the sophisticated look. Red brick flooring and warm wood furniture add to the cozyiness. A large display of leafy branches in a black rustic pot, placed on an antique round wood table, further enhances the natural and welcoming feel of the space.

Dark Color Scheme Ideas
Dark Color Scheme Ideas

2. Choosing the Right Dark Color Palette

When incorporating dark colors into your interior design, the key is to strike the right balance. Carefully consider the undertones and hues that will work best with your existing décor and the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve.

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dark color palette is the lighting in the space. Darker hues can absorb and reflect light differently, so it’s essential to consider the room’s natural and artificial lighting sources. A space with ample natural light may support a deeper, more saturated dark color, while a room with limited lighting may benefit from a softer, more muted shade.

Dark Dining Room Ideas

Another important consideration is the size and layout of the room. Smaller spaces may feel overwhelmed by darker colors, so balancing dark hues with lighter accents and furnishings is important. Conversely, larger rooms can often support more dramatic and bold dark color choices, as the space can better accommodate the visual weight of these deeper tones.

The dining room features walls adorned with Savile Suiting Solids by Phillip Jeffries in Mayfair Brown, creating a warm welcome. The ceiling is painted in the same hue for a cohesive look. An antique oil painting above a 19th-century German cabinet and a custom-made dining table balance the space. This stunning dining room combines warmth, texture, and history.

Moody Dining Room
Moody Dining Room

3. Dark Colors in the Dining Room

Dark colors can be used in the dining room to create a sense of drama and elegance. A deep, burgundy-colored accent wall or a sleek, black dining table can instantly transform the space, making it more sophisticated and elegant. Complement these dark elements with warm, metallic accents and statement lighting fixtures to create a truly stunning and memorable dining experience.

Dark Interiors
Dark Interiors

4. Contrasting Elements to Balance Dark Colors

While dark colors can create a stunning and sophisticated look, it’s important to balance them with lighter, contrasting elements to prevent the space from feeling too heavy or oppressive. Combine light colors with dark tones to create a high-contrast interior.

One effective way to balance dark colors is through natural light. Large windows or skylights can flood a room with natural daylig