How to Embrace Dark Interior Design

Looking for ways to dramatically transform your décor? Dark interiors are sure to make a statement, and can give any space a cosy, inviting feel. However, there are several factors to consider when choosing a dark colour scheme, from room size to lighting. So, to help you make confident colour decisions, we’ve listed our top tips for introducing darker shades to your home here.

What is dark décor?

Dark décor encompasses a range of interior styles, from traditional, gothic-inspired designs to modern monochrome colour schemes. There are several ways you can include dark décor in your home, from paint and wallpaper to flooring, soft furnishings and decorative accessories. Whether you want to fully embrace dark and moody interiors or bring a touch of depth to your space, you can find dark décor ideas to suit any home.

Why use dark colour palettes?

Many people assume that painting rooms in darker colours will make the space look gloomy, small and claustrophobic, but that’s not the case. Our Creative Director, Marianne Shillingford, shares her advice for using dark colours in the home:

“When executed properly, dark colour palettes can be cosy, dramatic and energising. Whether you’re using this colour scheme in bedrooms, living rooms or dining rooms, there are several ways to create balance and harmony in the space.

Painting all the walls in a deep hue like Sapphire Splendour or Everglade Forest provides the perfect backdrop for dark wooden furniture. Then introduce metallic accents, mirrors, soft lighting and textures like velvet or boucle to lift the space and add dimension.”

Dark interior design ideas

Explore our favourite dark and moody interiors to get inspired for your next decorating project. From feature walls to colour drenching, discover the best ways to incorporate dark décor into your home.

If you’re nervous about venturing away from a neutral colour palette, build up your colour confidence by painting a feature wall in a darker shade and see how it feels. Pick a wall that can be used to highlight an interesting focal point in the room – in a living room, this might be the wall where the fireplace sits or behind a cosy corner sofa.

If you want to add a darker dimension to your colour scheme without painting a wall, try painting the woodwork around your windows in a dark grey paint such as Cannon Ball or a deep blue like Cobalt Night.

It might seem counter-intuitive, but rooms that are already dark and small – like a downstairs loo or utility space – are ideal for playing around with dark colours. Small spaces with little or no light can make a bold statement when painted with dark shades.

Sapphire Salute is an energising, deep blue – perfect for small bathrooms. Paint the woodwork in a brighter shade and introduce metallic fixtures to balance out the darker walls. Learn how to make the most of small spaces in our guide for more top tips.

Darker colour palettes can bring a sense of intimacy and homeliness to larger rooms. Whether you’d prefer dark grey bedroom décor or jewel tones in your living room for a luxurious feel, these shades help create a welcoming atmosphere.

If you want to make a real statement, try the colour-drenching technique. Painting woodwork, the ceiling and moulding in the same shade amplifies the boldness and creates a unified appearance but can also make the room look naturally lit.

Your choice of furniture and accessories is key to ensuring you don’t weigh down a darker room. Create contrast by choosing furnishings in a mix of materials and textures that pop against your dark walls.

Natural Slate looks great with light wooden floors, a mirror, a velvet blue sofa and copper accents on the accessories. Painting your woodwork in a paler shade like Absolute White can help frame dark walls and tone them down.

A dark paint colour can turn your ceiling into a focal point. Not sure what colour to go for? Look around your room for inspiration. Picking a shade that’s subtly represented in the room, such as on a throw or rug, can bring a sense of synergy to the design.

For example, a deep purple ceiling painted with Acai Berry can be teamed with contrasting shades of Heart Wood and Nutmeg White on the walls.

Need more help finding a dark colour scheme for your home? Check out our guide to choosing your perfect paint palette, or explore our colour details to find your favourite shades.