Choosing paint for our homes isn’t just about finding a color we love decorating with—it’s also about expressing ourselves and our personalities. Whether you love a pretty pink or serene green, calming blue or sunny yellow, the colors we choose are all part of the fun of transforming a space. Until recently, however, using black paint in our homes was often considered “bold” or “daring,” but it’s easier to pull off than you might think and can really elevate a space.
Yes, folks, you heard right: black is the trend of the moment. So we were thrilled when we heard about the new collaboration between Lick and MAC, which resulted in the launch of a new limited edition color. MAC Black 40 is a rich, matte jet black.
“It’s really versatile,” says Tash Bradley, interior designer and color psychologist at Lick. “It adds dimension and contrast to any room and will effortlessly accentuate your furniture and decor, no matter what your style is.”
Still unsure? I’ve compiled my favorite uses of the color to prove that you don’t have to be brave to use black paint in your home…
1. Bring color into your room
(Image credit: Future)
You’ve probably heard the term “color drenching” before. For those who don’t know, it’s painting every part of a room the same color. The walls, the moldings, the trim, even the ceiling. But how does that translate to black paint? Would it be easy to relax in an all-black room? The answer is yes.
“A splash of black helps create a very calm environment,” confirms Tash. “If you have a small, north-facing room, this is a great option as black absorbs the shadows, tints the edges of the room blue and adds tons of personality.”
In a kitchen or bathroom, you can use black wall tiles and black flooring to make the room even more “saturated,” and use metallic fixtures, such as brass faucets, to enhance the space and give it a truly plush feel.
2. Opt for a 50/50 decoration
(Photo credit: Lick / Oli Douglas)
Don’t know what 50/50 decorating is? We’ll explain… it’s similar to colour drenching, except you’re only decorating half the room – and black is the perfect choice, as Tash Bradley explains: “This monochrome effect will trick the eye and make your space feel more open, especially if you use black in the bottom 50 percent of the room and a light, neutral colour in the top 50 percent. The most important thing is to make sure everything in the bottom 50 percent is black too, including radiators and skirting boards.”
Visually, it’s a clever illusion, and you can see how effective it can be in this bedroom. Black bedding, furniture, and half of the wall painted black contrast with the white top half. And notice how even the globe and base of the table lamp fit perfectly into the sections.
3. Introduce artistic pattern
(Photo credit: Lick / Oli Douglas)
Those who love patterns should consider black paint to create a unique design on their walls. Whether it’s chic stripes, fun flourishes, or a modern geometric design, you don’t have to worry about your black paint clashing with the rest of your decor as it blends well with any color. It’s time to unleash your creativity and go for a bold black living room idea!
4. Use black as an accent
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
If you want to highlight a particular part of your room, black is ideal for drawing focus. Here, the stairs and railings as well as the skirting boards have been painted black.
“Any room can benefit from a black accent to create contrast and depth,” says Tash Bradley. “The best way to do this is to highlight an element like a staircase or fireplace with black, drawing attention to the architectural highlights of your home.”
5. Use black as a base
(Photo credit: Lick / Oli Douglas)
Dark colors have been popular lately, from elegant navy blue to graphite gray to deep forest green – but how about using black as your base color? Black is so versatile that you can combine any other color with it without clashing, making it ideal for anyone who likes to change up their furniture and accessories regularly.
Why not use it on walls and then paint your skirting boards a bright colour for contrast? Or opt for a monochrome chair like this one that will really pop against the black wall?
However you use it, make sure you show off your black paint proudly and use it to transform and modernize your home in inspiring ways.
