Dark colors in small rooms-Reality Busters
I want to share my blog from 2020 about dark colors in small rooms. I find it relevant to today’s trends as we are moving towards more color and away from whites.
Reminiscing about a past project, no bigger than 8x10. When I suggested we paint all the walls deep green he said, "I love the color, but, would it make the room look even smaller if we painted all the walls?"
I replied, "No, it won't feel smaller. It will feel bigger."
The use of darker hues on all walls in a small space can work to your advantage. It eliminates corners, tricking the eye into thinking that the room is bigger than it actually is due to visually erasing the boundaries of the corners of the rooms.
Further emphasizing this effect, I decided to paint the ceiling on another client's home, too! This particular project featured Sherwin Williams Gauntlet Gray on walls, trim, and ceiling for a modern-style Craftsman home. Most notably, when entering, you stand on a landing overlooking the sunken living and dining area which emphasized the low ceilings in the room. However, painting all the surfaces in the same color gives off the illusion of higher ceilings from this vantage point. Once again another opportunity to use dark colors to create an optical illusion.
Adding color to a space with an accent wall is very popular. Some people choose a dramatic, moody color to accent the room. My advice in small spaces is to avoid dark accent walls. The dark accent wall will extend into the room, making your small space even smaller. As a result, if you love a dark, dramatic color in a small space, go ahead and paint all the walls, honey. Heck, paint the ceiling too.
If you find you must have an accent wall in a small space, then paint it a light shade of the color you prefer.
I would love to see anyone who decided to try painting their small space in a dark color and absolutely love it. Post below some before and afters for everyone to become a believer in dark colors can create open spaces.
If you are local to the San Diego area, I can help. If you are out of the San Diego County area and need my virtual design services Contact me here. I would love to talk with you and discuss the dreams you have for your home.
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