Black walls in the bedroom have become an increasingly popular design choice in recent years. However, some people wonder if having dark walls in the bedroom is a good idea. There are pros and cons to consider when deciding on black bedroom walls. Looking at factors like ambiance, aesthetic, sleep quality, and practicality can help determine if black walls are right for your bedroom.
Pros of Black Walls in the Bedroom
Here are some of the potential benefits of using black painted walls in the bedroom:
Creates an elegant, sophisticated look
Black walls can lend a chic, elegant feel to the bedroom. The dark color gives off a luxurious vibe. Black adds a touch of sophistication and drama to the space.
Makes the room feel cozy and intimate
Black walls bring a cocooning, cozy ambiance to the bedroom. The dark paint makes the room feel more intimate and tucked away. Black evokes a sense of warmth and comfort.
Allows other colors to stand out
Against a black background, other colors in the room pop visually. Accent colors seem more vibrant against the black walls. The dark walls make decor details and fabrics really stand out.
Creates a relaxing atmosphere
The cozy darkness of black walls can promote relaxation in the bedroom. Some studies suggest that darker environments encourage the brain to produce melatonin and help people sleep better.
Makes the room feel spacious
Black paint can trick the eye and make a small bedroom appear larger. Darker colors tend to recede visually, which can make space feel bigger. The contrast from white trim also helps increase the perception of space.
Cons of Black Walls in the Bedroom
However, there are also some potential downsides of using black paint on bedroom walls:
Can make the room feel too dark
If the bedroom does not get much natural light, black walls may make it feel overly dark and gloomy during the daytime. Without sufficient light sources, the space might seem cave-like.
May make the room feel smaller
While black can often create an illusion of bigger space, in some cases it can make a room feel more closed in and smaller, especially if the room has a low ceiling.
Difficult to keep looking clean
Black walls show every bit of dust and dirt. They can be harder to keep looking neat and clean compared to light paint colors. Finger smudges and scuffs on the walls stand out.
Limits future design flexibility
Painting over black walls with a lighter color in the future involves more prep work and coats of primer and paint. The dark paint makes it more challenging to change up the design later.
Makes it hard to visualize colors
Seeing how new bedding, rugs or decor items will pair with black walls can be tricky since the dark color skews perception of hues. Visualizing different colors together is harder.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant, sophisticated look | Can make room feel too dark |
| Cozy, intimate ambiance | May make room feel smaller |
| Makes other colors stand out | Hard to keep looking clean |
| Relaxing atmosphere | Limits future design flexibility |
| Appears more spacious | Hard to visualize color combinations |
Tips for Using Black Walls in the Bedroom
If you do opt for black bedroom walls, here are some tips to implement the look successfully:
Add plenty of lighting
Include ample ambient and task lighting, like bedside lamps, overhead fixtures and natural light from windows if possible. Illumination prevents the space from feeling too dark and gloomy.
Use high-contrast accents
Pair the black with bold white trim, bedding in whites and pastels, light wood furniture, mirrors and reflective surfaces. High contrast makes the space feel brighter.
Incorporate metallics and shimmer
Bring in accents with metallic shine and shimmery textures. Gold, silver, metallics, velvets and satins reflect light and keep the room from feeling flat.
Layer on textures
Furry rugs, soft blankets, nubby linens and woven woods add depth and dimension. Varying textures make the space more interesting.
Display colorful artwork
Vibrant art and photography allow color to pop against the dark backdrop. The walls provide the perfect contrasting gallery display.
Add in warm wood tones
Warm wood furniture, floors and accents make the space feel less cold and cave-like. Natural wood injects warmth.
Best Paint Colors for Bedrooms with Black Accent Walls
Another option is to paint just one wall black as an accent, and use lighter neutrals on the remaining walls. Here are paint ideas:
Soft gray
A pale muted gray pairs beautifully with a black accent wall. It creates a soothing, relaxed feel.
Warm taupe
Taupe has a cozy, welcoming vibe that contrasts nicely with black. It’s great for small bedrooms.
Cream
Cream walls look airy and bright against dark black. The combo feels calm and relaxing.
Light brown
Subtle brown hues complement black without feeling too dark or overwhelming.
Off-white
Barely-there off-whites allow black accents to take center stage. Crisp white trim accentuates this further.
Dusty blue
A soft powder blue wall adds a pop of color and feels peaceful paired with black.
Pale sage green
Sage green has a natural, earthy quality that works well with bold black accents.
| Paint Color | Pairing Rationale |
|---|---|
| Soft gray | Soothing, relaxed feel |
| Warm taupe | Cozy and welcoming |
| Cream | Bright, airy contrast |
| Light brown | Subtle complement to black |
| Off-white | Allows black to stand out |
| Dusty blue | Peaceful, pops of color |
| Pale sage green | Natural, earthy contrast |
Conclusion
Black bedroom walls certainly make a dramatic style statement. They create an elegant, intimate setting and allow colors and textures to pop. However, the dark color can potentially make a space feel smaller and gloomier if not implemented thoughtfully. Factors like existing lighting and room size should be taken into account.
Strategic use of accent colors, metallics, warm woods and ample lighting can prevent black walls from feeling too dark and overwhelming. High contrast and varied textures also help make the look successful. Ultimately the vibe you want to achieve should dictate whether going for bold black walls or just a black accent wall is the right decision for your bedroom.
