Go bold and get inspired with black walls

One of the most effective ways to add a sense of drama to the home is by incorporating the colour black. And using black paint is the most affordable way to do just that! Play it safe with a black painted door OR go bold and embrace black walls!

Going black on the walls is a trick designers use because it makes a big statement… without spending big! Come and be inspired as we share the zones of the home where black walls work effortlessly. We also list our fave black paints and share top interiors styling tips when going bold with black.

Related article: Inspiration gallery: VJ panel living room walls
Related article: Design inspo: Beautiful black kitchens

Black walls — in the living room

The first zone of the home where black walls look right at home is in your living room.

Be bold and embrace it on all 4 walls to create a powerful statement or dip your toe in with just a feature wall or two. Yes, we know many designers are saying feature walls are out but they still serve a purpose and work particularly well when you mix up the material. For example, a living room with one timber panel wall or brick wall painted black and the other walls of plaster kept white or another neutral shade.

Here are some stunning living rooms you’re bound to fall for.

Modern traditional

This home is the perfect example of traditional (intricate mouldings and that sofa) vs modern (everything else you can see in the space!). It’s absolutely divine and we can’t get enough!

Sleek and downright sexy

If ever a room could be described as sexy… this would be it. This black on black statement home from Biasol is elegant, sophisticated and sleek as anything. See the full home tour here.

Panel me black

Black panelled feature walls are not something that immediately springs to mind, but we are here for it! It makes a statement and the panelling pairs it back, adding texture and interest.

Liven up black with plants

There’s no denying black walls are bold. But they also don’t have to dominate a space, as shown here in DIY Shelley’s living room. She softens the space with light sheer curtains, natural accents and plenty of greenery.

Indoor plants are a favourite of ours, as they breathe life into a space (literally!) and a pop of greenery. Check out this article on the top 10 trending indoor plants and our indoor plant care tips here.

Painted brick

We love a bit of exposed brick, but sometimes it needs a lick of paint to bring it back to life. Using a black feature wall at the end of a room, tricks the eye into seeing the space as longer than it is as black recedes. The black joinery on either side of the room ties the space together.

This office space pares leather, timber and black painted brick walls and we’re loving it. So simple, so classic.

Beach vibes

When we envision beach vibes, we immediately think white or shades of blue or green. But let’s flip that on its head, because who says beachy can’t be black?!

The exposed beams, sheer curtains, natural fibres and touch of rattan… this room oozes coastal with being cliche.

If you lust after panelled feature walls, be sure to check out this article where the inspo keeps on coming!

Black walls — in the bedroom

The next zone of the home where we’re advocates for using black is in the bedroom. It’s a fab way to dial up the luxe vibes and instantly creates a moody space you want to retreat to. Let’s get inspired!

Hotel luxe

Did you catch the bedroom makeover Gina recently gave one of her friends? She created a custom square panel feature wall and painted it in a warm black (‘Black Felt’ by Dulux) to create a sophisticated and inviting feel.

Sophisticated style

Doesn’t this space just make you want to sink into bed and relax?! As well as black walls, black has also been used around the ceiling detail to provide extra emphasis and draw your eye upwards.

Minimalist style

This master bedroom, as seen in the birdcage home, uses black on all 4 walls and the ceiling! Surrounded by a view amongst the treetops and that fabulous birdcage-inspired balcony, the spaces speak for themselves.

Black woodgrain walls

It’s subtle, but you can just notice the wood texture coming through these black bedroom walls. It pairs perfectly with the laid-back linen bedding and egg-shaped side table.

Make it masculine

Pairing black walls with a mix of textures like tartan, leather and wood, effortlessly achieves a masculine aesthetic. The black accents in the cushion, occasional chair and bedside lamp creates cohesion in the space.

For more masculine bedroom inspiration, check out this bedroom before and after makeover.

Black on black on black

There’s no denying that this bedroom with its black walls, black 4 poster bed and black bedding can be called anything else but sexy. It’s so simple but often, simple is best. Love it!

Boho bedroom

Taking things a little boho now, with this gorgeous bedroom featuring a black panel ledge wall. We’re not usually ones for feature walls, but here where the material has been switched up, it just works.

Match their mood

Teenagers are moody… it’s just how they’re wired. So why not match their bedroom to their mood — makes sense, right?! This teen boy bedroom does just that, styled to perfection by Liberty Interiors.

Decorating a bedroom for a tween boy? Check out this article here.

Black walls — in the dining room

The final zone of the home where you can’t go wrong with black walls is the dining room. Get inspired to dine in style with these beautiful black walled dining rooms.

Archway goals

Arches are certainly having a moment in design right now and while they are generally painted white, check out this dining room to see how painting them black adds impact with the way different shadows are cast! It perfectly frames the tiled splashback feature beyond.

Intimate dining room

Nowadays dining rooms are generally part of a larger open plan area but if yours is a separate room like this one, why not embrace it by painting all the walls and ceiling black! Paired with metallic accents, herringbone floor and statement lighting, this dining room puts a whole new spin on elegance.

Scandi sleek

To create a Scandi-style dining room, you may think it’s best to keep things light and airy. This black feature wall proves dark colours can still feel Scandi, just stick to natural materials and minimalist styling.

Flip tradition on its head

A classic way to add style and character in any dining room is with a half-wall of panelling or wainscoating. What’s unique about this space, is the wall panelling is kept traditional and white, and the rest of the wall and ceiling have been painted in feature black.

It’s a different spin on what would otherwise have been a very traditional looking dining space. Clever. Simple. Gorgeous.

Eclectic and vintage

We added this dining room to the mix to show the versatility of black paint. By now you’ve seen it works beautifully in sleek and modern homes, coastal homes, period homes, and yes, even eclectic homes too!

Proof that black walls can work anywhere

There really isn’t a space in the house where black walls wouldn’t look amazing… as long as they’re done right! Think entryways, hallways, the study and even in bathrooms. Check out these next few spaces for even more black wall interior inspo.

Entry / hallways

This entryway uses black walls to perfection for a moody interior, lightened up by the black and white gallery wall and subtle shade of green from the foliage.

There’s not much to this space so not a whole lot we can say about it. Only that the black wall makes it look so GOOD!

Another gallery wall using black and white as the colour palette. But what we love about this space, is the use of books, art and other decor to create texture and interest. Black and white does not have to be boring!

Black in the bathroom

This tub has stolen our hearts, but it works beautifully against the black walls in this bathroom. The texture on the wall tiles, frame of the mirror and rattan in the light fixture create so much interest in this unique bathroom space.

Floor to ceiling black marble is a sleek choice in this luxurious bathroom. The timber flooring adds warmth while the white bath and chrome fixtures add a level of luxe.

Scandi style study

Black and white is a typical colour combo in Scandi styling. The touches of timber in the desk, chair and decor warm up the space and add an element of brightness against the solid black.

Best black paint colours for interiors

Now that you’re sold on the look, let’s talk paint colour. Just as there’s no such thing as ‘white paint’ the same rings true for black paint. Some blacks throw more blue or green tones, while others appear more grey. Test a few samples on your walls to see how they look in different lighting throughout the day to make sure you make the right choice.

To help you pick the best black paint for walls in your home, here are some of our fave choices:

• Benjamin Moore — Black Beauty
• British Paints — Colorbond® Night Sky®
• Dulux — Black Felt (Gina used this shade in this master bedroom makeover)
• Dulux — Domino
• Haymes — Black Hills
• Porter’s Paints — Ainseed
• Taubmans — All Black
• Taubmans — Black Fox

Interior styling tips — How to style with black walls

You’ve got the inspo, you’ve chosen your paint and you’re fully committed. Now what?! There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to styling your space to enhance those gorgeous black painted walls.

Choose the right wall to paint

Will you go for black feature walls or commit to the entire room? A feature wall can add drama and focus to a space without overwhelming it. Painting the entire room black creates a more immersive, cosy environment.

Don’t forget to think about the rooms natural light. Black paint tends to make a space feel smaller, so it’s best to use it in rooms with plenty of light or in a room where you want to create a moody, more intimate atmosphere.

Consider the finish

When it comes to painting black walls, the finish you choose can significantly impact the final look of your walls. Do you want matte, satin or gloss?

A matte finish gives a sophisticated, velvety look, but can be less forgiving of marks and smudges.

Satin finishes offer a subtle sheen that reflects light, without being too shiny. This is a great all-round choice.

If you want to create some real drama, go for gloss. Although be aware it will highlight imperfections on the wall surfaces.

Think about trims and doors

For that sleek and seamless look, consider painting the trim, doors and even the ceiling in the same shade of black. This creates a space that is cohesive, cosy and dramatic.

You could also consider a contrasting look by keeping the trim and doors a lighter shade. Consider white, or a soft grey to frame the walls and create a level of visual interest.

Let there be light

Dark walls can absorb light, so it’s essential to balance them with adequate lighting. Natural lighting is best, however additional light sources are also vital to make sure your space doesn’t feel dark and cramped.

Overhead lights, wall sconces and table lamps will keep the room feeling bright and welcoming.

Decorate with style

Now for the fun part! To prevent your room from feeling too heavy, go for lighter or metallic decor. Think mirrors, artwork and furniture to add contrast. Pop in some soft textures like velvets, cushions and rugs to add warmth and help balance your space against those dark walls.

So what did you think of our inspiration gallery on black feature walls? Has it given you the courage to give black paint a go? Tell us in the comment section below!

More interior inspo here

This article was first published in March 2021 and has been updated with new information and images.