For years, interior design trends have been centered around neutral and light colors. Bright white interiors are sun-filled and are known for giving any room a sense of calm and serenity. While bright spaces are great, the next trend in interior design takes a spin in the opposite direction. Dark, moody, and dramatic interiors are starting to pop up more and more. Maybe you’re considering painting an accent wall in a dark shade of red or installing black hardwood floors throughout your home, but you think that darker colors might make your space seem smaller. This is a common misconception! Dark colors can add style, coziness, and character to any space, and light can be easily incorporated through accents and natural lighting.
Graber Roman Shade Window Treatments
Dark colors make a room feel sophisticated and can quickly become your favorite place to unwind after a long day. Whether you want to add a darker color scheme to your bedroom, living room, or kitchen, you have plenty of options to create the perfect dramatic space for your home.
Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
Pantone’s Color of the Year
If you love staying up to date on current trends, then there is no better way to incorporate darker colors in your space than by using Pantone’s 2023 color of the year: Viva Magenta. Viva Magenta is a deep shade of red that would look amazing as an accent wall or primary color. It will make a bold statement in any room in your home. This shade brings about a sense of rebelliousness and can bring life to your space. Pair Viva Magenta with dark hues like blacks and greys for a pop of color.
Choosing Your Color Scheme
Ironwork Ridge Carbon Rectified Emser Tile
When you think of creating a dramatic and moody space in your home, the first color that likely comes to mind is black. While black is a great color if you want to embrace moody decor fully, we understand that too much of it can be overwhelming. Black is great in moderation and can really make a space stand out. Other great color schemes can help you design your perfect brooding space. Emerald green, ruby red, and navy blue are all perfect hues to accentuate a dramatic look. Layering opposite colors, such as black and white, adds unique visual interest.
Unique Focal Points in Your Space
When designing your space and selecting your accents, you’ll want to add at least one focal point that draws the eye of your household members and guests. Focal points can be both big and small. When deciding what you want your focal point to be, start by looking around your space to determine the largest feature area. It may be above your fireplace, an area rug, or anything in between. You can even have more than one in a room! If you want to add smaller focal points in your space, consider bringing in artwork or mirrors, and installing accent furniture such as chairs, couches, and more.
If you’re looking to make a big statement with your focal piece and want to upgrade the look of your space completely, consider changing out some of the more prominent elements in your home, such as your flooring and countertops.
Upgrade Your Flooring
Erosion Wind Porcelain by Emser Tile
Floors are arguably the most significant focal point in any room. This is why it is essential to match your decor to your flooring. You cannot go wrong with dark flooring when creating a moody, dramatic space. Dark floors are known for their warmth and ambiance. They bring richness and contrast, making your furnishings and decor stand out more. No matter what type of dark flooring you choose, whether hardwood, laminate, tile, vinyl, or carpet, you can rest assured that your dark floors offer a versatile appearance that will complement any decor style. One of the best flooring types for a dramatic look is a black hardwood floor in a parquet or herringbone style.
If completely upgrading your flooring is out of the question, you can always rely on area rugs to add texture and color to a space. Area rugs can also make a great focal point in your room, as their patterns typically draw the eye. They are also a great way to add an accent of color to your space.
Stunning Countertops
Anthricite Res Tile by Daltile
When looking for a more dramatic style, give your kitchen a stunning upgrade with dark countertops. Whichever type of stone you choose for your countertops, make sure they are a darker color that produces a striking aesthetic. Dark countertops are sleek and modern and will polish up any kitchen or bathroom. They hide spills and stains better than lighter colors. Pair your dark countertops with lighter cabinets for a balanced look.
Dark Academia
One of the biggest interior design trends for dark, moody, and dramatic spaces is the Dark Academia look. This gothic-inspired interior design trend shows off dark-toned walls and vintage, quirky elements. Creating a room inspired by Dark Academia should start with a dark-hued color scheme. It’s often accentuated with gold, which can be incorporated through frames and smaller decorative items such as vases, candlesticks, and statues. Earthy-toned furniture complements this decor style nicely and adds richness and warmth to the space. Think of pieces like a beautiful oak mantel or a mahogany table. Decorate the space with vintage features and books to enhance the look and appeal!
