9 Rooms That Embody the Sophistication of Using Black

These bold and sophisticated spaces will entice you to go dark.

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If you're on the hunt for a hue that can instantly transform your space, look no further than black. This bold hue has the same enduring versatility as its lighter neutrals, and it can add an elegant and dramatic edge to a space. And contrary to popular belief, black does not always make a room feel smaller; in fact, it can sometimes have the opposite effect, creating the illusion of a larger and more expensive space.

If you are planning to renovate your home with black hues, consider these examples from cosy bedrooms to spacious living rooms - all dressed in various shades of black.

1. An ultra-sophisticated living room that plays with different black finishes

Black may not be the first colour that comes to mind when thinking of an inviting space because the colour (or lack thereof) has a reputation for being gloomy, moody, and claustrophobic. This is not entirely true; in fact, using black to renovate your space can make it feel larger and more inviting.

This modern living room perfectly demonstrates that a black colour scheme can be used to create an inviting and welcoming environment. The matte black built-in cabinetry, coffee table, and throw pillows make the room appear elegant and ultra-sophisticated.

The designer also used black textured wallpaper as a feature wall in the living room to create a dramatic effect and make the space look exquisite. To fully appreciate this cool textural addition, the designer keeps the walls bare with no artwork or decor on display. Meanwhile, white tile flooring and ceiling lighten the space without detracting from the cocoon-like atmosphere of the space.

2. A dramatic dining area that proves bold design choices pay off

White is of course a safe choice for a dining room but if you crave drama, check out this sleek black dining area. Here, the designer took a serious design risk by coordinating the whole space in dark hues, especially black. The lacquered black walls, for example, make a strong statement as soon as you walk into the room. Meanwhile, the glossy black dining table and black leather dining chairs give the space a very sleek and sultry appearance.

To add to the room's classy appeal, the designer used metallics for the light fixtures and decor pieces to break up the stark black dining space. And the result? A beautiful space perfect for dining and entertaining guests.

3. An eye-catching black-and-white kitchen

If you want to create a kitchen that’s both functional and attention-grabbing, shower the space with plenty of black.

Take a cue from this visually appealing minimalist kitchen. The black cabinets, counter, and backsplash help to unify the space, while the shiny surfaces of the quartz countertops and backsplash bounce light around the room and add dimension. White kitchenware and appliances, on the other hand, help to break up the black space. Topping it all off is the white ceiling and tiled floor that gives the kitchen an open and airy feel.

4. A serene study room that uses black for contrast

A room doesn't need to be covered from floor to ceiling in black to make an impact. Sticking to certain fixtures or furniture is an easy way to achieve a dramatic effect without overwhelming the space with too much black.

This study room is a good example of how the designer perfectly balances the use of black with other neutral hues to ensure that the space is not too moody or depressing for work or study. Black is only used for accents and built-in cabinets, while lighter neutrals are used for the floor, walls, and ceiling. The colour combination made the room feel light, spacious and serene. The designer completed the study room by hanging two black and white art pieces on the wall. It immediately adds character to the functional space.

5. A teenager's bedroom that uses black for a relaxing and cosy vibe

If there is something that teenagers are worse at than tidying up, it’s keeping a healthy sleep routine. Creating a dark environment in a bedroom can encourage them to relax and promote better sleep.

Box Design Studio successfully uses dark palettes to soothe the eyes and make the owner feel cosy and relaxed when staying in this room. It has a black built-in bedframe that matches the bedside tables. Everything else, from the curtains to the blinds to the chairs also comes in black or dark hues. Meanwhile, the white and bedding and patterned throw pillows add texture to the overall dark colour scheme.

Explore: 7 Design Tips for Fun, Practical and Stylish Teen Bedrooms

6. A master bedroom with an elegant setting created by the use of black

An all-black bedroom isn't just for teenagers. When used in a master bedroom, it can look just as elegant and classy. This bedroom by Vault Design Lab exemplifies how to achieve elegance with black hues.

A coat of rich black paint helps unify the different elements (table lamps, bedframe, bedside tables, door, walls) of the bedroom. Though full of masculine touches, this bedroom has a softer charm thanks to the marble feature wall behind the bed frame. Overall, it creates a luxurious and high end feel to the boudoir.

7. A walk-in wardrobe that employs black as a gender-neutral colour

Black is a great colour to use if you want to create a space that appeals to both genders. This wardrobe designed by PINS Studio exemplifies the point perfectly. To achieve that gender-neutral vibe, the designer installed a floor-to-ceiling pitch-black wardrobe with white accent lights to illuminate each shelf. The black wardrobe adds depth to the room, making it appear limitless. The deep black colour also helps to conceal any appearance of clutter, which is useful if you have an open space walk-in wardrobe like this one.

The all-black cabinetry complements the rich wood tones of the floor, adding warmth, texture, and a relaxed look. Meanwhile, the tanned leather stool adds a small dose of colour to the room.

8. A bathroom that uses black to create a cocoon-like atmosphere

Since bathrooms are typically some of the smallest rooms in your home, your first instinct may be to decorate them in light colours. However, when used as an accent, black can be an excellent way to achieve a cacoon-like atmosphere without making it feel cramped.

Take a look at this chic bathroom. Doubble Interior Associates uses matte black for the accessories such as the blinds, ladder towel rack, mirror, faucets, and vanity cabinet, as well as black tiles on the floor and in the shower area, to create a cocoon-like atmosphere that would be impossible to achieve with lighter colours. To avoid feeling claustrophobic in the bathroom, the designer installed glass doors and offset the overall black bathroom with a white washbasin, counter, and vanity wall.

9. A media room that uses black to create a relaxing environment

If you have a dedicated room for watching TV or playing video games, black or dark hues are a great way to lend a relaxing and casual atmosphere to a space.

This moody media room, for example, could be the best place ever to watch Netflix and chill. The black painted walls that extend to the ceiling add a dramatic edge to the space, while the tanned leather love seats and hardwood floors add a dash of colour. Meanwhile, the night sky ceiling lights which give the impression of watching movies under a blanket of stars contribute to the space's cosiness.

Planning to renovate your home?

If you want to incorporate black as the dominant colour in your house but aren't sure how to do so in a way that doesn't overwhelm the space, an interior designer can help to guide you to successfully balance the use of it, whether it's in your kitchen, bedroom, living room, or even your bathrooms! Drop us a request for a free quote and we’ll be happy to match you up with up to four interior designers close to your area, tailored to your budget.

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