Painting your walls dark can dramatically transform the look and feel of a room. While dark colours are trendy and can create a cosy, sophisticated atmosphere, there are several factors that people often overlook before taking the plunge. Here are five things you should know about painting your walls with dark colours that are rarely discussed:
See also: 5 reasons to avoid dark colours on the porch
Space perception can change drastically
Dark colours have a reputation for making spaces appear smaller than they are. This isn’t always a negative— in a large, empty-feeling room, a dark colour can make the space feel more intimate and grounded. However, in a smaller room, dark walls can absorb light and make the space feel cramped. Consider the size and function of your room before choosing a dark shade.
Imperfections become more noticeable
One little-known fact about dark paint is that it can highlight wall imperfections. Any dents, dings or uneven textures on your walls will be more visible with dark colours than they might be with lighter shades. Before painting, it might be necessary to do a thorough wall preparation, including patching holes and sanding down rough spots to ensure a smooth finish.
More layers may be required
Dark paint often requires more layers to achieve a uniform look. The pigments in dark paint can show variations if not layered correctly, which might mean you’ll end up using more paint than anticipated. This can increase both the time and cost of your painting project. It’s a good idea to prime your walls with a tinted primer to reduce the number of topcoats needed.
It’s a commitment to maintenance
Darker walls can be stunning, but they can also show dust, fingerprints and stains more readily than lighter colours. This means you might find yourself cleaning your walls more frequently. If you have pets or small children, this can be a significant consideration. Opting for high-quality, washable paint can make maintenance easier.
Room lighting needs more attention
The effect of dark walls on room lighting is often underestimated. Dark colours absorb light, so you’ll need to carefully plan additional lighting sources to keep your space from feeling too dark. Layering light with lamps, sconces and overhead lighting can help balance the darkness of the walls and bring out the richness of the colour.
FAQs
Will painting my walls dark make my room feel smaller?
Dark colours can make a room feel smaller and more intimate, which can be beneficial in overly spacious rooms. However, in small spaces, they might make the area feel cramped. Using mirrors and good lighting can help counteract this effect.
How many coats of paint are needed for dark colours?
Dark colours often require more layers to achieve an even, opaque look. It's typically recommended to use a tinted primer followed by two to three coats of your chosen dark paint, depending on the paint quality and the previous wall colour.
What should I do to prepare my walls for dark paint?
Proper wall preparation is crucial for dark colours, which highlight imperfections more than lighter shades. Fill any holes or cracks, sand down uneven areas and ensure the walls are clean and smooth before starting to paint.
What type of paint finish is best for dark colours?
Matte finishes can help hide imperfections, but they can be difficult to clean. An eggshell or satin finish offers a good balance between a stylish look and ease of maintenance, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
How do I choose the right lighting for a room with dark-coloured walls?
Dark walls absorb more light, so you'll need to enhance the lighting in the room. Consider using multiple light sources such as floor lamps, table lamps, sconces and overhead lighting to brighten the space effectively.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
