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Writer's pictureSpazay

Afraid To Go Dark & Moody?


Dark Themed living room with statement mustard sofas

Dramatic, Glamorous & Bold, if that's the statement you'd like to make with your home, but unsure how to achieve the look, follow along as we decipher some handy tips on how to make your home statement worthy.

 

While this is a style that may not be for the fainthearted, if done right, playing with dark aesthetics, can raise the design bar multiple notches.

 

Grey & purple themed living room

However, going this route is a delicate path to tread, and to avoid going wrong,  be mindful of -


  1. Lighting


Lighting is a crucial element of creating a dark and moody space. It sets the tone and can dramatically alter the feel of a space. While going for this style it is important to layer your lighting through different light sources to achieve that perfect ambiance.


Dark grey bedroom with ambient lighting

A mix of ambient, task & mood lighting are important to pull this off. As far as color is concerned opt for warmer & softer hues to achieve that cozy feel.


Lounge with dark theme and multiple light sources

2. Feature Walls


If going dark on all four walls is something that sounds daunting, you can always opt for dark feature walls to introduce dark colors in your interiors. Using elements like dark patterned or printed wallpapers, textured materials or panelings are a great way to add that moody character to any room.


Dark themed statement wall in living room
Dark gray accent wall in living room

3. Think Of Balance


We are all praises for dark spaces though, they can quickly feel claustrophobic and closing in on you. Hence, maintaining a gentle balance and contrast with lighter color furniture or decor pieces, art etc is important.

A neutral or white color bed with similar color linen, contrasting art pieces add balance and give the eyes a place to rest.



Black & beige themed dining room
Navy blue accent wall with white couch

4. Layers, Textures & Materials


To pull of the moody style try layering the space with different textures like wool, rugs or materials like wood will help add interest to the space. Use of reflective surfaces or mirrors are a game changer in this style, as they help amplify the space and create a sense of airiness by bouncing off light.

Moody living room with layered textures & materials

5. Rooms To Go For


Now you could go all dark & glam, and we are all game for it, but if not, you can pick certain special areas or rooms around your home to use this sophisticate style. Go ahead and turn your lounge into that moody haven or make a statement with a dramatic powder room or even a full fledged bathroom. Kitchens too are a great option to use dark themes, as darker colors are slightly easier with maintenance. Of course bedrooms are the perfect place to go for a darker theme.


Deep blue accent wall in bathroom
Black & brown themed kitchen

6. Color Palette


Now usually when we talk of dark interiors, black & brown are two colors first to pop in the mind, though we'd say why limit yourself now that you're already on the unconventional path. Emerald, Deep Purple, Charcoal, Earthy Browns or Classic Navy & Midnight Blue are some great options to explore. Right color palette can make all the difference in making or breaking this look, and some wrong choices can totally sabotage the effort. For instance, cooler shades of grey or ruby reds may be riskier options.


Emerald green themed dining room

Study with statement purple walls and artwork


To conclude, as much as light and neutrals are ruling the design trend these days, dark & moody interiors are that step function in your interior game, that could make a statement. This style can elevate any space and turn it into a rich & sophisticated retreat. Going bold all the way or incorporating the style subtly, let your inhibitions to rest and go paint the town red...or blue or black or ....we will cheer you all the way!!


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