As winter draws in, many of us turn our attention to revamping our homes for the colder months.
While warm reds and jewel tones might long have been popular choices, research reveals that black interiors are also enjoying a surge in popularity.
The trend is gathering pace on social media where #blackinterior, #blackdecor and #blackhome appear in a total of more than 50,000 posts.
And while it might seem counter intuitive to make the choice to go for darker shades in the darkest days of the year, searches for black interiors grow significantly in the Autumn and Winter months, according to Google trends data.
But while moody shades of charcoal and ink might photograph well, it can be daunting to think how the colour scheme will work in real-life.
Here design trends expert Kirsty Mole, of B&Q, shares four ways you can incorporate the colour into your home…
BALANCE WITH COLOUR
Mellow black with yellow: Adding black to a home office adds a feeling of serenity to what can be a stressful environment. A single accent colour, like the ochre above, softens the look
In colour psychology, it’s said that black can give protection from emotional distress, making it the ideal choice when setting out to create a serene work space.
Pairing the darker walls of your study or desk space with cheerful colour accents helps to balance the room.
‘Ochre is an excellent choice of colour to compliment the darker shade as seen here in cushions and throws, or you can experiment by contrasting the inky walls with pastel tones,’ Kirsty notes.
KEEP IT CRISP
Hotel living… at home: Recreate the five-star experience by teaming grey tiles with black paint and white fixtures. The stark contrast between light and dark immediately says ‘luxury’
Given how luxurious a white bathroom suite looks against a black backdrop, it is of no surprise the colour combination is used by hotels around the world.
Bring the same high-end feel into your home by pairing bold black paint and tiles with white units and fixtures.
If you’re apprehensive about using black in the bathroom, start with subtle touches such as painting your cabinets black or decorating with inky accessories.
CREATE A FEATURE
Dip your toe: A feature wall like the one above is an excellent way to experiment with an intimidating shade. This works even better in a room that is flooded with natural light
A feature wall can be an easy way to introduce an intimidating colour like black into the home, Kirsty explains, particularly if you choose a room flooded with natural light.
‘That way, even though your walls are dark, the room will still be flooded with brightness,’ she says.
‘What’s more, the great thing about black is that it complements a range of colours. Accessorise with green and gold accents to keep the look natural, homely and uplifting.’
ADD IMPACT
Monochrome magic: The contrast between the black cabinets with the white walls, ceiling and countertops, creates a sense of sharpness and sleekness – even in a busy family kitchen
A room like the kitchen gives you the chance to bring maximum impact – and wow factor – with the use of a monochrome colour scheme.
Pair chic black kitchen cupboards with crisp white worktops for ultimate impact.
Complete the look by incorporating dramatic ceiling pendant lights to create a clean and contemporary finish, even in the busiest of kitchens.