6 top designer tips on decorating with darker colours

moody colour kitchen

Does decorating with darker hues make you feel nervous? Pas de problem! Our design experts highlight why working with this look may be just what your room needs to create the right atmosphere.

Office

custom mixed-green hue office
Photo: Gillian Segal Design

“Darker colours can add such a sense of calmness to a space. In this office, we dunked the entire room in a custom mixed-green hue, which immediately created an encompassing serene feeling. I knew this client would be spending much of her time in this home office, as it was completed during peak COVID, so I wanted it to be a sanctuary that encouraged her creativity throughout the day.” – Gillian Segal, Gillian Segal Design

Bedroom

dark moody colour bedroom
Photo: Mali Azima Photography

If a bedroom is on the larger scale, using dark moody colours can create a cosier feel, which in turn is very relaxing for the homeowner.” – Emily Del Bello, Emily Del Bello Interiors

Bathroom

bathroom with darker cabinets
Photo: Trevor Cooper

“The darker cabinet hue is effective in this bathroom space as it anchors the eye and is a lovely complement to the stone used within the shower area.” – Designer Trisha Isabey, Isabey Interiors

Living Room

modern living room with a darker feature wall

“The deep and rich charcoal black natural stone anchors and evokes a prominent feature, while creating a sharp contrast against the crisp white family room built-ins. This stone not only plays the part of camouflaging the fireplace and television, but also helps create a moody, edgy and swanky vibe in this richly layered lounging space.” – Dvira Ovadia, Dvira Interiors

Kitchen

moody colour kitchen
Photo: Sarah Stacey Interiors

“I love a moody colour in the kitchen. I think it adds such warmth to a room that can sometimes feel sterile. In this project, the black was used to create tension and contrast in the space. But it also acts as a supporting player by letting the natural wood and limestone wall, visible through the window backsplash, take centre stage as the gem of the space.” – Designer Sarah Stacey, Sarah Stacey Interiors

Basement

basement with dark palette

“A dark palette instantly gives me hotel lounge vibes, which is why I chose this colour direction for our family’s basement entertainment space. Rich navy walls, ceilings and trim are an unexpected decor choice that will elevate a space to luxe status and impress your guests with minimal effort.” – Designer and digital creator Candace Alongi, The Minted Mama

Sara Duck
Sara Duck

With over 15 years' experience as a magazine editor, writer and content creator, Sara brings her passion for design and decor to our pages each issue. @bysaraduck

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