Breaking Design Rules: Dark Walls in Small Rooms

Let’s tackle dark small rooms. Cue the ghostly sound effects. I really didn’t intend for it to sound scary. Let me try again. Let’s tackle bold dark walls in small rooms. Since I can remember, I have been taught that dark walls make a room feel small, and have been advised against this – no matter how beautifully bold a color is, or how much it resonates with your soul. I’m dramatic I know.

Stick with bright colors that will give the illusion of natural light and open up a room. After all, bright rooms make people feel happy. Dark rooms make people feel sad. While I can agree with this on some levels, especially for those that are largely affected by their surroundings (aesthetic sensitivity?), I think that a beautiful room, artfully designed and executed, can put anyone in a great mood. This has led me to continue the Chic Misfits series on breaking design rules.

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So let’s get started.

If you’re going for dark walls in a small space, think details. Such as accents that make the room pop and draw one’s eye to it. Check out the photos below with chrome, silver, and wood detailing in the hardware or room accessories.

Eye Catching Details

Bright Decor

Also, think about adding bright colors that make the room pop, like white or jewel tones.

Structure

Here’s another little secret: structure really brings small dark rooms to life, and gives it that designer feel. Think gallery walls and straight lines.

As you can see, dark small spaces don’t just exist in haunted houses. Dark walls in small rooms can enhance the beauty of a space, and fill it with life! So go forth, splash that black paint on the wall, and conquer.