How to create a dark and cosy living room scheme

Colour

Jul 23

Going for a dark colour scheme in a room is a great idea if it doesn’t get much natural light and is naturally a bit dingy. Rather than trying to wrestle the room into feeling brighter, you can get the darkness to work in your favour with a dark colour scheme. This is particularly the case in a living room, where you can create a cosy space which embraces the darkness, by following these tips.

Pick your wall colour

Obviously the first thing to do is to pick your base colour. There’s no rules here about what colour works best - so just pick a colour that you love and that you’re drawn to. There’s more to choose from than just navy: black, dark grey, wine red, olive green, forest green, petrol…

Decide whether you want to paint the ceiling and woodwork

I would always suggest painting the skirting boards and woodwork the same colour as the walls, it just creates a more seamless look and reduces the contrast between the walls and the trims which looks more cohesive. The same goes with the radiators if they’re white and paintable.

Think about how dark you’re willing to go - if you’re going for a really cocooning cave-like feeling then be brave and paint the ceiling. Here’s some ceiling paint colour inspiration.

Combine some accent colours

Once you’ve picked your base colour it’s a good idea to choose some accent colours to add some interest and stop the room from looking flat. If your wall colour is an earthy colour then carry that on (olive green, rust, brown), or if it’s a jewel colour, bring in similar jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby).

Choose metal accents

It’s also worth thinking about the metals that you’ll have in the room - this could be in the lighting, mirrors, furniture, frames, sockets and switches. Black looks really sleek and contemporary, brushed brass really pops against a dark background. I’d stick to 1-2 metals in a room.

Add lighting

In a dark room, lighting is especially important and can make or break the cosy atmosphere that you’re going for. Overhead lighting is important but will be switched off in the evening in favour for ambient lighting. So make sure you have plenty of lamps (with warm light temperature bulbs, never cool) and task lighting if needed.

Bring in some texture

Texture is important for any room, but especially so in a room where you wish to relax and be comfortable. Texture can be brought into a space in lots of different ways. Rugs are an opportunity to add softness, colour and pattern, and don’t forget cushions on the sofa. Aside from soft furnishings, plants, wood, flowers and decor objects all help to add texture and interest to a dark scheme.

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