The Perfect Black Paint Color

Embracing the dark side of decor can be a beautiful thing. Far from being somber or spooky, black walls can add a sense of sophistication and even warmth to a space while pairing well with your favorite hues. To help us pick the perfect black paint to apply to our rooms, we asked Memphis, Tennessee-based interior designer Sean Anderson to share his favorite picks and how he likes to incorporate them into his beautiful spaces. Here are his recommendations:

Black Sky by Portola Paints is a charcoal-like black that can completely envelop a room (walls, ceiling, and trim) with a warm, cozy quality.

Raccoon Fur by Benjamin Moore has blue undertones that work perfectly for spaces like offices and libraries. It has become a recent go-to as an alternative to navy.

Wrought Iron by Benjamin Moore is a timeless color with a grey quality that works for interior and exterior. Nothing beats its contrast with a great warm white.

Cobra by Portola Paints is a rich brown-based black that’s well-suited for the most traditional of spaces. It’s a perfect pairing with creams and rich wood tones.

Pitch Black by Farrow and Ball is a true black, a color for those fully committed to going over to the dark side. It’s striking and rich. Lacquered walls in this color provide a total wow factor!

Expert tip and featured image from Sean Anderson Design in Memphis, TN.