Interior Design
How Do I... Use Dark Paint Colours in a Small Apartment?
You don’t have to stick to white if you have a small apartment; dark paint can add luxury and depth to tiny spaces
When it comes to modern decorating schemes, many of us have picked up the odd tip from the experts, one of which – light colours make a space look bigger – has practically become an interior design rule.
But we don’t have to restrict ourselves to this white-wall rule. Darker, or stronger, paint colours can be used in small apartments, you just have to be brave and clever about how you use them.
The joys of strong colours: The trendiest colour right now is petrol blue, a deep blue-green hue. Want something more classic? Try autumnal shades like orange, brown and yellow.
“Small spaces feel extremely intimate, sexy and glamorous when dark colours are used,” explains Singapore interior stylist Priscilla Tan from Styledbypt.
“Use reflective materials like brass and mirror to bounce light around and brighten the space,” Tan says.
“You can also be creative by using dark tiles or wallpaper. Add a scented candle to warm up the space,” says Tan.
7 moody colour alternatives to black
7 moody colour alternatives to black
The Colour Experts at Dulux Singapore have these tips if you’re venturing to the dark side.
Image: Dulux Singapore
Image: Dulux Singapore
Create the right foundation for your dark paint
“Creating a good base is the first step for long-lasting, vibrant wall colours. Tint your primer to bring the colour of the primer closer (or even matching) to that of the desired wall colour,” say Dulux.
“Creating a good base is the first step for long-lasting, vibrant wall colours. Tint your primer to bring the colour of the primer closer (or even matching) to that of the desired wall colour,” say Dulux.
This reduces the number of coats of primer you will need to apply to get the best result.
A water-based gloss primer will enhance smoothness and adhesion.
A water-based gloss primer will enhance smoothness and adhesion.
Be bold with your paint choices
Dulux Colour Experts suggest using more than one dark or rich colour in your small space. By combining two or even three different richer colours you can create depth and texture.
Dulux Colour Experts suggest using more than one dark or rich colour in your small space. By combining two or even three different richer colours you can create depth and texture.
If you still prefer to add some ‘light’, Dulux suggest using two darker colours and one lighter or brighter tone that will make the space pop.
Extend the illusion with the trims
To make it look as though the space is larger, Dulux suggest painting all your trims – the cornices and skirting boards – the same colour as the walls.
Image: Dulux Singapore
To make it look as though the space is larger, Dulux suggest painting all your trims – the cornices and skirting boards – the same colour as the walls.
Image: Dulux Singapore
This will eliminate strong contrast that will make the ceiling look lower, and therefore, the room smaller. The space will feel “seamless and unified”.
Choose the right paint finish
One of the easiest ways to ensure your room doesn’t look too dark is to use paint with a tad of gloss. This will help to reflect light into and around the room.
One of the easiest ways to ensure your room doesn’t look too dark is to use paint with a tad of gloss. This will help to reflect light into and around the room.
Dulux Colour Experts suggest using an eggshell or satin finish for darker hues as it provides a beautiful mid sheen finish without looking too reflective.
Image: Dulux Singapore
Image: Dulux Singapore
“Opting for an extreme matte look can result in the space looking too flat and chalky, while going full on glossy will make it easier for imperfections to show,” they say.
“Using glossy finishes in small spaces can help bring light into the space due to its reflective nature.”
Remember that paint will often look different on your wall compared to what you see in the tin, or on a swatch. Get a couple of tester pots and try the colours out on your walls.
How to test paint colours
How to test paint colours
TELL US
Are you using darker paint colours in your home? Share what you’re doing in the Comments below. And don’t forget to save your favourite images, bookmark the story, and join in the conversation.
Are you using darker paint colours in your home? Share what you’re doing in the Comments below. And don’t forget to save your favourite images, bookmark the story, and join in the conversation.
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