Dark interiors create a feeling of comfort and cosiness, appealing to our nesting instincts and creating a feeling of privacy in a room. Traditional colour balancing cautions using dark colours as it claims dark colours make rooms feel smaller and light tones open up a room maximising space. However if you’re looking to add a touch of drama to a room as well as create a cosy, intimate space then dark colours are the ones to choose.
It seems the trend for dark interiors is still gathering pace. It is widely attributed to British interior designer Abigail Ahern, who is no stranger to colour and is always encouraging homeowners to be bolder in their colour and style choices
Dark Interior Trends for 2017
A sneak peek at some this year’s new Autumn Winter home collections shows the dark interior trends are still at the forefront. the first collection we came across to show case the dark side was from John Lewis
Image - John Lewis Collectors House AW 2017
Described as, “a return to the decorative and a love of individuality. Presented through an unexpected and surprising collection of furniture, occasional pieces, fabrics and accessories, John Lewis Collector’s House is a considered edit of over 250 beautiful pieces to fall in love with.”
The collection mixes pieces from different styles and eras to allow homeowners to create their own individual take on a trend. If you like rich, dark and dramatic furnishings this new collection is a great way to integrate new pieces to your home.
Velvet chair adds opulent texture against the dark blue patterned Cole & Son wallpaper exclusive to John Lewis, and an opulent gold leaf chandelier.
We also discovered the Autumn Winter collection from Marks and Spencer features dark interior trends. Our favourite is this twist on country house style.
Image - Marks and Spencer Home AW 2017
Traditional country kitchen style painted wooden furniture takes darker hues to contrast with the naturally warm light wood table top, chair fabric and striking gold modern chandelier.
Tips for decorating with dark colours
The easiest and most affordable way to change the look of a room is with a coat of paint. Bold dark colours provide a background from which lighter colours pattern and texture can really stand out against.
There are no half-measures with this look. Go bold or go home! If you’re considering trying the look with a feature wall, different colour or patterned wall paper in the same tone will create a better effect than a contrasting lighter colour.
Similarly the deep dark tones don’t mix well with pastels. Use jewel tones of deep blues, greens and ruby to add colour in furniture and accessories.
Metallic coppers and golds work well with the trend as do the angular forms of geometric furniture designs.
Here’s our pick of products to get the look in your home.
1. Ares Vase - A by Amara - £35
2. Aquatica Octopus Cushion by Jonathan Adler from Amara - £295
3. Dexter Floor Lamp from Marks and Spencer - £179
4. Nesting Tables i Blue Oil Drop from Cuckooland.com - £179
5. Clarendon Dining Chair (set of 2) from Marks and Spencer - £299
6. Webster Drinks Cabinet from Marks and Spencer - £599
7. Green Saude Sofa from Marks and Spencer - Priced to order