The Dark Side: How to Master Black Walls

Sometimes there’s nothing greater than a light-filled room complete with crisp white walls complimented by neutral-toned styling. However, with a glamorous interior making a come back, introduce a high-impact dose of black onto your walls (and into your home) for an instant opulent and sophisticated space… Black geometric patterned wallpaper will look amazing for a glamorous Gatsby inspired interior – look to Catherine Martin for gorgeous Art Deco designs that can easily be incorporated for a dramatic backdrop. My favourite is the Cabaret Wallpaper (in Lacquer), which Catherine designed based on the amazing details seen in many Deco buildings. Something so intricately detailed and luxurious such as this gorgeous wallpaper should be reflected in the furniture choice – literally! Take advantage of the beautiful print and introduce a mirrored piece, such as Max Sparrow’s Able Mirrored Storage Unit, into the space for a touch of contemporary elegance. If mirrored pieces aren’t your style, then you can’t go wrong with metallics –the Manhattan Glass Bubble Top Side Table or the Preston Occasional Chair by Max Sparrow will compliment the delicate metallics in the wallpaper and emphasize the luxurious qualities the Deco period offers. If understated elegance is the look you’re after, then don’t look past a simple black wall to provide the perfect backdrop to a contemporary interior. Because the hue is often associated with anything dark and ‘spooky’, try warming it up by incorporating natural colours and textures into the space – think beautiful hides, light oaks, and soft woollen rugs. The Windsor Hide Chair by Max Sparrow is one of my favourites, and will really pop against a stark black wall. Have a look at these beautiful interiors to change your mind about the powers of the moody hue! [gallery columns="4" ids="30682,30697,30696,30695,30694,30693,30692,30691,30690,30689,30688,30687,30686,30685,30684,30683"]