I love black. Are you surprised? Probably not. It’s no wonder why this classic color has been around for ages – it’s bold, daring, and mysterious and I like to think that’s what draws me to it.

“There’s something about black. You feel hidden away in it.” 

—  Georgia O’Keeffe

Black sets a mood and a moody space is something I love creating. You’ve probably seen glimpses of this mood in our new coffee lounge or even in our recent music studio project with Tommee Profitt. (take a tour here)

Moody spaces speak loud with little effort. The key features to a moody space are deep colors, lighting, monochromatic style, and a variety of textures. I’m not afraid to do black on black. For example, we did a black leather sofa and chairs in an already black room for the studio. We highlighted complimentary colors of gray, but we kept them simple and toned down.

Lighting always sets the mood. Having just the right style, featuring the right amount of wattage in various ways is dependent on the level of mood you’re trying to achieve. Remember in the movies where the guy “sets the mood” with his remote dimming the lights? Well that’s what you’re after – setting the mood. In our design efforts, we are often setting the mood for connection and conversation in spaces like dining rooms, bedrooms, coffee lounges, powder baths, media rooms, and libraries.

Don’t be afraid to add dark lighting to dark walls, or dark fabrics to dark spaces, that tone on tone is what simplifies the space and allows the overall experience to become the highlight. It’s an effort of zooming out and taking in the whole, as opposed to focusing on one statement piece or feature.

It’s a different way of looking at design, and honestly easier to pull off. Go ahead and get a little brave and go for that deep navy, dark green, charcoal, or even black. Set the “mood” – I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Here’s a little inspiration to get you started….

Enjoy! Your friend + designer,