Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the affable architectural business owner talks about embracing darker shades in making our living space look stylish and welcoming.
As someone whose foray into Grand Designs and all that went with it actually began by running a lighting business, I’ve always taken huge interest in the way people make use of light – both artificial and natural – in their living spaces.
Light is, after all, one of the most important contributors to humanity. Our bodies rely on it, feed off it, as well as react and interact to its changes. In short, light is a barometer of our body clocks, and is essential for general wellbeing.
In the home environment, natural light can transform a space, making it feel more inviting, expansive, and comfortable. Artificial lighting, meanwhile, does the same thing in a slightly different way, being used to create the right mood and atmosphere in each room, as well as offering the opportunity for lighting fixtures to give us decoration and a method for exploring our tastes and artistic expression.
Something I get asked a lot is how to use darker shades in a way that enables a room to feel stylish, whilst still inviting. It can be a tough thing to get right, but it’s certainly achievable with the correct approach.
The first thing I ask people is their definition of ‘dark’. After all, dark doesn’t have to mean pitch black! Traditional gloomy colours can sometimes feel cold and unwelcoming, but use of warm-toned dark shades like deep reds, burnt oranges and rich browns can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
The next big thing is texture. Incorporating a variety of textures like plush fabrics, cosy throws and soft rugs can help balance out the darkness of the room, en route to making it feel more welcoming. With this in mind, ensure you don’t use objects or furniture that are oversized, as these will dominate the darkness and make the room feel insular.
Next is where the lighting itself comes in. I feel the real secret when it comes to creating a welcoming space with dark colours is to utilise a variety of lighting sources; so consider table lamps, floor lamps and overhead lighting, to create a warm and inviting glow.
In essence, you’re not looking to light up a dark room – more to accentuate some areas of darkness by lighting up other parts, where the detail is. It’s a skilled art, but embracing darkness in corners or through shadow and shade is incredibly satisfying.
Finally, juxtapose this with light-coloured accents – pillows, curtains and artwork can help to balance out the darkness of the room and prevent it from feeling too heavy or oppressive.
Overall, creating a welcoming room using dark colours in interior design requires careful attention to detail and a thoughtful approach to colour, texture, and lighting. With the right techniques, and if you’re open minded and brave, even the darkest of rooms can feel warm and inviting.
