Painting interior doors white has become standard practice in homes. In fact, it is so common that we’re willing to bet most homeowners haven’t considered that their interior doors, just like their walls, can be any color they choose! One of the trends we’ve noticed popping up more the last few years are interior doors painted black. While we still love a glossy white door, we hope this decorating trend is stays, and here’s why:
Black, the Unexpected Neutral
Black and white are both neutrals, but white gets a lot more attention, especially in interiors. White reflects light well and can make a space appear larger, but black provides an element of drama that white just can’t match. In small doses, like an interior door, black becomes a perfect neutral accent to almost any room. Plus, we’re willing to bet your friends and family will be delightfully surprised by your bold choice!
A More Forgiving Interior Door Paint Color
Let’s be honest, white shows every imperfection. Fingerprints, scuff marks, dings, every little blemish is highlighted on an otherwise pristine, white surface. Marks practically disappear on a black door though. Also, if you’re home has standard builder’s grade or flat panel doors, painting them black will make them look a little more special than they would with a standard white finish.
Enjoy a Greater Range of Paint Finish Options
White interior doors seem to look best in a semi or high-gloss finish, but black doors don’t have to play by the same rules. While they look absolutely stunning with a high-sheen finish, black doors look equally dramatic with a lower sheen paint finish like satin. Lower sheen black doors look particularly good in more modern homes. Not clear on the differences between paint finishes? Learn more about them here.
Highlights Other Black Elements in a Room
Unless you are very selective about the colors that come into a room, most interior spaces have a few black accents in them. The trouble is having too few of an accent color can make it feel unintentional. Painting a room’s doors black will tie the other dark accents of your room together and make them feel like a purposeful design choice instead of an accident.
Black Frames Your Views
Black and white both have a tendency to draw the eye, however the eye reacts differently to each color. French doors or doors with a window painted white tend to keep the eye focused on the paint color. Since black draws the eye but doesn’t hold its attention the same why as white, your gaze will naturally gravitate towards the view the door is framing, which is perfect if you enjoy looking outside with your morning cup of coffee.
Have we convinced you to forgo the ordinary and opting for painting your interior doors black? If you’re feeling nervous about the change, consider picking a single door in your home to paint black. Living with it for a few weeks will help you decide for yourself if this interior decorating trend is a great fit for your home. As always, we are here to help answer any of your painting questions. Don’t hesitate to give us a call or to schedule an appointment if you live in the Philadelphia, PA area.