Ceilings are often ignored or overlooked when it comes to their design potential. However, given the right dynamic for your space, a ceiling can become a beautiful architectural focal point. In this article, we’re going to learn how to use black ceiling paint to create a bold and dramatic effect for whatever your specific decorating style may be in your interior!
How to Use Black Ceiling Paint
Homeowners spend countless hours determining just the right paint color for their walls, yet somehow the ceiling is often forgotten. Ceilings are typically painted some variation of white and aren’t really thought about again. But what if you thought of your ceiling as more of a fifth wall? Incorporating it into your design plan may add some much-needed personality to your space. So let’s explore the effect black paint can have on your ceiling when it’s appropriate, and what shades of black are currently trending.
Can You Paint Ceilings Darker Than Walls?
Your ceiling can play a large role in the overall feel of a room. Choosing a light or dark color can have a big impact on making the room appear more spacious and open or more intimate and small. So, once you’ve determined what look you’re going for you can choose light or dark accordingly. There certainly is no rule that states you shouldn’t paint your ceiling darker than your walls. Light walls can be a beautiful contrast to a dark ceiling, add dimension to your room, and really make the color of your walls stand out.
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Light Colors
Light colors on your ceiling can make the space seem bigger. So if you’re working with a smaller, more cramped space, a light ceiling may be the way to go.
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Dark Colors
Large rooms with tall ceilings can sometimes feel unbalanced. Paint color can help the height of the ceiling come down, tricking the eye into believing the room is smaller and more intimate. This creates a more cozy feel. Deep, dark colors like black, charcoal, navy, or chocolate on a ceiling tend to warm up the space.
When You Should Use Black Ceiling Paint in a Home
Most of us have been conditioned to think that a ceiling should be white. However, after seeing the results of several ceilings where black paint was used, our opinion has changed on the matter. Now, we’ve come to believe that any room with black is unique and special. Below are just a few reasons to use black ceiling paint in your home:
1. To make a ceiling look lower
People always think that high ceilings are desirable. This may be true in some cases but oftentimes they can make a room feel disproportionate. Black paint on the ceiling can make it feel as if the ceiling has been lowered, bringing more balance to your space.
2. To make a ceiling look higher
Some walls are too high and others aren’t high enough. Painting your ceiling black can make it hard to distinguish the boundaries of the room, making the walls seem taller.
3. To add dramatic effect
Black is definitely bold! You may have a very simple space but once you add black, you’ve added personality and flair that won’t go unnoticed.
4. To contrast with trim
Black ceiling paint contrasted against bright white crown molding or millwork can be a winning and classic combination.
5. Because you have a teenager
When your kids are little you put a lot of time and energy into creating a themed bedroom they will love. As they grow up and mature, they want something different entirely. A black ceiling goes well with almost any decor your teen may choose and can give off a sophisticated vibe.
When you should use black ceiling paint in a commercial setting
Black is bold, unique, and extremely functional when it comes to a commercial or retail space. A black ceiling can be welcoming, and improve overall appearance.
Retail and commercial spaces often have the unsightly but necessary equipment in or along their ceilings. A coat of black paint can conceal wires, cameras, or other blemishes from view. Black can also draw customers’ eyes away from HVAC and lighting equipment to create a more professional look. A black ceiling can also be used to call attention to specific areas or items of focus in your store.
When Not to Use Black Ceiling Paint
Because black is such a dark color, it isn’t always the easiest to work with. We all know how frustrating it is for dark paint to bleed through painter’s tape or leave flecks and drips in its wake. When working with black paint, always be prepared to drape drop clothes over light-colored carpets, window coverings, and furniture. Use high-quality painter’s tape and have wet rags on hand to catch any mistakes before they have a chance to dry.
Rooms with Black Ceilings
In the past, black had a reputation for making a space appear gloomy and small. However, designers, as well as homeowners, are embracing the elegance and charm of the once misunderstood color.
Painting your ceiling black can single-handedly define your rooms’ decorating style. There seems to be an element of mystery and intrigue associated with black tones.
Black ceilings draw your eyes upward, creating the illusion that your walls are taller than they actually are. High ceilings have always been a selling point in the real estate world and are extremely coveted. When paired with lighter-toned walls, a black ceiling can make your room seem more spacious and large.
How to Paint Basement Ceilings Black
Many partially finished basement ceilings have ductwork or pipes that are left exposed. No one wants to stare at that for years to come. You could pay a small fortune for drywall. Or, you could simply apply a coat of black paint and watch the instant transformation. The black paint gives off an industrial vibe that can be fun and easy to build on. Complete the look with black blinds or window coverings as well as corrugated metal siding. Black paint can also work wonders when it comes to hiding basement ceiling stains. Over the years, water leaks can leave yellow or brown markings on your ceiling. Black paint will conceal any and all discoloration or blemishes you wish to cover up.
How to Paint a Ceiling Black
Painting your ceiling black will require the same technique, tools, and skill as using any other paint color. However, there are a few things to consider to secure a successful outcome.
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Pick the Proper Sheen
The lighting in the room and the condition of your ceiling will be the biggest determining factors in choosing a sheen. It’s most common to pick a lower, more muted sheen for ceilings. We recommend sticking with satin, eggshell, or matte finish for black ceilings.
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Dark Paint and Dry Time
Dark paints are very finicky when it comes to roller marks and blending strokes. The trick is to work quickly. Once the edging has started to dry, it’ll be much more difficult to achieve a cohesive look with the main body of the ceiling.
Black Ceiling Paint
Just like white paint, black paint comes in countless different shades to consider. Depending on the furniture, decor, and lighting in the room, black can change its appearance because of the surrounding tones. It’s common for certain black tones to appear on the navy side and other black tones can look more gray.
The key to discovering the right black for your project is to pay attention to the undertones. When you find the black tone of choice, simply check the other colors on the paint strip to make sure they are all in line with your vision. The paint color Midnight by Benjamin Moore is a decadent shade of black with a slightly green undertone that displays a sense of depth and intrigue.
Another factor to consider when buying black ceiling paint is knowing which finish to go with. A high gloss finish adds an element of sophistication and glamor but isn’t the best choice for ceilings. The glossiness can create a shine that some consider distracting. Also, surfaces need to be blemish-free and smooth to look their best. Matte or flat finishes tend to soak up light instead of reflecting it, making it a nice finish for ceiling paint. A satin sheen meets high gloss and matte in the middle, creating a warm luster.
Black Ceiling Paint Design Ideas
Some of you may still be unsure about the idea of painting your ceiling black. Don’t worry, black ceilings and other bold black design moves are currently all the rage. Here are a few of the rising trends utilizing black and other dark ceiling colors.
-Accentuating Architectural Elements
If you happen to have defining architectural elements adorn your ceiling, black is a beautiful way to showcase them. Applying black paint will emphasize skylights, wooden beams, or crown molding.
-Black Ceiling with White Walls
You simply can’t go wrong with a black and white classic. It really doesn’t matter what your decor style happens to be, this combo never fails. Whether you love contemporary, modern farmhouses, or desire a more glamorous look, black and white have you covered. Choose a soft white wall paint, white furniture, and accents to pair perfectly with your black ceiling paint.
How to Use Black Ceiling Paint Conclusion
Using black paint in any variation in your home is both risky and bold. If you’re open to the idea of being daring when it comes to paint, you should feel safe moving forward with black ceiling paint. However, if you have intricate beams, crown molding, or other details where your ceiling is concerned, we recommend you reach out to a professional painter.
At Boise Home Painting, our team of experts are meticulous when it comes to details and it shows in our work. If you’re looking into a paint project involving black paint or have any other painting questions, we can help. Our design consultants, along with our painting professionals, go above and beyond other paint companies. Whether you’re looking to renovate your home or just give it a color update, new paint can change a lot! We serve the entire Boise area including Eagle, Caldwell, Nampa, and Meridian! Click here to get your free estimate!
