10 Best Black Paints for Walls to Transform Your Space

Black paint is becoming a popular choice for many rooms because it gives a modern, bold, and stylish look. It adds depth to the space and makes other elements in the room stand out. Black walls can create a cozy feel, especially when paired with warm lighting and the right furniture.

Choosing the best black paint is important because the right shade and finish can affect how the room feels. Some black paints make a room feel more inviting, while others can make it feel too dark or cold.

High-quality black paint lasts longer, looks smoother, and is easier to maintain. Picking the best black paint helps you create the perfect atmosphere for your space.

Benefits of Using Black Paint for Walls

Black paint can make a room feel comfortable and stylish. It creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that can make any space feel more relaxing. Here are the main benefits of using black paint on your walls:

• Comfortable Feel: Black walls create a calm and welcoming atmosphere, making rooms like bedrooms and living rooms more relaxing.
• Works in Any Room: Black paint can be used in many rooms, including kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms.
• Highlights Furniture: Black paint helps furniture and décor stand out, giving them more attention.
• Timeless Look: Black is a classic color that looks great in any home style and doesn’t go out of fashion.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best Black Paint

Choosing the right black paint is essential to creating the look you want for your room. There are several factors to consider to make sure you get the best results. Here are key things to think about:

• Finish Type: The finish can change how the room feels. A matte finish gives a smooth, modern look but might show fingerprints easily. A shiny finish reflects light and can make the room feel bigger and brighter.
• Room Lighting: Consider how much natural light your room receives. Black paint can make a room feel darker, so it works best in spaces that have plenty of light, like rooms with big windows.
• Durability: Choose a paint that’s easy to clean, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens or hallways. Some black paints resist stains better than others, making them ideal for spots that get messy quickly.
• Paint Quality: High-quality paint covers better and lasts longer, meaning you’ll spend less time repainting. It’s also less likely to peel or fade.
• Complementary Décor: Make sure the black paint works well with your furniture and décor. Black pairs well with almost any color, but try using accents in lighter shades or warm tones to balance the space.

Top 10 Best Black Paints for Walls

1. Behr – “Limousine Leather” (PPU18-20)

Behr’s “Limousine Leather” is a deep, dark black that gives a bold and rich look to any room. The satin finish helps reflect light, keeping the space from feeling too dark.

• Finish: Satin
• Ideal For: Living rooms, bedrooms, and accent walls
• Why It’s Great: This paint covers well and creates a clean, modern feel. The satin finish is smooth and adds just the right amount of shine to the room.
• Pros: Great coverage, deep black, modern look
• Cons: Satin finish may show fingerprints in high-touch areas

This paint is a good choice if you want a bold black that works well in different spaces, giving your room a fresh, stylish feel.

2. Sherwin-Williams – “Tricorn Black” (SW 6258)

Sherwin-Williams’ “Tricorn Black” is a pure, true black. It gives a classic, clean look that fits in both modern and traditional rooms.

• Finish: Available in flat, satin, and gloss
• Ideal For: Living rooms, kitchens, and hallways
• Why It’s Great: The neutral tone of “Tricorn Black” helps it match with many furniture styles, creating a clean, balanced space.
• Pros: True black, flexible finishes, timeless look
• Cons: Gloss finishes may reflect too much light for some

This paint is perfect if you want a deep, classic look that works in any room, giving it a polished feel.

3. Benjamin Moore – “Black Satin” (2131-10)

“Black Satin” by Benjamin Moore is a warm, deep black with a smooth satin finish that’s ideal for creating a soft, cozy atmosphere.

• Finish: Satin
• Ideal For: Bedrooms, dining rooms, and home offices
• Why It’s Great: The satin finish helps reflect just enough light to keep the room from feeling too dark. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.
• Pros: Soft, warm tone, smooth finish, easy to clean
• Cons: Not as dark as some other blacks

This paint works well in spaces where you want a more inviting, relaxing vibe while still maintaining a stylish look.

4. Farrow & Ball – “Off-Black” (No. 57)

“Off-Black” by Farrow & Ball is a softer black with warm undertones. It works well in creating a relaxed, welcoming environment in any room.

• Finish: Matte
• Ideal For: Living rooms, libraries, and cozy spaces
• Why It’s Great: The warm undertones keep it from feeling too heavy, offering a soft, balanced look. The matte finish gives it a calm, smooth appearance.
• Pros: Warm tones, soft feel, smooth finish
• Cons: Matte finish may need touch-ups more often

“Off-Black” is ideal for large spaces where you want a sophisticated but inviting atmosphere.

5. Valspar – “Cabinets and Trim Black” (5001-2)

Valspar’s “Cabinets and Trim Black” is a durable black with a satin finish. It’s perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

• Finish: Satin
• Ideal For: Kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms
• Why It’s Great: The satin finish provides a nice balance of shine, and the paint resists stains and marks, making it ideal for busy areas.
• Pros: Durable, easy to clean, stain-resistant
• Cons: Gloss may show smudges

If you need a black that’s both stylish and practical for spaces with high foot traffic, this is a great option.

6. Dunn-Edwards – “Black Onyx” (DE 6500)

Dunn-Edwards’ “Black Onyx” is a rich, deep black with a soft sheen. It adds a modern and bold feel to any space.

• Finish: Soft sheen
• Ideal For: Modern living rooms, bedrooms, and offices
• Why It’s Great: The soft sheen gives it a smooth, stylish look. It’s perfect for people looking for a deep black without the harshness of a full shiny finish.
• Pros: Bold, modern look, smooth finish, easy to maintain
• Cons: Some may prefer a pure matte finish

“Black Onyx” is great for creating a sleek and modern space with depth, especially in smaller areas.

7. PPG Paints – “Night Shade” (PPG1001-7)

“Night Shade” by PPG is a dark, dramatic black with a slight gray undertone. It works well in larger spaces where you want to add a lot of depth.

• Finish: Satin
• Ideal For: Large living rooms, dining rooms, and open spaces
• Why It’s Great: The gray undertone adds richness to the black, creating a more balanced feel. It’s perfect for large areas that need a bold but calm color.
• Pros: Rich undertones, great for larger spaces
• Cons: Might appear too dark in smaller rooms

This paint is perfect for spacious areas where you want a sophisticated and balanced look without being too overpowering.

8. Kelly-Moore Paints – “Onyx” (KM 1910)

“Onyx” by Kelly-Moore is a glossy black that adds a sleek, polished look to your space. It’s ideal for those who want a dramatic, yet refined finish.

• Finish: Glossy
• Ideal For: Kitchens, bathrooms, and feature walls
• Why It’s Great: The glossy finish makes it easy to clean and reflects light, making your room feel a bit brighter. It’s great for adding a modern touch.
• Pros: Glossy finish, easy to clean, bold look
• Cons: Gloss finish may highlight imperfections

“Onyx” works well if you want a bold, modern feel that’s easy to maintain, perfect for high-use areas.

9. Behr Premium Plus – “Deep Space” (PPU18-10)

“Deep Space” by Behr is a rich, matte black that works well for creating a peaceful and calm atmosphere in your home.

• Finish: Matte
• Ideal For: Living rooms, bedrooms, and accent walls
• Why It’s Great: The matte finish helps hide imperfections, and the deep color creates a tranquil, relaxing feel. It’s also easy to maintain.
• Pros: Hides imperfections, creates a calming atmosphere
• Cons: Matte finish may need more upkeep

This paint is ideal for creating a relaxing space that feels cozy and inviting without the gloss or shine.

10. Glidden – “Black Magic” (40BB 09/000)

“Black Magic” by Glidden is a deep, dark black with a flat finish. It’s perfect for adding a dramatic effect to smaller rooms or as an accent wall.

• Finish: Flat
• Ideal For: Accent walls, smaller rooms, or feature areas
• Why It’s Great: This paint is budget-friendly and covers well. It’s perfect for making a statement in a smaller room or as an accent to other decor.
• Pros: Affordable, great coverage, perfect for accents
• Cons: Flat finish may require more cleaning

If you’re on a budget but want to create a bold look, “Black Magic” is a great option for adding drama and depth.

How to Apply Black Paint on Walls

Painting your walls black can add depth and style to any room. However, it’s essential to follow the right steps to ensure a smooth, flawless finish. Here’s a guide to help you apply black paint properly.

1. Apply the Primer: Start with a coat of primer to create a solid base for the black paint.
2. Use a High-Quality Brush or Roller: Choose a brush for edges and corners and a roller for larger areas.
3. Paint in Small Sections: Work in small sections to ensure even coverage. Start from the top and move down.
4. Apply Multiple Coats: Black paint usually requires more than one coat. Let the first coat dry completely before applying a second.
5. Smooth Out Any Streaks: After each coat, check for streaks or uneven spots. Touch them up before moving on.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When painting with black paint, some common mistakes can lead to an unsatisfactory finish:

• Not Using Primer: Skipping the primer can lead to a patchy and uneven appearance.
• Not Waiting Between Coats: Black paint needs time to dry before you add another layer. Don’t rush the process.
• Using Low-Quality Paint: Invest in high-quality paint to avoid peeling, streaking, or uneven finishes.
• Overloading the Brush or Roller: Too much paint can cause drips or streaks. Apply thin, even coats.

By following these tips, you can achieve a smooth and professional-looking finish for your black-painted walls. With the right preparation and patience, you’ll transform your room into a stylish space with ease.

Conclusion

Black paint is a great choice to improve the look of any room. It can make your space feel welcoming and stylish. Whether you use it for an accent wall or on all your walls, black paint can transform your room into something special.

The top picks for black paint include options with different finishes, like matte and glossy, which work well in various spaces. Choosing the right finish and considering how much light your room gets will help you get the best results.

Black paint pairs well with many types of furniture and accessories, making it a flexible and timeless choice for any room in your home. With the right paint, black can enhance the beauty of your space and make it feel complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is black paint good for small rooms?

Yes, black paint can work in small rooms, but it’s best to use it as an accent or on one wall to avoid making the space feel too dark. Pairing it with lighter colors and good lighting can keep the room feeling open and bright.

Does black paint make a room feel smaller?

Black paint can make a room feel smaller if used on all walls, but it can also add depth and create a cozy atmosphere. For larger rooms, black walls can be a bold design choice, while for smaller rooms, you may want to use black as an accent color.

How many coats of black paint do I need?

Black paint usually requires at least two coats for even coverage. Make sure to let each coat dry fully before applying the next for the best results.

Can black paint be used in the kitchen?

Yes, black paint works well in kitchens, especially as an accent color or for cabinets. It pairs nicely with metallics and lighter colors to create a modern, sleek look.

How do I pair black paint with other colors?

Black paint pairs well with white, gray, and neutral tones. You can add pops of color through accessories like pillows, rugs, or artwork to create balance and keep the room feeling vibrant.