My New Favorite Neutral Color for Interior Design: Behr Black Paint
- Keeva Brodie
- Jun 27, 2023
- 6 min read

In the world of interior design, color choices play a crucial role in creating the desired ambiance and aesthetic of a space. While neutrals like white and beige have long been favored for their versatility and ability to create a light and airy atmosphere, there is a new contender in town: black. Yes, you heard it right. Black is emerging as a popular choice for interior designers looking to add drama, sophistication, and a touch of modernity to their spaces. And when it comes to black paint, Behr is leading the way with their stunning range of options. In this article, we will explore why black is becoming the new neutral and delve into the best black paint colors from Behr for your interior design projects.
The Rise of Black as the New Neutral

Embracing Versatility
Black paint is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of interior styles. Whether you're aiming for a sleek and modern look or a rustic farmhouse vibe, black can add a sophisticated air to any design. Sarah Fishburne, the Director of Trend and Design at the Home Depot, loves black rooms for their ability to showcase great molding and trim work. Black acts as a blank canvas, allowing other elements in the room, such as artwork and furniture, to stand out and make a statement.
Creating Space and Depth
Contrary to popular belief, black paint can actually make a room feel larger rather than smaller. Dark colors have a way of making walls recede, creating an illusion of endless space. Interior designers recommend using black paint in rooms with less natural light, as it can add depth and dimension to otherwise dull spaces. Additionally, black can make other colors in the room pop, providing a striking contrast and enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Making a Statement
Black paint is bold and dramatic, making it the perfect choice for those who want to make a statement with their interior design. Whether you decide to paint an entire room black or add touches of black through furniture and accessories, this color is sure to create a visually striking and memorable space. Black rooms exude a sense of sophistication and elegance, instantly elevating the overall aesthetic of your home.
Choosing the Right Behr Black Paint Color

When it comes to selecting the perfect black paint color from Behr, there are a few factors to consider. Lighting, undertones, room size, contrast, and maintenance all play a role in determining the ideal black paint for your space.
Lighting
Before diving into the world of black paint, it's important to assess the lighting in your room. Black-painted rooms absorb light rather than reflecting it, so it's crucial to ensure you have sufficient artificial lighting in place to prevent the space from feeling too dark and gloomy. Consider the natural light that enters the room and the type of artificial lighting you plan to use. Strike a balance between creating a moody atmosphere and maintaining a well-lit environment.
Undertones
Black paint colors can have subtle undertones that affect the overall look and feel of the space. Undertones can be warm or cool, with warm undertones leaning towards yellow, orange, and red, while cool undertones have hints of purple, green, and blue. Behr offers a range of black paint colors with different undertones, allowing you to choose the perfect shade to complement your design vision.
Room Size
Consider the size of your room when selecting a black paint color. While black can create a cozy and intimate feel in larger rooms, it can make smaller spaces appear even smaller and more cramped. If you have a small room, you may want to opt for lighter neutral colors or use black as an accent rather than painting all the walls. However, if you have a spacious room that you want to transform into a cozy haven, black paint can add the perfect touch of warmth and intimacy.
Contrast
Black paint has the power to make other colors in the room stand out. Think about how you want to incorporate other colors through furniture, wall decor, accents, flooring, trim, and even ceiling paint. Consider the overall color scheme and how black will interact with these elements. Black can provide a stunning backdrop that allows vibrant colors to shine or create a monochromatic look for a sleek and minimalist aesthetic.
Maintenance
It's important to note that black paint, like all dark colors, tends to show dust, dirt, and scuffs more prominently than lighter paint colors. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep your black-painted walls looking fresh and pristine. However, if you're willing to put in the effort, the striking impact of black paint is well worth it.
Behr Black Paint Color Options

Let's compare the three black paint colors from Behr Paint: BLACK BOUDOIR (PPU26-23), LITTLE BLACK DRESS (PPU24-23), and LIMOUSINE LEATHER (MQ5-05).
1. BLACK BOUDOIR (PPU26-23):
Black Boudoir is a rich and velvety black paint color. It is a deep and elegant black with a hint of warmth. This color offers a sophisticated and classic look. It can create a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere in any space. Black Boudoir works well in both traditional and modern settings. It is ideal for bedrooms, dining rooms, or any area where you want to add a touch of elegance.
2. LITTLE BLACK DRESS (PPU24-23):
Little Black Dress is a mysterious and glamorous black paint color. This color exudes sophistication and style. It creates a bold and dramatic statement in any room. Little Black Dress is perfect for creating a luxurious and chic atmosphere. It works well in areas like living rooms, home theaters, or accent walls where you want to make a strong visual impact.
3. LIMOUSINE LEATHER (MQ5-05):
Limousine Leather is a warm and inviting black paint color. It has a rich depth and a touch of brown undertones. This color offers a cozy and welcoming feel. Limousine Leather adds a sense of warmth and sophistication to any space. It works well in areas like bedrooms, hallways, or any room where you want to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Ultimately, the best black paint color for you will depend on your personal preferences, the specific project, and the desired atmosphere you want to create.
Incorporating Black Paint into Your Design
If painting an entire room black feels too bold for your taste, there are other ways to incorporate this stunning color into your design.
Accent Walls
Consider creating an accent wall using black paint. This can add depth, create a focal point, and provide a touch of drama without overwhelming the entire space. Choose a wall that will draw attention and enhance the overall aesthetic of the room.
Furniture and Accessories
Introduce black through furniture and accessories. Black furniture, textiles, and decor items can add weight and depth to lighter rooms while enhancing the visual impact of darker-hued spaces. Black curtain rods can act as the "eyeliner" of window treatments, drawing the eye up the walls and highlighting architectural elements.
Interior Doors
Paint interior doors black to create a striking contrast against lighter walls. This can add visual interest and create a sense of depth and dimension within the space. Black doors can also serve as a stylish and modern design feature.
Trim and Molding
Highlight the intricate details of your trim and molding by painting them black. This can create a bold and sophisticated look, allowing these architectural elements to stand out and make a statement.
Remember, the key to successfully incorporating black into your design is balance. Use black strategically to create contrast and enhance the overall aesthetic, ensuring that it complements the other elements in the room.
The Timeless Elegance of Behr Black Paint
In conclusion, black paint is making waves as the new neutral in interior design. Its versatility, ability to create space and depth, and striking visual impact make it an excellent choice for those looking to add drama and sophistication to their spaces. Behr offers a range of black paint colors with different undertones, finishes, and effects, allowing you to find the perfect shade to bring your design vision to life. Whether you opt for a full-blown black room or incorporate black as an accent, Behr black paint is sure to elevate your interior design to a whole new level of elegance and style.
So, if you're ready to step outside the traditional neutral color palette and embrace the boldness of black, let Behr be your go-to brand for all your black paint needs. With their high-quality formulas and stunning color options, you can confidently transform your space into a haven of sophistication and modernity.