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New paint technology is allowing designers to use matte finishes in ways they never have before.
From luxury cards to electronics and makeup products to fashion accessories, matte black finishes are everywhere. Matte gives black a warmer, more inviting look than its glossier, sharper counterpart. But its appeal isn't confined just to products: Matte black is gaining popularity as a modern, yet cozy, interior finish.
“I love matte finishes,” says Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing for Sherwin-Williams. “They help hide surface imperfections in a wall because light doesn’t reflect off the high points — which is great if you have an older house with bumpy walls, like I do. And premium matte finishes like Duration Home® Interior Acrylic Latex Paint are very washable. I have kids and I have to clean my walls all the time.”
The finish is intriguing when used in an interior space, but not in an outrageous way. Lauren Rubinstein, interior design photographer, says, “It tells me that the designer isn't afraid to show something a little different. I think black is as acceptable a color as chocolate brown or beige, but it's definitely a head-turner.”
Revamp a room
A matte finish softens the often harsh appearance of the color black and lends a unique feel to rooms both large and small. “It can make a small space seem more regal, and a larger space more dramatic, yet still approachable,” Rubinstein says. “Most homeowners are amazed at the transformation a room takes on after matte black is added to their color palette. It's really a dreamy soft look.”
Help soften the look and feel by using matte black paint to cover just one standout wall in a common living area. Make certain the room has ample lighting and add balance by using a soft white or cream trim. With the balance, even dark wood floors can look stunning, although keep in mind that some dark carpeting or wood paneling may be too heavy to support a matte black wall.
Get creative
Rubinstein uses matte black in her home, and it serves multiple purposes in her dining room. It not only operates as a stunning visual centerpiece that complements the surrounding finishes, but it also makes an interesting conversation piece when she entertains. “I use my matte black wall as a menu. I write the night's feast on the wall in chalk for everyone to gawk at. My guests always have something to say about it,” she says.
Matte black can add drama and a soft, welcoming feel to a small powder room when used on one wall. When applied in a kitchen, it can balance and absorb the gloss and shine of gleaming stainless steel and granite. Even in a sunroom, lofted space or bedroom, the color can help create a luxuriously relaxing retreat.
Finish the look
When designing and finishing a room with matte black, décor is important. Add some interest to the room with glossy lamps or fixtures; high-shine hardwood or tile flooring; or a thick, textured rug. Consider repetitive, angular patterns and “nubby” or ribbed textures on furniture or accent pieces. Choose either a creamy or stark white to round out the simple color palette, and then finish it off with just a few bright colors that draw the eye without overpowering. “Throw in some teal green or pink for just a hint of color, keeping it really simple,” Rubinstein says.
Sherwin-Williams matte black coatings:
