The Must-Have Design Features For Dark Walls In Your Entryway

Dark entryway wall paint isn't just for brave homeowners and designers — it's for smart ones. Some homeowners may say that dark walls are just too uninviting, but this isn't the case when you know exactly how to balance bold with welcoming. And there are quite a few must-have design features for dark walls in your entryway, such as adding some neutral tones, tossing in wood furniture, or incorporating lighter colors as accents to the darker shades. The main point is that it can definitely be done with the right styling tips!

It's always helpful to consider the entire aesthetic of your entryway before deciding on the right colors and décor to complement darker walls. For example, mapping out ideas for furniture, complementary color schemes, and lighting ahead of time can save you from returning things that simply don't mesh well with your setting. All of these factors play a huge role in how open or closed an entryway feels. Done right, they can also enhance your entryway colors. 

Sometimes you may want to balance the dusky and dramatic look of a dark entryway with something lighter that helps open up the space. Consider adding white tones to a portion of the wall, perhaps as a trim to the bottom (or top) section. These tones are also some of the best paint colors to brighten up a low-light room. An inviting ivory or creamy off-white hue can easily illuminate your entryway without taking away from the mood. Even a set of eggshell-colored candles on a small table can help liven things up in the space. 

You can also style the wall with neutral accents in the form of slim beige or gray stripes or lines. These accents can come in the form of furniture, such as a light brown area rug that runs the length of the entryway, or stone-colored cabinet toppers, such as a storage basket or vase. You'll be surprised by how even the simplest accents, such as a light blue painting or wall art, can create more airiness and visual appeal in a dark-colored entryway. And don't be afraid of layering these tones with bright and playful paint colors for added vibes.

Styling with light wood furniture pieces is also a great and easy way to offset a dark entry space. For example, a pale wood shoe stand or a light beech side table can make your entryway more functional and stylish. You can also coordinate the room with a maple coat cabinet — perhaps even paint the trim to match the wall colors and bring out the rich tones in the wood. For a more modern feel, try adding polished brass wall sconces to both sides of the wall.

Often, dark walls create an elegant and sophisticated feel. So, try adorning your space with a small wooden bench if you're looking to add a more rustic or unpolished décor style. The bench provides an ideal resting place, and the light tones in the wood can soften the mood in the area. Consider throwing in a couple of red-toned pillows or throws for added warmth and visual depth.