Dark and dramatic: how to style a black bedroom

6 min read

Last Modified 22 August 2024 First Added 12 December 2022

Jet black walls, charcoal textures, and midnight bed frames – charming black bedrooms. We love to see them.

With rich hues and deep tones, they’re sophisticated, bold and timeless. And with the rise of black furniture, it’s easier than ever to create a room that feels like an otherworldly dreamscape. With silent luxury and elegant glamour, discover how to style the black bedroom of your dreams.

The colour psychology of black

Black is the colour of opulence and sophistication.

It symbolises mystery, elegance and power. Black has many meanings, but it is a colour that gives off a strong impression – it’s confident. Therefore, over time, it has become popular in fashion and interior design, conveying a sense of classiness, particularly when paired with materials like silk, velvet, and satin fabrics.

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Dark bedroom colour schemes to inspire you

The idea of black in a bedroom is certainly inviting. Black gives off an aura of mystery, which makes it a great choice for bedrooms seeking to create a romantic and sensual mood.

That doesn’t mean your room has to be all black, though—there are plenty of other colours you can incorporate into your design without looking impactful. With lighter shades of Liquorice and gloomy Vantablack, let’s look at colour schemes that bring out the power of black.

  • Light and airy colours: Choose colours like white, light grey, and light blue to keep your bedroom feeling open and airy. These colours help create a minimalistic, clean, and crisp style.
  • Neutral colours: Brown and cream are neutral colours that pair well with black in a sleep space. Their earthy warmth complements cooler charcoal tones.
  • Sophisticated dark blue: Dark blue is a fantastic option for a rich colour combination with black. Deep shades of blue and black create a chic, sophisticated space.
  • Edgy or sensual red: Red can add an edgy or sensual touch when paired with black. This combination brings sass while maintaining a classy look.
  • Luxurious accents: Copper and gold are perfect accent colours to add luxurious detailing and contrast to your bedroom.

Get the look with a black bed frame…

Black isn’t just a colour — it’s a statement. It’s bold, it’s daring, and it’s absolutely gorgeous. Let’s look at our favourite black bed frames.

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1. The Westbrook Bed Frame

A modern masterpiece, the black Westbrook metal bed frame gives you the versatility to create a show-stopping bedroom.

With smooth curved edges and a minimalist design, the Westbrook won’t overpower other dramatic elements of your black bedroom. Elsewhere in the room, add colour that contrasts with the metal frame to make it pop, such as white or neutral golden tones for walls, bedding, and accents. A rug is a great way to add texture to your room without distracting from other elements. Keep it simple with a muted tone if you have lots of other focal points in the room, such as a statement black bed.

Traditional black metal bed frame with tall headboard and foot end, styled in a light neutral bedroom.

2. The Jessica Bed Frame

Elegant finials and a dramatic matching headboard and foot end make Jessica a striking black bed that bursts with charming style.

To create a look of instant refinement, keep your colour scheme pared back, focusing on neutrals – warm whites and rich blacks. Jessica’s elegant design still allows light to flood through, so you can introduce greyscale bedding, matching black side tables and intricate table lamps without worrying about overcrowding your space.

A black velvet bed frame with high headboard, styled in a neutral blue bedroom.

3. The Charlie Bed Frame

Sumptuously upholstered in velvet-touch fabric, Charlie’s wide-winged headboard and classic stitched design pair beautifully with its striking black tones.

Pair it with cool grey, green, or light blue tones to make the most of this exceptionally cool and edgy style. To add interest, you could also use a variety of textures: wood furniture, metal lights, and cotton bedding. Plants are always welcome in the bedroom for pops of green and earthy character.

Natural tone upholstered bed frame with high buttoned headboard

4. The Deacon Bed Frame

We know this isn’t a black bed, but hear us out. Upholstered in a soft touch cream fabric with button detailing, pair the Deacon with black accents to create a timeless combination reminiscent of Coco Chanel.

We love the Deacon because it is a soft interpretation of black and white that is effortlessly chic and easy to style. Deep button detailing adds a beautifully tactile texture to your room in a pale shade that contrasts darker hues. To complete the look, pair inky tones with natural light shades on your walls and add matching textures and gold accents. Cream beds are the perfect choice for dark spaces that are on the snug side.

bedroom with navy blue wall panelling and grey bed frame

Credit: @rachhomelife

Add more drama with black wall panelling

From contemporary to classic, elevate your sleep sanctuary with this stylistic element, adding textural and visual variation.

When it comes to wall panelling, there are a few different types you can explore:

  • Beadboard: Adds a classic touch, perfect for a more traditional or coastal feel.
  • Shiplap: Offers a modern farmhouse aesthetic with clean lines and texture.
  • Flat Panels: Provide a sleek, minimalist look that pairs beautifully with contemporary design.

You could either go the DIY route if you’re handy at home or hire a professional. Either way, the results will be so worth it.

For more inspiration, look at our wall panelling ideas.

Blue headboard in a grey and white room

Credit: @our_ruraledgehome

Think luxurious, inky textiles

Layering is key in a black bedroom.

Incorporate sumptuous fabrics like velvet, silk, or satin for your curtains and bedding – they play beautifully with light. Introduce throw pillows and blankets in varying textures and patterns to cultivate a cosy, inviting vibe. Consider choosing pillows in rich jewel tones or subtle metallics that harmonise with your black walls, adding splashes of colour without overwhelming the space.

A plush area rug can anchor your design, providing a soft touch underfoot and enhancing the room’s warmth. Choose a rug with a high pile or an intricate pattern that complements your overall aesthetic. This adds comfort and helps define your seating area or bed space, making it feel more intimate.

image of a bedroom with a bed on the right of the image and a chest of drawers to the left being used as storage and a bedside table

Credit: @the_haddon_home

Amplify the ambience with layered lighting

Lighting can make or break the mood of a space.

A mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting is essential in a black bedroom. Opt for warm-toned bulbs to create a snug feel. Stylish pendant lights, chic bedside lamps, or wall sconces can add character while providing necessary illumination.

Whether through dramatic wall panelling, luxurious textiles, or thoughtful accents, a black bedroom can be both a stylish statement and a cosy sanctuary. Embrace the versatility of black by layering textures, mixing colours, and adding personal touches that reflect your unique style.