HGTV Stars Share the Coolest Black Houses

“Because it looks really good. Black is timeless, yet it also makes a striking statement. Lately there’s been a bit of a domino effect. People spot one or two houses painted black in their area, and they think, ‘That’s cool. I’m doing it too.’ ”

—Luke Caldwell, Boise Boys

Paint color: Caviar, Sherwin-Williams

“I tend to paint newer houses black because the modern aesthetic is a great fit, but it can completely update an old home, too, especially ranches. For a historical Victorian, I’d suggest doing a fun color on the door, like teal or yellow, to lighten the mood.”

—Jenny Marrs, Fixer to Fabulous

Paint color: Off-Black, Farrow & Ball

“Even though darker houses absorb more sunlight than lighter-colored kinds, the effect on the interior temp varies greatly depending on how much shade and sun a house gets. Though it may cost more to cool a black house in summer, it can lower heating bills in winter. I wouldn’t call it a deal breaker.”

—Leanne Ford, Home Again with the Fords

Paint color: Starless Sky, PPG Paints

“Not at all! Houses that appear black are sometimes navy, slate or deep brown. I did this one in a dark gray with brown undertones. Hard to tell, right? Your roof may go better with one of those colors.”

—Jasmine Roth, Help! I Wrecked My House

Paint color: Urbane Bronze, Sherwin-Williams

“It depends on the vibe you want. A full-on black home is contemporary, while white trim can lean traditional. On this house, we left the wood natural on some siding shingles and the porch frame, and it really stands out.”

—Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas, Bargain Block

Paint color: Cracked Pepper, Behr

“You might think a black house would disappear into the darkness, but not if you have good exterior lighting. That’s why I illuminated the span of this townhouse with two sconces by the door and another way to the left. You could additionally consider uplighting from the ground. And remember, interior lights create a soft, gorgeous glow at night.”

—Alison Victoria, Windy City Rehab

Paint color: Black, Benjamin Moore