The Essential Black List

Refined, dramatic and bold, black is one shade that flourishes as the star or the supporting character of the room. Bring the dark hue into your home with one of these 12 products.

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August 05, 2021

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Though black never really goes out of style, the wave of ebony walls, fixtures and tile on the design scene seems like it's at an all-time high. As a shade, it runs the gamut from brazen to classy and easily finds a place in any design style. In particular, a matte finish continues to be very of the moment, especially for hardware, fixtures and tile.

Whether you're using the hue to bring in an element of sophistication or to make a jaw-dropping statement, keep scrolling for ideas to incorporate the shade into your designs.

$110
Photo Courtesy Farrow&Ball

When selecting a black paint color, you don't want it to be so stark that it's jarring. That's why we love Farrow&Ball's Railings. With its undertones of blue, it has a softness that creates a relaxed sophistication.

$64.99
Photo Courtesy Ace Hardware

Our other pick for best-of black paint colors is Benjamin Moore's Soot. Bold and saturated, this shade is a dark gray-black that has warm blue undertones. Whether you're painting a wall, cabinets or a piece of furniture, you'll love the outcome of this hue.

$338
Photo Courtesy Anthropologie

Contemporary and grand, Art Deco style is defined by its showy geometrics and elaborate details — both of which combine is this chic wallpaper from York Wallcoverings. The Art Deco-inspired pattern is embellished with sparkling glass beads that bring instant texture to your walls.

$199
Photo Courtesy West Elm

If you're not quite ready to jump on the black-hued train permanently, removeable wallpaper is the perfect way to dip your toe in the trend. The tone-on-tone graphic print is a contemporary update to any of your rooms and is as easy as peeling and sticking it to the wall for a complete refresh.

$4.98/square foot
Photo Courtesy Lowes

These classic hexagon tiles in an unglazed, matte finish are timeless and right on trend. Perfect for flooring, shower walls or backsplashes, the durable porcelain tiles come on a mesh backing for easy installation.

$46.65/case
Photo Courtesy The Home Depot

The textured quality of these ceramic subway tiles gives them a handcrafted look that's a step above typical subway. Designed for wall use, they'd make a striking display for your kitchen backsplash or shower walls. Completely change the look of the tile to your preferences with your grout color choice.

$69.50-$349
Photo Courtesy Pottery Barn

Bedding is simple to change out with the seasons and trends. Classic and utterly soft, this Belgian flax quilt has a sophisticated casualness to it that stands the test of time. Each quilt is intricately stitched by hand and made at a Fair Trade Certified™ factory.

$299-$759
Photo Courtesy West Elm

Outfit your island or bar area with these beautifully leather stools, available in genuine or vegan leather. Comfort is key with the gently sloped back and integrated footrest, and the style is unmatched. Choose from the bar- or counter-height options.

$78-$1,298
Photo Courtesy Anthropologie

Add just a dash of black detailing into your home with this handwoven jute rug. Ideal for high-traffic areas, the natural rug brings chic pattern and texture underfoot.

$108.99
Photo Courtesy Target

Bring an industrial touch to your room with this barn-like pendant light. An exposed bulb sits in a bright white interior that enhances the illumination of the wide-brimmed light. Finding the right light for your space draws the eye upward and is the finishing touch to your design.

$99.99
Photo Courtesy Target

Mixed metal fixtures are all the rage, and this gold and matte black design does it in style. The updated traditional light fixture has an open cage look with a diamond pattern — a brilliant welcome for your entryway.

$2.59/square foot
Photo Courtesy Lowes

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is growing in popularity because it's easy to clean and maintain, durable and waterproof, making it a smart solution for bathrooms and kitchens. If you're ready to go dark on your floors, these forged oak planks are a great look and quick to install.

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