Emily Henderson / House Beautiful
I have always mixed light and dark elements in every home I’ve lived in. Part of that comes from decorating for every season and part of it comes from indecision about which mood I prefer — bright and airy or cozy and moody. More than anything, I love the complexity and contrast that comes from combining moods. A home that’s only dark can be overwhelming, while a home that’s only light can feel flat and lacking in depth.
I usually place light and dark together within the same room, but I also enjoy letting different rooms express different moods as you move through the house. A moody atmosphere doesn’t require dark paint; it can come from deep-toned floors, richer furniture, antiques, textured fabrics, or painted cabinetry. These elements create contrast and warmth without relying solely on wall color.
Dark walls work better in some locations and styles than others. In rooms with abundant natural light, very dark walls can look washed out, so a lighter palette tends to be more appropriate. In smaller or more enclosed spaces, darker paint can make a room feel snug and intimate. Our bedroom is a good example: it has enough light to avoid feeling gloomy, and the darker walls make it feel warm and restful. (Coincidentally, Benjamin Moore’s 2017 color of the year reminded me of my bedroom walls.)
Where you live also influences how comfortable you feel with moody colors. In climates with long, gray winters, some people prefer light, summery palettes to lift their spirits. I tend to lean toward colors that reflect the local landscape — tones with warmer or grayer undertones that harmonize with the Pacific Northwest light and weather. Choosing colors that relate to the surroundings creates a sense of cohesion and comfort.
That said, I don’t want a home that only feels cozy in winter. I balance moody elements with lots of warm whites and lighter accents to reflect light and keep the house feeling open and cheerful year-round. This balance lets the home evolve naturally with the seasons: richer, moodier tones feel right in fall and winter, while lighter hues brighten spring and summer.
My master bedroom (color: Glidden Black Frosted Plum)
Do the natural surroundings and seasonal changes where you live influence how you decorate? Share your thoughts in the comments.
More posts:
My Fall House Tour 2016
My Fall House Tours from my previous home
