Let Moody Noir Add Dark Drama to Your Home

Dramatic, edgy and sophisticated – black never goes out of style. Pair it with twinkling crystals, sumptuous faux fur and touches of velvet, and you’re on the fast track to creating a space that’s both romantic and luxurious. 

Combining classic 1940s styling and feminine florals with sharp, industrial accents, ‘Moody Noir’ is old-world glam executed in a thoroughly modern way. Here’s how to recreate the look in your own home.  

Pick the right black 

The first step on your journey to the dark side is choosing the perfect black. Not all blacks are created equal; pure black can appear somewhat harsh and lifeless in a space – the most liveable ones are nuanced, such as brown-based black or charcoal, which will add a sense of depth to a room. 

Black can throw a lot of different colours, so before you commit, look at samples then look to get layering. You could, for example, introduce a black-tiled fireplace wall to a living room, then layer in tones of grey in your seating and soft flooring, and balance these out with crisp white walls. Or, consider black kitchen cabinetry, paired with sleek grey floor tiles and white benchtops. Alternatively, add a sense of luxury to a bedroom with a dramatic, black-panelled feature wall, charcoal carpet and white bedlinen.

Add flair with pops of colour

Add a feminine edge to the look by introducing touches of this season’s fashionable pastels and muted brights. “Consider incorporating pops of dusty rose, petrol blue or jewel tones in cushions, a fabulous statement swivel armchair or artwork,” says Danielle. “And remember – less is more. Just one or two carefully considered colour additions will lift your monochromatic scheme without detracting from it.”

Mix curvy and comfy with sleek lines 

Add softness and interest to your monochromatic scheme with a carefully edited mix of furniture styles. Seek out seating and accessories with plenty of curves; think sofas in classic shapes with deep, generous seats and curved arms, a plush ottoman and round mirrors. 

Contrast these curves with secondary pieces with a pared-back, industrial feel, such as slender consoles, bedside tables and coffee tables in dark timbers with black-steel frames. 

Don’t forget texture 

The moody noir look is all about opulence, so look to add sumptuous textures wherever you can. Think wool carpet your toes sink into, a textured, boucle sofa, a bed piled high with cushions and blankets in velvet, faux fur and cashmere, and richly textured grasscloth wallpaper on the walls. “Using layers of rich fabrics and jewel-toned accessories instantly creates a luxurious and romantic atmosphere,” says Danielle.