Dark Trim

Posted by Kristin Abraham Apr 27, 2007

I recently received an email from a reader who was considering painting his white trim with a much darker shade. I whole-heartedly encouraged him to dive in and try a new color.

Dark trim is becomming very popular, replacing the white trim of old. I personally love the way black contrasts with some of today's trendiest colors like powder blue, soft aqua, and lime green. It gives a little more depth to the room than white does and very neatly frames views when applied to windows sills. But black isn't the only option. If you're good with color, consider selecting a deep shade that is similar to one you've used on your walls. Use a rather neutral color but something with loads of depth.

If your home already has painted trim and mouldings then switching is easy. Simply paint over them in the newer color. Remember, it's only paint, so if you don't like it you can just as easily paint it back.

If your home has wood trim you may want to take a moment to decide if painting is really an option for you. Most people love painted trim and the accent it provides but there are a lot of people who just love the look of wood (how else can we explain wood paneling) and if you're one of these people think hard because removing paint can be a real pain and you may even have to buy new trim.

My home has wood trim and I've decided to take a pretty unique turn in my trim decorating. I've painted the upstrairs trim white which contrasts very well with my deep turquoise bedroom, keeps the yellow bathroom looking clean, and keeps the pink office light and bright so I'm encouraged to keep writing and not take a nap.

The downstairs trim is getting a bath in black. to highlight the black accents already present in the home and to break up the bright green and yellow walls.

The area between the two levels will get a unique, handpainted treatment as I'm planning to paint this wood white and paint intertwining vines and flowers all over these pieces in black. This way I'm incorporating both trim colors but in a very personal and artistic way.

So, if you're thinking about giving your trim and moulding a fresh coat of paint, consider trying a brand new color for added appeal and to catch the eye of your visitors.