One of the best ways to predict which colors are most likely to become popular is to follow the forecasts of major paint companies. Each year, paint brands announce a color of the year or a series of trends they expect to see designers and homeowners brush on their walls in the months to come. This summer, PPG paints revealed its 2018 colors of the year for three of its brands, and all three featured shades of dark gray and black. Glidden’s color of the year, Deep Onyx, is a rich shade of black that the company’s press release assures us shouldn’t be intimidating. “Black can be overlooked as a neutral color, but it works well on an accent wall or as an alternative to white paint on doors, trim, and cabinets,” says Misty Yeomans, PPG color marketing manager for Glidden paints. “Just like a little black dress, Deep Onyx is a classic, timeless staple,” she explains. While black paint is a bold move, a little goes a long way, and it is particularly striking when used in moderation. Still think that this dark hue won’t work in your home? Check out some of our favorite paint options and inspiration below, and we’re willing to bet you’ll want to join the dark side. The front entrance of @thefauxmartha’s home is all the proof we need that a black front door makes an incredible first impression. While the exact paint color isn’t known, the sleek black door and white wood paneling is a winning combo. Jenni Radosevich from the blog I Spy DIY recently renovated a 125-year-old house in her hometown of Milwaukee, and the big reveal shows black window trim and black farmhouse-style sconces. A rich gray paint works well in transition areas of the home, think doors and stairs. On the staircase above from @e.t.shown_home, the deep Valspar color Downing Street on the risers is balanced with raw wood treads. Spotted in London by travel vlogger @liolaliola, this scene shows that black paint is the ideal backdrop for fall’s spectacular colors.
