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Metropolitan Woodworks Inc

Design Notes

Dark Colors Make Bold Statement

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Contrast is a design element that is used often since it makes a statement, creates visual interest, and provides a touch of elegance to the space. White and Black, dark mixed with warm metals like gold, copper, and brass. Many interior designers are choosing to use this tool and these color combinations more in their creations, and it seems that this trend is only increasing in popularity.  Let’s explore the different ways you can add dark colors to your space, balanced with enough light to make a beautiful presentation in your home that both you and your guests will enjoy.

Why Contrast?

The purpose of contrast is to draw attention to certain features and highlight special areas in the design. Contrast also has the ability to organize the area and develop a design hierarchy by guiding the eye to certain items or focal points. The stronger the contrast, the greater the emphasis. Here are a few additional tips.

a black and gold vent over a white tile wall
Walker Woodworking

A Balancing Act

While contrast is a beautiful thing, it still requires a correct balance. If it leans heavily in either direction, it produces the opposite effect. Too much dark color and the space can become too heavy, and a lean toward light can leave the room feeling empty. Here are some tips for creating a unified design:

  • Dividing the wall color: Painting the upper wall and lower wall two different colors, with the darker color on the bottom, can create a stunning effect for the room.
  • Mix materials: Dark metal lamps with light shades, a dark couch with bright pillows rich in texture, art pieces with a darker palette against a white wall, or wood accents.
  • Include light: This is good because it adds warmth to the space, especially in the evening.
  • Little things: Hardware and plumbing are an easy way to add a pop without overdoing it.

Contrast, when done right, creates a design that captivates the eye. See how we accomplished this goal in this design project. Explore places like Pinterest to find inspirational photos you can bring to your design meeting.

a dining room with a table and blue couches
Walker Woodworking

The Benefits

There are many benefits to using contrast in your design. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Size control: By using the colors correctly, you can add or condense the feel of a room. Painting a ceiling and even the walls dark tends to make it feel cozier, while light walls open up a small space.
  • Focal points: Do you want to highlight specific items in the home? Placing them against a strong contrast immediately draws the eye to them.
  • Visual interest: Natural wood floating shelves set against a dark or light backsplash create amazing visual interest in the design.
  • Bold: Bright patterns can make a strong statement and create a fun touch to the space.

The possibilities are endless and the choices abundant. There are many ways to design a space using contrast, meaning that whatever your style, it can be accomplished.

a wood shelves with fruit and a bowl of teapot on it
Walker Woodworking

Contrast Is Trending

2021 is more than just a new year. It is a new opportunity to create a space that is just right for you. The element of contrast is on the rise and set to be a popular choice for the coming year, so why not get a head start on your renovation? Talk with one of our experienced designers and let’s get busy designing a space that reflects your unique style.

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Pet-friendly Home Remodeling

Pet-friendly Home Remodeling

Life, Styled

Creating a haven for your animal companions is at the heart of our comprehensive home remodeling guide. If you’re an animal lover, you understand the joy they bring and appreciate their companionship.

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July 14, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/dog.jpg?fit=845%2C684&ssl=1 684 845 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-07-14 19:49:022025-10-06 19:08:50Pet-friendly Home Remodeling
A kitchen with a large island countertop with white cabinets and barstools with wood floorWalker Woodworking

Mistakes to Avoid when Designing a Timeless Kitchen

Design Notes

Designing a Timeless Kitchen – As the heart of every home, the kitchen demands careful consideration and thoughtful planning. It’s more than just a space for preparing meals—it’s where memories are cooked, stories are shared, and lives naturally intertwine. While it can be tempting to follow the latest design trends, the real key to a kitchen that radiates warmth, comfort, and enduring style lies in a timeless approach.

Designing a timeless kitchen doesn’t mean creating something bland or stuck in the past. Instead, it’s about crafting a space that transcends fleeting fads, offering a personal and lasting reflection of your unique style. As you embark on this journey, it’s important to steer clear of common design pitfalls that can compromise both the function and aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. This guide offers thoughtful insights to help you avoid those mistakes and bring your vision of a timeless kitchen to life.

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July 14, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-kitchen-backsplash-lighting-canned-lighting-countertop-bar-stools-inset.jpg?fit=1853%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1853 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-07-14 18:26:142025-07-21 18:26:54Mistakes to Avoid when Designing a Timeless Kitchen
a pool in front of a house Modest Design ChangesGreenbrook Design

How to Design a Kid-Friendly Home Without Sacrificing Style

Life, Styled

Designing a home that caters to the needs of children while maintaining a stylish aesthetic can seem daunting. However, with the right approach, creating a kid-friendly environment without sacrificing style is possible. Whether you’re a parent, a grandparent, or someone who simply wants to make their space more welcoming for little ones, this article has something for everyone.

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July 14, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-pool-house-outdoor-living.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-07-14 16:13:592025-07-23 16:14:31How to Design a Kid-Friendly Home Without Sacrificing Style
a living room with a fireplace and a tvGreenbrook Design

Eco-friendly Home Design Trends

Design Notes

In a world where environmental concerns are at the forefront of our collective consciousness, eco-friendly home design trends have emerged as a powerful force in shaping how we live. Sustainability has become an essential aspect of our daily lives, and our homes are no exception. Today, there is a growing interest in creating living spaces that are not only environmentally friendly but also visually appealing, seamlessly blending modern aesthetics with eco-conscious practices

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July 1, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/livingroom-tile-wall-fireplace-tv.jpg?fit=2000%2C1333&ssl=1 1333 2000 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-07-01 16:21:372025-07-23 16:22:44Eco-friendly Home Design Trends
a bathroom with a tub and a mirror bathroom designWalker Woodworking

Bold and Beautiful: Incorporating Color in Your Bathroom Design

Design Notes

In this blog post, we’ll explore creative ways to revamp your bathroom using hues that make a statement. So buckle up and prepare to immerse yourself in a symphony of colors that will elevate your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary.

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June 28, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Make-up-vanity-master-bathroom-mirrored-doors-mullions.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-06-28 19:39:002025-07-10 14:30:55Bold and Beautiful: Incorporating Color in Your Bathroom Design
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Jan@greenbrookdesign.com
980-404-9600

 

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Our showroom is open to the public. Design meetings require an appointment, which can be done by phone or email. CONTACT US

 

Vendors require an appointment. Please contact: Jan@greenbrookdesign.com

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