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a kitchen with black cabinets and stainless steel appliances
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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024

7 Quick Design Changes That Make a New House Feel Like Home

Design Notes

Moving into a new home can be both exciting and overwhelming. The process of unpacking, organizing, and adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings takes time. However, the magic happens when you make a new house feel like home.

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March 28, 2024/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/024.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 Walker2024-03-28 16:16:052025-07-09 19:53:377 Quick Design Changes That Make a New House Feel Like Home
a kitchen with a large island and stools - kitchen remodelingWalker Woodworking

Kitchen Remodeling: The Renovation That Pays Off

Design Notes

The kitchen should be top if you consider home renovations to boost your property value. A well-designed, updated kitchen can significantly increase your home’s return on investment (ROI) when you decide to sell. Here’s why a kitchen remodel is worth the investment:

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March 21, 2024/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Walker-woodworking-cabinets-frameless-rock-bottom-sherwin-williams-paint-on-maple-satin-sheen-kitchen-island-stained-maple-leather-barstools-quartz-lighting.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 Walker2024-03-21 18:31:002025-07-10 14:11:01Kitchen Remodeling: The Renovation That Pays Off
Effortless Home Styling

EFFORTLESS HOME STYLING: Leveraging IT Solutions For Interior Designers

Life, Styled

Imagine if technology could offer more than just inspiration. What if it could revolutionize how we design our homes—making the process simpler, more efficient, and infinitely more creative? That is IT-driven home styling, where practical solutions meet the digital landscape to unlock possibilities and create effortless home styling. It’s not just about following trends; it’s about leveraging technology to simplify the design process, empower our creativity, and bring our visions to life with ease.

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February 28, 2024/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Greenbrook-Design-Center-Furniture-Gas-fireplace-Shelby-NC-Showroom-Cerused-Oak-Built-ins-Transition-Mirror-TV.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 Walker2024-02-28 15:13:122025-07-21 15:13:47EFFORTLESS HOME STYLING: Leveraging IT Solutions For Interior Designers
a pantry with shelves and shelves clutter-free homeWalker Woodworking

New Year, New Organized Me: Your Guide to a Clutter-Free Home

Life, Styled

Welcome to a space where chaos turns calm, and clutter finds its way to clarity. You’re in the right place if you’ve ever felt the overwhelming urge to conquer the chaos lurking in your kitchen and bath areas. In this blog, we’ll embark on a journey together, exploring the art and science of kitchen and bath organization—all in pursuit of a clutter-free home. From smart decluttering tips to ingenious storage solutions, join me as we uncover the secrets to transforming your kitchen and bath into sanctuaries of order, harmony, and simplicity.

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January 28, 2024/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Custom-walk-in-pantry-walk-in-pantry-pantry-shelves-turn-around-in-pantry.jpg?fit=1460%2C1920&ssl=1 1920 1460 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2024-01-28 17:02:182025-07-21 17:03:11New Year, New Organized Me: Your Guide to a Clutter-Free Home
Sherwin-Williams

Unveiling Elegance: Upward by Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year 2024

Design Notes

Choosing the right color for a room can profoundly impact its atmosphere and style. For those seeking a serene and elegant feel, look no further than Sherwin Williams’ “Upward.” This light, dreamy shade of blue effortlessly imbues any space with a sense of tranquility and sophistication. No wonder it’s the color of the year. Whether used for cabinetry or walls, “Upward” elevates interiors with its subtle yet impactful charm. Its versatility makes it popular among homeowners and designers, as it pairs beautifully with a wide range of colors and textures. From modern to traditional, “Upward” is a timeless choice that can adapt to any style. So why not transform your home with the soothing and refined energy of Sherwin-Williams’ “Upward”?

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January 14, 2024/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/upward.png?fit=1080%2C485&ssl=1 485 1080 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2024-01-14 17:22:432025-07-21 17:23:11Unveiling Elegance: Upward by Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year 2024
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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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