Dramatic all-black interiors may not be for everyone, but the outcome is undeniably stunning when thoughtfully executed. “It’s a popular aesthetic that complements various home styles, from city apartments to country estates,” says designer Lua Henri. “Carefully considering colour accents, wall and floor coverings, and furniture are essential for adding light and elevating a dark open plan space.”

Henri Living's George Street project in Fremantle follows the decorating mantra according to the Rolling Stones: Paint it black. The home is visually defined from the street by its dark exterior and strong geometrical shapes, and inside, the theme continues throughout its spaces where the ceiling, framework, two of its walls and floor-to-ceiling joinery are black. “Continuing the same colour scheme inside and out ensures good design consistency,” says Lua. “Just carefully consider the impact of using only dark colours. Spaces can feel gloomy and small without contrast, so introducing light-coloured elements is essential in alleviating this.”

Paint has the remarkable ability to add light and contrast, completely transforming a space. It can create a warm or cool atmosphere, illuminate a room, or make it feel more comfortable. In this home, the space’s black features are offset with two white walls and artwork in lighter tones that bring relief to the otherwise inky, open-plan living space.

The dining area features a Midj Planum dining table with a stained ash structure and top. It is surrounded by grey upholstered chairs that contrast against a backdrop of floor-to-ceiling sheer off-white curtains that accentuate the space's high, lofty ceilings and act as a filter, allowing natural light.

A very dark space can still feel ambient with the addition of vibrant accents. A striking centrepiece of the predominantly dark kitchen is a large sculptural island bench topped with natural stone. A pair of elegant chocolate leather New York Stools by Saba Italia, featuring polyhedral ergonomics, introduces texture, luxury and contrast into the space. At the same time, a reflective metallic splashback adds brightness and texture. In the lounge space, an open back bookcase crafted in chocolate veneer is striking against a white wall that allows treasures and objects of art to be beautifully showcased.

“The type of furniture in your room plays a significant role in shaping its overall ambience,” says Lua. “It's not solely about the colour palette; the choice of furniture also has a profound impact.” For instance, in the lounge area, the Pixel sofa and Oltremare chairs, both by Saba Italia, are swathed in cool tones and feature soft curves that lend a welcoming and snug feel. The Darling floor lamp by Ditre Italia ties the space’s lighter palette together and casts a soft, flattering glow. A pair of Nemu coffee tables with reflective Murano glass tops by Desiree provides a central focal point, and a textural rug by Jenny Jones Rugs adds rich, golden tones, allowing light to bounce off it and onto the surrounding walls.

When styling outdoor areas, heavy furniture against dark walls can overpower the eye. Lua recommends subtle tones, such as light wood or light-coloured upholstery and fine design details. For a small outdoor space, slimline furniture best utilises square footage rather than bulky cushiony forms. For this home, Ditre Italia’s 356 lounge chair, with its light-coloured upholstered cushions and unique wrap-around see-through backrest, accomplishes light-dark tension without looking cumbersome in the space. A white coffee table adds crispness, and a textured outdoor rug in neutral tones elevates the grey floor tiles and creates a sense of comfort. The flowing curtains in the lounge space provide a soft backdrop for the alfresco area, adding to the warmth and inviting feel of the home. “The home’s design considers how people actually live,” says Lua. “While we designed the home to look dramatic, it was important that the interiors and the outdoor space feel warm and inviting.”