Ask Joshua: Choosing the Perfect Paint Colors for Your Black Craftsman Style Home

Hey Joshua,

Last year, my wife and I bought a craftsman-style house in Seattle. We've always wanted to paint it black but are a little concerned that it might be overwhelming. We want a balance that retains the home's charm without giving off a haunted house vibe. I've attached photos for a clearer picture, and given you're from Seattle, you're likely familiar with this architectural style. While we're set on incorporating black, we're open to suggestions on complementary colors or materials to soften the overall look. Additionally, your recommendations on specific paint brands or shades of black would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Danny - Seattle, Washington

Black Craftsman style house. AI created by Dall-E 3.

Hi Danny,

Thanks for reaching out with your question about enhancing your craftsman-style home in Seattle with black paint. I completely understand wanting to achieve that elegant black aesthetic without making it feel overwhelming.

First off, experimenting with different black paint samples around your home is a smart move. This way, you can see how each shade reacts to Seattle's unique lighting conditions before making a final decision. My top recommendations for black paint are "Black Satin" by Benjamin Moore, "Black Knight" by Benjamin Moore, and "Iron Ore" by Sherwin-Williams. Each of these offers a distinctive look, so comparing various black tones will help you find the perfect match for your house.

Your house, with its pillars, railing, and stairs, has great potential for a striking transformation. Consider stripping the white paint from these features and applying a wood stain to bring out their natural beauty. This approach can also work well for your window trims, doors, and the brackets under the roof, creating a cohesive look while keeping the main siding in black.

For the exterior wall lights and hardware, brass or copper finishes can complement the black paint beautifully, adding a touch of warmth and sophistication to your home's exterior.

I've included an AI-generated image that captures the essence of what I'm suggesting, helping you visualize the potential of your home with these changes.

Wishing you the best of luck with your exterior makeover! I'm confident it will look amazing.

Warmly,

Joshua

Have interior design related questions? You can ask Joshua here.