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Top Tips for Using Anthracite Colour In Interior Design

Top Tips for Using Anthracite Colour In Interior Design

Ana Zuravliova

By Ana Zuravliova

Trend Specialist at Blinds Direct
Thu 2 Sep 2021
Last updated Tue 12 Apr 2022

For decades, if not centuries, monochrome interiors have been exceptionally fashionable. Today, use of black and white is still popular however there is a new colour on the rise that presents a challenge to using traditional black tones, that colour is anthracite. In today’s blog we’ll be exploring anthracite grey and how you can use it to effortlessly accessories your home.

What is anthracite colour?

Anthracite is a chalky, very dark tone of grey – almost black. In the real world, anthracite is a compact form of coal that has the highest energy density of all types of coal.

This high energy density is reflected in the energising feeling that this colour brings to interior design. It can be charming and hospitable, and creates an environment that is easy to relax in. 

How to use anthracite in interior design

While very dark in appearance, anthracite isn’t a demoralising colour, to the contrary, anthracite grey can help us feel calm and collected and to unwind at the end of the day. Moreover, use of dark grey can improve concentration making it as beneficial in home working spaces, as it is in living rooms and bathrooms.  

Owing to its dark nature, anthracite works particularly well as a supporting spot colour in predominantly light spaces. While black worked best with pristine white, the greyer nature of anthracite allows it to harmonise with other pale colours from pure white to off whites and creamier natural tones. To make the most of your space, look at home decor accessories in this striking grey tone. 

Some excellent examples for you to think about include anthracite chests of drawers, chairs and even cabinets. One of the easiest places to use this colour however is around the windows.

Using anthracite around your windows

Windows are an important part of any room. They let light into a space while providing views to the great outdoors and what’s even better, they are a great place for using anthracite colours. Let’s start with curtains. 

Anthracite curtains may be a little too much however, don’t forget about the curtain pole. Anthracite curtain poles are an excellent addition to many contemporary spaces. Curtain poles are very important items as they provide a great vehicle for adding delicate touches of colour and style to a space. When supporting a beautiful off-white linen or woollen curtain, an anthracite pole will create an elegant contrast between the white fabric and the natural light entering from the window. 

Moreover, anthracite wooden blinds are an equally effective solution for your windows. The rigid nature of wooden blinds is enriched by anthracite, and the effect it creates when the dark slats are open to let the light in makes a space feel chic and civilised. Moreover, you can introduce additional colour with contrasting – or complementary – tapes which hide the strings used to operate the blind.

Anthracite throughout the home

As mentioned earlier, anthracite is an excellent spot colour to use around the home.

If your space is mostly white (or a slightly different neutral tone), anthracite can be used to add delicate yet noteworthy statements. Beyond curtain poles and wooden blinds, consider how dark grey cushions can contrast with a pale sofa or chair. Because the grey isn’t quite black, it can look cosier and more welcoming than other dark tones, which is what most of us want from our decor. 

Furthermore, if you have minimalist lamps and light fittings around the home, an anthracite lamp shade will offer a delightful distinction to the light. You may be surprised at how nice the partnership looks.

Other colours that go with anthracite

As we mentioned at the beginning, anthracite works best with shades of white however it’s not limited to such hues.  When kept as a supporting secondary colour, anthracite can work with a wide range of alternatives, the trick is to keep the primary tone pale, light and fresh. 

For example, soft, powdery blues, dusky pinks, and even pale shades of yellow can be used well alongside anthracite. Mint, teal, and cream are three of our favourites for you to contemplate! 

There are also great combinations available when considering metallic tones. From bronze to silver, gold to metallic reds, you can add a bit of sparkle into your home to contrast with the studious dark greys. 

For more information about which colours we think work together best, check out our recent Colour Combinations For Interior Design Blog!

Shop our products inspired by the anthracite colour:


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