Sexy and strong, matte black brings dashing energy to any interior.

“It is a common misconception that one should not use dark colors in a small room,” says Phoenix Home & Garden Masters of the Southwest award-winning interior designer Anita Lang. “Black is the absorption of all color. It has weight; it has drama; it has boldness. Matte black is very grounding and allows any items used in conjunction with it to be highlighted.” Here, we share some of our favorite ideas for taking a walk on the dark side.

In this “livable haven” by interior designer Anita Lang, materials are relaxed, nature-based and authentic; low lounge furnishings are soft and comfortable. Walls are wrapped in woven matte black linen.

DANCING FIGURES

Matte black and gold textured iron silhouettes cavort on the base of the Ballare dining table, topped by high-gloss ebonized walnut and clear glass. 31″H by 72.5″ in diameter. Price upon request (johnbrooksinc.com)

ANY WAY YOU SLICE IT

With an irresistible combination of powder-coated steel and solid walnut, the Pi coffee table serves up eye-catching mid-mod style. 14″H by 38″W. $599 (forthepeoplestore.com)

BOWLED OVER

Thrown stoneware clay bowls with matte black glazed interiors are ideally sized for everything from cereal to snacks. 4″H by 5″W. $42 each (ceramicsbyjudith.com)

THE LIGHT FANTASTIC

With its cinematic silhouette, the Director floor lamp is the star of the show. Marquee features include tripod legs, a fabric drum shade, a three-way rotary switch and a black cord that runs through the leg, keeping it hidden from sight. 61.5″H by L 20″L by 20’’W. $299 (copenhagenliving.com)

SURREAL SERVICE

A collaboration between the Los Angeles-based Haas Bros. and L’Objet, the whimsical 48-ounce porcelain Djuna Coffee + Tea Pot transform an ordinary java break into an otherworldly ritual. Available in black or white with 24K gold accents. 12″H by 7″L by 4.5″W. $425 (maindishaz.com) 

GLAM ROCK 

Like jewelry for your home, the Gem Starburst chandelier dazzles with one dozen hand-blown sparkling LED-lit orbs. 38.4″W by 38.4″D. $6,725 (hammerton.com)

MODERN MOMENT

Like a minimalist work of art, the low-profile three-hole wall-mounted Flyte lavatory faucet brings a sleek, sculptural aesthetic to a bath or powder room. $945 (waterworks.com)

EURO-ASIAN INFLUENCE

Taking a cue from the minarets atop the mosques in Istanbul, the Madam Curio in cerused rift-sawn white oak with cast French black bronze legs cuts a dramatic swath. 78″H by 37″W by 18.5”D. Price upon request (bakerhesseldenz.com)

SCREEN PLAY

Lines of ebony straw marquetry create stunning-but-subtle texture on the three-panel Black Forest screen. Base features solid blocks of warm patinated brass; reverse side is finished with lacquered natural wenge veneer. 74″H by 48″W. Price upon request (johnbrooksinc.com)

INDUSTRIAL LIGHT

The not-to-be-ignored Nosferatube candelabra by Blu Dot is constructed of pinched powder-coated steel and accommodates eight taper candles. 17″H by 10″W. $299 (forthepeoplestore.com)

COOL OPERATORS 

The Dacor Contemporary 36-inch refrigerator and freezer columns in black graphite feature full-height doors that open with a slight push and stainless steel interiors illuminated by 3D lighting. 83.375″H by 35.75″W by 25″D. Price upon request (centralazsupply.com)

LIKE RIPPLES IN A POND

Created by French automotive, furniture and product designer Sacha Lakic, the Speed Up Sideboard with water-drop façade was inspired by movement in still water created by a single droplet. Approximately 29″H by 71″W by 20″D. $9,660 (roche-bobois.com)