Going to the Dark Side...

To help me make my decision on going dark upstairs, I looked through pictures I've saved over the year in my favorites and iPhone and thought I would share the goodies with you while I wrestle with my decision. I know there will be many people out there who think going dark is equivalent to putting on a mask and breathing scarily, "Luke, I am your father."   But they do always say you should look to your closet to see what you wear when making color selections for your home.... 90% of my closet is gray and black. And the pictures and H.G.T.V. shows I love the most showcase dark rooms. 

Many of these were saved via iPhone over the years so I'm not entirely sure of the sources, so if you know, please share!!! Some of them have poor picture quality, but they were images I Googled for "Candice Tells All" (I love Candice Olson!!) 

from Candice Tells All 

from Candice Tells All 

from Divine Design by Candice Olson

Source Unknown

from Candice Tells All

from Chris Loves Julia 

Source Unknown

Source Unknown

Source Unknown

There seem to be some common elements among the pictures:

1.)  The dark colors are balanced by white or by light (or both)

2.)  There are some reflective qualities to be found in each room (mirror, glass, etc.) 

3.)  Green (as in plants) makes the dark colors feel more alive 

4.)  With dark walls, the floors are kept lighter (contrast?)

5.)  Color is minimal and not the star of the show