Best Paint Colors for Dark Hallways

Struggling with a dim hallway? Discover the best paint colors for dark hallways to brighten your space and make it feel more open and inviting.

Picking the right paint color for a dark hallway can be tough. I’ve been there!

If your hallway has no windows and feels dull, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to brighten it up.

The right color can make a cramped hallway feel open, a dull space feel fresh, and even add personality.

You might not think much about hallways, but they connect every part of your home. That’s why they deserve just as much attention as the rooms themselves.

If you're looking for general hallway color ideas, check out my best paint colors for hallways guide.

But if you need colors that work specifically for dark hallways, you’re in the right place!

How to Pick the Best Paint Color for a Dark Hallway

Before you start painting, here are a few things to consider when selecting a color for a hallway with little to no natural light:

• Lighter colors reflect more light. Soft neutrals, pastels, and off-whites can help bounce light around and make a hallway feel brighter.
• Mid-tone colors can add warmth and depth. If white feels too stark, go for a warm greige, soft green, or muted blue to create a cozy but airy look.
• Darker colors can work too! Deep, moody shades can make a dark hallway feel intentional and stylish rather than just dimly lit. Pair with good lighting to keep it from feeling too heavy.

Now, let’s take a look at the best paint colors to transform a dark hallway!

The Best Paint Colors for Dark Hallways

Here are my top paint color picks for making a dark hallway feel brighter, more open, and more inviting.

Best Light & Bright Paint Colors for a Dark Hallway

If you want a hallway that feels fresh and open, these soft, reflective shades are perfect:

• Sherwin Williams Alabaster: A warm, creamy white that feels soft and inviting.
• Sherwin Williams Greek Villa: A warm off-white with a subtle glow.
• Sherwin Williams Shoji White: A neutral off-white with a touch of beige.
• Benjamin Moore Classic Gray: A light, warm gray that’s fresh but not cold.
• Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace: A bright, crisp white that reflects light beautifully.
• Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee: A soft off-white with a warm undertone.
• Behr Swiss Coffee: A gentle white that works well in low-light spaces.
• Behr Palais White: A creamy white with a cozy feel.
• Behr Weathered White: A slightly grayish white that adds depth.
• Behr Silver Ash: A pale neutral gray that helps brighten dim spaces.

I love these shades because they keep a hallway feeling light and timeless while making it look bigger.

Best Soft & Muted Paint Colors for a Dark Hallway

Want a little more color but still want to keep things soft? These muted shades add just enough contrast while staying light and welcoming:

• Sherwin Williams Sea Salt: A soft, airy green with a hint of blue. So fresh!
• Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige: A warm beige with a modern feel.
• Sherwin Williams Repose Gray: A light greige that shifts beautifully in different lighting.
• Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter: A warm greige that adds depth but doesn’t feel dark.
• Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray: A soft, earthy neutral that works in dim spaces.
• Benjamin Moore Silver Satin: A light, airy gray with a hint of warmth.
• Behr Silver Drop: A pale gray with warm undertones that gently brightens the space.
• Behr Natural Gray: A balanced warm gray that keeps the hallway feeling open.
• Behr Breezeway: A muted blue-green that feels fresh but not overpowering.
• Behr Graceful Gray: A soft taupe-gray that works well in low light.

These shades are great when you want a little color without making the space feel too bold.

Best Dark & Moody Paint Colors for a Windowless Hallway

Sometimes, the best thing to do with a dark hallway is lean into it. These deep, rich shades can create a cozy, dramatic space when paired with the right lighting and decor:

• Sherwin Williams Iron Ore: A deep charcoal that adds contrast and elegance.
• Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze: A dark brown-gray with an earthy feel.
• Sherwin Williams Pewter Green: A deep, moody green that still feels natural.
• Benjamin Moore Hale Navy: A classic, rich navy blue.
• Benjamin Moore Essex Green: A deep forest green that’s bold but beautiful.
• Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron: A sophisticated black with gray undertones.
• Behr Black Evergreen: A dark green-black that adds depth.
• Behr Cracked Pepper: A deep charcoal-black that works well in dim spaces.
• Behr Night Club: A rich navy with soft gray undertones.
• Behr Dark Everglade: A deep blue-green that adds drama.

I love using moody colors like these with good lighting, warm wood tones, and crisp white trim. It keeps the space from feeling too enclosed.

How to Test Paint Colors in a Dark Hallway

Picking the perfect paint color is tricky, especially in a dark hallway. I always recommend testing colors before committing. Here’s what I do:

• Paint big swatches. Tiny samples don’t give you the full effect. Try painting a large section of the wall or use big poster boards.
• Look at it in different lighting. A color can look totally different in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Make sure you like it in all conditions.
• Test multiple shades. Sometimes, what looks perfect in the store feels too dark at home. Compare a few colors to see what works best in your space.
• Move the samples around. Hallways have different angles and lighting conditions. Check how the paint looks in various spots before making a final decision.

A little extra effort up front can save you from repainting later!

The Best Paint Finishes for Dark Hallways

The right finish makes a huge difference in a dark hallway. Some finishes absorb light, while others reflect it. Here’s what I recommend:

• Matte or Flat: Hides wall imperfections but doesn’t reflect light. Great for older walls but not ideal if you want to brighten a space.
• Eggshell: My go-to choice! It has a soft sheen, hides small flaws, and reflects just enough light to keep the hallway from feeling dull.
• Satin: A bit shinier than eggshell, making it easier to clean. If your hallway sees a lot of traffic, this is a great option.
• Semi-Gloss: A high-shine finish that reflects a lot of light. I love it for trim and doors, but it can highlight wall imperfections.

For most hallways, I stick with eggshell or satin. They strike the perfect balance between durability and light reflection.

Easy Ways to Brighten a Dark Hallway

If your hallway still feels too dark, try these simple tricks to make it feel lighter and more open:

• Add sconce lighting. Wall sconces break up long, dark walls and add warmth.
• Hang a mirror. A well-placed mirror reflects light and makes the space feel larger.
• Paint the ceiling the same color as the walls. This creates a seamless look and makes the hallway feel intentional.
• Decorate with light-colored artwork. Gallery walls with bright frames or artwork add visual interest and keep things from feeling too dark.

Small details like these can make a huge difference!

Whether you want your hallway to feel bright and airy, soft and muted, or dark and dramatic, there’s a perfect paint color for you.

Pick a shade that fits your home’s style, add some good lighting, and watch your hallway transform!

Thanks for reading!