Charcoal cool: The outdoors gets moody

Outdoor living spaces have cemented their position as extensions of our interiors – you can have as much fun designing them as you would a lounge.

One particular trend is catching the eye of design enthusiasts: the rise of charcoal and deep, dark hues outside. Charcoal-inspired colour schemes featuring rich greys, smoky tones and sophisticated blacks like Resene Gunsmoke and Resene Bokara Grey are working overtime to ground outdoor areas.

There’s something utterly chic about concrete hues paired with blacks, indoors and out. It feels industrial-chic, slightly daring and ultimately very modern. Darker hues create mood like no other shades do. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. Charcoal’s muted depth adds an air of elegance to both suburban courtyards and sprawling bach decks by the beach. Smoky, greyscale tones like Resene Gunsmoke bring a sense of understated luxury, while near blacks like Resene Bokara Grey can provide a sharp, contemporary edge. Outdoor accessories in matching hues like sleek outdoor lamps and cushions are not only practical, helping to hide any marks, but very elegant.

Dark hues have long held a place in the world of interior design, but their popularity has come in waves. In the mid-20th century, black walls and charcoal-toned floors took centre stage in the interiors of urban lofts and designer homes. The trend continued into the 1970s and 80s when woods and earthy tones like dark brown took the interior world by storm. However, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that the modern use of black and grey really evolved into the minimalist aesthetic we see today. Designers began embracing moody palettes, pairing charcoal with soft neutrals like Resene Rice Cake and Resene Half Bianca, warm metals and natural materials to create spaces that felt dramatic. Embracing charcoal hues is a reflection of the evolving notion of viewing our homes as sanctuaries; we want to feel cocooned and protected.

We created this chic outdoor area embracing a sophisticated deep and dark palette. Darker tones, contrary to popular belief, can make small spaces feel more expansive. By wrapping a small deck area in a deep colour palette, you can create the illusion of a more intimate and enclosed space. Dark tones create a sense of comfort and privacy, making even the tiniest outdoor area feel like a hidden sanctuary. Resene Waterborne Woodsman in Resene Crowshead is a traditional wood tar brown stain on the walls with a dramatic dark finish. Not only does the stain introduce warmth and cocoon the space, but it allows the richness of other hues in the space to shine. When you’re staining or painting in dark colours, the Resene CoolColour version will help to keep surfaces cooler.

Wood panels on the wall in Resene Waterborne Woodsman in Resene Pickled Bean add great contrast and structure, elongating the space. We used this colour again on the wooden tray on our table, the soft brown balancing our cooler greys and blacks. Resene Gunsmoke on the patio floor is the anchor of our space. The smoky grey is warmed up with topcoats of Resene FX Paint Effects Medium in Resene Quarter Concrete and Resene Bokara Grey. These layered tones created a textured-look floor that feels contemporary and it keeps the patio from feeling flat.

To get this look, you can use a ‘rag rolling’ technique on your floor to replicate the appearance of marble or stone flooring. Resene FX Paint Effects Medium will help you create the subtle or rich finishes normally associated with the most expensive floor finishes. The effect is achieved by using a bunched rag or cloth that is rolled or dabbed over the still wet medium, leaving random patterns as it distempers the surface. Keep in mind that a sample area is a great idea to tackle first, especially important as the end result with rag rolling is dependent not only on the colours chosen, but the mix ratio and the style of technique. Remember that your first efforts can be hidden by repainting with your basecoat (we used Resene Gunsmoke) and restarting the effect as your paint effects expertise develops.

We opted for Resene Element for the café-style chairs and table. This earthy stone hue has a modern, industrial feel that blends well with the darker tones of the surrounding elements. The colour is sleek and works fantastically with black and white striped squabs for contrast.

For plant pots, Resene Quarter Merino is a lovely option – it’s a fleecy, neutral white that offers a clean contrast to the darker elements of the space. This pale tone will make your plants appear even more vibrant. From lush ferns to delicate succulents, everything appears brighter and more vivid in a crisp neutral pot. Resene Paddock painted on the tray on the table offers an earthy green that ties in beautifully with a biophilic theme. Use a small vase in Resene Quarter Merino to keep things light and airy.

Darker hues really allow you to use fewer colours without the risk of overwhelming a smaller outdoor space. It’s a cohesive look that feels elegant, perfect for creating that cosy mood for late afternoon cocktails or evening chats with friends. Embrace the charcoal trend and you’ll be surprised at how quickly it transforms an average-feeling deck into a stylish haven.

Colours and products mentioned in this article

Styling by Melle Van Sambeek. Photography by Bryce Carleton. 2024