Many basements lack natural light. Choosing the right paint color for a basement with no natural light is important when painting a basement. With so many different paint colors, it can be challenging to select the perfect one. We will discuss some tips for choosing the best paint for finished basement walls with no natural light.
Each paint color for a basement with no natural light featured here is available as peel-and-stick samples, a no-mess way to sample paint colors to find the color that best suits your basement space and style.
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Our Best Paint Color for a Basement With No Natural Light
Paint choices are ultimately a personal preference. However, when choosing a paint color for a basement with no natural light, interior designers recommend looking for light colors. Light paint color will reflect light, making the space appear brighter and more open. Our favorite paint color for a basement with no natural light is Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt (6204).
Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt (6204)
One of the best basement paint colors Sherwin Williams has is Sea Salt (6204). It’s a popular choice for a basement with no natural light. This light green paint color has warm blue and gray undertones that help to create a cozy and inviting space.
Sea Salt is a versatile paint color for a basement with no natural light because it reflects artificial light well, making a basement with no natural light appear brighter and more open.
Choose Light Paint Colors to Brighten a Dark Basement
Selecting the right light basement paint colors can be tricky. You’ll want to avoid dark colors for a bright, airy basement. Light basement paint colors range from pale neutrals like white and cream to brighter shades like yellow and blue. Ultimately, the best way to select a light basement color is to experiment with different light shades until you find one that feels right for the space.
Some light basement paint colors perfect for a basement with no natural light are pale yellows, light blues or grays, and warm whites. These colors will help reflect any light in the space and make the basement feel brighter and more open.
White is a great basement choice because it reflects light and can make the space feel brighter and bigger. However, there are also some drawbacks to painting your basement walls white.
Bright white paint can show dirt and imperfections more quickly than other colors, even in a dark basement. White walls can make a space feel cold and sterile. If you paint your basement walls white, we recommend a tinted warm white color in a high-quality satin paint that resists dirt and stains.
You might also want to consider adding some warm accents to help offset the coolness of the white paint. Here are some of our favorite light and neutral paint colors for a basement with no natural light.
Sherwin-Williams Reflection (7661)
Are you looking for the perfect paint color for a basement with no natural light? Sherwin-Williams Reflection (7661) might be a perfect choice! This pale blue paint color has a warm gray undertone that helps to create a cozy and inviting space.
Reflection is a versatile paint color for a basement with no natural light. It reflects light and creates a bright atmosphere that can make any basement more livable and inviting.
The subtle blue-gray tones will also add a touch of sophistication to your space without overwhelming it. Reflection is very easy to coordinate with other features in your home, so you are
Sherwin-Williams Light French Gray (0055)
Sherwin-Williams Light French Gray (0055) is a light gray paint color with a warm undertone. This is a versatile paint color for a basement with no natural light, as it’s not too dark or overpowering.
A lighter color is best for a basement with no natural light, as it will help brighten the room and keep it airy and comfortable. Light French Gray is also an excellent choice to add a touch of sophistication without going overboard. It pairs well with both white trim and gray luxury vinyl plank flooring.
Sherwin-Williams Rainwashed (6211)
Sherwin-Williams Rainwashed (6211) is a light green paint color with a cool blue and gray undertone. This versatile paint color is perfect for a basement with no natural light, as it reflects light well and makes the space appear brighter and more open.
Sherwin Williams Rainwashed is a fantastic paint color for a basement with no natural light. It’s a soft blue-green hue that can make any room feel more tranquil and inviting.
The color is versatile enough to be used on walls, ceilings, or furniture, calming the space. With its pastel tones, Sherwin Williams Rainwashed can make even the smallest spaces look larger due to its light-reflecting properties.
Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray (7015)
If you’re looking for a light and airy paint color for your basement with no natural light, Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray (7015) might be a perfect choice. This cool gray paint color creates a relaxed and calming space. Repose Gray reflects light well, making a dark basement appear brighter and more open.
Sherwin-Williams North Star (6246)
Are you looking for the perfect paint color for a basement with no natural light? Sherwin-Williams North Star (6246) might be a perfect choice! This cool gray paint color creates a relaxed and calming space. North Star reflects light well, making a dark basement appear brighter and more open.
Sherwin Williams North Star is my favorite paint color for a basement with no natural light. This gorgeous gray color gives the space a modern and sophisticated look. It is also versatile, so you can use it for any decor. North Star works well with cool whites and blues for a classic basement feel or warm neutrals for a more contemporary look.
Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist (1549)
Are you looking for the perfect paint color for a basement with no natural light? Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist (1549) might be the ideal choice! This pale blue paint color has a warm gray undertone that helps to create a cozy and inviting space.
Balboa Mist is a versatile paint color that reflects light well, making a basement with no natural light appear brighter and more open.
Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist is a perfect paint color for a basement with no natural light. It’s a beautiful neutral color that works well in all styles. With the help of lighting fixtures, you can easily transform your basement into a cozy and inviting space without worrying about sunlight fading the paint over time.
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (2137-60)
If you’re looking for a paint color that will brighten up your basement with no natural light, Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (2137-60) might be a perfect choice. This cool gray paint color has a slight blue undertone, which helps to create a calm and relaxing space. Gray Owl reflects light well, making a dark basement appear brighter and more open.
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl, a paint color for a basement with no natural light, is a great choice for a subtle, sophisticated look. The light gray tone is perfect for adding warmth without feeling too cold like some darker colors might.
Gray Owl works especially well in basements with little natural light since the color won’t make it seem darker than it is. Plus, the hue is versatile neutral and will always look great with wood tones and white trim paint.
Benjamin Moore Calm (2111-70)
If you’re looking for a paint color that will brighten up your basement with no natural light, Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (2137-60) might be a fantastic choice. This cool gray paint color has a slight blue undertone, which helps to create a calm and relaxing space.
Gray Owl reflects light well, making a dark basement appear brighter and more open.
Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray (HC-171)
If you’re looking for a paint color that will brighten up your basement with no natural light, Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray (HC-171) might be a stunning choice. This cool gray paint color has a slight blue undertone, which helps to create a calm and relaxing space. Wickham Gray reflects light well, making a dark basement appear brighter and more open.
Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray is a beautiful gray paint color for a basement with no natural light. It is a warm, muted gray that works well with the natural earth tones used in many basements. It also provides a nice contrast to any colorful accents you may choose for your space.
Benjamin Moore Simply White (2143-70)
Are you looking for a bright, airy paint color for your basement with no natural light? Benjamin Moore Simply White (2143-70) might be a perfect choice! This warm white paint color creates a light and refreshing space. Simply White reflects light well, making a dark basement appear brighter and more open.
Benjamin Moore Simply White is a warm paint color for a basement with no natural light. It can be used to give the room an inviting and cozy atmosphere. If you want to add drama, combine it with darker accent shades such as navy or charcoal grey.
Its warm undertones also help to reflect light, making it easier to see in the darker parts of the room. You can also layer it with other lighter neutrals to help brighten up spaces while maintaining a warm and inviting feel. Overall, Benjamin Moore Simply White is an ideal paint color for a basement with no natural light because it adds warmth, reflects light, and creates a cozy atmosphere.
When to Select Dark Basement Paint Colors
Dark paint colors are typically not recommended as a paint color for a basement with no natural light. However, dark basement paint colors can be a great way to add visual interest to your basement. However, when selecting dark basement paint colors, you should keep a few things in mind.
Dark paint colors are a good choice for basements with no natural light if you use the space as a game room, family room, man cave with a basement bar, or media room for watching the latest Hollywood blockbusters with friends and family. Other options would be to use dark paint for dark rooms or as an accent wall color.
Dark colors can make a space feel more formal and sophisticated. If you want a more casual feel in your basement, you may want to stick with lighter colors. Dark basement paint colors can be a great way to add visual interest to your space, but remember these things before making your final decision.
Dark basement paint colors can be both stylish and practical. Dark colors can help hide imperfections in the walls and ceilings and absorb light, making the space feel smaller and more intimate. When choosing dark colors for your basement, it is vital to consider the amount of natural light the room gets.
If the basement doesn’t get much light, you’ll want to choose a color that isn’t too dark, or you risk making the space feel cramped and claustrophobic. Some good dark colors for basements include deep greens, charcoals, and navy blues. Planning allows you to find the perfect dark color for your basement.
Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore (7069)
Are you searching for a paint color to add character to your basement? Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore (7069) might be a wonderful choice! This dark paint color has a slight green undertone, which helps to create a warm and inviting space. Iron Ore is a great option for an accent wall, masculine home office, man cave, basement bar, or media room.
Sherwin-Williams Indigo Batik (7602)
Are you looking for a dark paint color for your basement? Sherwin-Williams Indigo Batik (7602) might be a perfect choice! This dark paint color has a blue undertone, which helps to create a sophisticated and relaxing space. Indigo Batik is a great accent color or as a half-wall, media room, or game room.
Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154)
Are you looking for a dark and moody paint color for your basement? Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154) might be the perfect color for a basement bedroom! This dark paint color has a blue undertone, which helps to create a cool and relaxing space. Hale Navy is an excellent option for a basement home office, home gym, or boy’s bedroom.
Benjamin Moore Raccoon Fur (2126-20)
Benjamin Moore Raccoon Fur (2126-20) is a great paint color for a basement with no natural light. This is one of my favorite black paints. This paint color is dark and has a gray and green undertone, which helps to create a warm and inviting space. Raccoon Fur is a sophisticated yet relaxing color. It works well in a game room, basement bar, or home theater.
Are Bright Colors Good for a Basement with No Natural Light?
Considering the best paint colors for a basement with no natural light, you might wonder if bright colors are a good option. After all, basements can often feel dark and dreary, so adding a pop of color might seem a good way to brighten things up. However, it’s important to remember that paint colors can appear different in a basement than in other parts of the house.
Basements are often darker and have less natural light, so bright colors may appear muted or dingy. That being said, choosing light-colored paint can help to reflect what little light is available and make the space feel brighter. Ultimately, the best paint color for a basement with no natural light is one that you find pleasing, making the area feel inviting.
Bright colors can change their hue under different lighting. Talk to the paint color specialist at your local paint store before selecting a bright paint color for a basement with no natural light.
Benjamin Moore Raspberry Blush (2008-30)
Are you looking for the best color to add life to your basement? Benjamin Moore Raspberry Blush (2008-20) might be a perfect choice! This bright orange-pink paint color has a light undertone, which helps to create a fun and playful space. Raspberry Blush is Benjamin Moore’s 2024 Color of the Year winner.
Are Accent Walls Good for a Basement with No Natural Light?
When selecting paint colors for a basement with no natural light, many paint one wall a darker, brighter, or bolder color as an accent wall. While an accent wall can certainly add some visual interest to a room, it’s essential to consider whether or not it’s the best option for your basement.
One of the main drawbacks of an accent wall is that it can make a room feel smaller and more cramped. If your basement is already on the small side, painting one wall a different color may not be the best choice.
Benjamin Moore Sea Star (2123-30)
Sea Star is a beautiful light blue paint color with a green undertone. This shade would be perfect for a basement that doesn’t get much natural light, as it does a fantastic job of reflecting any amount of light incredibly well. Sea Star is also excellent for bathrooms because it creates a cool and relaxing ambiance.
Benjamin Moore Mediterranean Teal (2123-10)
Benjamin Moore Mediterranean Teal (2123-10) is a great paint color for a basement with no natural light. This paint color has a dark green undertone, which helps to create a warm and inviting space. It is a great color for a focal wall in a neutral basement color scheme.
Sherwin-Williams Needlepoint Navy (0032)
Sherwin-Williams Needlepoint Navy (0032) is a dark blue paint color perfect for a basement with no natural light. This paint color has a green undertone, which helps to create a warm and inviting space. Needlepoint Navy is a great accent wall paint color that works well with neutral grays and blues.
For more, see our post on the best paint colors for basements.
Paint Sheen for Basements
A paint sheen is how light reflects off the paint’s surface. The more light that is reflected, the higher the sheen. Paint with a high gloss is often used for areas that need to be cleaned frequently, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Basements are another area where a high-sheen paint can be a good choice. Since basements are often damp, a high-sheen paint will also resist mildew and mold growth. When choosing a paint sheen for your basement, consider how much natural light the space gets and how often it will need to be cleaned.
We often recommend satin paint or semi-gloss paint in basements. Stain sheens are easier to clean but won’t reflect the light like a semi-gloss or glossy paint.
Painting Basement Ceilings
Painting basement ceilings is a great way to improve the look of your basement and make it feel more finished. Basements can be susceptible to dampness, so choosing a paint that will resist mildew and be easy to clean is important.
Painting your ceiling a light color will also help brighten the space. We recommend a shade lighter than your basement wall paint, depending on your desired look. For a media room, dark basement walls and ceiling will reduce glare on your TV or projection screen.
Artificial Lighting for a Basement without Natural Light
In addition to a fresh coat of paint, adding bright artificial lighting is one of the easiest ways to brighten a dark basement with little natural light. You’ll want to use a mix of different types of lighting, such as overhead recessed lights, lamps, and wall sconces. This will help to create a more even light throughout the space. The more light you can bring in, the better!
We recommend avoiding harsh fluorescent bulbs – they can be unflattering and make the space feel cold. Stick with soft white bulbs or LED lights instead. Use dimmer switches to control the room’s ambiance to fit the occasion.
Finishing Touches for your painted basement
Painting your basement is a great way to jazz up the space and make it more inviting. However, choosing the right paint color can be tricky, especially if your basement has no natural light. A good rule of thumb is to go for a light or neutral color, which will help brighten the space.
You might also want to consider using satin or semi-gloss paint, as this will help to reflect light and make the dark space appear more open. Once you’ve chosen your paint color, it’s time to add some finishing touches.
Adding darker shades for accent walls or wallpaper is a great way to add visual interest. However, a lighter shade or neutral color is often more versatile. With a little effort, you can transform your basement into a warm and inviting space for the whole family.
