Paint it Black: 16 Mysterious Houses That Have Joined the Dark Side

Writer’s Studio by Cooper Joseph Studio, Ghent, New York

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Built in 2007, this writer’s studio in the woods of New York is shaped like a minimalist block punctuated by glazing that looks out onto the scenery. The dramatically dark exterior helps absorb sunlight in the winter to help reduce fuel consumption for heat.

Farmhouse 2011 by Tsao & McKown, Rhinebeck, New York

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From its exterior appearance, you might say Hansel and Gretel shouldn’t knock on the door of this black farmhouse with gingerbread trim, located in the forest of Rhinebeck, New York. But step inside and what you’ll find is actually a bright, modern getaway full of comfortable furniture.

Ijburg House by Mark Koehler

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This modern black house in Amsterdam gets its color from black bricks arranged in a textural pattern on the facade, which add visual appeal while also allowing hanging plants and vines to grow on the exterior.

Black Victorian House in San Francisco

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Owned by Claire Bigbie of Envelope A + D, this Victorian row house stands out among the pretty Painted Ladies of San Francisco, making it all the more striking.

Stacked Black House by BBVH Architecten

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Three layers of this residence in the Netherlands by Hoyt/BBVH Architecten are irregularly stacked to create a series of terraces looking out onto the water. The black facade gives the home a monolithic appearance.