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Are black windows timeless? Will I regret them?

  • Writer: Meg Smeed
    Meg Smeed
  • Dec 31, 2025
  • 2 min read

This is a question I get asked quite a bit. Whether you are painting your current windows or building a new home, my answer is always "it depends". What does it depend on? The style of your home mainly (either current style or the style you want to change it to).


The styles that look good with black windows: Modern and dark exterior color palettes.


If you're trying to go for modern farmhouse, modern craftsman, modern traditional, or just plain modern then no. You will not regret your black windows. If a color close to black is included in your exterior color palette, whether it be your trim color or siding color then I also think you will not regret your black window choice.



There are a couple of things to note when trying to get the black window look just right.

  1. Roof color, I feel like it has to be gray or black in order for it to feel cohesive.

  2. Trim color, it needs to be painted the same color as the siding or close to the black window color.


I personally have not felt cohesiveness without those two things present.



White House with black windows

Tip:

If you want to achieve the black window look by painting your current windows, I recommend painting the actual window frame around the glass versus the trim around the window unit. Then I would paint the trim the same color as the siding.


When you leave the window frame the existing color and just paint the trim black you're left with competing focal points. One for the trim around that window, then another for the actural window since it's a different color than the trim.



If you're not sold on black windows and would like some other timeless window color options then this section is for you.


Other Timeless Window Options:


Taupe/Greige


This is a nice color if you're going with a nice white or off white for your exterior and like the traditional or European style. It's also a good choice for brown roof lovers.



White


Probably the least risky is a white window. If you're looking for a more modern feel, I don't think this quite hits the nail on the head. However, if you just want updated, classic, traditional then white is the way to go.



Colored


This is only a timeless option if the house intends to stay in the style it was built. I think this is a fun option for older cottage, craftsman, victorian, and tudor style homes.


Ultimately, I don't think you'll regret your black windows if you have a dark colored roof and looking for a modern feel. If you're wanting to try painting your existing windows black, I would paint the actual window frame to achieve the look.



What is your favorite window color?

Let me know below


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