Lick just collaborated with M·A·C to create an iconic matte black paint

While black is often used reservedly in interior schemes, Lick is bringing this deep and dark hue into the limelight for 2024. Today, the color-centric home decor brand has unveiled a collaboration with cosmetics brand M·A·C, together launching a limited edition matt black paint: M·A·C Black 40.

Designed to reimagine this statement hue, M·A·C Black 40 has been carefully created to suit a wide range of decorating styles and paint ideas, while boasting a timeless appeal when used throughout the home. The brand new paint color is described as a 'jet black' with fully black undertones – and it may be a lot more liveable than you'd first imagine.

'M·A·C Black 40 is the color that everyone can have in their homes,' says Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design and Color Psychologist at Lick. 'It’s truly versatile: it adds dimension and contrast to any room, and will effortlessly accent your furniture and decor, whatever your style.'

How to decorate with M·A·C Black 40

'I've always been fascinated by the unique role black plays in our lives,' says Tash. 'In fashion, it represents elegance and sophistication, however, in the world of interiors, many view black as a color that requires a level of bravery and boldness to decorate with.'

By contrast, M·A·C Black 40 aims to show how successfully this color can be used throughout the home, adding personality and sophistication to many spaces. To help you make the most of this exciting new paint color, Tash shares below her top tips for decorating with black, from fully drenching a room to using this hue more reservedly.

1. Color drenching

Although you likely wouldn't first think of black when you consider calming colors, Tash assures that color drenching with this dark hue can help create a cocooning, cozy space, especially in small rooms that don't receive much natural light.

'Color drenching with black will help to create a very calm environment,' explains Tash. 'If you have a small, north-facing room, this is a great option as black will absorb the shadows, blur the edges of the space, and add heaps of personality.'

2. 50/50 decorating

For modern decorating ideas, consider pairing black with lighter neutrals for a high-contrast look.

'This monochrome effect will help to trick the eye and open up your space, especially if you use black on the bottom 50% of the room and a light neutral on the top 50%,' says Tash. 'The key thing to remember is to ensure everything in that lower 50% should also be black, including radiators and skirting boards.'

When it comes to choosing the best white paints to pair with M·A·C Black 40, Lick recommends Lick's White 02 to lean into the high-contrast look, or Lick's White 05 for a more gentle scheme.

3. Artistic pattern

Looking to make a playful statement with M·A·C Black 40? Decorating with patterns is a great way to embrace this hue and add personality to a room.

'Black pairs with every other color, so you can have a bit of fun with it,' says Tash. 'Pattern play helps to open up a room and vertical stripes will elongate your space. Whatever your style, black is a truly versatile color with lots of potential for creativity.'

4. Accent color

If you're looking for a slightly more reserved way to embrace this statement hue throughout your home decor, consider using it as an accent color.

'Every room can benefit from an accent of black to bring contrast and depth,' adds Tash. 'The best way to do this is to use black to accentuate a feature, such as a staircase or fireplace, to draw your attention to the architectural highlights of your home.'

Black pairs well with most colors, but if you're looking for some expert-approved color combinations, opt for Lick's Pink 01, Taupe 03, or Green 05.

From today, you can purchase M·A·C Black 40 online at Lick.com and in-store at Lick, 65 Northcote Rd, London SW11 1NP for a limited time only.