Black and white decoration is a timeless staple of interior design. Many designers love this combination for its simplicity, elegance and high contrast. While it might seem simple to design a room based on black and white, there are some basic guidelines to help you create the perfect aesthetic. Here are some ideas for creating an inspiring black and white space:
While it might seem like black and white are self-explanatory color options, there are a variety of shades to work with. Different shades of white, for example, can have undertones of pink, blue, green or brown. Black can vary in saturation and finish, sometimes appearing as a different color entirely. Play with these differences to create an interesting and harmonious aesthetic.
When working with a limited color palette, texture is crucial. Use a mixture of textures on furniture, finishes, textiles and accessories to keep the space dynamic. Some examples of different black textures include matte black metal fixtures, shiny subway tiles and velvet. For white, try linen sheets, sheepskin rugs, cotton and thick-knit blankets.
Another simple way to design an excellent black and white room is by playing with patterns and graphic motifs. Stripes, plaids, geometric patterns, and floral motif all work well in a black and white palette. If you prefer solid colors to prints and patterns, add in small amounts of aesthetic interest with throw pillows and other accessories.
A black and white scheme might seem cold and sterile. However, with the right amount of warmth and coziness, you can make a black and white design comfortable and chic. Some simple ways to achieve warmth in a black and white design are by incorporating natural wood and proper lighting. Wood furniture and accessories can make the space feel organic rather than clinical. For lighting, focus on soft, diffused lighting to avoid harsh glare. As long as you are careful with your task and ambient lighting, you can achieve a comfortable black and white ambiance.
Lana Harris is a Chicago native who is a second-generation real estate professional. She was introduced to real estate at a very young age while attending open houses with her mother who is a broker. She honed her skills assisting in property searches (back in the thick, Multiple Listing Service book days,) and using map reading skills to help plan property tour sequencing. Lana’s love of working with people and delivering strong customer service led her to the retail sector, where she developed her management skills at MC Sports, Ann Taylor, and Adidas. She and her husband moved to Utah in 2008 to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, and she began her real estate career here in 2015. Most recently, she was a VP of sales for a large team; she thrives on challenges and is determined to overcome obstacles to achieve results for her clients. Lana and her husband enjoy their three large dogs, skiing, camping and paddleboarding.
