The Black-and-White Touch

When it comes to creating the perfect color palette, there is nothing quite as pure, timeless and versatile as a black-and-white décor.  The stark aspect of pure white with rich black can be stunning.  And black-and-white designs create a blank slate for any color scheme.  Try using black-and-white as the foundation of your color palette, and then bring in a single accent color such as yellow or red.  Warm colors work well as accent colors against the cool tones of the black-and-white motif and add an appealing sense of luxury and coziness.  The simplicity of let’s say a pure white dining room color scheme is a wonderful canvas for plates and tabletop items that provide just a hint of color.  You can also bring in an accent color, by using a bold, bright accent wall.  Interior designer and HGTV Design Star finalist Cathy Hobbs gives us seven steps to help you incorporate black-and-white décor into your furnishing style.

No. 1 Choose a general design style.

First, begin with identifying which of the following categories matches your personal style: country chic, contemporary, modern or global.

Nearly everyone’s design style falls into one of these four categories, and then there are sub-sections from there.

No. 2 Narrow it down.

After identifying your basic design category, define your style more specifically.  That decision can include anything from affordability to needs and creativity.

(Dolls, click on the photos below.)

No. 3 Select a signature piece.

From here, pick one signature piece that you feel defines you most.  It can be an area rug with a big, bold graphic pattern or a fabulous piece of artwork, perhaps a gorgeous chandelier.  The piece will serve as the anchor for the room and help to fill in the rest of the blanks of your décor.  For example if you choose a large overstuffed sofa with white, shabby chic slip covers, the signature piece will serve as the foundation for your space decorated using other pieces that are country chic.  If you choose a sleek, leather sofa with polished chromed feet, this will serve as inspiration for what has all the makings of a modern décor scheme.

No. 4  Select large pieces first.

Purchase large pieces first, then accessorize.  Once you have selected your signature piece, choose your largest pieces first, then your accessories.  Remember your furniture enhances the space and the accessories beautify the furniture.

No. 5 Use different shades and tones.

White on white can be an interesting design choice, and so can different shades of black. Don’t’ be afraid to use different tones and shades of white or black, mixing and matching them throughout your space.

No. 6 Add a pop of color.

One of the beautiful aspects of working with black-and-white décor is virtually any color pops when placed against the basic palette.  So when using black, white or a combination of the two, consider a pop of color to liven it up.  Full chroma and bold colors work best.

No. 7 Mix with charcoal, chocolate or taupe.

The beauty of working with black or white is that they create a general color palette that works with other neutrals, and the combination still creates a warm, vivid, inviting design scheme.

Written by: Natasha D. Smith