I Love Black and White!

I love black and white in decorating (as well as fashion - most of my closet is black and white).  I think it has a clear, crisp look and adds interest to any room.  I am in the midst of a basement "mini-renovation" and am contemplating how much black and white (or grey) to include in the space.  I am not redoing an adjacent space with is already painted and carpeted a taupe gold so that is a color I will have to work with but I am definitely planning to add charcoal cabinetry and painted doors - the choice of furniture and rugs will follow.

I have a pinterest board on this subject - link to decorating in blacks and grays and spent some time looking at my "pins" today - I found some wonderful images and ideas.

I love the chairs in this photos as well as how they look with the other colors in the room - golds and blues - source link to source 

Black and White - the most simple combination there is but one that is probably the most powerful. As much as I am a colour person, I can't go without some simple blacks and whites to compliment the decor setting. Isn't it just a classic? And I find myself completely in love with the white couch with the black accent

source

Source for above three images

These French style chairs are wonderful and complement the warm colors in the room - I think the woodwork is a dark brown as well (not black) which suggests further options for upholstery.  source

I have a piece of black velvet that I could use - this photo makes it look very doable although I worry about how much dust and dirt it might show.  source

Here is a Suzanne Kasler (one of my favorites) designed space with a velvet sofa - source

Apartment make-over - love the pattern on the back of the chairs source

I will have to make some choices soon for my "new" terrace-level space (aka basement - we don't like that word basement here in the South).  Future postings on this subject to come including some before and after looks.

Color Combinations - Black and White

Black and white flocked velvet settee (SOLD)

This is the 5th installation of my color combinations series.  I LOVE black and white combinations and almost always have something in my inventory in this great look.  Interestingly, I have also learned that it takes longer to sell than other colors and yet, the buyers, are really, really happy when the pieces arrive and are integrated into their decor.  I am curious about why people are hesitant to use this combination.  It seems you really cannot make a bad decision using black and white - either alone or with another color to add punch (e.g., light/warm greens, reds, golds/yellows, etc. etc.).

Hickory House Chair and Ottoman

I googled "black and white in decor" and got a ton of hits.  It seems every magazine, designer and even blogger has an affinity for this color combination and all the photos look wonderful.

I found information categorized in many ways:

• Decor for nurseries
• Decor for teens
• Senior housing
• French country
• Modern - Contemporary

I loved the quote attributed to Coco Chanel:

“Black comprises everything. So does white. They possess absolute beauty. They are in perfect harmony.” -Coco Chanel 

I think people who are hesitant to use the color in their home need to spend some time looking at examples of its use by checking out magazines and websites - it is easy to see why, once embraced, it becomes a source of decorating pride!!

Vintage Ethan Allen Chairs