Decorating in Black & White - Literally!

One of the hot new trends for your home makeover is so simple it’s black and white – literally. This pairing is the look for drama, using opposite colors to create the ultimate contrasting harmony. Helpful hints for using this combination:

Try black and white flooring combinations – a budget solution would be a simple area rug in black and white, the timeless classic look of black and white checkerboard effect tile, or even a white painted floor with black stenciled decoration. For the real drama - pair black marble floors with ornate white baseboards and white walls. Use varying paint sheens to distinguish the whites of the molding and the walls.

Try black and white to pack a punch in a smaller room, such as a powder room. It will certainly be less expensive than doing a whole room makeover in your great room! Use a black granite countertop with a white sink. Shiny fixtures and accessories in nickel or brass add a depth to the look. Use white hand towels with black embellishments to complete the theme.

Black and white toiles are the perfect way to introduce this color combination into more traditional décor such as country, French country or cottage styles. Pair it with a red gingham for the French country look, or a bold, saturated color such as the hot new yellow for the season to punch up the cottage style.

Black accessories against a white wall can be the beginnings of a striking focal point in a room. Try black frames with artwork, black wrought iron candlesticks or black pottery to add texture. Black and white photos with rich black wood frames make a striking combination when grouped together on the wall.

In the bedroom try crisp white linens with black trim or all white linens with black accent furniture in the room Adding seasonal colors and warm bright accents one can achieve a light and bright feeling that still is deep and comforting.

To warm up the black and white, add rich woods to the room for a look that’s clean, chic and modern. The warm wood tones also add balance to the black and white.

This color combo is perfect for the Art Deco style – try Art Deco period accessories – there’s a whole host of Deco accessories available for reasonable prices. Try Ebay or auctions to find Deco drama.

Black and white is both bold and neutral; try those combos in fabrics for texture - there are some amazing cotton prints that would work wonders in the kitchen or dining room.

Using black in any room creates a grounding and anchoring effect, and adds a touch of sophistication. Combined with white you have the fresh, pure look. Combine the two and you have instant impact.