Decorating With Black

Just like the little black dress that's been decorating women's wardrobes since Coco Chanel unveiled the first version in Vogue magazine in the 1920s, the color black never seems to go out of style, especially in the home.

The authoritative hue is certainly a perennial favorite among designers. It's bold, it makes the colors painted, perched or paired beside it pop and it conveys a sense of drama. But most important, its versatility offers an unlimited portfolio of uses-and tastes-for a home's interior. Whether it's a splash of black on an accent wall, whether the color comes from a baby grand sitting in the foyer, or whether the color surrounds a Picasso print over the fireplace, anything can be framed, sheathed or infused with the ebony hue and look great.

To get a sense of how its elegance can shine the spotlight on your home, read on for six ideas for coloring your rooms in black.