How to Use Bright White + Bold Black

Black and white combine for the ultimate contrast to create unforgettable designs that never go out of style.

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August 08, 2019

By: Chelsey Bowen

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Photo By: EWM Realty International, a member of Luxury Portfolio International

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Uncomplicate Your Design

Defined in crisp black lines, this charming bathroom mixes classic foundations, like white subway tiles, with more modern elements: the patterned concrete tile floors. Devoid of all color, minus the one green vase full of calla lilies, the space evokes a forget-your-worries aesthetic.

From: Stefani Stein

Dream Up a Juxtaposition

Black cabinets around the farmhouse sink and the island create a striking contrast against this pearly white kitchen. Gold accents, from the range hood and barstool bases to the pendant lights and fixtures, add a decidedly glam appeal, whereas black trim is used to make X's on the top cabinets for subtle detailing and to pull the color scheme up. See-through barstools nod to the contemporary and don't distract from the impressive center island.

From: Vernich Interiors

Take It Down to Two

One benefit of working with a two-toned color scheme is it's easy to play with an abundance of patterns. Stripes, polka dots, geometrics, teardrops, solids — you name it and this kid's room has it. The graphic display works well together because of the limited palette.

From: Sissy + Marley

Boost Texture

When working with such a basic color scheme, texture and shape go a long way to creating visual interest. Hexagon tiles ground this powder room in style, and the textured wall covering — especially the tasseled stripes — fill the space with tactile appeal. The floating vanity and toilet create an instant airiness.

From: Linc Thelen Design

In the Delicate Details

Not merely for the bold and graphic, black and white can be oh-so-dainty. The paned front door gives guests a peek into the charming entryway with its graceful floral wallpaper. Bubble light fixtures deliver a modern note to the open and bright space.

From: Clara Jung

Add in Warmth

Ebony and ivory meet on the sleek freestanding bathtub, which is then enveloped by a rich wood. A certain lightness is delivered to the space through the white subway tile walls and floating vanity. The honeycomb flooring is repeated in the window-paned shower, but on a smaller scale, and brass fixtures and hardware dot the bathroom like elegant pieces of metallic jewelry.

From: Corine Maggio

Expand Your Horizons

Even the smallest of corners can be used to the max. Black-and-white stripes visually stretch this petite breakfast nook. The jade green banquette is paired with a tulip table and Ghost chairs — all fantastically eclectic and clever space-saving tricks.

From: Noz Nozawa

A Notable Background

Noir wallpaper at its best, the black-as-night backdrop is highlighted with gorgeous oversized blooms to create a romantic and feminine setting. Soft, sink-into-them textiles and curvy accessories, like the pair of lamps, act as a foil to the clean lines of the sleek nightstands.

From: Becki Owens

Mix It Up

Using black and white as the base of your palette gives you the freedom to head in any color direction. A fun mix of brilliant hues add a vibrant energy to this living space, but you can use mellow pastels for a softer look or jewel-toned hues for a saturated, rich aesthetic.

From: Judith Balis

Amplify the Design

Contrary to popular belief, dark hues don't always shrink a space. This black ceiling recedes from the room, adds sophisticated depth and creates a tuxedo-crisp edge against the dazzling white walls. A mix of thin and wide moldings bring dimension to the space, while a brushstroke-striped area rug merges the palette underfoot.

From: Leanne Ford

Opulent Greeting

Drama reigns supreme in this grand entryway. Black and white play a supporting role, allowing the swirling gray marble to create a majestic effect as it flows from the floors up the stairs. Centering the entire space is a captivating chandelier that can't be missed.

From: EWM Realty International

Embrace the Dark

Painting walls black is a daring step to take, but it sure does make a statement. A radiant white double vanity and slipper bathtub balance the raven hue, and the two shades combine in the geometric tile to reflect contemporary style from the ground up.

From: Prairie

Balancing Act

Pale pink walls and brightly colored textiles are balanced by black-and-white accents. Pom-pom white curtains are hung on onyx rods, the Jenny Lind bed frame is painted a glossy black and the scripted artwork is in our favorite contrast pairing.

From: Kendall Simmons

Go for the Vintage

Smart built-ins provide plenty of storage in this farmhouse chic laundry room. An oversized antique sign is an impressive piece and accents in black pull the shade throughout the mostly white space.

Grounded in Black

For an unexpected twist, the baseboards of this blindingly white hallway are painted to match the black floors. Acting as a blank slate, the walls are the ideal setting to display favorite pieces of art. Intricate detailing on the credenza pulls your eye through the long space.

From: Mirador Group

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