The art of using black and white is as simple as thinking, “I have a blank canvas, I just need to add color.” Splashes of bright color added to variations of black and white create a fun spin on this classic combo. Bold colors pop and seem even stronger in comparison. A backdrop as classic as Bogart and Bergman in Casablanca, black and white equals limitless flexibility to introduce art and accessories.
 

When approaching this clean, urban style, don’t neglect the floor. Try checkered or harlequin-patterned tiles with brightly painted furniture or colorful window coverings. Spots-on-spots work, too, mixing up the themes and building depth with texture. It’s easy to give any room the black and white treatment with the addition of a few bold accessories, such as Chinese red and jet black pillows on a white coverlet or even black and white dishware to make garden veggies shimmer. However you use these classic tones, sophistication and simplicity are sure to emerge.

White or black can emphasize or de-emphasize certain objects or architectural details, as well. Try using white to hide imperfect  molding  and  black to make one or

more objects stand out. What better way to create drama than to select an accent color in contrast to the main color of the room? Black and white schemes are certainly high on impact. If the dramatic effect is too strong for your living room, it can be fitted into the kitchen with sleek kitchen accessories to contrast with ceramic whites and black-stained wood.

No matter how big or small the space, there is room for an ultra-modern revamp thanks to the age-old union of black and white.

When you want something a little more  unexpected, use texture, pattern, layering and contrast against your black and white canvas. Once you learn the subtle language of using color, you’ll soon learn that not everything is black and white!

Annie Osburn is a freelance writer and
interior design consultant.
For more information, visit her website www.AnnieOsburnDesigns.com.