February 21, 2014

I upholstered our basement guest room walls in black and white silk creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. No one feels hard done by sleeping here! (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. - Photo by Angus Ferguson)

I love the drama of all black and white interiors created solely to play on the contrast between light and dark. One of my art school teachers, John Leonard, taught me that CONTRAST was one of the most valuable tools in the artist's tool box.  Over and over I return to the truth of his statement.  The other intriguing quality of black and white interiors are their calmness. I know this seems inconsistent when I've just said that these interiors are often dramatic, but I would say that if you look through the following images you can see how these interiors draw you in and have a peaceful quality.  I would liken it to looking at black and white photos.  Somehow the lack of colour helps us to focus more clearly, and to appreciate the simplicity of the palette. Another quality that you will often find in these black and white interiors is a rich variety of textures. Let me know what you think.

Gorgeous marble wall offset with handsome black accessories creates the drama I love! (Yellowtrace)

Ticking black and white stripe Chesterfield is yummy but what's really yummy is pairing it with black velvet drapes and gold trim. (Tokyo Jinja)

This graphic basement home office featuring striped area rug, collection of black and white drawings to create an airy yet interesting work space. (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. - Photo by Angus Fergusson)

Villa Sorra, in Emilia Romagna, Italy, an old world take on black and white Italian style. So clean but so warm. (IIIInspired)

The client's non-functioning kitchen was redesigned to create this galley kitchen with marble counter top and backsplash that nicely contrast the dark cabinets. (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. - Photo by Ted Yarwood)

I love everything in this room especially the minimal fireplace and the art on top! (Peek of Perfection)

The floating, walnut vanity in this guest ensuite leaves plenty of room for the toile fabric storage baskets below. (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. - Photo by Ted Yarwood)

The ultimate in black and white styling. I can't resist. (Ark Pad)

Wall Of Frames in Slanted-Ceiling Bedroom is divine and just as strong as one large painting. (House & Home)

Are these black silk pleated walls? If so, I want them. (Ark Pad)

I did this project for a young entrepreneur over 10 years ago and it still has a classic enduring quality.  The clean, textured, sexy custom black lacquer fireplace brings focus, texture and drama to this contemporary living room. (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. - Photo by Ted Yarwood)