In a kitchen or bathroom, black and white is a fresh, clean look that is timeless. The black and white tile in our feature room, especially the Chevron floor, will stand the test of time as decor styles change.
Black and white is a good choice for permanent surfaces such as tile and countertops.
This lovely bathroom has a 'let's wake up and face the day' kind of energy to it. There is a lot of visual movement even though there is no colour in the space.
A stimulating decor can work well in a bathroom because it's not a room you spend long periods of time in. If you had this decor style in, say a bedroom, it might be too overwhelming to the senses to provide a good night's sleep, but in a bathroom it can invigorate the senses.
Work with what you have
If a person bought a home that had the busy tile pattern this bathroom has, one might be tempted to tone down the stark elements.
In this instance, however, the designer did just the opposite by almost overfilling the space with art and accessories.
This technique definitely makes this particular room a stunner. If you can't beat them, join them, can be your mantra if you're in a similar situation. Sometimes going a little over the top can create a really interesting outcome.
This bathroom is quite masculine in design, but the pretty soaker tub does add a feminine touch. I love the eclectic mix of vintage photographs and accessories.
One could easily picture oneself lazing in that gorgeous claw-foot tub while enjoying all of the framed items on the opposing wall as well as the interesting windows.
The bowler hat on the towel rack is too much! Fantastic little touch there. Never discount anything that might be used as a unique accessory, even articles of clothing.
The vintage trunks stacked by the tub is another great idea and provide a useful tabletop surface for display.
Black-and-white accessories
As you can see by our feature photograph, you don't have to spend a fortune on accessories.
Using inexpensive black frames in various sizes, which can be used to frame anything from newspaper clippings to sheet music, is an affordable and effective update.
Take your favourite colour photos and print them in black and white for a contemporary, yet personal touch.
Other unique items, such as architectural salvage finds for instance, can be painted in either black or white to add to the look.
Simple wooden letters or numbers, found at most craft stores or even dollar stores, can be painted and hung on the wall; either spelling out a name or verse, or as singular additions. Inexpensive countertop storage containers can be treated in the same way to add to the mix.
Other accessories to consider are items such as candleholders and candles, ceramic bathroom sets (cup, toothbrush holder etc.) black and white linens and bath mats.
Even seemingly insignificant items such as switch plates can be updated in black or white for a uniform look. An inexpensive white shower curtain can be updated with stencils, black and white beads or even vintage earrings.
Patterns to consider
Black-and-white patterns can be a great addition to a black and white decor. Favoured patterns include toile, checkerboard, polka dots, Greek Key pattern, fleur-de-lis, chevron, herringbone, musical notes or stripes.
Keep this in mind when shopping for linens, shower curtains, mats and accessories. Other adornments to consider are dental moulding, cove moulding, wainscoting and chair rails.
Permanent changes
Stationary bathroom items, such as the vanity and mirror in our feature photo, will update a tired bathroom and give it a crisp, fresh look. Existing bathroom fixtures, such as towel bars and cabinet hardware, can be removed and painted in black or white to give them a uniform look or they can be replaced if the budget allows.
A little paint goes a long way
As was done in our feature room, consider painting the window and door trim in black for a more graphic style or white for a softer look.
Black and white can be spectacular. Consider it the next time you want a dramatic change.
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