Decorating with Black

Black has an amazing power to solidify any color scheme, pull together wayward, mismatched pieces of furniture, and give your home a touch of true Hollywood glamour. Check out these top 10 tips for using black in your décor.

1. Keep it minimal - Too much black in any room is too much. Add white and other colors to play up the contrast and keep the room pleasing and balanced.

2. If you like contemporary décor - You'll want to have at least one main piece of furniture in black - couch, ottoman, chair, armoire, etc.

3. If your taste is more cottage décor - Add a few weathered pieces of black furniture. They'll ground all the pretty whites and pinks and add a grown up sense of style.

4. Red, white, and black - Considered the most romantic color palette, is an almost fail-safe scheme. Use bright white trim to contrast the brilliant red, while the black acts as the anchor.

5. Let your sense of fun and adventure come through - Try a bold wall color. Be sure to tame it with touches of black in your accessories, side chairs or smaller upholstered pieces.

6. If you're nervous about adding black - Start small by coating minor architectural details in black such as picture frames, accessories, pillows, towels, etc.

7. Punch up your bland color scheme - If your room needs 'something', but you're not sure what, look to black to create a much-needed design statement in any room.

8. A Classic - Want a pop of interest in any room? A black-and-white tiled floor should do the trick. Almost any color will combine easily with this look, and the furnishings can be as glamorous as you'd like.

9. Stylish Flooring - Black in an area rug is a great grounding element. Just be sure to use the black elsewhere in the room as well.

10. Rinse and Repeat - Repeat the use of black throughout the room with window treatment trim, pillow accents, iron light fixtures, etc. for a well-coordinated use of the darker tone.

There's a real boldness and zing when decorating a room using black. Go ahead, start using more black in your décor. It's great for adding sophistication, style, or a sense of whimsy. Don't you just love the look?

Photos courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens


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