Black and White Obsessed

I love black and white. This is evident by the number of black and white items in my closet. It's classic, always elegant, always crisp and timeless. It can be styled to feel contemporary or traditional and is acceptable in almost any situation.

My obsession with decorating in black and white began when I was a little girl. I remember wanting my room with only white furniture and punches of color from fabrics. Then, as I got a bit older I wanted black furniture - yes this was the era of black lacquer - and again, softened it with just a bit of color. When I purchased my first house I was able to pick all of my finishes and yes, the kitchen and bathrooms were all done in black and white.

Since then I have moved on, from my small, cozy townhouse and from all of the black and white. I've tried to move away from it in my own decorating, but lately my desire for black and white has returned.

Please see some examples I've included of why black and white can be so beautiful in your home...

This is an entrance of beautiful French Quarter home in New Orleans, Louisiana. I love the way the glossy white trim paint enhances the detail on the door and how fantastic the light glows through the glass.

This is a photo from Better Homes and Garden (bhg.com). This shows how black and white does not have to be modern. It works well with the French Country style of this room. The toile, ticking and ruffles all speak to a romantic tone.

This bathroom takes a stroll back in time (bhg.com). The black bead-boarding is beautiful paired with the marble of the shower and floors. And the black on the bottom of the tub accentuates the lines and the gorgeous silver clawed feet.

All of the elements in this bathroom are classic and traditional, but the use of hot pink accents and the charcoal grey walls with the black claw-feet on the tub bring it into the 21st century. Imagine how many other color combinations you can do in this room when you get tired of the hot pink. Perfect!

This kitchen could look cold, stark and boring. The elements of wood and the black-painted recycled stools easily add warmth and character.

The white architectural accents, trim and bedding are a beautiful, clean contrast the the shiny black floors, gray walls and wood furniture and mirrors. Simple and effortless, but still cozy perfection.