apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

Many black and white colored interiors have a tendency to feel cold and stark. However, something about the way these rooms are put together feel really modern yet rich, warm, and dare I say, sexy? at the same time. Here's a few things that could provide some inspiration if this is a look you might consider for your home:

• 1. Balance the drama. Several key walls are painted a dramatic dark color, but he's balanced it by keeping the floors and celings light, as well as most of the large furnishings. It gives your eye a rest and highlights the darker pieces as accents.
  
• 2. Texture is key. There are so many textures going on in the space, as opposed to graphic patterns. He's used natural organic pieces, like the coral accessories, and driftwood table, as well as lots of tonal embossed fabrics.There's a lot of play with gloss and matte, slick and tactile (ie. fur, velvet, etc...). Also, the large stone fireplace breaks up the solid colors and gives a lot of visual interest. Interesting to note there isn't much artwork on the walls, and the multi hue pattern in the stones kind of makes up for that.
  
• 3. Add in a few complimentary colors. Although the space is primarily black and white, he's thrown in subtle hits of complimentary muted colors, like browns, pale blues, and creams.
  
• 4. A little bling will do ya. Finally, the thing we think really makes the space feel rich are the subtle touches of metallic finishes. He's used little hits of gold here and there in the side tables and lamps.
  

Check out even more images in the May 2008 issue of Elle Decoration UK on newstands now.

[ images by Richard Powers for Elle Decoration UK ]