Black, White & Not a Bit Boring: 13 Fresh Ways to Get Black & White Right

published Sep 1, 2016

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Black and white is a classic color scheme that adds sophistication, contrast and drama to just about any style of room. But it can sometimes get boring, only playing with two colors. These 13 rooms show how you can balance out a bold black and white color palette with fresh design ideas to create exciting spaces…that aren’t a bit boring.

(Image credit: Emma Fiala)

How Nic and Andrew get this room right: A busy, graphic, one-of-a-kind black and white patterned accent wall.

(Image credit: Submitted by Nina)

How Jon and Nina get this room right: Over-sized decor elements like curtains and throw pillows add drama to a black and white color palette.

(Image credit: Fabienne Ayina)

How Stephen gets this room right: Oddly placed, quirky art (and fashion) bump the boldness of this mostly black and white space.

(Image credit: Emma Fiala)

How Noah gets this room right: His black and white comes as wall stripes which play up the room’s dramatically high ceilings.

(Image credit: Lauren Kolyn)

How Sarah gets this room right: She complements black and white with cool copper tones.

(Image credit: Submitted by Julie)

How Julie gets this room right: Black on black on black with a hint of off-white makes for one dynamic space.

(Image credit: Sophie Timothy)

How Marnie and Ryan get this room right: A mix of balance, textures, odd art and architectural detail.

(Image credit: Nancy Mitchell)

How Jeanine and Bryan get this room right: Textured, earthy, neon baskets hanging on the wall keep a mostly black and white bedroom bold.

(Image credit: Bethany Nauert)

How Jaclyn and David get this room right: By flipping the usual formula and choosing black and white accessories with colorful larger furniture basics!

(Image credit: Kim Lucian)

How Meg gets this room right: Lots of gray, natural textures and a little pale pink help balance black and white.

(Image credit: Heather Keeling)

How Kristen gets this room right: Mixing pops of color with graphic art and accessories.

(Image credit: Alicia Macias)

How Sonia gets this room right: An eclectic medley of design elements, her own bold black and white art and a few key pops of color.

(Image credit: Kristan Lieb)

How Kristen gets this room right: Playing with patterns and adding in lots of natural wood.