Few color combinations hold as much timeless status as black and white. There's a good reason for that. This monochromatic combination has transcended a passing trend for centuries, making it a safe yet chic choice in many celebrity homes. Simone Biles is no exception.
The Olympic gymnast, who lives in a contemporary property in Houston, Texas, experimented with a monochromatic color scheme in an open-plan living room with bright white walls and a large black sofa. Other than this, the room is noticeably sparsely furnished, but the result is far from boring.
Instead, with its classic color scheme and carefully selected furniture, this living room is a dream space for lovers of modern minimalism. And designers say it's a reminder of the enduring power of black and white.
“Black and white color schemes have a classic appeal that transcends trends and styles. They embody the essence of contrast, a fundamental principle of art and design, and will remain forever relevant. ” says design expert Andrea Hundley.
“Over the years, I've worked on several homes where the black and white color scheme has evolved seamlessly with changing interior trends, while maintaining sophistication and charm.”
Andrea explains that when styling a black and white living room (or any monochromatic space), you need to start with a white background, as Simone demonstrates.
“A white background makes a space feel open and airy,” she says. “In a recent project, I used white paint on the walls and ceiling to act as a blank canvas and allow black furniture and decorative elements to take center stage.”
After finding the perfect white base, Andrea says she needs to introduce black in different forms. Simone's black sofa is a natural starting point, but you can also look to smaller furniture and accessories, such as a statement black mirror or a sleek black console table.
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Design Morsels Founder and Editor-in-Chief
Andrea Handley is an interior designer and founder of internationally known interiors publication Design Morsels.
And while block colors are an influence in Simone's home, Andrea says black and white patterned pieces are just as influential in creating a more playful and sophisticated space.
“A patterned rug or wallpaper in white and black can add interest and texture to the area. One customer's home had beautiful black and white geometric tile floors, which added an unexpected touch to the elegant design. It added an outside, quirky touch.”
To add a touch of color and interest without sacrificing the minimalist aesthetic, the designer added that statement houseplants will instantly bring the space to life. And just like color schemes, they won't go out of style anytime in the future.
“Green can add color without taking away from a monochrome look,” she says. For one of my client's girlfriends, a tall fiddle-leaf fig planted in a black pot against a white wall became the striking focal point of the room.
To create a Simone-like space, we recommend starting with the pieces below.
Supermoon white paint sample
Described as Backdrop's 'cleanest pure white', this easy-to-apply and washable paint is 'certified green' and perfect if you want to achieve a sustainable look.
This L-shaped set comes with a sofa, a chaise longue and two free pillows, and will really refresh your living space, especially when combined with a white background.