We Answer Wednesday - Update a Black and White Room

"I live in an open concept condo space.  I chose a black and white theme - it's timeless and stylish but also easy but I'm in need of a bit of an update.  How can I keep my main theme of black and white - what are some easy updates to my theme?"

You are so right that black and white are timeless and of course, chic! We love a black and white decor scheme but every now and then no matter the theme, an update is in need.

When it comes to an easy and affordable update you need to stick with what you currently have and just add to it. The good news is you don't need to add a lot to make this change. The even better news for you is that black and white work with just about everything and you have an endless supply of ideas - it really just comes down to what works for YOU!

Here are some ideas....

GOLD.  Adding a touch of gold to a black and white room just gives the whole space some extra glam and luxury. this about gold pillows, lamps, art and accessories.  Even just the smallest touch of gold can go a long way.  Gold never goes out of style but right now is it hot, so you will see gold everywhere!
If gold isn't for you, try silver or rose gold. The gold and rose gold add warmth and a touch of glam to a space the silver is a bit sleeker but all of them work


 

 

COLOUR. Because black and white are classic neutrals - they 'go' with everything! So add a pop of colour - red is a classic combination with black and white.  If you want to try something a bit different try something equally bold like bright pink, turquoise or lime green.  This looks great in a contemporary style. This pillows and art for a colour injection!



PASTEL. Rose quartz is the hot colour for 2016, so add it to your black and white motif.  You don't need a lot to make a splash. And even though this colour is soft and subtle it really makes a statement.  We love mixing some solid pastels with pattern black and white.



FUR. Texture is another great way to add a designer look to a room and fur is another hot textile this year.  We opt for faux options - it's friendlier, easier to clean and you have a ton of possibilities.  what we really like about mixing fur and black/white is that you are once again playing with neutrals so you can choose a white fur, black, grey even beige - it all works! We are seeing fur used in many ways - area rugs, throws, pillows, full blankets, poofs and ottomans.  Don't over do it - just one fur elements can do wonders!



 PATTERN.  Too many solids in one space can look flat, so mix it up with some prints and patterns.  Don't be afraid to mix your patterns - it's so chic! Patterns are best on items that are accent pieces - think pillow and rugs.  Keep the other elements in the room like the main furniture pieces, wall colour and drapery pretty basic if this is a look you want to explore.



When it comes to 'playing' with your black and white palette you can mix a lot of these, so add a touch of metallic, some fur and a pinch of colour. Find the balance that works for you!

IDS 2015: Bold Area Rugs

Bold colours in area rugs were prominent this year at the IDS in Toronto and I have to say - I was thrilled!   I love bold colour and pattern and although I do love a bold piece of furniture, I traditionally stick to neutrals when it's a larger, more expensive item like a sofa, dining set, kitchen etc. So using colour in accessories and area rugs throughout a design is my favorite way to use it!

Colour has been a trend for a lot of years but this year it's out in full force. From rugs to vases to fridges, the trend was undeniable. Here is a few of my favorite bold area rugs for 2015…

Missoni Home 2015

 

FLOR Carpet Tiles

FLOR tiles are something I first came across at the IDS two years ago. This is a fantastic product for so many uses in your home. FLOR tiles are great because the variety of colour, pattern, size and price point make it super easy to customize to your personal taste and needs. FLOR tiles are fastened using an adhesive "FLOR Dot" which doesn't damage your hardwood floors and is easy to peel up should you want to move the rug. This is a fabulous product for families. If a carpet tile becomes stained or damaged you simply replace that particular tile. Where as if you stain or damage an area rug, you likely need to replace the entire rug. Check them out at http://www.flor.com , you’ll be amazed at the variety they offer!

AREA RUGS

Although similar to the above category, area rugs were bolder than ever before.‎ From the colours to the pattern to the texture, there were so many options I didn’t know where to start! The rich colour palettes and the assortment of pattern was one of the most exciting parts of the show. A beautiful area rug is art for your floor, and there were options galore!   This photo is of the Weavers Art booth, the selections they carry are incredible. If you're in the market for a statement area rug, check them out!

 

The perfect area rug can enhance a room SO much. Just remember to always make sure you are purchasing the correct size for your space. Buying a rug too small will make your space feel smaller and cramped.