Accents in Black

Black accents from a prominent stairwell to side chairs, and toss pillows, creates a sense of elegance.

Photos courtesy Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS

Artwork with prominent black accents is paired with black toss pillows to add hints of strong color in this home office space. Cathy Hobbs Tribune News Service

Looking to make a bold, elegant statement? Why not consider the color black? Black is a color that is more popular than ever, in large part because it is neutral, can easily be paired with other colors, while also making a great accent color.

Accent colors are often considered to be opportunities to add bright, overpowering colors. However, using a neutral color such as black can help to “ground” a space and serve the same purpose. Here are some tips on how accents of black can help elevate and add elegance to nearly any space of the home. 1. Use black as a paint color, for moldings, door casings, banisters and stair treads. The color black can be used to highlight nearly any architectural feature in a home.

2. Repeat or color map accents of black throughout a space. This is a popular designer technique in which an accent color is repeated on different materials or furnishings/accessories throughout a space.

3. Incorporate black accents in some

Accents in blAck

A black and gold side table with black and white toss pillows adds a finish in a master bedroom.

Black and white artwork adds a finishing touch above a sideboard in a dining space.

ACCENTS IN BLACK

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artwork. Artwork can be an ideal way to bring accent color into a space.

4. Use portable design elements such as toss pillows, vases and accessories that can easily be moved from room to room or swapped in and out with the seasons.

5. Consider pairing black with white.

This powerful neutral combination can serve as the perfect foundation and springboard for a color scheme/palette.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.