Black is not a colour
Four minute read
Styling & Design by myself for Dulux. Photography by Polly Wreford.
Black is not a colour… but merely the absence of light being reflected back at us. And what’s more mind blowing is that it is the only hue that can exist in nature without any light at all (takes a while to try to get your head round that right?).
And yet I find it one of the most important back up tools in any decor kit. So why is black such a great ‘colour’ to use at home (okay, I give up, it’s easier to call it a colour)?
I love the simplicity of this kitchen with it’s black cabinet fronts and pared back aesthetic. Image courtesy of House Beautiful.
As a non-colour it won’t interfere with any of the other colours in your room. So feel free to use it wherever you’re stuck as to which hue to pick.
It creates a little pause where the eye can rest…a sort of visual break from the energy of whatever else is happening in a room.
As an interiors’ tool it works brilliantly when combined with neutrals. It’s natural solidity and opacity, against a backdrop at the opposite end of the light spectrum, works beautifully to create a simple yet impactful decor palette.
If you want to add a splash of contrast, but don’t feel confident when it comes to choosing a colour to do this, black will work with anything without clashing.
Finally, it’s the perfect thread to tie a room together. Picture frames, vases, the odd black pattern woven into textiles etc. will all help to create a visual flow and pull all your various bits and bobs together.
So there you go, just a few reasons why black can be a decorator’s friend. But as always there is a caveat…too much black and you’re in danger of creating a gothic palace noir.
Unless of course that’s the look you’re after.
A few of my favourite black accessories I’ve spotted recently:
Accents of black can be as subtle as an abstract poster print, but combine them with a few other black pieces and you start to weave a visual thread through your room.
A simple yet solid statement for your home with this black bobble mirror.
The bold stripes of this linen cushion combined with the ruffle edge make it a great ‘go anywhere’ accessory for your home.
Amuse La Bouche cushion, Selfridges.
A collection of black vases in strong shapes will create a great little visual point of interest in your home - and fit in with any decor scheme.
From The Conran Shop.
I love a solid black shaped side table as they have a strong presence yet will slip into the background of any room.
From Atkin and Thyme.