Want to add a style statement to your home but not the best at colour matching? There's no need to start googling colour wheels; instead, consider monochromatic interior design. It's a classic style guaranteed to outlast most trends and can be adapted easily to your preferences.
If you're interested in adopting the monochrome look into your home but aren't sure where to start or what inspiration to follow, there's no longer a need to worry! We've been chatting with Jo Hughes at Cloud Nine Interiors about how to introduce this décor theme into your home. It's easier than you may think!
Why we love monochrome bedrooms
- Classic
- Clean
- Bold
- Easy to maintain
- Gender-neutral
Black and white bedrooms are classic, clean and easy to decorate, making them a great all-rounder. I love this simple two-tone scheme as it allows you to go wild with fabrics and patterns while maintaining a cohesive theme throughout the room. Most people will opt for white being the dominant shade with hints of black and maybe one accent colour. This ensures the room stays bright and airy, and paint can easily be touched if the walls are scuffed or look grubby.
Making black the dominant colour takes more courage but provides a dramatic effect. I adore an oversized black headboard against a dark wall. There's something just so cosy about it. Whichever you choose, light or dark, we're sure you won't be disappointed with a white and black bedroom.
Monochrome nursery inspiration
I love the idea of a monochromatic black-and-white nursery as it's completely gender-neutral – perfect if you're not sure whether you're having a little boy or girl or have two children sharing. Interiors buff Jo agrees, telling us that 'a timeless black and white decor scheme is always popular as it suits all ages and has both masculine and feminine appeal.'
White wooden cots are the most common, but adding hints of black using storage, decorating accessories and soft furnishings is accessible. I love using block and black frames to display whimsical prints, and why not add a mural to the wall, such as clouds or a mountain range, to add a little interest? Or a sheep mobile, so your little one can look up and 'count sheep' until they fall asleep?
Monochrome children's bedroom inspiration
When you think of a child's bedroom, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Bright colours? Their favourite characters, maybe? If you're looking for a practical alternative to all the flashy colours and a design that will stand the test of time, I recommend you look no further than these black-and-white bedroom ideas.
Grown-up and stylish, but with all the soft toys, wall art and patterned bedspreads you'd expect, this colour scheme offers a toned-down space that looks great and is calming at bedtime. If you're unsure which items to place in which colour, a simple rule of thumb is to make everything with a hard edge – flooring, lighting, shelves, etc. - black and anything soft – cushions, bedding, etc. white. Check out how our customer Kerrie at My Sparkly Grey Home has used black to frame items against an airy white background.
Monochrome master bedroom inspiration
Monochrome bedding and black and white bedroom furniture isn't just for kids. These two tones can be highly chic for adults, too. Don't just take our word for it. Take a look at the below images taken by our customers. We love what Rebekah Gowler (and her cute son Kai) has done here with the bold, patterned cushions and simple background. In contrast, John and Katelan at Home of Melchicos combine contrasting patterns and darker hues for a bolder statement.
If you'd prefer a white bed, it'll look just as great as the black and grey ones pictured here – especially if you have darker walls. Jo is particularly fond of using monochrome touches in her colourful home. She told us:
'By introducing an accent colour in soft furnishings and accessories, either soft pastels or bright bolds, you can add depth and prevent the monochrome theme from looking too 'flat'. A fiery burnt orange (like the book pictured) looks amazing with a black-and-white palette and adds a touch of energy. Alternatively, adding hints of soft blush pink can bring about a sense of calm and tranquillity.
'Playing with pattern and texture using throws, rugs and textile art can enhance the overall look and feel and add a point of interest. Also, monochromatic bedrooms can be softened by using varying tones of black. Try layering over the top of crisp white bed linen with charcoal, textured throw and a few patterned scatter cushions. Lastly, greenery also looks great against a monochrome backdrop, so, if you can, introduce a few faux houseplants into the room.'
Check out the images below to see how Jo uses monochrome touches in her bold, designer home.
