While black and white is a classic power couple that works brilliantly both inside and out, there's nothing black and white about getting the timeless pairing just right - here are some top tips for the best results when going monochrome.
Mono-what?
Monochromatic colour schemes are actually any scheme derived from a single base hue, and extended using its shades, tones and tints – so a hue that's been modified by the addition of black, grey or white.
The result of using a monochrome palette is that the energy in the space should feel more subtle, peaceful and harmonious, as the colours naturally go together without any risk of them fighting one another.
Getting graphic
Black and white is a striking and dramatic colour combo that can be adapted to many interior styles from Nordic or New York loft to minimalist or Parisienne apartment.
"Black and white adds instant drama to a space," says Resene Colour Expert Brooke Calvert.
"It's a versatile look that works well as a monochromatic scheme or paired with pops of colour. One of the great things about a black and white scheme is it will go with virtually any other colour you want to bring into the space."
When it comes to getting black and white right, Brooke says it's all about proportion. Using half black and half white can look odd, so use either the one third/two thirds rule if you're painting surfaces like the walls, floors and ceilings.
Or if you intend one of the colours to be just an accent colour, use more of a 90/10 percent ratio. Use either your black or white for the surfaces and accessorise with the other.
The right black and white paint colours
"Not all black paints are created equal," says Brooke.
"Some have a touch of brown, some a touch of green, or blue, or white. To find a black and white paint colour that works for you, consider what you are already working with - existing elements such as flooring, cabinetry and soft furnishings.
Brooke says Resene Black White is a favourite white colour for those looking to achieve a minimalist aesthetic and also one of Resene's top-selling colours.
"For contrast and depth, try it with a deep black like Resene Nero or Resene All Black."
Other perfect pairings Brooke recommends trying are: Resene Half White Pointer + Resene Double Cod Grey, Resene Blackjack + Resene Sea Fog, Resene Porter + Resene Merino or Resene Bokara Grey + Resene Half Rice Cake.
Roll out
If you're in the mood for paper over paint, or simply want to add some extra oomph, just add wallpaper.
"Just plain black and white can look a bit boring, so look for a great pattern in black and white to add interest, either in fabric or wallpaper," says Brooke.
The versatile colour combination can cross many different design styles, from simple plains to conversational through to brick and tropical botanicals.
A black and white translation highlights the look and adds drama to statement walls or you can go just dark and moody by dressing the wall with a plain black texture.
Wallpapers Brooke recommends checking out include Amazonia pattern #91272, Black & White pattern #530704 and Glasshouse pattern #90231.
The great outdoors
If choosing a dark colour outside, take care as they absorb a lot of heat. You can reduce the risk of heat related issues by using a Resene CoolColour finish.
Resene CoolColour technology makes painting exterior surfaces in darker colours both easier and safer. It can be used on all sorts of exterior materials and applications, from weatherboards and concrete to windowsills.
A Resene CoolColour looks like a normal colour but thanks to special pigment technology it reflects more heat, so it doesn’t get as hot as a normal colour would. Resene CoolColours are created by replacing the standard carbon black pigment that absorbs heat and light with a unique pigment that enables much of the infrared portion of the sun's energy to be reflected.
Gloss over it
Use gloss levels to accentuate your Resene paint colour. A high gloss finish like Resene Enamacryl will make your black paint finish look sleek and modern. A low sheen finish like Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen will bring out the undertones and make your hue seem more muted.
Stain power
Consider using Resene wood stains instead of paint. A popular option is to use Resene Pitch Black wood stain for exterior or interior features. Resene wood stains are semi- transparent so you can see the wood grain effect through the stain, which brings in a sense of nature while still allowing you to have a black and white palette.
A lightbulb moment
"When creating a monochrome colour scheme, it's also important to think about the lighting in your home, as this will help guide you to how dark you can go," says Brooke.
If you're going from very light to very dark you may need some extra lighting. If you're changing from dark to light, consider softer light bulbs to avoid glare.
Happy alternatives
Not sure if a black and white monochrome look is for you? Swap true black out with charcoals, deep greys or even deep blues.
"Sometimes black can be a touch too heavy or dark for some - this is where a charcoal or dark blue comes in, with the offering of a slightly softer approach that still creates a punchy statement," says Brooke.
"Try using a deep grey, such as Resene Nocturnal or Resene Foundry instead."
This article was created for Resene.
