When in doubt, you can't go wrong with a black-and-white color palette. While other hues fall in and out of fashion, these contrasting colors remain in the design zeitgeist thanks to their versatility and sophistication.
There are countless ways to implement a monochrome color scheme inside the home, but we were recently inspired by RuPaul's take on the combo with his house's exterior paint color.
The grand home's monochromatic facade features a primarily white exterior, with black roof tiles, a black-painted gazebo, and black window panes, all of which add some dark glamour to the otherwise bright home.
According to experts, decorating with black and white requires balance, as this can determine the ambiance that will greet guests upon their arrival.
'Black and white homes evoke a sense of refinement and elegance, but they can also create an inviting and grounded atmosphere,' Westchester-based designer Nina Lichtenstein states. 'A predominantly white exterior with black accents can feel fresh, airy, and expansive, while a home with more black exteriors might offer a dramatic, modern edge, especially when paired with natural elements like wood or stone. The contrast brings a level of crispness to a home that feels intentional, confident, and timeless.'
She continues, 'The combination of black and white can also create a sense of balance. For instance, white surfaces reflect light, making a home seem bright and welcoming, while black areas add depth and structure. This interplay can give even simple architectural forms a striking presence.'
Black and white is suitable for a variety of architectural styles, from colonial and Georgian to minimalist. There are a few designs, however, that Lichtenstein says the scheme works particularly well for.
'For more ornate homes like Victorians, a black-and-white scheme can bring out the intricate details in the trim, railings, and spindles,' she says. 'Black used selectively to highlight decorative features against a white backdrop creates a high-contrast aesthetic that both honors the craftsmanship and makes it feel current.'
Alternatively, it works for a more rustic style that is popular among city dwellers and those in more rural locations. 'The black-and-white palette has become a hallmark of the modern farmhouse style,' Lichtenstein says. 'Typically, white siding is paired with black window frames, doors, and rooflines, offering a clean, rustic yet polished look that suits both suburban and rural settings. This pairing allows traditional farmhouse shapes to feel updated and contemporary.'
We would be remiss to not mention black and white's place in the mid-century modern scheme, which Lichtenstein recommends for its timeless qualities.
'Mid-century homes often incorporate black and white in ways that enhance their clean, horizontal lines and large glass surfaces,' she says. 'Black can be used to highlight angular rooflines, while white walls keep the overall aesthetic open and unobtrusive, drawing attention to architectural details.'
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Nothing elevates our morning coffee routine quite like this bold twist on the classic color palette.
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For a more inviting appearance, we would recommend utilizing RuPaul's strategy of a primarily white home exterior, with bold black accents on doors, windows, and balconies.
