We know, we know, black and white may still smack of industrial, urban images, but take another look at rural landscapes and you'll see what we've always realized. Storm clouds hovering over fresh white linens blowing on the line, sharp black trim on a white clapboard farmhouse, black and white cows (or horses, or sheep, or goats) dotting a farmer's field—all are instantly recognizable elements of country life.
In country decorating, pairing black and white can symbolize the natural world's intrinsic balance and contrast. Here at designer Sahara's colourful Quebec cottage, those elements come into play in a pleasing space that mixes old and new, colour and non-colour, pattern and solid, spirit and calm. It's a cozy, uncontrived blend that's part of Sahara's signature. "My mom and dad found all these pieces," she says. "That's something I really treasure and celebrate." The historic thread brings continuity to the home, while the addition of strong yellow, in typical Sahara style, contributes a new burst of depth and context to the opposing shades. Here's how to get the look.
Get the look
1. Add drama
Black treads and banister form a dramatic foil for white spindles and risers on the staircase. The pairing here is crisp and clean, a play between spirit and calm, and sets off the yellow walls vividly. "I love using the combination in a new form, but in a way that still respects the original essence of the pieces," Sahara notes.
2. Be definitive
Black is striking, no question, but if you're not one for jumping in with both feet, you can commit to it in modest ways that make a big impact. In Sahara's sitting room, the outlines of black trim define the curvaceous furniture and accessories and silhouette them against the colourful walls. Small signatures like this maintain balance and keep the dark shade from becoming overwhelming.
3. Create a backdrop
A painted dresser's coat of white paint is the perfect setting for the ornate black handles, moving the eye between pale and inky shades. A collection of milk glass adds texture. Sahara adds different coloured pieces periodically for variety, but the display remains subtle and calm.
4. Emphasize the details
The very careful arrangement of features makes the most of this setting. Too much yellow would appear flat, but by adding dark mirror frames and a delicate black and white toile on a mustard background Sahara has created a complementary tension.
5. Keep it timeless
A framed vintage print of a blackbird meets its counterpoint in a white milk glass vase filled with creamy freesia and pale roses. Old books with dark covers set upon a black-painted table add to the appeal of this 1940s vignette.
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