There are a lot of trends that come and go, but black and white interiors will always remain timeless. Black and white design has been around for centuries and dates back as far back as the Roman Empire. The photo below is a current picture of the preserved Chateau de Chenonceau that was built during the 16th century.  The black and white aesthetic was first seen mainly in flooring where it continues to evolve, as shown in this much more recent design by star of Bravo’s “Flipping Out” and “Interior Therapy,” Jeff Lewis.

In the early 1900’s, the first interior design professional, Elsie de Wolf, had a strikingly chic black and white striped ceiling installed in the bar of her beverly hills home. To me, black and white interiors evoke a sense of elegance, luxury and sophistication that never goes out of style.

The richness of black in combination with the purity of white, creates a dramatic and glamorous look. The contrast of this white stone mantel against the black walls below exemplifies this, and the room is perfectly styled with touches of gold and great accessories.

Of course a beautiful field cut marble floor design isn’t always in the budget. So instead of blowing your budget on a fabulously expensive floor, try black and white accessories like this geometric pattern rug from Surya.

Maybe a new throw pillow for the bed?

Or this striped teepee from Land of Nod. Adorable in a kids’ room!