Clean, graphic and striking – a monochrome scheme isn't the first aesthetic that springs to mind when you think of children's rooms. However, studies show that black and white pairings stimulate the eyesight and brain development in young ones just as much as the bright colours parents are often drawn to.
And it's a combination that works for any age, from tot to teen. Try these tips for stylish ways to use a monochrome palette anywhere from the nursery to the family bathroom.
Go rustic and whitewashed
Monochrome schemes don't have to be sleek and minimal. Think rustic beach house with this supremely child-pleasing look and combine fresh, whitewashed floorboards and walls with natural materials, a textured sisal rug and vintage wooden furniture for a homely feel.
Personalise with bold type
Create a cool workspace for a teenager using bold black and white typography. This is a great way to give a space a really personal feel – perfect for older children. Try working with your son or daughter to pin up postcards that motivate them, prop up cut-out initials and frame pages from their favourite books.
Introduce a touch of whimsy
If you feel nervous about committing to a monochrome scheme for a baby's room, keep it white and minimal and introduce black through whimsical décor that you can add and remove easily. Textured objects, such as knitted toys and paper decorations, keep this two-tone scheme soft and cutesy.
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Work with what you have
If you're thinking of going monochrome in an already decorated bedroom, there's no need to start from scratch. Investing in a bold black and white throw or cushions can instantly elevate your existing scheme and give you a jumping-off point.
To take the look further with what you have to hand, simply store away any bright items lying around and replace any coloured bedlinen with a neutral set.
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Fashion a photo gallery
Kids love to see pictures of family and friends, and creating a wall of black and white images in your child's bedroom or play space is a great way to add depth and interest while sticking to a monochrome palette. Group similar-style photos, such as portraits or holiday scenes, for added impact.
Get busy
Monochrome needn't mean minimal. Add a busy print to an equally busily decorated room to create an eclectic aesthetic. In this nursery, the wallpaper adds depth, while splashes of colour on the throw, lampshade, pouffe and artworks lift the scheme slightly while maintaining a black and white theme.
Whisper sweet nothings
Track down whimsical monochrome illustrations and prints featuring cute phrases to keep your baby's room sweet as well as chic.
Bang up a chalkboard
Black chalkboard paint is an easy and super-effective way to introduce a monochrome vibe to a child's space – and it can transform almost any surface.
Paint it on a wardrobe, as here, or on a chest of drawers, where you can label each drawer with an illustration of the contents. Alternatively, rather than despairing about felt-tip pen marks covering your dining table, surrender to the inevitable scribbles and cover your tabletop with chalkboard paint to create the perfect piece of child-friendly furniture. With a quick wipe down, it will revert to a slick, Scandi-style piece for adults.
Work in blocks of velvety black
If you think a black and white family bathroom is too stark to share with your little ones, this bright yet practical monochrome beauty might change your mind. Painting the vanity unit and bath panel in smart black keeps this room safe from much of the everyday wear and tear kids throw at it. Choose a satin or gloss finish for added endurance – and resistance to bath-time splashes.
By Rohini Wahi for Houzz
