Black Magic

As it has the ability to instantly update and smarten a room, black is a decorators best friend.

A well-known designer once said that every room should have a touch of black. It immediately adds a crisp modernity, which can be very effective when updating a tired room. As black has impact, even in small amounts, you can introduce it in accessories such as lampshades and bases, side tables and picture frames eliminating the need for a major revamp.

1 To ground the island of her kitchen and make it a focal point, Heather Welham of Portfolio Interiors chose black Philippe Starck Masters chairs. “I didn’t want anything too solid and these chairs are fun and contemporary, plus they’re easy to clean and extremely comfortable,” she says.

2 Even a small touch, like this adjustable bedside lamp in lifestyle blogger Elma Steyl’s Pretoria home, will crisp up a colourful bedroom. Styling Dina Venter.