The Black and White Nursery

Adding in Subtle Colors

The main color for a black and white nursery should be various shades of white, mixed to add contrast and depth. Black and red should be used in smaller doses to infuse a pop of drama and color.

Try crib linens trimmed in black gingham, a black picture frame, or a decorative wall border with a black and white check. Then balance the black and white with red (or even yellow or green) accents. Make sure there is plenty of indirect lighting in the nursery through natural sunlight and accent lamps and wall sconces. Consider adding a dimmer to provide much-needed light for nighttime diaper changes.

Accessories and Accents

Accessories, like lampshades and pillows, are the perfect place to add a touch of black and white contrast to a room if you don't want to build the entire room around this color scheme. Try adding black and white gingham trim and black pom fringe to a shade or a black and white toile pillow tossed in a rocker. Artwork and area rugs are another place to introduce new colors; for example, a rug with a meandering green vine flush with bright red flowers or a wall hanging or mural featuring a field filled with wild flowers. Décor embellishments and accessories are the best way to add touches of color that traditionally reflect the gender of your baby, so add some blue and pink if you wish.

The nursery is the best location to stimulate baby with color and texture. Every day is a new adventure for your baby; he or she continues to see new colors and objects every day. And nothing touches the heart of a new parent more than the moment when their newborn sees and recognizes them for the first time. Make your nursery the perfect backdrop for your cherished, memorable moments.