Black & White & Wood All Over.........and Some Exciting News!

The injection of rustic elements into a clean modern space continues to gain popularity and be seen everywhere.  Maybe its the unexpected pairing of clean lines with rough finishes that makes it so appealing, or maybe its that we're ready (and have been for a long time) to see interiors that aren't so matchy-matchy.  Currently, I'm drawn to the stark nature of black and white, paired with warm rustic wood and driftwood tones.

Elle Decor

Elle Decor

Love how this second image marries the very modern with those industrial, vintage chairs.  Such an unexpected mix, especially with that stone floor.  It all works, and is refreshing instead of stark.

via Desire to Inspire

This relaxed, but beautiful space uses a "colorless" backdrop to showcase and highlight various wood tones and textures.  It mixes the perfect with the imperfect so well, and looks very comfortable to live in.  Check out more great photos of the house here.

 via My Scandinavian Retreat

That pine ceiling has such a cottage-like vibe, but when paired with sleek surfaces, that great modern hood, and those architectural window coverings, there's a nice harmony here.

via Pinterest

Love some of the details in this kitchen--the natural rug against that gloss white floor, the leather pulls on the drawers, and the casual rustic cabinet for open storage of dishes.  The look is gracefully unfitted, and it works well.

 Tracery Interiors

I've seen this kitchen in many different places and can't get enough of it.  The strong, dark outline on those island pieces punctuates the space, while the rough-hewn beams flanking the doorway and grey-washed floors add a casual softness.  


And in other news........a certain other kitchen with some black and white tones of its own got a bit of recognition this week:

I revealed my own kitchen a while back, and got some great response.  On a whim, I entered it in a state-wide design competition, sponsored by the National Kitchen & Bath Association.  I'm pleased to announce that it took 3rd place in its category!  Maybe to some people, third place is the "second loser", but given the criteria and the other kitchen designs I was competing against, its a proud moment for me, and I'm thinking this space is truly "the little kitchen that could".  There may be some magazine recognition for me in the near future, so I'll let you know if that happens!