the eternal allure of black and white (pattern on cement tile, that is)
by clé tile | published: May 14, 2021
image credit: Frida Bredesen, tile: clé's rio 8x8 cement
some things just belong together and stand the test of time. fred and ginger. tomatoes and mozzarella. and black and white.
why are we so drawn to black and white? it starts in the womb where babies can see light and darkness. many say that newborns can only see black and white (though that’s subject to some dispute these days). you could say our love of black and white is hard-wired into us.
the combination of black and white in pattern has been used from ancient times, often to suggest duality and balance, but also for visual reasons: two divergent colors will communicate more powerfully together than they do on their own.
but in terms of the decorative possibilities what we love is the incredible versatility of black and white pattern, and what it can do for a room.
pattern play
(top left) Church Of San Giovanni Battista Mogno, photo: Nathan Lopez; (bottom left) photo: Harry Benson, Getty Images via Esquire Magazine; (right) photo: Peggy Wong
it’s a timeless classic, both retro and modern. think black and white photography. pen and ink drawings. think tuxedos. instant sophistication.
it adds texture when there isn’t. depending on the design, a black and white patterned tile can add a three dimensional effect, creating interest, surprise, and drama.
it’s found in nature. while the debate continues about what evolutionary purpose a zebra’s stripes serve (hint: it’s not camouflage), that combination finds its way into nature in multiple, beautiful ways.
design: Consort Home, photo: Tessa Neustadt
shop this tile here
design: Natalie Myers, photo: Charlotte Lea Photography
shop this tile here
it’s energetic yet calming. what we find intriguing about black and white is how the combination isn’t just pleasing, but can project a feeling of calm and order despite being so inherently busy. science proves this.
it works with any color palette. black and white pattern has a way of mellowing out even the boldest yellows, acidic greens, or punchy purples. at the same time, it can pop with a neutral palette, adding instant vibrancy… but more subtly than a big pop of color might.
it’s easy to match. for those not interested in color matching and worrying about pigments, hues, or shades, black and white pattern could well be the answer — and a way to break the impasse over a tricky color choice.
it’s hopeful. opposites attracting and coming together for completion. isn’t this what we want? we love the symbolism.
what’s your pattern?