Anne Hathaway's home exhibits a 'brave' spin on the classic white scheme – designers say it's a worthwhile risk

The use of black in interior design is a controversial subject. Some designers swear by the look, while others caution that it can quickly become too dark. Anne Hathaway's home showcases the shade in one of the chicest ways we've ever seen.

Hathaway's New York home decor idea brings together two of the starkest neutrals: black and white. A black print with a white triangle in the center hangs on the wall and a black lampshade stands out against the white, antiquely detailed wall. Hathaway's rounded, beige chair adds a touch of warm neutrality to soften the effect.

Though this scheme has the potential to appear stark, the Devil Wears Prada actress keeps it light by mixing design styles, textures, and lines. The look brings a stylish, original twist to the white color scheme.

'Decorating with black can be difficult, but Anne Hathaway's space proves that the challenge is worth it,' says Jennifer Ebert, color expert and digital editor at Homes & Gardens. She continues: 'When paired with a bright white, the color opposites make each other appear all the more crisp and bold. I love that she uses art in her space as a way of incorporating visual interest, it's so unique.'

Jennifer Ebert

Jen is the Editor (Digital) of Homes & Gardens. Before starting this position, she had completed various interior design courses at KLC Design School, as well as working across Ideal Home, LivingEtc, 25 Beautiful Homes and Country Homes & Interiors as an interiors writer.

Furthermore, the layered textures of this space keep this 'crispness' from being overwhelming. The semi-gloss finish of the wall paint contrasts with the highly reflective surface of the print's glass frame, which contrasts with the tactile and matte fabric of the black lampshade. The antique details on the wall adds further visual interest.

Hathaway also keeps it interesting in her black-and-white room with the use of different shapes. In only the micro-shot posted to Instagram, we see the circles of the lampshade, the triangle of the print, and the straight lines of the beautiful paneling in the room. The curved shape of the actress's chair adds more dimension.

Shop the Black and White Color Scheme

The contrast of black and white against one another makes each color appear brighter and bolder. Accessories like a pendant light, rug, and lamp that incorporates these colors make a striking statement in any room.

Adding interest to an all-white scheme can be accomplished in many ways, but adding a touch of black just might be the best way to make it bold and dramatic. Anne Hathaway's space shows this striking scheme isn't one to be afraid of: when incorporated with a variety of textures and shapes, the look is a guaranteed success.