Designers say Zoe Saldana's entryway colors look 'edgy or elegant' – depending on how they're applied

Few color pairings are as powerful as black and white – the monochromatic combination that transcends all color trends – but there is even more to these hues than their timelessness. And Zoe Saldana's entryway is a reminder of that. 

The Avatar actress shared a look inside the first room of her home – complete with a black and white patterned floor and pure white walls dressed with a gold-trimmed mirror. Curated accessories aside, designers say Zoe's entryway color choices are vital to creating the quintessential space – but note that we can use these tones to create other very different rooms.

'Black and white is the epitome of timeless. It's a great base color that can work for every season and any style. The pairing can be traditional or modern, or even industrial. This colorway can go edgy or elegant – it just depends on how it's applied,' say Sharon and Sherica from Design By S&S.

As mentioned, Zoe has designed a classic space with limited furnishings and accessories (gold mirror aside). However, Sharon and Sherica explain that we can achieve different style spaces (whether traditional, modern, or industrial) through the other colors we introduce. 

'As color trends change, it's easy to add an accent pillow, art, or rug if you want a pop of something different. And it's just as simple to return to a traditional classic look with a completely black and white color palette,' they say.

Sharon and Sherica

Sharon & Sherica are the award-winning, luxury interior designers behind Interior Design By S&S. They are a mother-and daughter-team which over 30 years of combined experience in nationwide design projects. Sherica gained a degree in Architectural Design from Parsons The New School, New York City – bringing a uniquely edgy perspective to her mother's vibrant work.

So, what do we need to remember when bringing black and white to life in our own entryways? Sharon and Sherica say that, after color, we should consider our use of textiles and patterns. 

'One of our biggest tips is to pump up the texture (whether through a rug or pillows) so that the monochromatic space does not look flat,' they say. 'The less pattern, the more contemporary-modern the space will feel. Alternatively, playing with more patterns will push you further into a more distinct style.' 

For example, the designers say that – if we opt for a geometric black and white pillow – our spaces will feel more industrial and youthful compared to the actresses' more traditional room. 

And, while Zoe Saldana hasn't introduced indoor plants into her entryway (or at least, the part of her space in the photograph), Sharon and Sherica also encourage us to elevate our black-and-white areas with greenery. 'Plants are a great way to add color from bright florals or just monochrome green; with plants, the space will start to come alive.'