By Kee Hua Chee | Apr 17, 2010
Timeless glamour
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| Looking classy in black and white. |
Would you consider an interior design colour scheme that’s predominantly black and white? It probably would be tedious, wouldn’t it? And, worse, possibly funereal.
However, don’t dismiss the idea offhand because it may just surprise you what one can achieve with a limited palette.
Monochrome Inc, a New Zealand design studio specialising in monochromatic tones, is certainly making waves with their more austere designs.
“I call my designs the art of inspired simplicity,” says owner and designer Andrew Loader, 44, whose official mugshot is, of course, in black and white.
“My philosophy is deriving maximum impact from the most minimalist yet effective applications.”
Using just two basic colours may seem dull, but not if one were to offset the monochromatic scheme with sparkling metalic finishes and glass, with splashes of colour here and there to enliven things. You’d be surprised at how this could result in a space that’s glamorous and timeless.
Loader, who has travelled the globe as a luxury hotelier, understands the importance of creating environments that allow people to feel uplifted and inspired in the comfort of their own home; he just prefers a more restrained approach.
While many assume that Loader’s avant garde colour scheme appeals mostly to the hip and young set, what’s surprising is that a number of his clients are in their 50s and above.
These are well-off folk who have gone through their Versace and Cavalli stage of colour and drama, and are now turning the volume down.
Once, they might have spent a good part of their waking hours maximising their interiors but after filling the rooms of their home with disparate treasures, they are prepared to head in the opposite direction.
Loader charges US$150 (RM484) per hour to pick his brains, but anyone in his right mind would prefer a package deal that includes consultancy, design concepts and project management.
“Monochrome Inc works directly with the client to understand their visions, objectives and outcomes. I then provide an initial design concept that includes paint selections, floor/window treatments, furnishing, upholstery, cabinetry, lighting, artwork and accessories.
“If an outdoor terrace, balcony or patio is included, I will also recommend specific pots, containers and boxes, water feature solutions, canopy/awning, wall and floor treatments and lighting.
“My range of fabrics, wallpapers, decorative accessories and bespoke handmade furniture are exclusive to Monochrome. I can do a room, several or your entire house,” says Loader who spent two decades in the world of luxury hotel and creative design before returning to his native New Zealand in 2009 to open his studio.
A monochromatic scheme needn’t be limited to just black and white, explains Loader. Any colour pairing would work just as well, if carefully considered.
After all, the Chinese have been masters of this genre from centuries past. Think stunning black and red lacquer furniture, the extravagant red and gold interiors of bridal chambers, and, of course, the classic and timeless white and blue porcelain of Ming dynasty.
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