New York City architecture and interior design practice Ashe + Leandro likes the color black.
"We're not afraid of shades of black; black is our thing," interior designer Ariel Ashe recently told Elle Decor.
The company, which Ashe co-founded with architect Reinaldo Leandro, designed a Manhattan apartment for Coldplay's Jonny Buckland and Elle Decor took a peek inside. The magazine asked about some of the choices for Buckland, his wife and their two children — black is visible throughout spaces in the 2,100-square-foot apartment.
The family loves it, but some might think twice about black in their living spaces. Square footage is coveted in New York City. Many hesitate to use black, for fear it will make a room appear smaller.
Leandro told Design & Trend that this is a common misconception.
"We find it's kind of the opposite for us," he said. "It gives the room depth."
When asked about some of the general rules Ashe + Leandro adhere to when using black, Leandro didn't have many to share. When you paint a wall black, he said, it gives it "infinity" and acts as a good prime. Black bookcases and cabinets really pop in a white environment. Black furnishings give a more mature look. It all depends on the desired level of contrast and every room should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
"We don't really follow the rules, it's more about instinct when you're in the space." Leadro said.
He added that black has always been around and always will be but company uses it strategically.
Ashe + Leandro also like to use greys but Leandro said he's noticed clientele coming around to the idea of black in living spaces.
Check out more Elle Decor photos of the Buckland's pied-à-terre here and other spaces by Ashe + Leandro at their website.
