Black and white create high drama in High Point

While the extraordinarily dramatic color duo of black and white is a fixture on the design scene, this April market brings the rebirth of this impressive combo yet again. Black and white is all the rage in fashion as well, judging by its widespread coverage in the spring megabooks. Offering the utmost in contrast, this top-notch pairing is all about the dramatic tension that can be created within a room. And, as it roars back onto the design scene, it's interesting to note that those magical applications of black and white hit a multitude of style notes: lace, ultra-contemporary, feminine, Victorian, conservative traditional.

With the ability to bestow instant chic, black and white (no matter what the time frame) also conveys innate modernity and somehow manages to emerge – time and time again – without ever looking dated. Instead, it feels very fresh, very now, very of-the-moment. Which is why we've chosen black and white not only as a top trend at market, but also as the perfect choice to offset the very here-and-now new classic/new traditional theme.

As this particular look continues to evolve, it takes new twists and turns, but the underlying feeling is still the same. The best of classic design (from an almost dizzying array of eras at this point) is revamped and reinterpreted to suit today's modern lifestyle, not just from a style perspective but also in the way it feels and functions. For example, beautiful antique pieces such as dressing tables and desks do not feature hideaway storage drawers with the holes built in for hairdryers, computers and printers, but you can get it in new classic style.

Uber-modern looks also play a key role in new classic, slightly softened versions that keep the classic elements from looking too old-fashioned, while bringing in the newest ideas from contemporary design. This melding of opposite ends of the design spectrum allows that only the best of the best can meet, but it works absolutely beautifully.

Here we've drawn from some of the overriding currents sweeping design: a bit of Baroque, a review of Regency, a nod toward Neoclassicism. All presented in perfect-for-today style. Sumptuous curves heighten the overall feeling of grandeur, some inspired by old-fashioned wrought iron patterns. The individual designs are not necessarily opulent and can even be deceptively simple, but the overall feeling is opulent. Proportions are key, and a less-is-more approach maintains the appeal of modernity. Set to the glamorous tune of black and white, the results are dramatic to the final degree.