When it comes to making a big impression,

the stark contrast of black and white is the only way to go

Dressing your nest involves the same kind of innate understanding of your own personal taste as does, say, dressing yourself; except changing happens less frequently. It’s important, to that end, to choose home appointments that will make the statement you desire, while standing the test of time. A never-fail approach involves implementing the powerful contrast of black and white elements for a classic look that’s not only clean and current, but timeless. Of course style is always up to your discretion: For modern pieces look to showrooms like Luminaire; for the opulent, choose mosaics by Bisazza; and for traditional pieces with sleek lines look no further than Baltus or Tui Lifestyle. Fabrications are also half the battle. Outfit your kitchen countertops with the help of Compac Stone or line your bare walls with the finest of wallpapers from Farrow & Ball and your space will be well edited, and well loved; for a long time.

1. LUMINAIRE

Drift Bench, $16,500; available at Luminaire showrooms, www.luminaire.com

2. HERMES

Balcons du Guadalquivir porcelain teapot, $665; available at Hermès, San Francisco. 415-391-7200

3. BALTUS

Rocio Armchair, $4383; available at Baltus, Los Angeles, 310-388-6750. www.baltuscollection.com

4. LUMINAIRE

Font Clock Large, $1,470; available at Luminaire showrooms, www.luminaire.com

5. BISAZZA

Alternance noir mosaic, price upon request; available at Bisazza, Los Angeles. 323-782-9171, www.bisazza.it

6. ASPREY

Asprey backgammon set in black calf skin, $3,900; available at Asprey at the Beverly Hills Hotel. 310-550-0520

7. TUI LIFESTYLE

The Metropolitan Living room, from $14,495; at Tui Fifestyle showrooms, www.tuilifestyle.com

8. FARROW & BALL

Silvergate wallpaper, $275 per double roll (21 inches by 11 yards); available at Farrow & Ball showroom, Los Angeles. 323-655-4499, www.farrow-ball.com