When it comes to decorating why are so many people afraid of black? It is, in its own unique way a neutral after all. Perhaps the worry is, that,  using black will make spaces seem darker and smaller. That need not be the case. Using black – and using it wisely – can really transform a room from drab and unexciting to sleek, sophisticated and daring.

Just a Touch

If that hasn't convinced you that you want to try large scale noir, then maybe just add a touch here and there to get started. Think of the things at home you might traditionally paint white like doors, window sills and skirting boards and paint them black instead. For a start it's a much more forgiving colour than white on areas that take a lot of bumps and knocks.

Another way to subtly introduce black into your interior scheme is via art and accessories. Pick a print or two (or three) with vibrant images on a black background for a really striking piece of art or, perhaps, some monochrome etchings if something more understated will better co-ordinate with your décor. The same applies to soft furnishings. All black fabrics are fantastic and to really highlight their presence and get contrast on even a single colour palette, vary their textures. Try shimmering sequins next to deep, luxurious faux fur and silky satins for a truly opulent feel.

Make it a Feature

Why not paint a feature wall black or go for a rich, dark and moody wallpaper? The feel will be luxe and intimate. Teamed with pale colours or even white you can use black as the basis of a cool, laid back loft-style scheme. Many of the current geometrics we're seeing in fabrics and papers are black and not just white but gloriously vibrant acid yellows and greens, hot pinks and electric blues.

A Black Backdrop

Now, if that sounds like overdoing it, in certain spaces you'd be right. As with any colour use black if the light, space and style of your room and the furnishings and fittings you're not willing to change lend themselves to this colour which is at once subtle and bold. Black, as the main colour in the room can really make other feature colours, prints and furniture shine. Imagine dozens of scarlet cushions against a cool black leather sofa or turquoise  or berry toned ones against rich black velvet. Black is the ideal colour to show off against.

Black's Newest Friend

Naturally black and white are long time partners and the teaming will never go out of fashion though season after season it reinvents itself. Last year we were enjoying black and white lace prints and etchings on everything from bedding and wallpaper to furniture itself. This year's monochrome is more masculine and hard edged with the geometrics mentioned earlier at its heart and type face prints with strong messages adorning walls. On the vintage side, marquetry, inlaying and enamelling are going to be to the fore next year all with an emphasis on artisan quality.

My big prediction for 2012 though is black and...wait for it...coral. Not the pinkish coral of Summer 2009 that was terminally teamed with duck egg, but a richer, warmer more orange version. This combination is already making its way into soft furnishing fabrics and could be huge in 2012.