White Houses With Black Trim Ideas That Look Sophisticated (2024)

A white exterior paired with black trim is a classic look that will never go out of style because its monochromatic color scheme is versatile enough to work with any architectural style. Whether it's a colonial-style home or a classic modern rancher.

The timeless combination the also the perfect neutral backdrop for seasonal decor and other colorful accents throughout the year. If your home's curb appeal could use a boost, gain inspiration from these white houses with black trim that make a sophisticated statement.

Install Window Awnings

Add charm and continue the black and white exterior aesthetic by installing window awnings. A clean and classic striped pattern on the awnings instantly elevates this home, echoing the modern lines of the floor-to-ceiling windows. It also breaks up the large portions of the white exterior with its design.

Highlight Windows

Create contrast and highlight an oversized window with black shutters. Bring in an extra layer of visual interest with a raised x-design on the shutters and tie in the black paint color through other exterior trim details.

Add Wood Accents

Tone down the stark contrast of a black and white home exterior with reclaimed wood accents. They add warmth and a rustic touch, giving a property a lived-in aesthetic. Play with shape and if you use straight wood planks, break up their linear nature with an arched door and curved light sconces.

Paint the Front Door

Introduce a third color to a white house with black trim. A front door provides the perfect opportunity for an unexpected pop of color and a whimsical statement. Here, a soft pink door lightens the exterior and gives it a playful and inviting feel.

Stick With Monochromes

Extend the monochromatic color palette to your outdoor furniture for a cohesive design. Opt for a black patio dining set with white cushions to echo the white exterior paint and black trim. Soften the space with potted greenery and rattan lights or lanterns that introduce organic shapes and materials while maintaining a neutral color palette.

Update the Brick

Update a brick exterior with a coat of bright white paint for a relatively quick and inexpensive makeover that makes a huge impact. Go a step further by painting all trim black and completing the elegant color theme with a black mailbox, house numbers, and wall sconces.

Extend the Color

To intentionally integrate a patio or deck with your black and white house exterior, continue the paint colors of a pergola or fencing. This will visually expand the area and help tie the whole outdoor space together.

Create Contrast

Whenever you use a limited color palette, turn to other design elements to add layers of interest and variety. Installing windows that have contrasting shapes is one way to approach this trick on a home exterior—pair classic windows with arched French doors to change up the look without introducing a new trim color.

Warm It Up

Layer a white exterior with black trim, then add a third contrasting color and material, such as brick. Either limewash the brick to help it blend in with the white paint, or create depth and warmth with red brick which will bring dimension and break up the two solid colors.

Emphasize a Flat Roof

Black trim provides an excellent way to emphasize a cool design element such as a flat roof. Follow the shape of the roof with the dark paint color and repeat it through the window trim, front door, or gate for an integrated design.