Inevitably, when you look at a lot of photographs, you start seeing connections in surprising places. First I noticed these black bookshelves, photographed by the artist Flora Douville at her parents' home in France. Against the traditional decor, the black is a bit unexpected, but still lovely.Then I spotted this black bookshelf — residing at the studio of three young, male designers in Seattle. In a space that's grungy, hip and a bit flamboyant, the bookshelf is just being functional — but the black gives it the slight edge that makes it fit in with the overall look.

In conclusion, black bookcases are cool.

top from Flora Douville, bottom from Design*Sponge. Follow the links for more views of both spaces.