Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones's living room masters this contrasting design principle – inside their home that's listed for $12 million

Effortlessly classic and eternally elegant: all words often used to describe actress Catherine Zeta-Jones – so it's only fitting that her home follows suit.

Named Longmeadow, the abode in Irvington's exclusive Matthiessen Park is a quintessential Hudson River estate owned by the Chicago actress and her husband (and Hollywood counterpart) Michael Douglas. However, after many years as their family home, the couple recently listed Longmeadow for $12 million.

Set amid 12 acres of open property, listing agents Compass say that their home is 'perfectly positioned to capture the beauty of the land and water.' The couple painstakingly restored the interiors that master a modern yet classic monochromatic color scheme – but arguably, nothing showcases this quite like their living room.

This isn't the first time we've penned a love letter to Douglas and Zeta Jones's neutral living room – most specifically, how they use the contrasting design principle. Their white and cream furniture juxtaposes the dark chocolate floor and the natural wood and black accents to create a striking color scheme that we see throughout the entire home.

The cream walls flow into cream curtains that open to large, paneled windows that fill the space with natural light (and feel particularly bright on the glossy flooring), while details like the painting on the wall add stylish artistic flair to the room. And, with such a beautiful result, it's unsurprising to see why they continue to use this same design principle in almost every other room of their home.

With over 11,000 square feet on four levels, the home comprises eight en-suite bedrooms and twelve bathrooms – many of which are black and white or exhibit a soothing neutral color palette. A 30-foot gallery leads to perfectly proportioned public rooms that blend formal and informal living and entertaining – including an expansive dining room and modern kitchen.

The lower level also includes recreation and playrooms, a gym, a summer kitchen, and a 21-foot heated indoor pool (with views across the Hudson River, naturally).

Another stand-out feature is the first-floor loggia that opens to a 100-foot outdoor terrace that faces west towards the river with a staircase that leads to the garden. It's the pefect place to enjoy a summer evening away from the buzz of Manhattan (however, the city is easily accessible).

Yes, at only 25 miles from Midtown Manhattan (and walking distance to the village of Irvington, NY), the home offers a sanctuary for a large family to unwind – while surrounded by 'unparalleled beauty, luxury, and privacy,' as the listing says.

David Turner currently holds the $12 million for Compass.

Shop the Black and White Color Scheme

The contrast of black and white against one another makes each color appear brighter and bolder, as Zeta-Jones's living room teaches us. Accessories like this pendant light, rug, and lamp that incorporate these colors make a striking statement in any room.