How to decorate using white

Nothing says bright, fresh, and clean like white. And, one of the many misconceptions when designing a home, is that white is boring - the truth is…it is actually quite versatile. In fact, nothing says bright, fresh, and clean like white.

Light and airy, white opens up the smallest spaces and brings cohesion to large rooms filled with lots of furnishings and accessories. White is the perfect color to use when decorating in smaller spaces as white will make these spaces look larger. It makes a room feel more airy and spacious.

However, there are a few things to consider when decorating a white room. Colors that would normally get lost in a color-filled room will particularly stand out in a white one. The style of the space and accent colors used should express your personality and "feel" like they belong together. The key is to balance out the whiteness with other hues so that the white color will not dominate the room.

Another common feeling about white interiors is that they are just plain boring. But the reality is that white interiors are anything but bland when done right. Like any other color, there are plenty of variations of white: warm whites, cool whites, blue whites, purple whites and more. Playing off of different hues and textures of whites can make any space interesting.

Soften your space. Warm whites can make a room feel soft and cozy. Whites with red, pink, orange or brown undertones achieve this affect.

Build in contrast. Sometimes white is most powerful when paired with a contrasting color. Try pairing warm whites with cooler colors and cooler whites with warmer colors.

Use white to bring a space together. A few white elements can instantly refresh a space and make it feel put together. Use white in accessories, white furniture to match other colors in a space, or white cabinets to create flow between a room’s furnishings and white woodwork in a hallway.

Keep it crisp. Cool, bright whites make rooms feel fresh and modern. This is where you have to be careful. Too many cool whites can make a space feel unintentionally cold.

Use texture and layers to your advantage. Mix and match different linens, throws and cushions in all white to achieve a dramatic effect.

The following are just a few of the reasons why we are so big on the use of the color (in whatever variation you choose!) white:

  • Makes other colors pop, it literally matches with absolutely every color.

  • Feels and looks clean.

  • Is a safe choice…when you don't know what to do.

  • Creates the perfect backdrop to layer.

  • Instantly brightens a room when used on walls.

  • Creates a visual break if there are a lot of patterns and colors.

  • Can either be the focus of the room or can bring attention to other elements you are wanting the focus to go to, depending on surrounding elements.

  • Can enhance the architecture (especially white walls).

  • Can be a great starting point when decorating, creating a neutral canvas.

  • Creates areas of rest in otherwise colorful and potentially busy space.

  • Creates an elegant space.

  • Can create more depth through texture, material and size.

  • Creates a neutral environment for other elements to stand out.

  • Can bring a modern edge, if using vintage pieces.

When choosing to make white a cornerstone of the design for a space, there are many ways to easily decorate using white:

  • Statement furniture (sofa, armchair)

  • Functional furniture (chair, tables)

  • Complimentary furniture (decorative accessory furniture, side table)

  • Lighting

  • Decorative accessories (tabletop decor, throws, pillows, vases)

  • Flowers

When considering the choice of furniture in a white space, hues of brown, gray, and black make a space feel particularly inviting. These color choices also allow more colorful accent pieces, like artwork on the wall or a woven rug on the floor, to be on full display.

And, here are some of our best practices when designing an entire space, or a single room, in white:

  • Let your wall hangings become the focal points.

  • Complement white walls with wood tones.

  • Vary finishes and materials.

  • Mix furniture styles and periods.

  • Add sparkle and shine with metallics or mirrors.

  • Add neutral colors to create a layered effect.

  • Use different textures to create interest.

  • Don't be afraid to create contrast (such as the use of black accents).

  • Pay attention to natural lighting.

  • Add greenery as a way to create interest.

One of the biggest design trends in 2020 is the use of white as the primary color in a space, especially when layered with complimentary or even contrasting colors. White is a classic that can never completely go out of style.

So, why not have some fun with white and see what you can create?

ART

 

ARMCHAIR

 

 

DECOR

 

 

PILLOWS/ THROWS

 

 

LIGHTING

 

 

FLOWERS

 

 

COFFEE TABLE

 

 

BED

 

 

OTTOMAN

 

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