Working with the colour white when decorating your home


By AGENCY
Various shades of furnishings blend well in this living space to create a seamless look. — Photos: TNS

The colour white is often a complicated, if not confusing colour for many homeowners. From wall colour to upholstery and textiles such as drapery and area rugs, the colour white comes in various shades that are nearly impossible to match.

So, what is the solution? Often the best choice is to blend and mix various shades of white in the same space.

When working with the colour white, here are some top tips.

Area rugs

Rugs can make or break a room. As they span a large area, various shades of white can serve as the ideal springboard for a neutral colour scheme.

Choose area rugs first or last. First to provide a foundation for your space or last to tie everything together.

An off-white sofa is accented by an area rug, side table and accents in various shades of white.
An off-white sofa is accented by an area rug, side table and accents in various shades of white.

Window coverings

Window coverings such as draperies are typically stable in large rooms such as living rooms and master bedrooms. 

Shades of white from off-white to deep tan are popular choices for those looking for a neutral colour palette.

Upholstery

Upholstered items such as sofas and chairs are main focal points in a space and often set the overall tone of a room.

Consider mixing and blending different materials such as pairing pieces that are upholstered in leather with selections upholstered in fabric.

Tints, tones and shades of white, including seating and accessories, help to create a fresh, monochromatic colour scheme.
Tints, tones and shades of white, including seating and accessories, help to create a fresh, monochromatic colour scheme.

Artwork

Artwork is often an unexpected way in which to bring shades of white into a space. 

Art with predominant white backgrounds can help “ground” a space without clashing with existing colours in a room.

Tints, tones and shades of white, including seating and accessories, help to create a fresh, monochromatic colour scheme. Shades of white from off-white to deep tan are popular choices for those looking for a neutral colour palette.
Tints, tones and shades of white, including seating and accessories, help to create a fresh, monochromatic colour scheme. Shades of white from off-white to deep tan are popular choices for those looking for a neutral colour palette.

Wall paint colour

There are two directions one can go when considering white as a paint colour: cool or warm. Cool shades of white often present in a room as bright with hints of blue undertones. 

Conversely, if your desire is for a warmer shade of white, choose a shade of white with a deeper undertone such as shades of brown. – Tribune News Service

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interior design , home

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