Considering decorating with white? White interiors always look bright, fresh, and classic. This versatile neutral works well in a variety of color schemes, creating a solid and inspiring base to work from.

When choosing white for your interior, it’s important to note that some whites have warm undertones, while others have cool undertones. The yellow undertones provide a warmer and creamier appearance, while a hint of blue or cold gray in white provides a crisper look.

Will Taylor, celebrated interior designer and author of Dream Décor advises not to be daunted by the expanse of white space, but rather to use this white base as your guide. It’s the perfect blank slate.

“If it’s a white with warm, sandy undertones, it’s best to go for earthy shades elsewhere in the space for a scheme with a neutral bend,” he says. “In a space with a crisp, more brilliant white, you can layer in more saturated splashes of hue. Think bold blues for a beach vibe, or painterly pinks and yellows with black accents for a more Scandi-inspired vibe.”

With hundreds of shades of white to choose from, it’s important to choose the best shade of white for your décor.

Bright whites make a dramatic statement. Try layering tonal textures and or go modern with strong lines and graphic silhouettes. You can also choose to go warm with white’s softer side and incorporate creamy whites in shades of vanilla and biscuit.

Many people are intimidated by decorating with white, and yet it provides a fresh start to allow you to be completely creative.

Decorating with White: View your white room as a blank slate

So often people are intimidated to use white in a space, with the perception that it’s boring. If you look at using white as a base for a fresh start, it will allow for great creativity.

It’s as simple as starting with a beautiful rug or artwork with colors you would like to incorporate into the room, that helps to anchor all the elements in the room and provide much-needed cohesion.

Pull out colors from the rug or artwork when considering throw cushions for the sofa and decorative objects such as vases and sculptures.

Decorating with White: Metals are a timeless combination

White pairs beautifully with metal finishes and can really make your room shine. Just like there are many shades of white, there’s also a variety of metals to consider. White works well with everything from polished silver to oil-rubbed bronze, antique brass and gold. (image) Photo credit Houzz.

Silver accents can make a white space instantly feel bright, as light bounces off the surface of this metal. The sparkle and shine of silver visually expand a space, as well as providing instant glamour. Bronze provides an eye-catching contrast that is both casual and elegant. Brass is a perfect choice if you are trying to establish a more traditional look. Gold and white work together to provide a classy and chic space.

Decorating with White: Layer tone-on-tone whites for a warmer room

Using patterns, texture and varying materials in similar white hues help to create a room with depth and interest. Consider whites in similar shades such as warm whites, gray, warm grays etc. Layers and textures keep bright whites from looking too pristine.

The following white rooms the gallery below are anything but boring. See how designers have created dazzling looks with this monochromatic palette. The gallery is a work in progress, so be sure to check back if you are looking for inspiration for adding white to your own home.

Sources:

Strebe, Sacha. The Dos and Don’ts of Decorating a White Interior. MyDomain. June 16, 22016.

Gibson, Ronique. 10 Quick Tips to Get a Wow Factor When Decorating with All-White Color. Freshome. August 19, 2013.