White colour in a room’s décor, can make it look soothing and classy. White can look sleek, sophisticated, romantic, pure and meditative, depending on how it is used in a room. There is a common misconception that white is a single-tone colour, this is not the case. If you open a paint shade card, you will see that there are multiple shades of white. This is why, white is a perfect backdrop for every drop of colour. However, white alone, is an empty colour – you must give it a partner that really allows the colour to shine and vice-versa.
#WHITEDECOR TIP – Colourful accents should be added to the décor, to enhance the appeal of white and its dominance. Indoor plants, cushions, paintings and curtains, are some of the options through which you can bring in contrast and highlight whites.
How to ensure that white remains white
One should choose the right materials to ensure that the white décor remains white. White sheers for curtains, white Teflon-coated fabric (which is stain-resistant) for furnishings and white duco paint (automotive paint) are a few materials that can be experimented with, to achieve a dominant white palette.
White reflects light. So, it adds to the brightness of the space and makes the space appear bigger.
#WHITEDECOR TIP 2: White can contrast with the gaudiest of colours and make it look elegant. For example, gold looks rich on a white backdrop. One can go in for a stylish gold-coloured false ceiling with a white trim and white walls. For art lovers, white walls are a perfect backdrop to set off their masterpieces. People who prefer bright furniture, or large prints in the upholstery, can also use a lot of white in
#WHITEDECOR TIP 3:People who have pets, children, or a non-centralised air-conditioning system in their homes, should be careful with the amount of white that they use in the décor. Dust, dirt and scratches can convert the white to a dirty off-white. So, if you love white, you must also ensure that you can maintain it.
A few more smart tips for white decor
- Ceilings should always be white or off-white in colour, as it reflects light.
- Walls can be painted white, to give a spacious feel. When complementing your white walls, keep the accent colour subtle and do not overdo it.
- Do not keep white surfaces plain. Instead, use textures to add dimension and to create different surfaces.
- Fabrics, such as light and breezy sheers in white and ivory and white bed linen, can make the room appear fresh and relaxing.
- White spaces need to be blended carefully with coloured linen, furniture and artifacts. To create a calming space in an all-white room, add citrus green, turquoise or classic purple.
- If you have children at home, opt for washable fabrics for slipcovers of white sofas, chairs and duvets.
