Decor tip:
Clean, calm and surprisingly versatile, shades of white can work wonders in a range of decor looks. GABRIELLE FAGAN asks experts how it’s done
JUST as colourful schemes can be zingy and energising, white spaces make us feel instantly cool and calm, and adopting pale tones is a brilliant way of making a home feel summery long after the season has ended. Wondering how to work white into your own home? We asked the experts how to go about it, so it’s practical and glamorous...
WHITE SPACE WORKS
IF you’re hot and bothered over work pressures, calming white decor could be the perfect antidote.
“Subdued yet stylish, a palette of light neutrals is soothing, timeless and easy to achieve,” says Rebecca Snowden, interior style advisor, Furniture Choice.
“It’s a brilliant choice for home offices, especially if the space is compact and is multi-functional, maybe working as a dining area as well, as it’ll conjure an illusion of airy spaciousness. For depth and interest, use a combination of shades, such as classic white for ceilings and walls, ivory for paintwork, and beige for flooring.”
Glass tables, or furniture with a slender silhouette, have less visual weight and won’t dominate a space, while the addition of a large mirror on one wall opens up the area even more. Including lightreflecting metallic finishes, and a few plants for colour, will ensure the overall look is beautiful rather than bland.
Above, from top:
WORK THE WALLS
“WHITE murals are increasingly popular in homes, as not only are they ideal for most spaces but they’re also a brilliant backdrop for the more colourful furnishings that we’re embracing, as part of a trend for more decorative homes,” says Rachel Kenny, studio manager, Wallsauce. “Whether you have a small wall at the end of the hallway that needs a little ‘je ne sais quoi’, or a huge wall in a large room that requires a statement that’s not so brash, the mellow designs are really flexible for any space or style.”
Consider the style of your room before you make a wall choice. Wallsauce’s White Wood and White Washed Brick works well for a rustic look, while a Marble finish may suit a traditional setting. For a Scandi look, a mainly white mural could be an eye-catching choice.
Decor tip: GET SET FOR SWEET DREAMS
“IN our hectic age – an era of constant connectivity – bedrooms need to be calming spaces, where we can retreat and sleep well,” says Chrissie Rucker, founder of The White Company.
“White can be wonderfully warm and welcoming. In a predominantly white home, choosing warm whites for the walls and layering in soft textures is key.
“I love to add natural
Decor tip:
Remember that homes using a white or neutral scheme still need to feel emotive and sensory, to ensure they don’t become too bright or sterile. Soft throws and scented candles will help create the right mood. Natural materials, such as weathered wood, slubby linen or marbled slate, connect back to nature and add interest. Revamping sofas and chairs by covering them with easy-wash white throws is an instant way of creating this look.