Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

10 ways to assimilate white into space

- CATHY HOBBS TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE Cathy Hobbs, based in New York, is a television host and interior design and home staging expert with offices in Boston and Washington.

Typically ignored in decor, white is often not considered a color. But used purposeful­ly, white can be one of the most powerful and useful colors in your decor toolbox. The key to a successful space is often using the right shade of white, as well as the appropriat­e selection of furniture and accessorie­s.

Looking for ways to incorporat­e white into your space? Here are Design Recipes’ top 10 tips.

Use white to create negative space. It is important for the eye to have a place to rest.

Paint trims, baseboards and sills white. Trims, baseboards and sills add a sense of contrast when placed against accent color walls.

Consider using different tints, tones and shades of white in the same space. This can often inspire a soothing, calm feel.

Use books. Books with their spines turned inward are an inexpensiv­e way to add bits of white, especially on bookshelve­s.

Mix materials. Consider bringing in texture by using area rugs, throws, toss pillows and accessorie­s.

Use white as a foundation color. A foundation color is a color such as gray, black, white or even brown that serves as an anchor to create a color palette. There are few colors more versatile than white. When using this technique, keep walls and ceilings white and add color to your space through accents and accessorie­s.

Bring in flowers. White flowers can infuse a light and fresh feeling.

Keep ceilings white in small spaces. White ceilings help elongate a room, while ceilings painted a different color can close a space in.

Pair white with high contrast colors. White is a powerful color when paired with contrast colors such as black, red, orange, yellow, blue and green. Often, white can make bright colors feel brighter.

Use white in rooms that don’t get much light. White can help reflect light.

 ?? TNS/Design Recipes ?? Pure white accessorie­s and books with their spines facing inward help create a neutral look.
TNS/Design Recipes Pure white accessorie­s and books with their spines facing inward help create a neutral look.
 ?? TNS/Design Recipes ?? White remains a popular cabinet color and pairs well with materials such as marble and stone.
TNS/Design Recipes White remains a popular cabinet color and pairs well with materials such as marble and stone.

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