San Antonio Express-News

Don’t shy away from white decor, but do follow these tips

- By Cathy Hobbs

There was a time when white-on-white decor was all the rage. But it was mostly for social areas such as living and sitting rooms that were not meant to be “touched,” just merely admired and used as a gathering space for the occasional guest who popped in for “afternoon coffee or tea.”

Fast forward to today, when neutral decor and white on white is more popular than ever, and an integral part of how those looking for a modern, clean look wish to have their space feel and still be functional.

Love the look of neutrals and white-on-white decor? Here are some tips on how to integrate this timeless color palette into your home decor.

Do’s

1. Do use art as a way to springboar­d a white-on-white color palette into your space.

2. Do use white and neutral-colored pieces for main upholstery, such as sofas and chairs.

3. Do blend different shades of white and cream in the same space, as long as they are the same temperatur­e such as cool white with other cool tones, and warm shades with other warm tones.

4. Do pair metals such as brass with white-on-white decor.

5. Do add mirrors in spaces that are white on white. Keep in mind, white surfaces help bounce light and further reflect it. Don’t’s

1. Don’t be afraid to purchase white leather furniture. Nervous? Consider alternativ­es such as Naugahyde.

2. Don’t ignore the opportunit­y to bring in a sense of contrast using elements such as black, chocolate brown and charcoal gray.

3. Don’t use shades of white that are overly yellow or gray as they can often seem dirty or stained.

4. Don’t just use white on white in social areas; consider it for rooms in which you desire a soothing, calm color palette, such as bedrooms.

5. Don’t forget the opportunit­y for portable design elements in white, such as pillows, throws and ceramics.

 ?? Courtesy photo ?? Brass and white accents in a white room create interest, as in this living space that also features white sofas and chairs.
Courtesy photo Brass and white accents in a white room create interest, as in this living space that also features white sofas and chairs.
 ?? Scott Gabriel Morris / Courtesy ?? A painting featuring purely white on white steals the show in a modern living space.
Scott Gabriel Morris / Courtesy A painting featuring purely white on white steals the show in a modern living space.
 ?? Scott Gabriel Morris / Courtesy ?? Brass serves as a strong accent when paired with white.
Scott Gabriel Morris / Courtesy Brass serves as a strong accent when paired with white.
 ?? Scott Gabriel Morris / Courtesy ?? Brown and charcoal gray elements create contrast.
Scott Gabriel Morris / Courtesy Brown and charcoal gray elements create contrast.

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