White has a place in decorating living spaces

White walls? White furniture? White rugs? Why not?

There was a time in home decor in which the color white was an ideal color for a formal living room. A white living room was typically a space that was seldom used and handled with great care.

These days, color isn’t always king, especially as people look to live in more minimalist environments. White is a color that is often ignored, but used purposefully and carefully can and should be embraced.

Here are some do's and don'ts for decorating with white:

Do

• Mix different tints, tones and shades of white.

• Incorporate the color white into accessories such as vases, florals and throw pillows. These days, color isn’t always king, especially as people look to live in more minimalist environments.

• Mix white with colors such as silver-gray and taupe to help create a soothing environment.

• Use textured white accessories such as area rugs and throw pillows to help to soften a space.

• Mix white with both warm and cool colors. White can be warm, like in a shade closer to taupe, or cool, such as a shade that has gray undertones. Whether blending with warm or cool colors, white helps create the ideal color balance.

Don't

• Forget to extend the color white into elements such as cabinetry, fixtures and appliances.

• Ignore the opportunity to reflect color through the use of mirrors and windows.

• Be afraid to use the color white in areas that may be used often such as bedrooms or dining areas.

• Omit the use of negative space, such as white trims, door headers and under ceiling soffits.

• Dismiss the power of a pure white space. One of the most powerful color combinations is a monochromatic scheme, which involves a blend of similar shades of the same color.