The Morning Call (Sunday)

Dominant white decor can make room look fresh, elegant

- By Cathy Hobbs

What color is white? When it comes to the world of home decor, the answer can be a loaded question.

For many, white can be one of the most difficult colors to use. White comes in hundreds of tints and shades. Some may appear bluer, others grayer, yellower, etc.

White is also a difficult color to match, and matching different shades of white often leads to unsuccessf­ul results. On the other hand, a dominant white or pure white decor can appear, fresh, elegant and soothing.

If considerin­g working with white in your home, here are some overall tips.

Pay attention to the colors that will surround your shade of white. White is a color that is often drasticall­y impacted by what surrounds it. For example, if a white sofa is placed next to a bright green chair, the sofa may appear to have green undertones.

Experiment with different shades of white during different times of the day. Color is very much impacted by natural light.

Experiment with different materials. You can mix materials in a space such as a wood object painted white with white lacquer cabinets.

Consider a pure white or whitedomin­ated color scheme; it can appear fresh and bright.

Use white decor items such as mirrors, toss pillows and books. These neutral accents will blend well with existing decor.

Mix different shades of white; just be sure to select shades that complement, not clash.

Use white floor coverings such as area rugs. They can serve well in special areas.

Mix pure white with cream, tints, tones and shades of white, which can be used in the same space.

White is a color. From leaving white trims and baseboards to white walls and furniture and furnishing­s, white can serve as a great accent color.

 ?? COURTESY ?? Don’t be afraid to use white in your decor.
COURTESY Don’t be afraid to use white in your decor.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States