Did you know that Inuits have over 17 words for white which they use to describe the various qualities of snow and ice? White isn’t actually a colour, it’s a combination of all the colours of the spectrum. White is good at reflecting light and has the potential to make a space look bigger. However, in the wrong light or large spaces it can look very stark and clinical. How many of us have been on holiday to the Mediterranean and been inspired to redecorate when we return home only to find that it doesn’t have the same appeal? That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t use white it means that you need to find the right one.
White is of course fabulous as a neutral backdrop and a crisp white makes the perfect setting for a collection of modern art for example, and combines with bright colours. It is also popular in coastal locations. If you are someone who wants to use white but wants a more cosy feel then there are a plethora of choices of “off whites” – in fact sometimes it feels that there is too much choice! To give just one example, the Little Greene Paint & Paper Company have no fewer than 28 shades that they classify as white. As with any paint you should test on different walls and in both natural and artificial light. I paint a large piece of card or paper which can be moved around and a larger area of the colour gives you a more accurate feel for how it will look on the walls.
Off whites work well with other neutrals such as grey or beige to create a calm relaxed feel. When considering your scheme remember to incorporate different textures to add interest, such as wooden flooring or furniture and different fabrics. I’ve chosen a few pieces to give you ideas.
There is nothing better than crisp white bedlinen to provide comfort at the end of a long day and that chic boutique hotel style. The Santorini Collection from The White Company is made in a wonderfully smooth and luxurious 200-thread count, pure cotton percale, and features a stunning, hand-worked ladder stitch along the edges. Plain white bedlinen looks expensive but also provides the opportunity to ring the changes with cushions and throws.
This vintage Morrocan Handira or wedding blanket from Bohemia Design makes a stunning throw, bedspread or wall hanging. The beautiful brightly coloured rows of kilim textile, soft fringing and silver sequins add texture and interest to what is otherwise a plain background and the detail is exquisite.
A sheepskin rug adds a comforting touch wherever you use it. Ideal to step out onto in a bedroom with wooden floors, positioned in front of the fire or draped over a chair or bench as a throw. Wool has a number of qualities including being warm in Winter yet cool in Summer, it’s fire resistant, durable and hypo allergenic. Make sure you choose one that is 100 % sheepskin such as this one from WoolRoom. Alternatively, kilim or rag rugs add contrast to plain white walls and can be found in a variety of colours and designs to suit either traditional or modern decor.
The GRIMSÅS pendant light from Ikea is a fun statement light which has a pretty daisy like design that gives decorative pattern on the ceiling when lit and would suit both a contemporary or period interior 
If you are selling your property then white is the ultimate neutral background that enables buyers to picture themselves living in your home. Use colour in accessories to make it stand out online.
Looking to create your dream white interior? Call me on 07745 876182 or email me at info@homestyle4u.com. I cover Wirral, Cheshire and the North West.
