Colour Theory - the art of using White

 



I am a colour NUT but to me there is nothing quite so perfect as white. All colours look stunning against white - it's just a matter of knowing how to use it correctly.

I've found the key to avoid that stark, cold, minimalist look is really quite simple: Texture + Layers.

  • Don't be afraid to have 2 or 3 textiles that are slightly different shades and textures of white - put them together and see what happens!
  • It helps if you provide a touch of contrast with a highlight colour (whether bright, soft, or something natural like wood) that really sets the white off.
  • Remember that "white" in the design world can refer to various different tones - creams, light neutrals, even very pale greys. Creams are warmer, while pure whites and greys are cooler. It depends what look you are going for.
 If you want an easy way to start using white - I recommend setting your table using several different sized and shaped white tablecloths layered over each other. If you have some that are lace, or crochet, or embroidered then all the better! A bunch of textured flowers like peonies in the middle is stunning.


Do you like decorating with whites?



Labels:

12 comments:

  1. Rowena @ rolala lovesJanuary 7, 2012 at 3:48 AM

    I really those those shaggy white pillows. I tend to stay away from decorating with white for the dirt factor but I do use a lot of grays.

    ReplyDelete
  2. JustineJanuary 7, 2012 at 5:59 AM

    I love these images. We can't paint our (white) apartment, so it's so nice to see all the other options we have. These rooms are down right cozy.

    ~Stop Me if You've Heard This One

    ReplyDelete
  3. LeslieJanuary 7, 2012 at 1:20 PM

    Thanks for the tips. I'm a huge fan of color, but these tips are pretty useful!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Vic BibbyJanuary 7, 2012 at 1:56 PM

    Yep, I love white. But as I am a colour nut too, I tend to use it as a backdrop for my fav colours. I agree that layering different textures is an absolute winner! Gorgeous pics xxx

    ReplyDelete
  5. Renee AriannaJanuary 8, 2012 at 9:28 AM

    I love these posts! Interior decorating is something I certainly struggle with so the knowledge you share helps! It's much appreciated from this lil blogger! ;)

    And I adore white! It just looks so perfect. I only wish it didn't get dirty.

    ReplyDelete
  6. JackieJanuary 9, 2012 at 2:26 AM

    Great post. You are so right about the layers+textures. I LOVE my white items that have texture-chunky knits, soft faux sheepskin, etc. There's something so soothing about it. I love that crocheted blanket in the second picture! And I absolutely LOVE white with wood, that might be my favorite combo. You hit all the right points, as usual!

    ReplyDelete
  7. natasha {schue love}January 9, 2012 at 9:09 AM

    Love all the different textures! It really ads great interest to the space!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Munsell ColorJanuary 11, 2012 at 3:52 AM

    Like someone else said, white with wood is a beautiful combination. And different textures definitely make a room more welcoming. Great post!

    ReplyDelete
  9. ...January 13, 2012 at 1:06 PM

    I've always been afraid of white...but this is done SO WELL! :) Thanks for stopping by today girlie!

    ReplyDelete
  10. not the big thingsJanuary 16, 2012 at 7:51 PM

    Loving your blog! Big fan of your Colour Theory posts. I am still trying to master the right amount of red in my lounge room. Waiting in anticipation for your next one.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Connie @ Daydream In ColorJanuary 25, 2012 at 3:35 AM

    I love the white on white with textures! I'm so glad I found your blog. I have so much to learn!

    ReplyDelete
  12. .................January 25, 2012 at 7:48 PM

    I absolutely love white everything...with a bright pop of color just like the pink rug in the 3rd photo. Perfection!!! Too bad my darn pups don't allow me to have all white (ya know, because they rule the house of course).

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for your comment. You are awesome!