If you've hit a stalemate when trying to decide on a colour palette for a room in your home, perhaps your psyche is trying to tell you something. If your inner self is resistant to colour suggestions or ideas you have, you may want to pay attention.
Colour is wonderful but does invoke emotion. Most of the time this is a good thing but, with all of the sensory overload we have to endure, a rest for the brain can be a welcome change. We are bombarded with radio commercials while we drive to work, flashing billboards, the plethora of electronic medium while at work along with traffic noise, sirens and basic city bustle. A calming décor can be a sight for sore eyes when we hit our doorsteps.
As you can see from our feature photos, courtesy of Kohler, a white décor doesn't have to be stark or boring. The lovely kitchen with glass-fronted cabinets has lots of subtle visual interest that does not assault the senses.
The warm white palette is comforting and the dishes offer visual delight via their various shapes and the play of shadow and light. They almost have a sculptural quality. Though the dishes lack pattern and colour they are still interesting to look at. Notice the soft, rounded shape of the dishes, which is fluid, versus square dishes, which would provide an entirely different feeling.
The vintage-style Kohler sink along with the Shaker-style cabinets invoke comforting memories of simpler times. The creamy marble countertop and backsplash provide a natural element that is earthy and constant, which in itself is a comfort factor. Even the cabinet hardware matches the rest of the décor so as not to provide any visual contrast.
If, after you've created your white-on-white décor, you find it still needs a little something, you can introduce subtle colour, as was done in our second photo. Muted colour has been added with the inclusion of a serene watercolour painting. Calm blues are pulled from the painting and added to some toss cushions in denim fabric and patterned dessert plates. The palette is reminiscent of sand and sea and has a carefree, simple appeal.
A vase of fresh flowers, while colourless, are nonetheless effective. The wall treatment adds to the cottage feel of this space but still maintains its monochromatic visage. The large-scale drum shade, again in white, adds drama via its size rather than a jazzy pattern or colour.
Last year I replaced my everyday patterned stoneware with all white dishes. There's something about the simplicity and elegance of white. Most fine dining establishments use white dishes to set a neutral backdrop for the fabulous food presentation. As well, white linens in those dining rooms invoke a sophistication and stylish formality, so it's only fitting that the same elements would work in your kitchen or dining room.
White can work in any room where you want a Zen feeling. A bedroom in tones of creamy white with lots of overstuffed pillows and comfy linens can definitely present a welcome respite from a busy day.
Common areas, such as the family room, are less practical in white, especially if you have kids and/or pets. Having to worry about keeping a white space clean goes against the initial intent, so this décor style is better left to areas where upkeep isn't a huge factor.
There are many things you can add to a white décor to give it additional glam. In a bedroom, choose silk draperies that add romantic shimmer. Tone-on-tone pattern can be added by choosing a lace curtain that will diffuse sunlight in an interesting pattern. Cosy items like a white faux fur throw rug can definitely add to the comfort factor as well as provide texture to the room.
Soft candlelight can add to the Zen feeling. If you're worried about burning real candles, there are tons of realistic faux candles on the market that will do the trick. Add a bit of sparkle by choosing a chandelier over a standard ceiling fixture. Mirrors can add dimension and reflect candlelight in the evening. Hang a white mosquito net or canopy over the bed for added whimsy and romance.
In the kitchen, as was done in one of our feature photos, consider a wall treatment that will add architectural interest. Wainscoting or a simple trim design will add charm. Plain cabinets can be enhanced with a similar trim detail. Build a collection of vintage white serving platters and accoutrements to display along the cabinet bulkhead or on the wall.
White sheer curtains, either café style or full window length, will add a soft touch.
In any room you decide to decorate in white, you can also change what you have instead of buying new. Paint wooden picture frames in your desired shade of white. Create black-and-white photography from family photos for a new take on things. Other accessories, such as wicker baskets, can also be painted to match the new look. Paint out dark wall shelves in a soft white. Paint small furniture pieces such as wooden chairs or end tables in white to keep things light and airy.
Re-cover toss cushions or decorative bed cushions in a soft white fabric and add lace or trim to give them visual appeal. Removable covers are best so they can be washed with ease.
A white décor can be lovely. If you're craving serenity in your home, give this calming palette consideration.
I wish you all a peaceful, white Christmas.
connieoliver@shaw.ca
