1000 shades of white

It used to be that when a DIY home decorator was bewildered by paint colour, the safe choice was white. In fact, many people still see white as a non - colour when it comes to paint, but nothing could be further from the truth. Interior designers create rooms done entirely in white with stunning results and you can, too!

Are there really 1,000 shades of white? Given the numerous paint companies, there are probably many thousands. The problem then becomes, "How do I choose the right white for my space?"

Because ofthe distinct subtleties in white paint colours, choosing just one can be more difficult than selecting from a red or blue palette. Its important to know whether you want a cool or warm shade of white, as well as how that undertone will play on the walls ofyour room. Just remember that any shade ofwhite is always determined by the undertone; white paint undertones are usually pink, blue, grey and yellow. If your room is urban and modern, choose whites with a cool blue undertone. On the other hand, to warm up a room, pick colours with a yellow undertone for walls and painted furniture ; choose pink undertones for smaller spaces such as the foyer or reading nook for a welcoming feel.

Test Drive your Shades

Before choosing a paint colour, bring home many white paint chips and tape them to your wall. The ones that are totally wrong will be immediately apparent; you will be amazed at how quickly you will be able to see which paint chips have a warm undertone and which are definitely cool tones. Place an X on the unwanted colour chips until you have narrowed it down to two or three favourites. Take those back to the paint store.

Stas

Purchase a small tester pot of your shortlisted paint colours. A few dollars now could save a lot of money down the road if the wrong shade of white is purchased. At home, paint a large square with each test colour. Dont rush this step; let paint dry and apply a second coat, if necessary. Spend a few days examining your choices at different times throughout the day, in natural sunlight and in evening artificial light. For example, in a room that lacks natural light, cool whites will create a cold, austere effect.

In an all - white room, the ceiling is a big part of the room and requires its own shade of white. In a modern room with clean lines, choose a crisp shade of white to make corners appear sharper and walls appear leaner. For a cozy room, choose warm shades of white that will bring the ceiling down a little, creating an inviting space.

Texture and Layers: Making a white room interesting requires texture. Layer different fabrics around the room, which may all be in complementary white tones but offer distinctive tactile appeal. Good ideas include textured tone - on - tone wallpaper, natural fabric window treatments and vintage linens.

Colour Shot: Add one accent colour for maximum impact. Your colour may be very pale or really bold —take inspiration from your personality. If the colour is introduced in temporary ways such as rugs, cut flowers and accessories, it can be changed seasonally.