Jessica Ackerman - If you think that white is one of the more boring colors to decorate with, think again. White can actually be used in many exciting and creative ways throughout the home to add a dash of decorating excitement. Because it can be combined with practically any other shade, white is also extremely versatile and easy to work with. Although white can be used to great advantage in your decorating scheme year-round, it can be especially fun to use during the winter months to create a "winter wonderland" look. In fact, what better way to celebrate the beauty of the snow outdoors than to use white to re-create the look indoors? If you'd like to freshen up the look of your home with white this winter, here are some great decorating tips to help get you get started.
White Walls for a Clean Slate
White walls can provide the perfect backdrop for a myriad of other decorating options. It's important to remember that if you'd like your other decorating accents to really "pop," you have to make sure that the room's wall color isn't too overpowering. If you walk into a room and the wall color is the first thing you notice, chances are the rest of the room's decor isn't receiving the attention it deserves. For example, a beautiful piece of wood wall decor could serve as an eye-catching accent piece when hung on a white wall. However, if hung on a darker colored wall, it could blend in too much.
White walls can also provide a nice visual contrast to other darker colored decorating pieces throughout a room. For instance, if your furniture pieces are dark, white walls could provide the perfect backdrop. The same is true for dark woodwork, dark cabinets, or dark flooring.
Soften the Look
If the thought of using stark white throughout your home turns you off, think in terms of off-white shades. You'll find a wide variety of "almost white" colors from which to choose, one of which is sure to be perfect for your home. For example, try using a soft cream shade to add a warm look that is still reminiscent of the winter season. A beautiful cream comforter can be used to make a bed seem cozier and more inviting. Or toss an off-white afghan across a loveseat, sofa, or chair in the living room to make it look more sumptuous and warm.
Use White to Create Excitement
Although white can definitely be used to create a neutral backdrop for other colors, it can also be used to create excitement on its own. For example, white metal wall sculptures can be used to create visual pizzazz in a room, especially when displayed against a dark wall. Because white does such a great job of reflecting light, it can be used to transform dark corners into bright, exciting living spaces. This is a great technique to keep in mind when decorating basements or rooms that don't have many windows.
White can also be used to make a room seem a bit more modern. Even if you don't opt for an overly modern decorating scheme, touches of white can add just the right touch of contemporary charm to your home, without requiring a complete decor makeover.
Jessica Ackerman is a Design Specialist on the Wall Decor & Home Accents website team.
