External Feature: Living With White

By Author: Alexandra Toso
Total Articles: 12
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White, just as in fashion, has been a perennial favourite in the home for decades. That aside, people are often scared to use it. Deemed the preserve of those with no children or pets, after all who wants muddy paw prints or sticky fingers all over their designer furniture, it doesn't have to be this way.
Designer furniture
When it comes to White, designer furniture is more than covered. A classic Eames lounger in this pale hue seems to make even more of a statement than in its traditional black. Likewise, designer sofas and chairs covered in White fabric, suede or leather will give your interior as classic and fresh look. If you are blessed with little ones and furry friends, washable covers or durable coverings such as leather are a must. And if you're worried about the overall look being too stark or clinical, a couple of bright cushions will ease your woes.
White wallpaper
Using White wallpaper in the home may seem pointless; however it offers the perfect way of adding subtle texture to any scheme. Thankfully Anaglypta seems to have died a death (anyone ...
... who's ever tried to remove it will know what I mean) and the new generation of White textures wallpapers are far more sophisticated. Think delicate embossing and gently raised motifs which look fabulous when used in both large and small doses.
White paint
Much like wallpaper, most would assume when it comes to White paint there's not much choice. This however isn't true. Brilliant White emulsion can often seem stark and clinical so think carefully about using it in very light rooms. Off whites and whites with subtle hints of colour are far more forgiving. Choose a range of tester pots of shades you like and paint them onto large sheets of paper, this will give a good idea of how different colours will work in your space.
White flooring
White carpet and rugs should only really be used if you have no children or pets and don't mind wrestling guests' shoes off them at the front door. White printed floor boards are far more durable as they are easier to maintain. If your existing boards aren't up to scratch, invest in reclaimed ones and paint using specialist floor paint. Once scuffed, you can simply sand down and repaint. If you really must have a rug, check it's washable or can be dry cleaned otherwise you may find yourself disposing of it not long after it's bought.
White textiles
White curtains, cushions and throws are great for lightening your space and will bring an air of freshness to any scheme.
In the summer, try using light fabrics such as voiles, shot silks and calicos for your cushions, throws and curtain treatments. In the winter months, cosy up with heavier damasks, suedes and knits.
So there we have it, living with white doesn’t have to be scary at all as long as you follow these simple rules.
About the author: Alexandra Toso is the features editor for Furnish, the leading UK supplier of designer furniture.