A toast to white

I am dreaming in white...

Today I celebrate that most versatile of hues---white. Shades of white harmonize like a chords in subtle symphony. White can brighten and soothe. It can softly engage the eye, while also giving it a chance to rest. White is always classic, fresh, and elegant.

Come take a peek at different ways to use this wonderful shade inside the home. These photos from Better Homes and Gardens will provide some ideas.

This little work station set up in the entry of a home bids you welcome. These whites are on the cool side, leaning on gray. The woven basket introduces some warm contrast. The framed blackboard is a clever way to reuse an old frame. The worn paint, basket, ceramic and glass items all add texture and depth.

This living room has several contrasting materials in use, from the glass table top to the rustic wood accents. The crisply painted woodwork adds a high note to the soothing wall color. Decorations are kept to a minimum to allow the architecture to stand out.

This living space has even more white. There are dozens of shades shown here. Notice once again how the variety of textures pulls the look together and keeps thing interesting. A room like this invites comtemplation and reverie. I love the Queen Anne's Lace in the pitcher.

I am a sucker for beadboard! I would use it in every room of the house. It makes the perfect textured backdrop for worn finishes and slipcovered furnishings. The layers of softness on the sofa and chair invite one to grab a book, curl up with a pet, and while away the hours.



This cozy corner has all the elements I adore-- a sisal rug, worn paint and metal finishes, a graceful chair, a mantel for display, long drapes, candles and soothing colors. Notice the repeated circle theme--the mirror, table, candles, vases-- in this right-angled space.

I hope you have enjoyed this tour of white rooms. Stay tuned for more.

Until next time...

Anne

Something white...

A dose of fresh whites to beighten your day. White rooms, done right, are timeless and clean. They fit any style of architecture, from mid-century modern to Italianate. White soothes the eye. The layers of fabric, texture, and mix of materials engages it. With so many shades and of white--cream, sand, milk, eggshell, vanilla, fog, snowdrop-- it is impossible to go wrong. They all harmonize together, like a tone poem. These images from Country Living illustrate that point.

Join me for a meditation on white....



This living room showcases the more practical aspect of white decor with its liberal use of slipcovers. These are easily tossed in the wash for a quick cleaning. They need no folding or pressing to look crisp. The rumples only add to the sense of comfort and ease this room provides. Notice the worn finishes on the furniture to add some rustic flavor. Notice also the mirrors climbing the stairwell. These bounce the light around and enhance the sense of space.

This dining room entices with its collection of iron stone in shades of cream and white against the sky blue backdrop. I love the mixed seating around the table, some casual and some more formal, kind of like the guests who come to dinner parties. Each brings a unique personality to the table. The floral centerpiece and chandelier add luxury.

This mix of buttons illustrates that even simple things can comprise a lovely still-life when displayed in clear glass containers and grouped together. Plus I just adore buttons!

This image shows more of that classic combination--white stone ware set against a mix of materials. It complements chipped paint and stone finishes.

This mantel is simply stunning. Notice the layers of mirrors and pitchers of crisp, white blooms. The enamelware adds a untilitarian note. I am enamored the ethereal look of this composition. It is a room I would like to step into and just daydream for awhile.

I encourage you to try to find ways to pay tribute to white, the most versatile of colors. You will be pleased you did!

Until next time...

Anne

A beautiful example of urban country chic...

The house of the day is from House Beautiful. It is a 1950's ranch that has been updated to shine like an oasis of serenity, illustrating that even that most boring of architectural styles has promise.

Come join me for a guided tour.


The dining room hosts a mix of styles and players in its overall scheme. My favorites are the sexy chandelier, the rough plaster walls and the long farm table. The room is loaded with natural light and garden views. The table settings are simple and straightforward. Notice how the white bistro chairs and flowers on the table underscore the room's proximity to the garden.



The living room is a study in simplicity, but the use of dark wood accents and candlelight keep it feeling warm and inviting. It, too, is bathed in natural light. The use of space creates a sense of peacefulness.



The kitchen boasts marble in the backsplash and countertops. The farmhouse sink and simple, open shelving create a timeless feel in this modern space. Notice the mesh inserts in the lower cabinet doors. This adds some rough texture to the sleek materials and appliances. I love the high-arching bridge faucet.

This view down the hallway shows the variety of materials and textures that grace this house. The smooth, polished concrete floors harmonize with the wood plank walls. The antique-looking sconce adds a cozy element to offset the modern feel here.

In this library, books play the starring role. Their colors and bindings really stand out against the white walls and trim, allowing them to shine. With minimal distractions in the decor, it would be so easy to slip into a favorite novel and lose oneself for awhile.

The master bathroom continues the decorative themes--white, light and texture. There is an abundance of natural light in this room and direct access to the outdoors. I imagine a long soak in this gorgeous tub, taken at night, with the door propped open to allow me to hear the falling rain. Ah, true bliss!

The master bedroom is sweetly serene. The touches in this room are more feminine and delicate, ensuring not only comfort, but real luxury. Notice the ruffles on the comforter, the tufted headboard, the curvy chairs, and the bouquet of pink roses. The flooring and rug here blend with the soft color scheme. Natural light wakes sleepers gently to the dawning of a new day.

Even in the most modern and boxy spaces, this design aesthetic lends a warmth, an airiness, and a quiet spohistication.

Until next time...

Anne