White Out

Rules and tips to make play-it-safe white walls anything but boring.

White paint can make a room appear bigger and brighter. It also allows decorating flexibility so you can keep up with the colour trends. But before you pick up the paintbrush, read our tips on how to use white wisely.

USE IT AS A STARTING POINT

Contrary to being a boring or safe option, white is versatile and actually enhances any design trend. For example, it works really well with modern, Moroccan, or rustic looks. Ceilings will usually work best with a lighter shade.

COMPLEMENT YOUR EXISTING FURNISHINGS

If you have dark timbre furniture, choose a white paint with undertones of warm pink or amber. If your funiture’s lighter, cooler tones like grey- or blue-whites will work well. Think about how much sunlight your room gets; choose hues to help warm up or cool down the space.

TEST EVERY WALL BEFORE YOU DECIDE ON A WALL

The way your room is laid out can affect how your white paint looks, so test your paint on all walls to make sure you’re happy with the shade you’ve chosen.

ROYAL BABIES

Add some glamour and warmth to your home’s interior decor with decadent gold and shiny copper.

Gold leaves nested trays, $62.90, from Dreams and Confetti.

Cup and saucer, $22.90, from kikki.K.

TVIS cutlery in titanium gold, $379 (for a set), from HomesToLife.

Copper large basket, $49.95, from CB2.

Pine cone pendant, $895, from BoConcept.

Megan Gale.

The Australian model and mum shares her top decor tip.

My bargain decorating tip is… “Invest in good quality basics in the bedroom like the quilt cover or bedsheet – then add small inexpensive touches like new cushions or a throw as the trends change.”

TEXT: BAUER SYNDICATION / ADDITIONAL REPORTING: SYLVIA ONG / PHOTOS: REX, LIVING 4MEDIA.