50 Shades of White
50 Shades of White
Is white a color? Are shades of white considered colorful? It’s probably good that we aren’t scientists, because let’s face it, who cares? Do you love white and different shades of its pearliness? We do too!
Let’s look at nature and listen to the story it tells. Wool, straw, hay, white sands, birch trees, rocks, pebbles, granite, quartz, marble, wheat fields, snow, ice, white pumpkins, and gourds – Can you see where this is going? What about snowy foxes and owls, sand dollars on the beach, dandelions that are going to seed and easily blown away by the tiniest little breath of air. Gorgeous birds and flowers of all types, clouds, mist, diamonds, and eggs…mushrooms and so much more. All white in their own way and all different shapes and textures.
How do we use these ideas for decorations? Layering items such as throw rugs upon throw rugs, then accented with large pillows is stylish but not over the top. Accenting for holidays with straw woven baskets or sherpa throws adds elegant texture to any room. Earthy pottery for dried flowers makes a statement. Try pitcher vases or old white milk jugs for organics – add some green or red apples to white-ish tin pots or wooden bowls for a pop of color.
When we think of the holidays, what comes to mind? Usually when the kids go back to school, the beginnings of decorating ideas take shape. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s - all different themes and color schemes. What are the popular colors that usually make the cut? Autumn colors, red and green for Christmas, gold, silver and maybe blue for New Year’s.
But what about white? What about all those paint swatches at the paint store that all look white, but all have a different and unique name? Those are white too…or shades of white!
White gourds and succulents pair beautifully together. Group them together as a stand-alone display (think large island or coffee table area). Deep and wide clay pots can be used to store magazines, remote controls, a light throw for the love seat, or baby gourds in their beautiful white hues. If you are looking for an organic decoration/idea, dried palm leaves bring texture and simplicity.
Layering different shades of white is elegant and changing it up a bit by mixing patterns or texture, can transform your family room into a dreamy room! Even your smallest room (powder room?) can join in on the holiday flair with a white theme – patterned hand towels or a soap dispenser made from pottery. If space allows, a couple tiny white knickknacks (depending on the holiday) add to the vibe.
Now I know we cannot keep snowy foxes and owls in most or our homes, mushrooms will rot, and sand is best left at the beach (unless contained), but focus on those stunning hues and variations of whites, tans, sand, etc. Wood is a wonderful conduit of whites and all its hues. Implementing wood items/decorations in any room is a win-win! From furniture to lamp shades, wood in all its glory brings depth, warmth, texture, shade, and pattern choices. Who doesn’t like choices (just not the cereal aisle at the grocery store…ugh!)?
Let us help you sort through 50 shades of white and supply your perfect décor – perfect for you and your love of color, texture, and simple elegance.
Visit Nest in the Desert in Oro Valley, Arizona to talk with our designers about decorating for the holidays.
