White

I love white rooms because they allow other pieces to pop. Whether the pieces have a pop of color or an interesting form, they stand out and appear crisp and clean against the white background. For those who live in a space where painting isn't an option, you still can have a luxe look by choosing pieces that will stand out. Here are some lovely examples:

I love, LOVE white kitchens with dark floors. I just think it looks very clean and not fussy. But see how the paintings, the apples, and the flowers on the kitchen island just pop? I think these accessories warm up the space just enough so that it feels fresh and clean rather than stark.

This room is great for many reasons -- solid furniture arrangement, great use of textures, fabulous use of line. But, it's in this post because of the way they've used white. I think the biggest thing that pops is the greenery outside. Honestly, I don't even know what to say because I just think this room is so breathtaking! I love the contemporary pieces juxtaposed against the more traditional. Notice how it doesn't feel cold or stark because of the few finishes that warm it up - the wood floor, the dark wood legs and tables, plus all the natural light. This space overflows with peace, elegance, serenity. I would copy every element in this room if I could. Simply gorgeous.

Don't be Afraid of Wallpaper!

I'm really into wallpapers. Not really the kind that over-load the room, but the ones that help strengthen a focal point, such as in this room. This room has several beautiful elements. Even if the style isn't quite yours, you still can appreciate what's going on here: crisp wainscoting all along the lower part of the wall with anything but flimsy looking crown molding; the mirrored nightstands are stunning while almost invisible - lightening up the room; the metal lamps add contrast to the Queen Anne style sofa; the linens are fresh but still the darker colors add warmth; and lastly, the wall print is simply fabulous!

The print on the wall does so much to complement this room. The image of delicate orchids is scaled to a perfect size. It's very important when choosing a wallpaper that its scale match the room. It is totally something that you just have to look at and use your best judgement. I would say this print is medium scale. The room is big, the bed is big, but the accessories and complementing pieces are relatively small, hence, the medium scaled print used to make the everything flow together. Also, the colors in the print are more muted, joining the dark wood tones and the dark tones in the bed with the light colors of the walls and upholstery. Additionally, there's a bit of metallic in the print. Can you see it? It's very clever because it helps the more industrial inspired lamps to to fit in more with the romantic style of the room.

My Latest Inspiration

I just love this room.

I LOVE the wallpaper behind the bed. I love how traditional is mixed with contemporary. The acrylic chair legs and the bedside nesting tables with the glass lamp base are stunning. The baseboards and crown molding are gorgeous. I would have NEVER picked that bed, but it's fabulous in the room. I would say this room is the epitome of harmony - unity in variety. The room is fresh, clean, cozy, luxurious, serene...perfect.