Which white is right?

I recently received an email from a reader asking, “What is the best white to use?” It’s a really hard question to answer as I believe every white has a right place and there are just too many variables to give a definitive reply.

Dulux Favourite Whites

Here in Sydney we tend to want warmer tones on the walls, colours that are easy on the eye and won’t appear too stark.  Whereas in Queensland, cooler colours are required, due to the tropical climate and stronger sun.

Paint Colours and Interiors by Inside Out Colour and Design

Therefore, when choosing a “white” you need to consider the undertones of the colour. Some whites have a touch of pink, others a touch of blue and some a touch of yellow.  The funny thing is that all these “whites” look white until you hold a whiter white next to it.

The wall looks white

When the window frame is in a pure white the wall colour has depth

That’s one of the reasons I prefer to paint the timber trim in a home, like skirting boards, window frames and doors, in a pure white.  It adds a crisp finishing touch or accent. White trim helps define a space. It is also used as a thread throughout the house. If you have some rooms, like the dining room or master bedroom, painted in a colour, then the same trim will unite the scheme.

Colour schemes selected by Inside Out Colour and Design

Choosing which white to paint the walls is not an easy decision, one that needs careful consideration.

via Flickr.com by Manuel Jiminez

If you would like assistance in choosing the right white for your home, contact us for an on-line or in-person consultation.